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

Mercedes-Benz News

Mercedes-Benz news fromduPont REGISTRY News, updated daily, covering the S-Class, the Maybach range, the AMG models, the G-Class and the electric line-up. Our reporting takes in reveals, first drives, bespoke builds and the auction results that set collector values. Mercedes-Benz competes across more segments than almost any rival, so the news here runs unusually wide. Our marketplace supplies the part most publications leave out entirely. A great many of these cars are listed for sale on duPont REGISTRY, which puts a review and a real asking price side by side. For Mercedes-Benz news today, and the luxury car market news around it, start here.

By Andrew Nabors – March 19, 2021

So Flo Jeep's G63 6x6 Heading to Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale

Four is fun but six is incredible, and that's why So Flo Jeep's G63 6x6 is heading to Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale. As you read this, our intrepid events team is already on the ground at Westworld. Taking all Covid precautions, our booth will be loaded with the latest and greatest. While we try to showcase So Flo Jeep's latest builds, this one simply wouldn't fit. That's because they improved upon AMG's recipe for a brutal six-wheel drive. Starting with 38"x15.5" Mickey Thompson Baja tires, all-terrains, they fabricated 9" locking differentials to ride on Fox suspension of their own design. Hand-laid carbon fiber and several coats of clear will shine for years, and the 5' bed is framed from stained teakwood. Inside you are treated to an LED headliner that replicates a brilliant night sky, perfect for heading deep into the woods to a campsite that lesser builds can't reach. So Flo is famous for 6wd conversions and this one was built to show the world what they are capable of. It will be crossing the block Saturday during primetime with no reserve, so don't forget to bid! Click the button to see their other builds. Visit SoFlo Jeeps.com

By Andrew Nabors – February 19, 2021

2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Price, Specs, Photos, & Review

2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Price Ernest Hemingway postulated that the only true sports are: Motor Racing, Bullfighting, and Mountaineering, but we feel that a Mercedes G63 AMG for sale should be included. While we can't speak for pugilism against other mammals, the 2021 Mercedes-AMG G63 price is affordable for the abilities it offers. Locking all three differentials and spooling two turbos is a ticket for adventure. Up until a decade ago, many manufacturers offered body-on-frame SUVs with incredible power. Mercedes-AMG is the only brand able to offer a bargain 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 MSRP $156,450. Two main factors contribute to the price of every Mercedes G63 AMG for sale. It represents incredibly luxury and power in the same package. The other aspect is that it is very capable off-road. These attributes are worthy of the money in their own right, but combined into a snazzy SUV you will have an investment that doesn't depreciate. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Review In the past, we would compare the G63 to other turbocharged full-size 4WDs. Because all lesser brands have been forced to compromise, this 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Review is the last of its kind. Up until a decade ago, many manufacturers offered body-on-frame SUVs with incredible power. Now we had a chance to experience what happens when engineers are unencumbered. Upon first glance, you will realize that the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 horsepower is more than adequate. Pushing their 4-liter V8 to new heights, the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 horsepower is conservatively rated at 577. Holding your left foot to the brake spools the turbos in order to deliver 627 lb-ft of torque at all wheels. With this motivation at your command, the wide AMG wheels offer an incredible steering response. Don't lose your head with all the new technology, as the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 is still tall and narrow. As such, care must be taken in evasive actions. Even with meaty anti-roll bars, you need to chase the body roll through the corners. Therefore, your best 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 will be had once you spend a few hours on flooded tarmac. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Specs You have seen them ford rivers and conquer incredible ascents. Nothing can compare to these abilities in real life, and that is why everyone should find peace in the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 specs. While capable of much more, the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 top speed is limited to 137 mph. Tires designed for mud and sand need the flexibility that high speeds don't offer. To appeal to the Autobahn enthusiasts the Driver's package ups the speed limiter to 149 mph. Behind the wheel it responds better than any previous G63 AMG SUV. Those that malign body-on-frame chassis really miss the confidence and strength felt by your body. Both the body and chassis are high-strength plate steel. It goes where you command and it does what you want. Thanks to the latest software it reverts to a docile demeanor unless ordered. Before going hammer down you should consider the following attributes: Price: $156,450 Engine: 4-liter V8 Twin Turbo Transmission: 9-speed Automatic Horsepower: 577 hp Torque: 627 lb-ft 0-60: 4.5 seconds 1/4 Mile: 12.5 seconds @ 115 mph Top Speed: 149 mph 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Engine Reverse flow allows the 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 engine to conserve heat and offer incredible mpg. Placed within the engine valley, a pair of symmetric turbochargers receive exhaust pulses direct from the heads. Their dual-scroll design equalizes the pulses to each turbine wheel while eliminating turbo lag. At the expense of a unique exhaust soundtrack, this small bore and meaty stroke makes a heaping amount of torque. Because 202 Mercedes G63 AMG computer controls boost at all times, the turbos keep the intake at a slight positive to be ready for action. This is only possible by having active cam phasing on all four DOHC camshafts. Watch the Mercedes-AMG G63 6×6 on “Inside AMG” The 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 engine is constantly adjusting all four camshafts to optimize torque while minimizing harmful emissions. Given the help from twin turbochargers it is able to offer thrifty fuel economy when cruising and big power when provoked. The wizards at AMG are able to open the exhaust and streamline the intake despite local laws for civility. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 BRABUS Before you make a decision on a Mercedes-AMG G63 for sale, please consider the following. Brabus is responsible for building incredibly powerful cars and trucks. By reengineering the powertrain and suspension, the Brabus 800 Widestar is the ultimate G63 for sale. A limited-edition of 900 Widestars made use of the AMG V12 and two turbos to offer 900 horsepower. Each example is the legacy of Bodo Buschmann, a legend in the German tuning community. The best attributes can be had individually for those who would like to remain more inconspicuous. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Transmission In order to be the most competent 4WD on the market, a nine-speed automatic is the only Mercedes-AMG G63 transmission. A two-speed transfer case sends full-time 4WD to all wheels while offering a 2.93 low range. Locking it along with the front and rear differentials provides uninterrupted power from the pistons to the pavement. Shift speeds and timing are heavily influenced by the driving mode, and because it is not a dual-clutch design it can skip several gears when down or up-shifting. With a relatively tight torque converter, the G63 AMG 0-60 is consistently under 4.5 seconds. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Interior Forget what you know about going off road. Yes, the G63 is capable or incredible attributes in every situation, but that doesn't mean its uncomfortable. With ample room for family and cargo, the Mercedes-AMG G63 interior is practical and plush. The upright nature of the body lends itself to right angles. Multiple layers of steel allow the interior to be as quiet as a library, and evoke the strength of a bank vault. When the second generation was on the drawing board, engineers took every opportunity to remove compromises. The layout was based on optimal ergonomics before their focus was on eliminating rattles and squeaks. Adding steel wherever it was needed allowed them to chase NVH problems up and out of the interior in order to offer the best experience in full-size 4WDs. The interior is a main reason why used Mercedes G63 prices are as strong as ever. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Brakes Going fast is fun but stopping faster is even more entertaining. The rotors of all Mercedes-AMG G63 brakes measure 375mm, or 14.7". While other 4WDs use the brakes to channel power to wheels that are slipping, the AMG class also uses them to hold hills when ascending or coming down the mountain. With great power comes great responsibility, so the stability system integrates all three differential locks. If they are open, the electric brake control module can use each rotor independently. 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Gets Massive Makeover 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Standout Features The most notable examples is the Mercedes G63 AMG 6x6. Adding another rear axle allowed this bruiser to offer six-wheel drive thanks to four locking differentials. It set the precedent for using portal axles that continues to this day. Owners demanded a 4x4 version with the same ground clearance, and it arrived as the Mercedes-AMG G63 4x4 Squared. Gear reduction at each corner makes it very capable off-road with more ground clearance than any other 4WD. Because the first generation examples of the G63 AMG lasted over three decades, engineers made sure the 2021 Mercedes-AMG G63 is built to last. The team must have known the story parallels the Boing B52 Stratofortress, so they built a body and chassis devoid of NVH. It is so strong that Maybach chose it for the basis of a new Landaulet. Transporting VIPs and politicians can be done in style with the plush Mercedes-Maybach G650, and on the other end of the spectrum you can be secured in an armored Mercedes G63 AMG for sale. Mercedes-AMG G63 For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – February 01, 2021

2020 Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen Receives Indigenous Restyling

Oaxaca sits atop the spine of southern Mexico, and it retains many aspects of Pre-Columbian life. To see their abilities on the world's most capable 4WD, watch as a 2020 Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen receives indigenous restyling. María and Jacobo Ángeles bestow this G550 with colors and textures that can be seen in the region, the only aspect lacking is the amazing cuisine that the region has to offer. This is just a small glimpse of what the G Manufaktur program is capable of, so click the button for an adventure unlike any other. There are nice changes for this year, so check out the Brabus Widestar! Browse Mercedes-Benz G550 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – December 14, 2020

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Experience Center Opens In Austria

Last month we shared a preview of what you could expect. Now you have even more reasons for a European Vacation since the Mercedes-Benz G-Class User Experience Center has opened in Austria. In their latest upload, we see factory-fresh Geländewagen doing tricks your mother would not approve of. Although the season is over for Winter, guests will begin arriving at "G-Base" in April. The all-inclusive stay includes driver instruction from 8 am to 5 pm, in German or English. Russian fans will enjoy their second location that just opened in Sochi. Making use of the Olympic Village puts these 4WDs to the test. Our dealers have all the information, so click the button and stay with us for all your Mercedes-Benz news. Browse Mercedes-Benz G-Class For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – December 04, 2020

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Celebrates 400,000 Wagens & Counting

Forty years ago the Cold War was the hot topic. West Germany needed a 4x4 capable of stopping the Iron Curtain, so that is why the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is celebrating 400,000 wagens & counting. The G-Wagon is the anglicized acronym for the Geländewagen. In German, this means cross-country or 'overland wagon'. It was Mercedes-Benz's answer to thwart a western invasion across the Fulda Gap. Inside AMG: G-Wagen Experience Center With that doomsday scenario in-mind, designers offered a rugged body-on-frame that could be pressed into frontline service while also transporting troops and their gear. Of course, it was adopted by many NATO countries to fill thousands of roles, and it has also become the most popular SUV in countries around the world. If Germany had a Jeep, this would be it, as families cherish them as heirlooms and rites of succession. If you are reading this, you know we are the world's best resource for buying and selling G-Wagens of every vintage, so click the button below to find one for yourself. Browse Mercedes-Benz G-Class For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – December 03, 2020

Mercedes-Benz's Ugly Christmas Sweater G-Wagon is a Holid...

I'm quite sure many of our readers have been to an ugly Christmas sweater party or have unknowingly worn an ugly Christmas sweater. But I'm also sure that no one has ridden in a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon wearing an ugly Christmas sweater like the one that was just unveiled. Mercedes-Benz unveiled such a G-wagon on Instagram and it's just as glorious as you'd expect. What's more, Mercedes-Benz notes that they will be unveiling more ugly sweater cars in the coming weeks. Now this is what I call an amazing Christmas present. If you want to get your own G-Class and dress it up in your version of an ugly sweater, click the button below to check out what's for sale. Buy Your G-Wagon Today Image Source: Mercedes-Benz/Instagram

By Andrew Nabors – August 18, 2020

INKAS Armored Unveils Mercedes-AMG G63 Limo

The idea of a longer wheelbase G-Class is nothing new, and neither is an armored car. But now you can have both in the same luxury SUV. Inkas Armored has unveiled a stretched Mercedes-AMG G63 that is loaded with ballistic armor. Using overlapping door jambs and thick composite windows, it is certified to CEN 1063 BR6 for the cockpit and drivetrain. Thanks to a disappearing powered Smart TV, you will be entertained and connected to the world outside. Their surround sound system will overpower the noise of small arms fire, and you will be safe from anything up to 7.62 NATO, and hand grenades. Click here to find a new 2020 Mercedes-AMG G63 for sale and then click the button below to learn what Inkas Armored has to offer. Learn More " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – January 23, 2020

Mercedes Unimog Climbs World's Highest Volcano

Ernest Hemingway often said there are only 3 real sports: Bullfighting, Motor Racing, and Mountain Climbing. No matter what you believe, conquering a mountain is a daunting test of humans and their machines. For 70 years it has been the workhorse of the brand, and to celebrate in style the Mercedes Unimog climbed the world's highest volcano. Given the mountain's propensity for exploding, it was named Ojos del Salado. The eyes of salt are toxic lakes around the summit, just another hazard aside from the altitude of 22,615 feet. In order to measure the seismic activity, Chilean geologists needed to deliver three new emergency transponders on the way to the top. Mercedes Shows Off New Unimogs Since 1948, Mercedes has sold Unimogs to armies, Arnold, and anyone who needed the ultimate utility truck. To prove its abilities, once the team delivered the equipment, they pushed on to reach a new world record. Both trucks topped out at 21,961 feet without breaking a sweat. Browse All Mercedes-Benz G-Class Because it is so tough, dealers demanded a softer version and the G-Wagen was launched in 1979. Click the button above to find yours, and stay with us for all your Mercedes news. Related: 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Price & Specs

By Andrew Nabors – December 17, 2019

Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen Family Adventure

From ancient Carthage to modern France, Morrocco has been pushed around by bullies. But now with rumors of a reconciliation with their neighbors to the east, it is a perfect time to experience the beauty of the Moroccan-Algerian border. That is why their latest film is a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen Family Adventure. The Senkal family attacked the Sahara in a classic G 230 GE. This indestructible model was introduced in 1982, and they are very sought-after here in the U.S. They are not exactly fast, so we would have chosen a Brabus Widestar instead. Our dealers have the perfect Gelandewagen for you, so click the button below and stay with us for all your Mercedes-Benz updates. Browse all Mercedes-Benz G-Class For Sale " width="680"> Related: 2019 Mercedes-AMG G63 Price & Specs

By Andrew Nabors – December 16, 2019

Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen Loves Spa Treatments

Choosing the right gift can be difficult, but you can't go wrong with a Day Spa. Unlike lesser SUVs, your G-Wagen is designed for mudbaths. Not only does mud attach itself to road debris, but the process of washing it away is also analogous to a chemical peel. A Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen for sale loves spa treatments not only for cleansing the exterior. It allows all 3 differentials to exercise themselves when locked. Bouncing across open terrain allows full travel to your suspension, something it won't experience running errands. Finally, the stability control and the air suspension are put to the test, which keeps then in working order. Click the button below to find yours, and let it play in the mud once in a while. Browse All Mercedes-Benz G Class for Sale " width="680"> Related: Mercedes-AMG G63 Price & Specs

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