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 Edward Jones – June 04, 2019

Mercedes-Benz Launches Luxury Vehicle Subscription Servic...

Mercedes-Benz his expanding their luxury vehicle subscription service, "Mercedes-Benz Collection," to Atlanta, Georgia. The expansion comes after successful pilot programs in Nashville, TN and Philadelphia, PA. "The pilot program far exceeded our expectations. Eighty-two percent of the subscribers are new to Mercedes-Benz, and we are hitting the mark attracting younger drivers who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience the brand at such a young age," said Adam Chamberlain, vice president of sales for MBUSA. "Interestingly, families and couples are equally accessing the service whether for use as their primary car, for fun or as a way to test drive a wide variety of models." Related: Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster Has Been Unveiled The service allows members to check out a car on a whim. All they have to do is tell the service what type of vehicle they need, where they need it and when. After the first delivery, members can access the fleet of over 50 model variants through an app. Each time a car is delivered, it's washed and comes with a full tank of gas. The delivery driver also takes the previous vehicle. Currently, there are three different tiers in the program: Signature, Reserve and Premiere. These range from $1,095 to $2,995 per month, depending on the city and tier. Mercedes is also adding a new tier to the Atlanta program that consists of only AMG models. Those interested in becoming a part of the Mercedes-Benz Collection, be sure to visit their website. Or, you can always just buy your own Mercedes. See All Mercedes-Benz For Sale Also Check Out: Mercedes-Benz Wristwatch Collection 2020 Modern Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Render That Needs to Be Built 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Coupe & SUV Revealed

By Andrew Nabors – May 22, 2019

Dr. Z Retires From Mercedes-Benz & BMW Responds

If you spend 43 years at the same company, you deserve a proper retirement. Dieter Zetsche began working as a research engineer for Mercedes-Benz in 1976. His commitment to quality led him to rise through the ranks, eventually becoming the CEO. He was also the congenial German character in the "Ask Dr. Z" ad campaign during the Daimler-Chrysler era. In a brilliant show of respect to their chief competitor, Dr. Z retires from Mercedes-Benz, and BMW responds. He was responsible for the Chrysler Pacifica, Crossfire, 300, and the resurrection of the Dodge Charger. In fact, the Charger, Challenger, Hellcats and the 300 still ride on RWD chassis his engineers developed. Although he will no longer be calling the shots, Daimler elected him to their board of supervisors. After a mandatory 2 year sabbatical, he will gain this ceremonial position. Stuttgart and Munich are both in Germany, but that is where the similarities end. Each company has a different culture, and this is clearly seen in the products they build. Nevertheless, "just as iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another". Having an arch rival keeps you on your feet, and it forces you to constantly improve your products and yourself. Kudos to BMW for respecting Dr. Z, and to Mercedes-Benz for allowing him to lead the way. We wouldn't have the Demon or Hellcat without him, so click the link below to find one near you. Browse Challenger Hellcats For Sale Related: Nico Rosberg Configures His Mercedes-AMG ONE

By Edward Jones – April 22, 2019

Modern Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Render That Needs to Be Built

It's been over two decades since the Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR was unveiled, but automotive enthusiasts still dream about the car. The design of the CLK GTR is one that hasn't been replicated since it was created. Up front, the car looks like a slicked-back first-gen CLK while the rest of it is a straight race car. I'm not trying to say that Mercedes hasn't created beautiful supercars since the CLK GTR. Take the Mercedes-AMG ONE, which really is the successor to the CLK GTR. It's a stunning car that's both beautiful and groundbreaking. But...there's just something about the 90's style of the CLK GTR that's so nostalgic. Designer Rain Prisk wanted to see what a modern CLK GTR would look like and created his own rendering of the said hypothetical car. He posted the rendering to his Facebook page for the world to see. In the comments, a fan notes that the Project ONE is the modern CLK GTR, prompting Rain Prisk to reply by saying: "So far I'm not a fan of the Project ONE looks. Although I can't wait to see it in some nicer colour than that silver, could change my mind." So, Mercedes, if you're reading this, let's see some new colors on the ONE! In the meantime, check out more of Rain Prisk's incredible rendering by clicking here. Related Video: " width="680"> Source

By Andrew Nabors – April 18, 2019

Mercedes-Benz Unveils GLS in New York

Karl Benz would be elated to see how his company has evolved. We have been covering all their new models from Shanghai to Manhattan, and it seems as if no other automaker comes close. Because SUVs are hot again, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the GLS in New York. It follows their logical nomenclature, which begins with GLA as the smallest SUV. Next is the GLB, a bit bigger and also the basis for their EQC electric crossover. The GLC and GLE models are larger still, and are offered in Coupe and SUV models. But if you want the biggest and most well-equipped, the GLS arrives with seating for 6. The wheelbase is 2.4" longer than the GLE, and this translates to a smooth ride and much more interior room. Under the hood of the GLS 450 is their 3.0L turbocharged straight six. The real shocker (literally) is the GLS 580. It is the first time Mercedes-Benz has combined their 48-volt hybrid system with a V8 engine. We have driven several examples of the EQ Boost system on six-cylinder models, so a V8 version is mouthwatering. The engine alone offers 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, and the EQ Boost can add 21 hp and 184 lb-ft from the integrated motor/generator. Designed without compromise, both 3rd row seats have space for humans who are 6'5" tall. Other features include 5-zone climate control. Built for the world market, it will be assembled exclusively by Mercedes USA in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. This makes it the most powerful American SUV on the market, but if you cant wait for them, our dealers have nice incentives on the GLE class. Click the link below and stay with us for all your Mercedes-Benz updates. Browse Mercedes-Benz GLE For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 17, 2019

Mercedes-Benz EQC 1886 Unveiled in New York

We just received shocking news about the future of electric cars. The Mercedes-Benz EQC 1886 was just unveiled in New York. As their first battery-powered crossover. Although production has not begun, it will debut with the 1886 special edition. The name pays homage to their first car. The Benz Patent-Motorwagen made horses obsolete, and the EQC is poised to change the world also. All examples will have a built-in AC charger that transforms household 110v into 7.4kW. It can also handle 240v from a dryer plug, or High Voltage DC from public chargers. It has 2 motors mounted at the front and rear to offer a combined 402 horsepower and 564 lb-ft of torque. The main battery is 80 kWh, and pushes it to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. Range predictions are between 277 to 293 miles depending on your driving mode. The ENERGIZING COACH system teaches you how to conserve range, and it even recommends mode changes based on traffic and average speeds. The 1886 edition will have embroidered seats, Burmester surround sound, and an exclusive exterior. Every example will be painted metallic high-tech silver. Unlike the competition, it offers moderate acceleration and a battery focused on long term reliability. It doesn't have dancing doors or dog mode, but it is a warning shot to the electric car industry. The EQC is poised to be an affordable family hauler thanks to the federal tax rebate, so stay with us for all your Mercedes-Benz news. Browse Mercedes-Benz For Sale " width="680"> Related: 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 Coupe & SUV Unveiled Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro Review by Carfection

Mercedes-Benz Concept GLB: So geräumig und robust kann kompakt seinMercedes-Benz Concept GLB: This is how spacious and robust a compact car can be

By Andrew Nabors – April 15, 2019

Mercedes-Benz GLB Concept Unveiled Ahead of Shanghai Auto...

China has emerged as a giant market for luxury brands. Japanese luxury brands aren't so hot thanks to a few thousand years of tension, so German and American imports have become status symbols for the upper class. Considering the need for a thrifty and practical compact SUV, the Mercedes-Benz GLB Concept was unveiled ahead of the Shangai Auto Show. It is a concept to study if there is demand for a family SUV situated between the GLA and the GLC class. For a quick refresher, the GL models are usually based on their corresponding car chassis. GLA is an A-Class and GLE is an E-class. America has not had much experience with the B-Class because it is such a flooded market for the time being. Nevertheless, the notion of a 4-cylinder compact SUV is appealing. Offering 224 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque is sent to the 4MATIC All Wheel Drive. It has 3 modes depending on terrain. Normally torque is split 80/20 favoring the front wheels, Sport mode moves down to 70:30, and in off-road it is even at 50/50 front to rear. We have great deals on the GLC and its AMG models in the link below. So tell us if you think the GLB is right for the U.S., and stay with us for all your Mercedes-Benz news. Browse Mercedes-Benz GLC Class For Sale Related: Mercedes-AMG CLA 35: New Entry-Level AMG Merdedes-AMG GT R Pro Review by Carfection

By Edward Jones – April 09, 2019

2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35: New Entry-Level AMG

There are not many people in the world who wouldn't want to own an AMG, but there are many decisions when it comes to picking a model out. Now, the new 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 has been unveiled, adding another model into the mix. Mercedes notes that this model is an entry-level four-door coupe that combines the progressive tech of the A-Class with a bold design. Being an entry-level model, many will wonder if it will have a decent amount of power. For the AMG CLA 35, its power is derived from a new 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo engine. In total, it packs 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Combine the power with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and you have a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.6 seconds. That's definitely not bad for an entry-level model. Mercedes-AMG has also added in a fair bit of new technology in the CLA 35 that should be mentioned. This includes the new center console, MBUX infotainment system, Adaptive Damping System (optional), AMG TRACK PACE (optional) and more. Not only does it pack a decent punch for an entry-level AMG, it's also full of the tech you'd expect from an AMG. Expect the new 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 to hit U.S. dealerships in late 2019, after its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show on April 16. view all Mercedes-benzs for sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 08, 2019

Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro Track Review by Carfection

Ever since Mr. A and Mr. G began modding Mercedes-Benz cars, they have never stopped improving AMG's lineup. Continual improvements caught the eye of their former bosses, and AMG was purchased by Mercedes-Benz in 1999. Now that the AMG GT has been on the market for a few years, it is time to make it a proper race car. If you have been wondering how good it really is, here is the Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro track review by Carfection. Henry Catchpole and team did a great job showing the differences between the AMG GT R and the new GT R Pro. First off, the shocks are manually adjustable, with separate compression and rebound dials. Then it was on to carbon fiber upgrades. Starting with a driveshaft tunnel brace, this gorgeous kit increases torsional rigidity by 7%. Carbon fiber can also be seen on the new front and rear spoilers, dive planes, and the fixed-back racing buckets. The track pack is now standard, so you will have a roll cage and fire extinguisher that are compliant for many classes. Engine and transmission settings were not changed, so you still have 577 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque at your command. If you think you can handle it, click the link below to find our dealer near you and stay with us for all your Mercedes-AMG news. Browse AMG GT R For Sale Related: Mercedes-AMG G63 vs Porsche Cayman GTS vs Audi RS3 Modified Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Hits 199 MPH

By Andrew Nabors – April 01, 2019

Mercedes-AMG G63: 2019 vs 2017 Drag Race

It only took Mercedes-Benz three decades to upgrade the Geländewagen. And as soon as the 2019 model entered production, the gearheads at AMG transformed it into a hot rod SUV. The previous generation G63 was the Swan Song for the traditional 5.5L V8. With its head held high, it left us with a need for 571 horsepower and three locking differentials. When we heard it was being replaced by the ubiquitous 4.0L, we figured the 2019 model might not measure up to its predecessor. But we couldn't have been more wrong. The latest G63 has 585 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. It beats the older model by 14 horsepower and 66 lb-ft of torque. Aerodynamics have also been cleaned thanks to a raked windshield and finely sculpted fenders. The major difference is in the front suspension. Independent axles have replaced the solid differential. This makes for a more comfortable ride and a little more ground clearance off road. Tell us which G63 you would own in the comments below, and stay with us for more 1/2 mile action from DragtimesInfo. View all Mercedes-AMG G63 For Sale Related: Mercedes-AMG Announces G65 Final Edition Drake Buys Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet

Die Startampel steht auf Grün: Produktionsstart des neuen Mercedes-AMG GT in SindelfingenAll lights on green: start of production of the new Mercedes-AMG GT in Sindelfingen

By Edward Jones – March 28, 2019

First Revamped Mercedes-AMG GTs Roll Off the Production L...

The revamped Mercedes-AMG GT models have begun rolling off of the line at the German automaker's plant in Sindelfingen. The first vehicle was the new Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro, a limited edition model that's built for better track performance. Staff at the plant re highly trained to finish off the vehicles with a handmade quality. This includes the fabric top, carbon fiber roof, glass roof and much more. "Our production of the Mercedes-AMG GT demonstrates once again that we have a highly qualified workforce at the Mercedes-Benz Sindelfingen plant which is dedicated to producing vehicles to the very highest standards of quality," says Ergun Lümali, Chairman of the Mercedes-Benz Sindelfingen Works Council. "Within the competence center for luxury vehicles of Mercedes-Benz in Sindelfingen, the production of the Mercedes-AMG GT as a top sports car clearly plays a special role." Want your own AMG GT? Check out all of our listings by clicking the button below. view all amg gt's for sale

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