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

Pagani News

Pagani news from duPont REGISTRY News, updated as each story breaks, covering the Utopia, the Huayra in its many forms, and the Zonda that made the marque's name. Our reporting takes in reveals, first drives, bespoke builds and the auction results that set collector values. Pagani finishes fewer cars in a year than most makers build in a single day, so each sale sets a benchmark. That is where our marketplace becomes useful to readers. Paganis covered here are sometimes listed for sale on duPont REGISTRY, which puts the reporting beside a real figure. For Pagani news today, and the hypercar news and exotic car news around it, start below.

By Andrew Nabors – September 22, 2020

Pagani Huayra BC Roadster Smashes Lap Record At Spa

Leaving the only career you have ever had is probably not easy. But when Horacio Pagani learned that Chrysler would be buying Lamborghini, he left the company he had worked for since age 17. Working his way up from sweeping the floors to becoming Chief Engineer, his decades of supercar knowledge would empower him to build his own brand of supercar. With the ideas and sketches of the Zonda, he was encouraged by his friend Benny Caiola to follow his dreams. Once the first production Pagani was ready, Benny became the first Pagani owner. It is for him that their latest supercar was named. And it is a fitting homage to a friend that the Pagani Huayra BC Roadster has smashed the lap record at Spa. Horacio Pagani Shows Off His Personal Car Collection One of the fastest tracks in the world, Spa-Francorchamps is home to endurance racing of all types. Since the test drivers and engineers had amassed nearly 218,000 miles on streets and on the track, Spa was their final validation program. With a fresh set of Pirelli tires made specific for Pagani, the boss aquiesed to his team for a record attempt. Andrea Palma crossed the finish line in 2.23:08. Nearly 2 seconds faster than the previous record set by a McLaren Senna is quite an achievement. Here's to everyone at Pagani, Pirelli, Mercedes-AMG and everyone involved. Pagani Miami (Prestige Imports) is ready to take your reservation, so click the button to learn more. Browse Pagani For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – April 21, 2020

Artist Beautifully Hand Paints on a Pagani Zonda

Anyone can have their car painted at an auto body shop or have it wrapped or even custom painted straight out of the factory. But, some owners like to take their vehicle's exterior paint to a completely different level by having artists paint their own work of art onto the body. Pagani just posted a perfect example of this exact type of automotive painting. The canvas for this piece of art is a Pagani Zonda, a magnificent supercar that's a true screamer on the track. As for the artist, that was Shalemar Sharbatly (@shalemarsh). The result is a stunning piece of automotive art. Check it out for yourself! See All Paganis for Sale Source: Facebook/Pagani

By Andrew Nabors – April 20, 2020

Horacio Pagani Shows Off His Personal Car Collection

One of the attributes of a true artist is respecting all forms of art. While many people are loyal to a single brand or model, the father of the Zonda and the Huayra has a diverse collection at home. In his latest YouTube upload, we get a look at Horacio Pagani's car collection. No matter how much you want to hit the open road, the hashtag #stayinyourgarage is featured prominently in the film. It was a Jaguar E-type that began his love of cars as a child in Argentina. He uses it to teach us that a car is not intrinsically ugly or beautiful, it creates emotions in the eye of the beholder. It is those feelings that are often more important than the car itself. That is why he has an extensive devotion to the Porsche 917. Pagani Huayra Specs, Price, Photos & Review Then it is on to a "Huayra BC Roadster to "create some commotion". Another significant car he didn't mention was a white 25th Anniversary Lamborghini Countach. It was his last project as Chief Engineer before Chrysler purchased the brand, and it is a timeless icon of Italian perfection. As he instructed, show us your collection in the comments below and stay with us for all your Pagani news. Browse All Pagani For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – April 01, 2020

Paint Your Own Pagani

Pagani is putting a call out for all kids to lay down some creativity. The Italian supercar manufacturer has released a pack of sketches by Argentinian artist Daniel Montesano for kids (and adults) to color in. Pagani wants to see just how you would design your own Huayra or Zonda by posting your image to Instagram using the hashtag #paintyourpagani. If you click the button below, you'll be taken to the page where you can download the images for yourself. Paint Your Pagani https://www.instagram.com/p/B-cYPw6obsh/

71494819_468544673747081_60541030075727872_o

By Andrew Nabors – April 01, 2020

Pagani Beverly Hills Expands Sanitization Service

Mr. Horacio doesn't build normal cars and they are not to be handled by novice detailers. Your car demands the very best, and that is why Pagani Beverly Hills has expanded their sanitization service. Every Pagani technician is trained at the factory to know every aspect of the car. That is how they are able to clean and sanitize every nook & cranny. Pick up and delivery is handled by technicians in protective gear, ensuring the safety of you and your prized possessions. Browse Inventory at Pagani Beverly Hills " width="680"> Contact Pagani Beverly Hills Service Department Website: Pagani Beverly HillsPhone: 949-705-7696Address: 350 Clinton St.Unit CCosta Mesa, CA 92626

90092222_260159348337326_2216988646599820281_n

By Andrew Nabors – March 18, 2020

Pagani Duo on Display at the Petersen

Many travels involve Los Angeles. Skip your connecting flight to visit the immaculate Petersen Museum. You will see displays of Americana, European car culture, and even a bike or two. Their latest exhibit is a lesson on automotive history, as a Pagani Duo is on display at the Petersen Museum. Pagani Huayra Price, Specs, Photos & Review Would you like specifics? A new Pagani Imola is positioned next to a Huayra Roadster BC. Nothing we can say can add or detract from this pair, other than you should drive them. You will reevaluate your thoughts of a street legal car, so click the button below. Browse All Pagani For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – March 12, 2020

Pagani's Geneva Lineup Filmed at the Factory

As Italy is in the midst of a virus lockdown, Mr. Pagani and his team will continue to build amazing supercars. Two new models were en route to Switzerland when the show was canceled, so Pagani's Geneva lineup was filmed at the factory. As we previewed last month, it was to be the European debut of the Imola alongside the new Huayra Roadster BC. Only 5 examples of the Imola will be built, with each offering 827 horsepower and 811 lb-ft of torque. The Roadster BC is their first body to incorporate Carbo-Titanium HP62, along with carbo-tanium woven in 3D by a triple-axis loom. Enough about the details, let's hear it from the man himself. Click the button below to find your Pagani and stay with us for all your Pagani news. Browse All Pagani For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – February 17, 2020

2021 Pagani Imola: Lighter & Faster

Only 5 To Be Buil & Already Sold 827 Horsepower& 811 lb-ft of Torque 2,747-lb Curb Weight Horacio Pagani values form and function equally. Disregarding the power and performance of his cars, their styling speaks for itself. That's why we found this press release almost apologetic. He asked his team to incorporate the latest technologies for 5 valued customers, the new 2021 Pagani Imola for sale is lighter & faster. "The aerodynamic technology behind the Pagani Imola is evident in three of its key features. The general outline, the internal aerodynamics and the external aerodynamic details, such as the fins, winglets and deflectors. We can’t say that it’s an elegant car. We wanted an efficient vehicle, and just as you’d expect if you were looking at an F1 single-seater, this led us to design a car with additional aerodynamic features." Mr. Pagani. To us, there is no such thing as an ugly Pagani. This is their first car to integrate the suspension, brakes, aerodynamics, and throttle response into one computer. Nearly 10,00 miles of testing at Imola have ensured these cars are ready to take on the world. Could they be a test-bed for the Huayra's successor? It is a distinct possibility. That's why you should stay with us for all your Pagani news. Browse All Pagani For Sale " width="680"> Related: Pagani Huayra Specs, Price, Photos & Review

By Edward Jones – January 10, 2020

Pagani Raduno - The Vanishing Point 2019 Video Recap

Every year, a large group of Paganis meets up for the Pagani Raduno - The Vanishing Point. This rally is held every year in Italy and it turns into one of the most extravagant automotive events in the world. Pagani just released a video recap of the 2019 edition of The Vanishing Point. The Paganis drove around the roads of Sardinia, through countrysides and along the waterfront. It was a truly magnificent event that you need to see for yourself. SEE ALL PAGANIS FOR SALE " width="680"> Featured Image Via " title="YouTube video" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen>

81302290_3250049331688850_2821030426632519680_o

By Andrew Nabors – January 02, 2020

Pagani Looks Back on 2019

Two decades ago, Horacio Pagani created the hypercar. Patenting new composites and solving problems with elegant solutions are just a few of his talents. Last year began with a new partnership with Piloti, culminating with the ultimate Roadster Driving Boot. Then it was on to Geneva for a unique display of past & present. The Goodwood Festival of Speed saw 30 examples in one spot, another record broken. Horacio Pagani & Mr. duPont The Pagani Raduno West was a convoy from SoCal to Monterey to attend Pebble Beach. While the Pagani Raduno East was an Appalacian adventure that ended in Manhattan. It was there on the floor of Grand Central that Mr. Pagani celebrated the long road to success. Here's to another 20 years from all of us at duPont Registry. Find Your Pagani Here " width="680"> Related: Pagani Huayra Specs, Price, Photos & Review

Pagani News

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe