Nissan

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 Jordan Aquistapace – October 30, 2023

Nissan x Seiko Debut The NISMO Safari Z Watch At SEMA, Li...

When it comes to honoring motorsport history, Nissan knows how to do it in style. At the 2023 SEMA show, the JDM legend took the wraps off the new Nissan Z Safari Rally Tribute car, paying homage to the iconic 1971 Datsun Fairlady Z's victory at the 19th East-Africa Safari Rally. As if that weren't exciting enough news for car enthusiasts, Nissan Motorsports has teamed up with Seiko, one of the original sponsors of that legendary rally racecar, to launch an exclusive timepiece: the limited-edition NISMO Safari Z watch. Limited to just 240 pieces, this watch is a must-have for die-hard Nissan fans and watch collectors alike. Inspired by the exhilarating world of rally racing, it showcases an embossed blue dial decorated with metallic elements and Nissan’s iconic #23, a clever play on words in Japanese. The watch also features Nissan Z and Safari branding, making it a tasteful nod to racing and timekeeping heritage. Completing the look is a color-matched NATO-style strap with racing stripes in black, blue, and red. When it comes to specs, the Seiko x Nissan's newest creation doesn't disappoint. It comes with a 60-minute track marked in five-minute increments, LumiBrite hands and markers for easy visibility, and a date calendar for practicality. The case measures a versatile 40mm in size and is crafted from polished stainless steel with a black ion-finish bezel. Water-resistant up to 100 meters, the watch is powered by Caliber 6N52 quartz movement. And at a price point of $299, it offers an attractive blend of style, functionality, and heritage. The all-new NISMO Seiko Safari Watch is currently for sale on the NISMOSafariWatch website. View all Nissan models currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Nissan For Sale Nissan Source: Nissan

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 30, 2023

Nissan Revs Up SEMA 2023 With A Safari Rally Z Tribute An...

Nissan celebrates its storied motorsports legacy with the unveiling of the Safari Rally Z Tribute and a replica Datsun 240Z at SEMA 2023. This year's SEMA show, taking place from October 31st to November 3rd at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is about to get a high-octane boost from Nissan. The world-renowned JDM automaker is set to pay tribute to its rich motorsports heritage with two eye-catching exhibits: the Safari Rally Z Tribute, crafted by Tommy Pike Customs, and a stunning replica of the Datsun 240Z rally car that clinched the 1971 East African Safari Rally. The Safari Rally Z Tribute comes as Nissan's seventh-generation Z model continues to win hearts both on the road and the track. The Tribute concept imagines taking that sports car adrenaline off the asphalt and into the wilderness. This gritty, rally-ready version integrates custom KW Safari and NISMO suspension components, jacking up the ride height by two inches and accommodating 17 x 7.5-inch prototype NISMO Safari wheels wrapped in Yokohama GEOLANDAR M/T G003 tires. Beyond aesthetics, Tommy Pike's team fitted the car with several performance and durability upgrades, from a new front bumper guard and skid plate to an AMS-tuned 400+ horsepower VR30DDTT engine. The build also sports a variety of NISMO Off Road LED lights and interior enhancements such as a custom roll bar and Recaro Pole Position seats. Visitors to Nissan's booth will also get an up-close look at a replica of the 1971 Datsun 240Z, the car that put Nissan on the rally map. On loan from collector Randy Jaffe, this vintage beauty was restored to drivable, period-correct condition in 2013 and recently appeared in a Nissan commercial featuring Brie Larson. With these exhibits, Nissan aims not just to honor its past, but also to inspire future generations of motorsport enthusiasts and car enthusiasts. View all Nissan models currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Nissan For Sale Source: Nissan

By Tyler Rampersaud – August 01, 2023

Nissan Reveals The New Fairlady Z NISMO In Japan

Nissan has revealed the performance-enhanced Fairlady Z NISMO in Japan, and it's coming Stateside later this year.

By Tyler Rampersaud – May 16, 2023

Two Heritage Colors Are Back For The New 2024 Nissan GT-R

Godzilla has new innovations in store for 2024.

By duPont Registry – April 10, 2023

2021 Nissan GT-R T-Spec Listed For Sale

It wears the R34 V-Spec's Midnight Purple III paint.

By Andrew Nabors – May 28, 2020

2021 Nissan Z Teased Along With New Lineup

Nissan is poised to reinvent their brand in the coming months. It was obvious that many models had gone unchanged for years. So when managers started asking questions, CEO Carlos Ghosn fled Japan in a piano box with the help of mercenaries. Now unchained by his embezzlement, Nissan has a host of new and updated models on the way. Top 50 Best Exotic Cars And Supercars Of All Time The 370Z is a revised 350Z that has been in production for 18 years. There is nothing wrong with the VQ series of engines, but chassis technology and aerodynamics have come along way in two decades. With a few subtle styling cues from the classic Datsun Z-cars, rumors of twin-turbo power would place it at the top of the lineup. Noticeably absent is the GT-R, which has earned a retirement after 13 years. This is probably the best time to find a new GT-R, so click the button below and stay with us for all your Nissan news. Browse Nissan GT-R For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – May 20, 2020

Nissan GT-R 50 Unveiled by Italdesign

Fans of Japanese Supercars have reason to celebrate today. The Nissan brand is now 50 years old, and to celebrate the golden anniversary, Italdesign was commissioned for an unprecedented collaboration. Working with their in-house NISMO motorsports division, Nissan is proud to announce the first production GT-R 50 by Italdesign. Only 50 cars will be built by hand. Each one will offer 710 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque along with carbon fiber inside and out. An Italian leather interior has been stitched by hand and well-insulated from the outside world. Working with their GT3 team, NISMO will equip each car with a forged bottom end, massive turbos, reinforced transmission, driveshafts, and differentials. The 21" carbon fiber wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Supercar tires. Pricing starts at $1.1 Million and most have already been reserved. Tell us what you think of the ultimate Nissan in the comments below and stay with us for all your GT-R news. Browse Nissan GT-R For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – December 07, 2018

Nissan Unveils Production Version of Italdesign GT-R50

We were surprised when Nissan announced pricing for the 2019 GT-R would not increase. And now we know why. What was first seen at this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed is the ultimate example of Nissan's supercar. Working with the skilled coachbuilders at Italdesign, they have transfromed Godzilla into a work of art. It represents the 50th anniversary of the GT-R for model year 2019, and a half-century of styling success by Italdesign. As such, only 50 examples will be produced. The Nissan press release this morning mentions a starting price of 990,000 Euros, or only $1,126,478. For that amount, you will receive a 720 horsepower 2-seater built to your specifications. Kudos to Nissan for keeping the GT-R on the cutting edge, so click the link below for great offers from our dealers. Nissan GT-R For Sale " width="680"> Related: Nissan 50th Anniversary GT-R50 by Italdesign 2019 Nissan GT-R Prices

By Andrew Nabors – December 06, 2018

2019 Nissan GT-R Pricing & Updates

If you are looking for a twin turbo Japanese supercar, Nissan is celebrating 11 years of the GT-R. Minor updates to styling and options have happened along the way, but Nissan hasn't done anything drastic because sales show no signs of decline. Another automotive blog criticized the brand for gradual price increases over the years. It is true that the 2008 base model had a sticker price of 69,850. You need to consider the Dollar is much stronger than the Yen, and a decade of inflation has not been kind to us. Nevertheless, Nissan chose not to change the base price for the 2018 model year. The GT-R Pure is their entry level, and it remains at $99,950. That includes all-LED lighting, leather, Apple Carplay, 565 horsepower, and 467 lb-ft of torque. If you need Bose Audio and Titanium exhaust, the Premium model is $110,540. If you need more grip, the Track Edition is $128,540. The ultimate monster is the GT-R Nismo. It arrives with 600 horsepower and 481 lb-ft of torque for a cool $175,540. Click the link below to find your new Nissan and stay with us for all your GT-R updates. View All Nissan GT-R For Sale Related: 3500 Horsepower Nissan GT-R Loud Nissan GT-R Banned from Nurburgring

By Edward Jones – June 06, 2017

Nashville Predators Themed Nissan GT-R "Predzilla" Donate...

While the Nashville Predators are locked in a fierce Stanley Cup Finals against the Pittsburgh Penguins, Nissan has gone and done something very special with one of the competing teams.With Nashville being home to Nissan North America headquarters, it's only fitting that the automaker teamed up with the Predators by donating a very special GT-R to the Nashville Predators Foundation. The Japanese supercar that was donated was dubbed "Predzilla" and features a fitting livery."Nissan is proud to call the great city of Nashville home for our North American headquarters – and we are thrilled that our hometown Predators have come so far this season," said José Muñoz, Chief Performance Officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.; Chairman, Nissan North America, Inc. "This supercar is dedicated to Nashville and Predators fans all over the world. We hope it raises a lot of awareness and funds for the work of the Predators Foundation."Also Check Out - Porsche 993 Carrera & Cabriolet- An Introduction The Predators Foundation aims to better the city's community through resources and financial support that is donated to local youth-oriented organizations. Since its inception in September 1998, they have awarded almost $5 million to the community and $1 million of that was donated during the 2016-17 season.So, what's going to happen to the Predzilla? It's currently being auctioned. If you're interested in placing a bid, you can text "Nissan" to 52182 or visit www.Nissan.gesture.com. Coming along with the car are two 2017-18 season tickets and a parking pass for your new GT-R.

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