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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Khris Bharath – July 25, 2025

V8 Power and a Giant Wing: Mercedes Concept AMG GT Track ...

Mercedes-AMG has just dropped a bombshell, and it appears to be headed straight for Porsche’s turf. Meet the Concept AMG GT Track Sport, a V8-powered prototype that seems to be aimed squarely at the 911 GT3 RS. While AMG readies its recently previewed all-electric GT for 2027, this track-bred monster proves the three-pointed star’s love affair with internal combustion isn’t over just yet. Built upon the second-generation AMG GT platform that debuted back in 2023, the Track Sport is far more than a trim upgrade. This is a full-blown engineering flex from the folks over at Affalterbach, all in a bid to shatter lap records. No technical specs on this one just yet, but AMG confirmed the concept will expand the GT family and, crucially, it’s powered by a V8. All signs point to a successor to the 2022 GT Black Series, which packed 730 horsepower from a heavily tuned twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8. This new car is likely gunning to eclipse that number. While the car in the teaser images dons heavy camouflage, it still paints a clear picture that what we’re looking at is something that is designed for track duty. A massive Pan-Americana grille, extended front splitter, chunky diffuser, and wider front and rear tracks give the Track Sport a menacing stance. Additionally, louvered fender vents, hood extractors, and sticky Michelin Pilot Sport rubber hint at serious aero and thermal upgrades. The pièce de résistance? A massive GT3-style swan-neck rear wing with substantial end plates designed for serious downforce. Mercedes-AMG hasn’t confirmed drivetrain layout, but if the Track Sport sticks with rear-wheel drive like the entry-level GT43, it could aim for a new RWD lap record at the Nürburgring. The previous GT Black Series held that crown with a 6:43.62 lap until a Porsche GT2 RS with Manthey upgrades snatched it away. Then came the record-breaking AMG One, which dominated the ’Ring in 6:29.09. While the Track Sport likely won't match that hybrid hypercar, it just might redefine what’s possible for a rear-drive track machine. All this while the 992.1 GT3 RS with Manthey kit, which is yet to set an official record at the ring. Expect the production version to shed the GT’s current 2+2 layout. This is a two-seat, road-legal track car designed to bring back the rawness some felt was missing in the new GT. AMG is under pressure to homologate a road-based car for its next-gen GT3 race car, and the Track Sport could be that missing link. AMG is already testing a new flat-plane crank V8, rumored to debut in the upcoming CLE 63. That engine might feature mild-hybrid tech and power this car as well. We wonder if the neon green accents on the body work have anything to do with the hybrid tech. With the GT63 Pro already delivering 603 horsepower, AMG has more firepower on tap. A full reveal is likely coming sometime before the end of this year. Watch this space. View All Mercedes AMG GTs For Sale Source: Mercedes-AMG

By Tyler Rampersaud – December 15, 2022

Mercedes-Benz Brings The New VISION AVTR Concept To Holly...

This anticipated film premiere features a three-pointed star. The Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR Concept was created in collaboration with the highly anticipated “Avatar: The Way Of Water” film, the sequel to the 2009 Avatar film, one of the most popular and celebrated movies of all time. The sci-fi story explores the alien world of Pandora, where the giant, blue, Na’vi people strive to preserve their long-standing way of life in the face of a human presence. With the themes of environmentalism and respect for nature, the new Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR concept car is inspired by the movie and by a unique vision of the future, where the car is one with its driver and passengers, as well as with the world around it. MUST READ: Mercedes-Benz x Avatar: The Way of Water Create The New VISION AVTR Concept The otherworldly design features flaps across the back of the body that can lift and lower, allowing the car to assume gestures and express itself as though it were a living being. The beautifully futuristic and drivable concept was paraded through Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, surrounded by members of Mercedes-Benz’s current all-electric EQ model lineup ahead of the premiere, adding a three-pointed star to the list of stars that will be involved in the magnificent premiere of this highly anticipated film. View All Mercedes-Benz For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mercedes-Benz (@mercedesbenz) Source: Instagram/Mercedes-Benz

By Andrew Nabors – May 10, 2021

Mercedes-Benz Unveils The 2022 EQT Van Concept

#vanlife goes high voltage! Living in a German van is a rite of passage for many wayfaring adventurers. While many will choose a four-cylinder or V6 for fuel economy, Mercedes-Benz is looking to a cleaner future. Mercedes-Benz tapped Tony Hawk to introduce the EQT, along with a new electric longboard. Seating for 7 includes a 2nd row with the ability for 3 baby seats. Also onboard is the MBUX connectivity system, and all the safety tech you expect from the brand. Tell us your best van story in the comments below, and click the button to find your new Mercedes-Benz for sale. Browse Mercedes-Benz For Sale Image (C) Daimler AG

By Andrew Nabors – January 26, 2021

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQA Lineup Preview

We are all awaiting the first electric SUV from the world's oldest automaker. If you see an efficient crossover in your future, let's watch the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQA lineup preview on YouTube. While most electrics are arriving fully-dressed with AWD, the EQA 250 is Front Wheel Drive. Capable of DC charging from 10% to 80% in 30 minutes. The 66.5 kWh battery offers a range of at least 250 miles, so click the button below to find our dealer near you. Mercedes-Benz For Sale In case you missed it, here is the Mercedes-Benz EQS e-Drive in action! Image (C) Daimler A.G.

By Andrew Nabors – December 02, 2020

Mercedes-AMG Project ONE Simulator Is Full-Size Fun

Because they needed a way to test the actual car in a virtual realm, the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE simulator is full-size fun. When it comes to copying real-life objects, Plato mentioned two ways of accomplishing the same task. The first would be an identical copy of the original (simulation), and the second would be a representation that is purposely distorted to fit the situation (simulacra). Mercedes-AMG Project ONE Hits the Track The engineers at Mercedes-AMG have offered the latter in the form of video games and renderings of the car in action. For a true, full-size simulation the cockpit, controls, and the production-ready interior have been surrounded by HD screens. Even the brake calipers are instrumented to monitor the response of the pads under various conditions. What does this tell us? This hypercar is very close to production, as they are wringing out any potential issues. Until then, we have several examples of the Mercedes-AMG GT coupe and sedan with Holliday incentives that can't be overlooked. Click the button below and stay with us for all your Mercedes-AMG news. Browse Mercedes-AMG GT For Sale " width="680">

Elektroauto der Extreme: Elektrischer Luxus goes offroadElectric car of extremes: Electric luxury goes off-road

By Andrew Nabors – October 13, 2020

Mercedes-Benz E400 4x4² Concept Takes High Voltage Offroad

Early this morning I awoke to a Facebook memory of the 4x4². Mercedes-Benz announced the death of their most capable G550 on October 13, 2017. Because the past is often prologue, portal axles are back! So we are excited that the Mercedes-Benz E400 4x4² concept can take high voltage offroad. Their latest vision of the future involves adding Unimog suspension to the popular EQC electric crossover. BRABUS Adventure 4×4 Squared Goes Off the Trail in Dubai With bead-lock wheels ready for any terrain, the 11.5" of ground clearance is double that of the street-legal version. Because of all the added weight and mechanical disadvantage, the power usage is up to 22 kWh for every 62 miles. Nevertheless, it can ford water up to 15.7", with approach and departure of 31.8 and 33 degrees respectively. All fenders have 4" flares to encompass the 285/50/20 tires, which equates to 33" x 12.50" for you mud-boggers out there. While it is impressive on its own, we could be looking at a test mule for the electric G-Class that has been rumored to arrive next year. Here's to Mercedes-Benz for showing the future of offroad adventure, and click the link below for great offers on Gelandewagens for sale. Browse Mercedes G550 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – October 06, 2020

Mercedes-Benz Confirms Six New Electric Models

Earlier this year, GM's CEO Mary Barra confirmed Cadillac will be all electric in the near future. Spurred on by Porsche buying 20% of Rimac and Tesla's incredible battery advancements, Mercedes-Benz has confirmed six new electric models. Starting at the bottom, their press release says the EQA will be the EV brother of the GLA compact SUV. It will arrive later this year, followed by the larger EQB early next year. The electric E-Class will be the EQE, and it will spawn an SUV variant next year. None of these would be possible without the new modular architecture of the EQS. More than just an electric S-Class, it is poised to be the flagship of the brand. Their target is a range of 435 miles with everything you would expect from their largest sedan. This new chassis & propulsion system is scalable to all models, and it will eventually be manufactured in factories from Alabama to Austria. Mercedes-Benz For Sale As part of its "Ambition 2039" initiative, Mercedes-Benz is working on offering a CO2-neutral new car fleet less than 20 years from now. The company wants electrically powered cars including all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles to account for more than half of its sales already by 2030. This plan is ambitious to say the least, but with the full backing of Daimler, they will give EV buyers unparalleled German luxury and performance. Click the button to learn more from our dealers and stay with us for all your Mercedes-Benz news.

By Andrew Nabors – September 28, 2020

Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR Looks To A Sustainable Future

As one of the most iconic designers of this decade, Gordon Wagener has been inspired by James Cameron's masterpiece: Avatar. That is why the Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR looks to a sustainable future. Looking at home in the forests of Pandora, the rear decklid has vents that respond in harmony with the world around them, and the plastics are formed from reclaimed trash. Controlled from a central joystick, the car can crab walk up to 30 degrees in both directions. If this is a vision of the future, we are optimistic about what is coming from Mercedes Benz. Browse Mercedes-Benz For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – September 18, 2020

Mercedes-Benz Unveils Hydrogen-Powered Semi Truck

The lightest and most abundant element in the universe is giving batteries a run for their money. Although the idea isn't new, safely storing the liquid has proved difficult. Because the molecules are so small, they literally float between the atoms of their tank. Thanks to a few proprietary new technologies, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a hydrogen-powered Semi Truck. By forcing H2 through a fuel cell, you will receive electricity in exchange for dihydrogen monoxide. This liquid is a byproduct of the reaction and it can be stored onboard. Some scientists will even drink it to prove how safe a hydrogen future will be. With more range than batteries can offer, the only problem holding it back is that the only 39 gas stations offer it, and they are all in California. Tell us what you think of it in the comments below and stay with us for all your Mercedes-Benz news. https://www.facebook.com/MercedesBenz/videos/2681288078854174

By Andrew Nabors – August 19, 2020

Mercedes-AMG Project ONE Hits the Track

One of the most anticipated hypercars is now a step closer to production. In a press release this morning, we learned that track testing is underway. It is an epic combination of a Formula 1 engine and a 1,000 horsepower hybrid system. Almost every aerodynamic part is constantly moving to maximize downforce, so now its time to fine-tune it with relentless track time. Lewis Hamilton Meets the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE So far, simulators have yielded impressive performance at world-famous tracks, but they won't divulge the lap times. What was mentioned was a healthy battery range, so this could spark a new round of hybrid hypercar wars. Our dealers might give you a few more clues, so click the button to find one near you and stay with us for all your Mercedes-AMG updates. Browse Mercedes-Benz For Sale

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