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 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 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>

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

By Andrew Nabors – October 11, 2019

Horacio Pagani: My Story & My Inspirations

This year's Anaheim Auto Show featured two Pagani Huayras in our booth. Endless questions about who, what, and why they existed could take hours to answer, so it is proper that Mr. Pagani describes his motivation an innovations in his own words. So here is Horacio Pagani's story and inspirations by Carfection. My Italian is decent enough to perceive the emotion behind his story, so here is a quick timeline: Born in Argentina to Italian parents, he opened a small garage to fix and modify whatever he could get his hands on. A self-taught genius, he presented himself to Mr. Lamborghini asking for whatever job opening they had. Mr. Pagani & Mr. duPont From sweeping the floors, his brilliance was quickly realized. He became Chief Engineer by the mid-80s. He saw the rise and fall of the company, which eventually was purchased by Chrysler in 1988. He fought Lee Iaccoca tooth & nail to allow Lamborghini to be the first Carbon Fiber supercar. Chrysler demanded fiberglass to keep costs low. Browse All Pagani For Sale He resigned with an ace up his sleeve, a new way to manufacture composites. Carfaction caught the master in his own words, so click the button above to find a Pagani near you and stay with us for all your Pagani updates. " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – May 30, 2019

Pagani Huayra Test Mule Hot Laps

Between Milan and Verona lies the Franciacorta Autodrome. It is an FIA sanctioned track located away from the auto spied who lurk around Modena and Sant'Agata. That is how 19Bozzy92 was able to film a Pagani Huayra test mule hot laps around the track. He proposes that it might be an even more potent version of the Huayra BC, and the aerodynamics support this hypothesis. Horacio Pagani has no reason to rush the development of a new model. Anyone who gets close to one of his cars instantly realizes the time and effort that goes into each build. Pagani Huayra BC Macchina Volante The air intake behind the cockpit looks very similar to the Huayra BC Macchina Volante, a one-of-one build for a wealthy collector. Intakes in the rear quarter panels are also much taller, and their lines extend to the base of the spoiler. A spine running between the roof scoop and the rear spoiler looks like a ramjet, but it is an obvious Venturi duct. This could funnel air into the rear spoiler, eerily similar to Lamborghini's patented ALA system. Tell us what you think of this prototype in the comments below, and click the link to find a Pagani near you. Browse Pagani For Sale Related: Updated Pagani Huayra BC Macchine Volante Revealed Before Geneva Prestige Imports Delivers Beautiful Pagani Huayra BC

By Andrew Nabors – June 08, 2018

Pagani Zonda Revolución Caught At Imola

What good is a sword that never leaves the scabbard? That is what we ask ourselves when we see cars like the Pagani Zonda collecting dust. Thanks to our friend 19Bozzy92, we now have inspiration for how to properly leave work on a Friday. As the final version of the Zonda, Mr. Pagani made a host of improvements. The Pagani Huayra Project Vulcan: Created by Dedication First off, he went to his engine supplier (Mercedes-AMG) and asked for more. The result is 789 horsepower and 540 lb-ft of torque. Then he went to the transmission experts at Xtrac. Their transverse 6-speed sequential was revised to offer shift times of 20ms. Bosch supplied the traction control/ABS with 12 settings. Horacio Pagani and Tom duPont The grand finale was DRS. The Drag Reduction System is controlled by a steering wheel button, and when activated, it changes from maximum downforce to maximum speed mode. Only 5 examples were built, each one with a price tag of 2.2 Million Euros. Pagani Miami is the best place to find your next car, so click the link below and have a great weekend!

By Andrew Nabors – February 20, 2017

Jay Leno Drives David Lee's Pagani Huayra

Artists and engineers are usually like oil and water. Some of the biggest battles in automotive history have been between styling and production, which is why Horacio Pagani left Lamborghini to build his own car. Titanium doesn't like to play with composites because it likes to hang out with oxygen. But Mr. Pagani patented a way to infuse it into carbon fiber, and the result is Carbotanium. The wonder material is what the Huayra is made of, and his artisans bookmatch the entire body down the centerline. Jay Leno's Garage is the best way to learn the history of exotic cars, so grab a snack and an Italian translator.Related - Jay Leno Surprises Wounded Veteran With a New FiatFor the discerning collector, Pagani will update your car to the latest specifications and technology. The Tempesta Package was released last year with a healthy bump in power and performance. Pagani Miami recently installed the $181,000 package that includes new wheels, tires, suspension, exhaust and aggressive spoilers. Our friend David Lee likes to keep his collection on the cutting edge, and he explains the transformation in detail. Apparently all you have to do is text Mr. Pagani to get the process started. One person in this building has his cell number, so if you want your Huayra to be more unique, our Publisher would be glad to make it happen. So stay with us for all your Pagani updates.Supercars For Sale

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