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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 Charles Bradley – August 14, 2026

Bruce Meyer’s Ferrari Testarossa Claims Best of Show at The Quail by The Peninsula

Few names carry more weight in the collector-car world than Bruce Meyer. A longtime advocate for automotive preservation, concours excellence and car culture, Meyer has spent decades shaping the hobby through his stewardship of historically significant automobiles. Now, one of the crown jewels from his collection has earned one of Monterey Car Week’s highest honors. At the 23rd annual edition of The Quail by The Peninsula, A Motorsports Gathering, Meyer’s remarkable 1957 Ferrari 625/250 Testarossa was awarded Best of Show, rising above a curated field of more than 200 automobiles to claim the event’s most prestigious distinction. The victory adds another chapter to Meyer’s celebrated collecting legacy while highlighting the enduring appeal of one of Ferrari’s most historically significant competition cars. Selected for its exceptional design, craftsmanship and historical significance, the Ferrari was inducted into the prestigious Rolex Circle of Champions, a tradition reserved for vehicles representing the pinnacle of automotive achievement. As part of the honor, Meyer received a specially engraved Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 presented by Luca Bernasconi, president and CEO of Rolex USA. For collectors, concours judges and enthusiasts alike, the award reflects more than the quality of a single automobile. It underscores Meyer’s longstanding reputation as one of the most influential figures in the collector-car community, a passion that was also celebrated this year through The Bruce Meyer Collection, one of five featured classes at the event. A Ferrari Defined by Racing Provenance The winning Ferrari possesses a history as compelling as its appearance. Originally commissioned by famed Southern California Ferrari distributor and racer John von Neumann, the Scaglietti-bodied competition car established an impressive racing record during the 1957 season, collecting 11 victories. The car later received a 3.0-liter Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa V12, a transformation that helped contribute to a continued string of victories as a privateer racer. Its unique specification, combined with exceptional racing provenance and rarity, made it a standout among the world-class automobiles assembled on the fairways of The Quail Golf Club. Those qualities also embody the values celebrated by The Quail by The Peninsula: heritage, innovation, craftsmanship and the artistry of the automobile. Celebrating a Legendary Collector Meyer’s influence on the automotive world extends well beyond the cars he owns – six of which were on display at The Quail's greens (above). Widely regarded as one of the hobby’s most respected collectors and ambassadors, he has helped elevate appreciation for significant automobiles across generations of enthusiasts. His commitment to preservation, education and automotive culture has made him one of the most recognizable figures in the collector-car landscape. “I’ve never really looked at cars through the lens of value,” Meyer told duPont REGISTRY of his unique collection. “I consider myself more of an enthusiast than a collector. I’ve been buying cars for 50 years. I didn’t wake up one day and decide I wanted all the ‘right’ Ferraris. That's just not how I approached it. “For me, it's always been about the history and what excites me personally. If you walk through my garage, there's no common theme. It’s just a collection of things that spoke to me at a particular moment – cars that won races I cared about, cars with stories I loved. I’m interested in the history, the people, the stories, and what a particular car represents.” His impact was formally recognized at this year’s event through The Bruce Meyer Collection, a featured class showcasing the passion and vision that have defined his decades-long involvement in the automotive community. The inclusion of the class reinforced Meyer’s standing as a collector whose influence extends far beyond any individual vehicle. His collection has long been associated with historically important automobiles that tell broader stories about innovation, motorsport and design. With his Ferrari earning Best of Show, Meyer’s presence was felt across multiple facets of the event. A Showcase of Automotive Excellence The Quail by The Peninsula once again served as one of Monterey Car Week’s premier destinations for collectors, manufacturers and enthusiasts. More than 200 vehicles gathered on the show field, representing a carefully curated mix of automotive history, contemporary innovation and world-class design. The event also featured 22 vehicle debuts from OEMs and specialty manufacturers from around the globe. “The Quail By The Peninsula, A Motorsports Gathering embodies our approach to elevated hospitality, creating an experience where exceptional automobiles, thoughtful details and a shared passion for motoring come together in a truly distinctive setting,” said Benjamin Vuchot, CEO of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited. “As The Quail continues to evolve, so does the remarkable field of vehicles and classes we welcome each year. What remains at the heart of the event, however, is an authentic celebration of motorsports, one that honors the heritage and craftsmanship of the classics while embracing the innovation, design and performance shaping its future.” The event’s combination of luxury hospitality, significant automobiles and carefully curated experiences has helped cement its status as one of the most sought-after invitations of Monterey Car Week. Celebrating Automotive Heritage This year’s featured classes highlighted a broad spectrum of automotive culture and achievement. The 100th Anniversary of Route 66 celebrated one of America’s most iconic highways and its enduring influence on car culture. The Lamborghini Diablo class brought together 30 examples of one of the marque’s defining supercars, while The Legacy of Japanese GTs honored the craftsmanship and performance heritage of Japan’s most influential grand touring machines. The event also featured a dedicated Ferrari F40 class celebrating one of Ferrari’s most revered modern supercars. Together with The Bruce Meyer Collection, the classes reflected the diversity of interests that continue to drive the collector-car market, from American automotive heritage to European supercars and Japanese performance icons. Throughout the day, attendees experienced the atmosphere that has become synonymous with The Quail by The Peninsula. A particularly memorable moment occurred when vehicles from the Legacy of Japanese GTs, Ferrari F40, Lamborghini Diablo and Custom Coachwork classes participated in a synchronized engine roar, creating a dramatic celebration of automotive passion across the show field. Distinguished Award Winners In addition to Best of Show, several other distinguished vehicles received honors. The Spirit of The Quail Award went to a 1965 Porsche 911 owned by Marc Davidian (above). The Hagerty Drivers Foundation Award was presented to a 1962 Lincoln Continental owned by Richard Plavetich and Susan Denton. The Magneto Editor’s Choice Award was awarded to a 1994 Lamborghini Diablo VT JOTA from the Caretakers Collection (below). While each winner represented a different chapter of automotive history, it was Meyer’s Ferrari that ultimately captured the event’s highest honor. For a collector whose influence has helped shape the modern collector-car landscape, the recognition felt particularly fitting. In a field filled with extraordinary automobiles, the 1957 Ferrari 625/250 Testarossa stood above them all – an achievement that reinforces both the car’s significance and Bruce Meyer’s place among the most respected custodians of automotive history. Photos courtesy of Kahn Media, Charles Bradley

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 12, 2026

The Ultimate Guide to Monterey Car Week 2026

Monterey Car Week is one of those events that’s hard to fully explain until you’ve experienced it firsthand. Every August, the Monterey Peninsula transforms into a gathering place for some of the world’s most significant collector cars, from pre-war icons and historic race machines to modern hypercars making their first public appearances. The week spans across a handful of towns and venues, with auctions, rallies, concours events, and private meets happening almost nonstop. One moment you’re watching a fleet of Ferraris roll through Carmel, and the next you’re standing alongside a group of enthusiasts sharing conversation over coffee. The sheer scale of Car Week is what makes it so unique, but also a little overwhelming. With so many events spread throughout the area, there’s always the feeling that a shouldn’t-miss moment is happening just around the corner. The early mornings, packed schedules, and constant movement between events are all part of the experience. From the elegance of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance to the energy of events like The Quail, there’s a different side of the automotive world waiting to be discovered at every stop. With so much happening throughout the week, having a little direction and organization goes a long way. The duPont REGISTRY Guide to Monterey Car Week 2026 highlights the key events, locations, and must-see moments to help navigate one of the busiest weeks on the automotive calendar. And to keep all your Monterey Car Week stops planned down to the minute, with room for discovering and experiencing new ones, the Car Week app by Velocity is the perfect place to start. It’s your go-to companion for navigating the week, with integrated Apple Maps and Google Maps support to help you find the best routes from wherever you are. The app also gives users access to exclusive discounts, special offers, and event perks from select partners throughout the Monterey Peninsula. *Please Note: Many of the events during Monterey Car Week 2026 require pre-purchased tickets Auction Details Bonhams 'The Laguna Seca Auction' Preview DaysTuesday, August 11: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PMWednesday, August 12: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PMThursday, August 13: 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM Auction DayThursday, August 13: 10:00 AM More Event Info Broad Arrow Auctions 'The Quail Auction' Preview DaysWednesday, August 12: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMThursday, August 13: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PMFriday, August 14: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Auction DaysThursday, August 13: 2:00 PMFriday, August 14: 11:00 AM More Event Info Gooding Christie's 'Pebble Beach Auctions' Auction DaysWednesday, August 12: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PMThursday, August 13: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PMFriday, August 14: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMSaturday, August 15: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM More Event Info Mecum Auctions 'Monterey' Auction DaysThursday, August 13: 8:00 AMFriday, August 14: 8:00 AMSaturday, August 15: 8:00 AM More Event Info RM Sotheby's 'The Monterey Auction' Preview DaysWednesday, August 12: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PMThursday, August 13: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMFriday, August 14: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PMSaturday, August 15: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Auction DaysWednesday, August 12: 5:30 PMThursday, August 13: 6:00 PMFriday, August 14: 5:30 PMSaturday, August 15: 5:30 PM More Event Info Friday, August 7th Monterey Car Week Kickoff (5:00 PM- 7:00 PM) Downtown Monterey – Alvarado StreetMonterey, CA 93940 WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca kicks off Monterey Classic Car Week Kick-Off with a classic car show in Downtown Monterey. See 30 classic race cars lining the 300 block of Alvarado Street (by the intersection of Monterey Conference Center and Portola Hotel and Spa) and meet the drivers of these beautiful examples of racing history while enjoying great music and giveaways. Saturday, August 8th Monterey Pre-Reunion (7:00 AM- 7:00 PM) WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca1021 Monterey Salinas HighwaySalinas, CA 93908 The Monterey Pre-Reunion in 2026 provides racing fans and visitors with the chance to see more than 300 race cars competing for two full days prior to the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion in a more relaxed and less-crowded environment. The paddock is bustling with teams working on their cars in the pits or on their way to pre-grid. The paddock is completely open to wander for enjoying the historic racing experience. Buy Tickets 5th Annual Corkscrew Hillclimb & Community Day (5:00 PM- 7:00 PM) WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca1021 Monterey Salinas HighwaySalinas, CA 93908 Now in its fifth year, the Corkscrew Hillclimb & Community Day returns with more cars of varying pedigrees. Drivers are eagerly looking forward to the chance of racing the clock by rocketing reverse course toward Turn 11 and up to the finish after cresting Turn 8, which is simply known as The Corkscrew. The Hillclimb will be a 90-minute action-packed variety of specials and race cars tackling the challenging Corkscrew while competing for racing glory, while attempting to break the record of 29.535 set in 2025 by Christine Sloss in her Ferrari SF90 XX Spider. Buy Tickets Sunday, August 9th Monterey Pre-Reunion (7:00 AM- 7:00 PM) WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca1021 Monterey Salinas HighwaySalinas, CA 93908 Sunday only gets better as the track brings back the Corkscrew Hillclimb competition and Community Day earlier this year. Fans can watch as historic race cars and fun exhibition vehicles race reverse course up the infamous Corkscrew. Promising entertainment at every corner, this event will have something for everyone! Buy Tickets Monday, August 10th Rally To Monterey Car Week by Luxury Rally Club Monday, August 10th -12th Los Angeles, CA to Monterey, CA Luxury Rally Club Rally to Monterey is an exclusive, invitation-only three-day driving experience that takes participants from Los Angeles to Monterey just before the start of Monterey Car Week. The rally follows a scenic route along the Pacific Coast Highway with curated stops, including a lunch gathering before arriving on the Monterey Peninsula. Participants also receive access to exclusive Car Week experiences, including the private Santa Lucia Preserve Concours & Cocktails event. More Event Info Automobilia Collectors Expo (10:00 AM - 5:00 PM) Embassy Suites1441 Canyon Del Rey BlvdSeaside, CA 93955 Automobilia Collectors Expo kicks off Monterey Car Week with a three-day celebration of automotive history, art, and memorabilia. Featuring a curated selection of exhibitors, the event showcases everything from vintage race posters and factory literature to artwork, scale models, signs, badges, books, and rare collectibles. The ACE Forum with Donald Osborne and Wayne Carini (11:00 AM & 1:00 PM) Embassy Suites Monterey Bay1441 Canyon Del Rey BlvdSeaside, CA 93955 Join Donald Osborne and Wayne Carini for two exclusive conversations moderated by Nic Waller, President of the Audrain Group. Hear personal stories, career highlights, collecting insights, automotive history, and behind-the-scenes experiences from two of the industry's most respected personalities. Buy Tickets Monterey British (11:00 AM - 2:00 PM) Carmel Valley Community Park77 W Carmel Valley RdCarmel Valley, CA 93924 Monterey British Car Show is a premier event dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage of British automobiles. This exciting showcase features an array of stunning cars that highlight engineering excellence and design. Our mission is to unite car enthusiasts and foster a community passionate about celebrating British automotive culture. Join us for a memorable experience filled with breathtaking displays. Porsche Monterey Classic (4:00 PM - 8:00 PM) Porsche Monterey1781 Del Monte BlvdSeaside, CA 93955 Kick off Monterey Car Week at Porsche Monterey with Heritage and Horsepower, a celebration of the iconic Porsche 911. Explore a curated display of classic and modern models while enjoying refreshments, interactive experiences, and an evening alongside fellow enthusiasts. It's the perfect way to start a week dedicated to automotive excellence. Piazza Motor Nights (5:30 PM - 9:45 PM) Courtyard by Marriott800 Morgans WaySand City, CA 93955 Start Monterey Car Week with an elegant evening of automotive culture, cocktails, live music, and curated experiences under the stars. More social gathering than traditional car show, the event combines standout vehicles, luxury hospitality, and a stylish atmosphere, making it the perfect opening-night celebration on California's Monterey Peninsula. Cocktail chic attire is encouraged. Tickets Required. Tuesday, August 11th Concours For A Cause (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM) Downtown Carmel-by-the-SeaOcean AvenueCarmel, CA 93923 Held along Ocean Avenue in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Concours for a Cause is a free community event celebrating classic automobiles, local art, and charitable giving during Monterey Car Week. The walkable gathering brings together vintage cars, cultural experiences, and local businesses while raising support for area nonprofits, making it one of the week's most welcoming events for collectors, residents, and visitors alike. Automobilia Collectors Expo (10:00 AM - 2:00 PM) Embassy Suites1441 Canyon Del Rey BlvdSeaside, CA 93955 Automobilia Collectors Expo kicks off Monterey Car Week with a three-day celebration of automotive history, art, and memorabilia. Featuring a curated selection of exhibitors, the event showcases everything from vintage race posters and factory literature to artwork, scale models, signs, badges, books, and rare collectibles. Night Rider at Asilomar (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM) Asilomar Hotel800 Asilomar AvenuePacific Grove, CA 93950 Bringing California car culture to life, Night Rider transforms Asilomar’s underground garage into a one-of-a-kind evening showcase of lowriders, classic cars, and custom builds. Featuring incredible craftsmanship, live vinyl sets, local vendors, and plenty of community, the event celebrates the creativity, style, and stories behind some of the most unique builds in the scene. Buy Tickets Wednesday, August 12th Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (8:00 AM - 5:10 PM) WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca1021 Monterey Salinas HighwaySalinas, CA 93908 A true highlight of Monterey Car Week, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion brings history to life with hundreds of historic race and sports cars taking to the track at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The 2026 event celebrates Japanese motorsport as the featured marque, showcasing legendary machines from brands like Mazda, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and more across decades of racing innovation. Beyond the on-track action, guests can enjoy world-class hospitality, culinary experiences, family activities, and the chance to see iconic cars and legendary drivers up close. Buy Tickets Automobilia Collectors Expo (10:00 AM - 5:00 PM) Embassy Suites1441 Canyon Del Rey BlvdSeaside, CA 93955 Automobilia Collectors Expo kicks off Monterey Car Week with a three-day celebration of automotive history, art, and memorabilia. Featuring a curated selection of exhibitors, the event showcases everything from vintage race posters and factory literature to artwork, scale models, signs, badges, books, and rare collectibles. Astons On The Avenue (11:00 AM - 4:00 PM) Ocean AvenueCarmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921 Ocean Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea comes alive during Car Week with a spectacular display of Aston Martins. Last year, the event filled downtown Carmel with breathtaking cars and delighted the public - this year it’s even bigger, with expanded awards and exhibitors. Aston Martin owners are invited to register to secure a prime spot and be part of the most exciting Astons on the Avenue yet. The Little Car Show (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Downtown Pacific GrovePacific Grove, CA 93950 The Little Car Show showcases 125 vehicles 25 years and older and features multi-marque mini, micro, steam, electric, and arcane vehicles of 1,800cc displacement or less from around the globe. A “special interest” category offers select limited production, custom, and modified vehicles Pebble Beach Motoring Classic (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Casa Palmero1518 Cypress DrPebble Beach, CA 93953 Witness the arrival of the Pebble Beach Motoring Classic as participants complete their 1,500-mile coastal journey to Pebble Beach. The annual road trip brings together a select group of exceptional vehicles before many continue on to compete in the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Join fellow enthusiasts at Casa Palmero as the cars make their grand arrival and celebrate the start of Automotive Week. Motorlux (5:00 PM - 10:00 PM) Monterey Jet Center300 Sky Park DrMonterey, CA 93940 Join Motorlux and its 3000 VIP guests for an exclusive First-Class evening and experience culinary delights while strolling the array of exceptional and rare vintage race cars, motorcycles, and aircraft. World-Class sponsors will also join us to show off their latest offerings and WOW guests with the first look at what's coming next in the aviation and automotive world. Noted California chefs will pair gourmet selections with California wines for this exclusive event. Buy Tickets Thursday, August 13th Pebble Beach Tour d'Elegance (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Portola RoadPebble Beach, CA 93953 The Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance gives more than 150 Concours entrants the chance to put their historic vehicles to the test on a scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive, Highway One, and the California coastline to Big Sur. Open to the public at several viewing points, the event offers an early look at the incredible cars set to appear on the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance show field, with the morning kickoff providing the unforgettable sights and sounds of these legendary machines in motion. Ferrari Owners Club Concours Carmel (7:00 AM - 4:00 PM) Downtown CarmelDolores St. between Ocean and 7th AvenueCarmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921 Starting at the Carmel Plaza stroll among more than 120 Ferraris - from legendary classics to today's modern masterpieces - while enjoying the unique charm of one of Monterey Car Week's most iconic destinations. Whether you are a lifelong Tifosi or simply appreciate extraordinary Italian automobilies, this is an event you don't want to miss. Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (8:00 AM - 5:35 PM) WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca1021 Monterey Salinas HighwaySalinas, CA 93908 A true highlight of Monterey Car Week, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion brings history to life with hundreds of historic race and sports cars taking to the track at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The 2026 event celebrates Japanese motorsport as the featured marque, showcasing legendary machines from brands like Mazda, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and more across decades of racing innovation. Beyond the on-track action, guests can enjoy world-class hospitality, culinary experiences, family activities, and the chance to see iconic cars and legendary drivers up close. Buy Tickets Legends of The Autobahn (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM) Pacific Grove Golf Links77 Asilomar AvePacific Grove, CA 93950 Legends of the Autobahn is the defining day of Monterey Car Week for the German marques. Set along the Pacific at the Pacific Grove Golf Links, this all-German marque concours brings together the BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz clubs for a single day that captures what the entire week is about. It’s where enthusiasts, collectors, and brands all show up in the same place, at the same time. Woodies in the Woods (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Grand Cypress Meadow800 Asilomar AvePacific Grove, CA 93950 One of the most unique events during Monterey Car Week, Woodies in the Woods celebrates the timeless charm of classic wood-bodied vehicles in a relaxed setting at Asilomar. Free and open to spectators and Woodie owners alike, the event features a lineup of beautiful classics, live music, food, and a beer garden for an afternoon of automotive nostalgia and community. Santa Lucia Preserve Concours & Cocktails (5:00 PM - 10:00 PM) Santa Lucia PreserveCarmel, CA 93923 Set within the scenic Santa Lucia Preserve during Monterey Car Week, The Preserve Concours & Cocktails offers a more relaxed take on the traditional automotive gathering. Hosted by Luxury Rally Club, the invitation-only evening combines exceptional collector cars, cocktails, elevated dining, and meaningful conversations in a stunning outdoor setting. With a curated atmosphere, world-class hospitality, and a guest list of passionate collectors and enthusiasts, the event delivers an intimate experience centered around great cars and even better company. Friday, August 14th Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (8:00 AM - 5:35 PM) WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca1021 Monterey Salinas HighwaySalinas, CA 93908 A true highlight of Monterey Car Week, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion brings history to life with hundreds of historic race and sports cars taking to the track at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The 2026 event celebrates Japanese motorsport as the featured marque, showcasing legendary machines from brands like Mazda, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and more across decades of racing innovation. Beyond the on-track action, guests can enjoy world-class hospitality, culinary experiences, family activities, and the chance to see iconic cars and legendary drivers up close. Buy Tickets Werks Reunion (7:00 AM - 3:00 PM) Monterey Pines Golf Course1250 Garden RoadMonterey, CA 93940 Hosted by the Porsche Club of America, Werks Reunion Monterey brings together one of the largest gatherings of Porsche models during Monterey Car Week. From rare classics to the latest performance cars, the event celebrates every era of the marque while honoring the 50th anniversary of the Porsche 924 and the brand's iconic transaxle models. It's a must-visit for Porsche owners, collectors, and enthusiasts The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering (9:00 AM - 4:00 PM) The Quail Lodge8205 Valley Greens Dr.Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923 A staple of Monterey Car Week, The Quail is where incredible cars, great food, and a relaxed garden-party atmosphere come together. Expect dozens of exciting new vehicle debuts, hundreds of rare collector cars, themed displays honoring icons like the Lamborghini Diablo and Ferrari F40, plus gourmet dining, live entertainment, and Broad Arrow Auctions' collector car sale. It's one of the week's most exclusive and sought-after events. Tickets Required. Pacific Grove Rotary Concours Auto Rally (10:00 AM - 3:00 PM) Downtown Pacific GroveLighthouse and Forest AvenuePacific Grove, CA 93950 A longtime Monterey Car Week tradition, the Pacific Grove Rotary Concours Auto Rally brings together vintage, classic, sports, and luxury cars for a scenic drive along the Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach coastline. The free event begins with a public display of participating vehicles before they depart on the rally route, with proceeds supporting local youth programs and community projects. For 2026, the featured marque is Jaguar. Pebble Beach Classic Car Forum (11:30 AM & 2:00 PM) Concours VillagePebble Beach, CA 93953 The Friday forum lineup features two engaging discussions for automotive enthusiasts. The Speedster: America's Turn of the Century Supercar explores the early high-performance machines that helped shape American motoring, while FIVA & the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance – Celebrating Living History in Automobiles brings together industry icons, including Jay Leno and Wayne Carini, to discuss the preservation and future of historic collector cars. Buy Tickets The Paddock Monterey (3:00 PM - 8:00 PM) Bayonet & Black Horse Golf Course1 McClure WaySeaside, CA 93955 Celebrating its second year, this event is open to all interesting cars, trucks, and motorcycles from any country and any model year, everything from classics to cutting-edge automotive innovations! Join in to explore diverse vehicle designs and cultures, enjoy the entertainment, and savor great food—whether you choose the VIP Club experience or our premium food trucks. A perfect day for car lovers and families. Children 13 and under are free when accompanied by a paying adult. Buy Tickets Saturday, August 15th Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (8:00 AM - 5:35 PM) WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca1021 Monterey Salinas HighwaySalinas, CA 93908 A true highlight of Monterey Car Week, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion brings history to life with hundreds of historic race and sports cars taking to the track at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The 2026 event celebrates Japanese motorsport as the featured marque, showcasing legendary machines from brands like Mazda, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and more across decades of racing innovation. Beyond the on-track action, guests can enjoy world-class hospitality, culinary experiences, family activities, and the chance to see iconic cars and legendary drivers up close. Buy Tickets Concours d'Lemons (8:00 AM - 1:30 PM) Seaside City Hall440 Harcourt AveSeaside, CA 93955 The Concours d'Lemons is back, taking over the Seaside City Hall lawn to add a dose of humor and irreverence to Monterey Auto Week. This quirky event celebrates the underbelly of the automotive world, where "hoopties" of all kinds vie for the coveted "Worst of Show" trophy. The awards are decided by a panel of celebrity judges known for their capriciousness and openness to bribery, adding an extra layer of fun to the competition. Admission is free. Serata Campioni by Lamborghini Club USA (10:00 AM - 2:00 PM) The Club at Pasadera100 Pasadera Dr.Monterey, CA 93940 Lamborghini Club USA brings the excitement of a concours-style showcase to Monterey Car Week with Serata Campioni. Featuring 63 vintage and modern Lamborghinis, the event celebrates the history, design, and performance behind the iconic marque. Guests can expect an impressive lineup of collector cars, trophy presentations, and a closer look at some of Lamborghini’s most celebrated supercars. Buy Tickets Concorso Italiano (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM) Bayonet & Black Horse Golf Course1 McClure WaySeaside, CA 93955 Celebrate over four decades of Italian automotive and motorcycle excellence at the 41st annual Concorso Italiano! Join us on Saturday for an unforgettable showcase of Italy’s most celebrated cars, motorcycles, motorbikes, and scooters set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Monterey Bay. A section of the field, Global Exotics, is dedicated to interesting automobiles from around the world. We invite everyone to experience Italian passion, style, and craftsmanship. Children 13 and under are free when accompanied by a paying adult. Buy Tickets Spike's Car Radio Live at the Pebble Beach Classic Car Forum (10:00 AM - 11:30 AM) Concours VillagePebble Beach, CA 93953 Join Spike Feresten, Jerry Seinfeld, Jonny Lieberman, and Paul Zuckerman for a live recording of Spike’s Car Radio at the Pebble Beach Classic Car Forum. Known for its humor, storytelling, and unpredictable conversations, the popular podcast comes to the stage for an entertaining discussion celebrating all things automotive. Buy Tickets Exotics on Broadway (11:00 AM - 4:00 PM) Broadway AvenueSeaside, CA 93955 For 2026, Exotics on Broadway is raising the bar once again with a new layout and a new vibe. The Fremont area will now be moved to Del Monte Blvd. This new Vendor & Hypercar Showcase area will be fully enclosed and will be a ticketed space. This enclosed area will allow for a more comfortable viewing experience which will include hypercar manufacturers, 40+ Hypercars, the top sponsors and vendors in the automotive industry, and a main entertainment stage. You can also experience the FREE portion of the show on Broadway Avenue from Fremont Blvd to Contra Costa Street. Buy Tickets Monterey Motorsports Festival (5:00 PM - 11:00 PM) Monterey County Fair & Event Center2004 Fairground RdMonterey, CA 93940 The largest Saturday evening event during Monterey Car Week, the Monterey Motorsports Festival brings together a night of world-class cars, live entertainment, food, drinks, and family-friendly activities at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center. With a mix of automotive displays, community celebrations, and a lively festival atmosphere, it’s a fun way to experience the energy of Car Week after the sun goes down. Buy Tickets Sunday, August 16th Velocity On Track (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM) WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca1021 Monterey Salinas HighwaySalinas, CA 93908 Wrap up Monterey Car Week with a day of high-speed action at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Velocity On Track gives enthusiasts the rare opportunity to take their own cars on the legendary circuit during Car Week, with unlimited sound, professional track photography, and a full day of driving. With limited spots available, it’s a unique chance to experience one of California’s most iconic tracks from behind the wheel. Registration required. Registration Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance (10:30 AM - 5:00 PM) Pebble Beach Golf Links1700 17 Mile DrivePebble Beach, CA 93953 Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2026, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance returns with another incredible lineup of historic automobiles, special classes, and one-of-a-kind displays. Ferrari will take center stage as the featured marque, with a spotlight on Chinetti and NART competition cars, while Vignale will be honored as the featured coachbuilder. The event will also introduce new classes celebrating Early American Speedsters, Classic Streamliners, and Japanese Motorsports.

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 10, 2026

Revealed: Eccentrica Unveils The New V12 Roadster Ahead of Monterey Car Week

There’s something to be said for preserving an era of motoring that will never be replicated, whether it’s the roar of a naturally aspirated V12, the feel of a gated six-speed manual gearbox, or the sight of gauge needles climbing across an analog cluster. That happened to be the exact vision for entrepreneur and Lamborghini collector Emanuel Colombini, sparking the birth of Eccentrica and the idea of re-engineering the first-series Lamborghini Diablo from a 1990s icon into a bespoke, modern-day analogue supercar. The San Marino-based restomod specialists started with the Eccentrica V12 in 2024. Today, Eccentrica is proud to announce the all-new Eccentrica V12 Roadster as the next chapter in its story, revealed just before its public unveiling at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering during Monterey Car Week 2026. GALLERY-EMBED Removing the roof falls directly in line with the Diablo’s lineage and Lamborghini’s idea of amplifying the excitement inside, with a screaming V12 revving to 7,500 rpm just behind the heads of the driver and passenger. Created in partnership with Milan-based design studio Borromeo De Silva, the V12 Roadster’s widened and recalibrated body remains unmistakably Lamborghini, thanks to the leadership of Maurizio Reggiani, former CTO of Lamborghini and the architect of the Murciélago, Gallardo, Aventador, and Huracán. Along with a new open-top look, Eccentrica also went underneath to upgrade carbon structure reinforcements and suspension geometry, while adding a custom semi-active damper system. GALLERY-EMBED Inside, the V12 Roadster keeps things just as special, mixing Connolly leather, Alcantara, anodized finishes, and exposed carbon fiber to give the cabin plenty of character. Like the rest of the car, every detail can be tailored directly to its owner, meaning no two of the 19 examples will be exactly alike. It’s a pretty fitting way for Eccentrica to build on what it started with, adding a new level of craftsmanship and personalization without losing the character that made the brand stand out in the first place. GALLERY-EMBED Now lighter and more connected, with hydraulic steering and Brembo brakes, the V12 Roadster feels even more confident unleashing all the power of its re-engineered 5.7L naturally aspirated V12. Revised in-house at Eccentrica, each engine delivers sharper throttle response, greater elasticity and a more immediate power delivery. With an ECU recalibration, along with heat management and optimized airflow, the V12 produces a healthy 550 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 442 ft-lbs of torque at 6,500 rpm. It's the perfect way to honor and preserve the Diablo’s original powerplant, managing it all through a six-speed gated manual gearbox. The Eccentrica V12 Roadster will be physically unveiled to the public for the very first time on August 14th, 2026, at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. GALLERY-EMBED Source: Eccentrica

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 04, 2026

The McMurtry Spéirling PURE Will Make Its Global Public Debut at Monterey Car Week

McMurtry Automotive built a legacy around the Spéirling over the past five years, one cemented in Goodwood Festival of Speed Hill Climb history, long before the single-seat electric hypercar ever began production. Recently revealing the final production spec, McMurtry just announced that the $1.3 million Spéirling PURE will make its global public debut in just a couple of short weeks on California’s Northern Peninsula during Monterey Car Week. First, McMurtry will be pulling the covers on the Spéirling PURE at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering on Friday, August 14th in Carmel. Setting the stage for the biggest supercar and hypercar manufacturers for the most anticipated reveals of the year, the 23rd edition of the event proved to be the perfect setting for McMurtry to mark a milestone. The Spéirling PURE has come a long way since the first prototype race car shattered the Goodwood Hill Climb in 2022, featuring a design with 95% new components compared to previous models. Here, future owners and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to see and discuss its evolution with McMurtry Automotive members. "The Quail really will be a significant moment in McMurtry’s history, and we cannot wait to witness the reaction of the public, our customers and the media in seeing the Spéirling PURE in production form, in person, for the first time. It’s one thing to see the images online, but to truly absorb the car’s design, proportions, details and finish, nothing compares to when the car is there in front of you." - Thomas Yates, McMurtry co-founder and Managing DirectorAfter The Quail, the Spéirling PURE will be on display at WeatherTech Laguna Seca Raceway on August 15th as part of Monterey Motorsports Reunion, where McMurtry co-founder and Managing Director Thomas Yates will be in attendance. As for what’s next in the coming weeks, the Spéirling PURE will be on display at a number of McMurtry dealer partners and tracks across America, with more details to be announced soon. Source: McMurtry Automotive

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