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.

Mercedes-Benz wird exklusiver Automobilpartner aller globalen League of Legends EventsMercedes-Benz to become the exclusive automotive partner of all global League of Legends events

By Edward Jones – September 22, 2020

Mercedes-Benz and League of Legends Announce Partnership

Mercedes-Benz has announced that they are now the exclusive automotive partner for all global League of Legends events, including the upcoming 2020 Worlds. This new partnership will have Mercedes-Benz become the presenting sponsor of the Trophy Ceremony at the following global events: the Mid-Season Invitational, Worlds and the All-Star Event. "We decided to partner with Riot Games because we strongly believe in esports", says Bettina Fetzer, Vice President Marketing Mercedes-Benz AG: "League of Legends is one of the most popular games in recent years. By partnering with Riot Games at the global level, we want to participate even more actively than before in shaping the future of esports and inspire fans about our brand in a playful dialog." The upcoming 2020 Worlds tournament will take place in Shanghai from September 25 to October 31 and will be the first major global sports event in China since the COVID-19 pandemic began. See All Mercedes-Benz For Sale

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 – September 17, 2020

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA Combines Connectivity And Efficiency

Not every crossover needs to be big. Careful styling and a practical interior can make or break the introduction of a new model, so that's why we're happy the all-new 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA combines connectivity and efficiency. Starting where it counts, a pair of 10.25" screens keep you informed and they are configurable to display only what you want to see. The ambient lighting system offers 64 colors, and the A/C vents are the same machined units from the S-Class. The 2.0-liter turbo offers 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, more than most naturally aspirated V6 cars in this price range. More standard equipment includes Apple CarPlay along with Android Auto with wireless charging as an option. " width="680"> Browse Mercedes-Benz GLA Class Adaptive cruise offers low-speed maneuvering without using your hands, and it keeps pace and holds lanes in stop & go traffic. All this can be yours in the GLA 250 starting at $36,230, for 2 grand more you can have AWD, For the ultimate in power, the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 offers 382 horsepower and 354 lb-ft to reach 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, the most powerful 4cylinder engine in production. Click the button above to learn more and stay with us for all your Mercedes-Benz news.

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 09, 2020

Mercedes-Benz x Virgil Abloh Project Geländewagen 1:3 Sca...

Project Geländewagen, the most recent collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Virgil Abloh was unveiled, and Sotheby’s has a unique example of the G63 for auction. The 1 of 1 Mercedes-Benz presented in a 1:3 scale maquette with all the detailed features highlighted in the vehicle’s unveiling. The model is made from quality materials such as synthetic resin, laminate, carbon fiber, glass fiber, wood, metal, and textile to portray Virgil’s unique design. A platform inscribed with both Project Geländewagen and Virgil Abloh will be included as well. The model is currently available to bid on through Sotheby’s website with an estimated $60,000 - $80,000 purchase price by the auction company. The live auction will begin at the beginning of October. The proceeds of the sale will go directly towards charity. For more information on the Project Geländewagen 1:3 scale model through Sotheby’s, click the link below. Learn More

Project Geländewagen: eine Kooperation zwischen Mercedes-Benz und Virgil Abloh: Mit innovativem Design im Luxus neue Impulse setzenProject Geländewagen: a Mercedes-Benz and Virgil Abloh collaboration: Driving luxury forward with innovative design

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 08, 2020

Project Geländenwagen By Mercedes-Benz x Virgil Abloh

The Mercedes-Benz and Virgil Abloh Project Geländenwagen has just been unveiled and the result of the creative collaboration is incredible. A completely stripped-down Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG was the canvas for Virgil’s new artistic masterpiece. His meaning behind the vision was to inspire artistic individuals through the process of creativity and innovation. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is described as “One of our most fashionable products” by Head of Marketing, Bettina Fetzer. Just as this vehicle is the first of Virgil's career, it is also the first time the 4x4 has taken on a racing-inspired personality. Mercedes-Benz has announced that a 1:3 scale model of the G63 will be built and auctioned online through Sotheby's in October 2020. All proceeds will be going towards international creative educations. Exterior The most noticeable aspect of Project Geländenwagen is that the vehicle is much wider and a lot lower than your average G-Class from a dealership. It features a full white exterior with subtle details of color from the black Xs on the headlights, powder blue side exit exhaust tips, and vibrant yellow labeled tire markings. Traditional glass replaced using racecar style netting as the window choice. What separates the vehicle from the ground, although its practically there, are a set of vintage mono style wheels. The inspiration truly blends modern styling with hints of Mercedes-Benz's historic options. Interior Once the driver door is opened using the matching white pull strap, it is clear that we have left the off-road grails and arrived at the track. The interior is completely stripped out with the theme of white continuing throughout the interior of the G63. The seats used in Project Geländenwagen are the same as the ones in Mercedes-Benz DTM racecars. Red racing harnesses are fitted to each seat with the names Abloh and Wagner, both responsible for the design. The F1 style steering wheel compliments the race-inspired gauges and switches, as well the powder blue roll cage that lines the inside. The Mercedes-Benz x Virgil Abloh Project Geländenwagen is one of a kind masterpiece. The vision and inspiration behind it stand for everything right in the world of creativity and design, backed by the heritage of a world-renowned German automobile manufacturer. For more information on Project Geländenwagen and all things Mercedes-Benz, click the link below. Mercedes G-Class For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – September 03, 2020

Watch the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series in Action

Owning a car with over 700 horsepower is an exercise in restraint. Sure, you want to drive it every day, but life gets in the way. Therefore, the engineers in Affalterbach would like a minute of your time. They build supercars that can be driven in traffic, to run errands, or destroy everyone else on the track. So turn up your audio and let's watch the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series in action. Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series Shown in Exclusive Magma Beam Before you is the most powerful V8 they have ever offered. It makes 590 lb-ft of torque across most of the tachometer. This allows it to reach 62 mph in 3.7 seconds. This is their first version of the 4-liter twin turbo with a flat-plane crank. Much like the Shelby GT350 and every Ferrari, the engine is essentially two inline four-cylinders sharing a crankshaft. This allows for 8,000 rpm, which allows for massive turbos to make big boost. Essentially the same formula Ferrari uses for the F8 Tributo, and what you will see next year in the Corvette Z06. Click the button below for all the details from our dealers and stay with us for all your AMG news. Browse Mercedes-AMG GT For Sale https://www.facebook.com/MercedesAMG/videos/599329010735921

By Edward Jones – August 25, 2020

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe Pricing Announced

The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe's price has been revealed and it's set quite competitively. When it arrives in dealership late 2020, it will carry a starting price of $116,000. This is a great price for a powerful model like the GLE 63 S Coupe. Its 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine produces 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. Its EQ boost also adds an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft when active. This power allows the new model to run from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. It also packs plenty of new features, like the active roll stabilization known as Active Ride Control. Other standard features include the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), Active Parking Assist, Bling Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, 64-color adjustable ambient lighting, Active LED Headlights, heated/ventilated front seats, and more. See All AMG GLE 63 for Sale

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By Edward Jones – August 21, 2020

Mercedes-Benz x Virgil Abloh Project Gets Teased

Back in July, Mercedes-AMG and Virgil Abloh teased a collaboration called “Project Geländewagen.” This project is meant to combine both fashion and art with the popular Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. While the result of this collaboration is set to be revealed on September 8, 2020, at 10AM EST, they have revealed some teaser shots of the collaboration. These teasers appeared on Mercedes-Benz's Instagram profile and they include closeups of a very unique looking G-Wagen. https://www.instagram.com/p/CEHmVDLCEoo/ Virgil Abloh also showed of a new shirt that we assume will be part of a clothing collection. You can see that right down below. https://www.instagram.com/p/CEJyvibJggb/

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

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">

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