Porsche News

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

A dark green Porsche 911 GT3 RS roars down a wet U.S. racetrack, leaving a blur of trees in its wake.

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 16, 2025

Porsche 911 GT3 RS and 911 GT2 RS Manthey Kits Now Offere...

Manthey kits finally land on U.S. soil for Porsche. Engineered on the racetrack with everyday road use in mind, Porsche's lineup of GT cars offers a true race-inspired driving experience for customers looking to add some excitement to the garage. And while countless hours of design and testing go into producing what seem to be the ultimate sports cars, the team at Manthey Racing, a division of Porsche, takes things even further with aero, braking, and suspension upgrades for two of the most track-focused 911 variants. Today, Porsche and Manthey Racing proudly announce that kits will now be offered in the U.S. for the 992 911 GT3 RS and 991 911 GT2 RS. The Manthey Kit for the 992 911 GT3 RS transforms it into a downforce powerhouse, generating over 2,200 pounds at 177 mph. Upgraded aerodynamics include a larger front lip, shark fin, and split DRS rear wing, while lightweight carbon fiber parts replace heavier components. The semi-active coilover suspension is fine-tuned to handle the increased downforce, offering precision adjustments for any track. Brake upgrades guarantee a sharper response in the corners, while personalization options like carbon fiber accents and custom decals let owners add their own touch. For the 991 911 GT2 RS, the Manthey Kit delivers precise upgrades, including aerodynamic tweaks that significantly increase downforce and improve high-speed stability. Magnesium wheels shed weight and maintain strength, and a larger water tank for intercooler spray cooling keeps the car running efficiently during intense track sessions. The track-optimized suspension allows for customizable handling, and steel-lined brake lines improve braking feedback. These improvements make the GT2 RS even more exciting to drive, with balanced performance that lets drivers push the limits confidently. Both kits are available to order immediately through Manthey-certified U.S. Porsche dealerships with delivery expected by Spring, 2025. MSRP for the 911 GT3 RS Manthey Kit is $116,160. MSRP for the 911 GT2 RS Manthey Kit is $113,140. Both prices exclude taxes and dealer installation costs. View All Porsche 911 GT3 RS & 911 GT2 RS For Sale Source: Porsche

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 31, 2024

Porsche Honors Racing Driver Jo Siffert's Legacy With A O...

With the 911 GT3 RS Tribute to Jo Siffert, Porsche is paying tribute to the late Swiss racing driver. Jo Siffert's legacy as a legendary Swiss racing driver continues to inspire racers and car lovers worldwide. Known for his passion and relentless drive, Siffert's spirit lives on in a unique tribute by Porsche. The one-off Porsche 911 GT3 RS, designed and crafted by the Porsche Sonderwunsch Manufaktur, pays homage to Siffert's iconic victories, particularly the memorable win at Zeltweg in 1969 with the Porsche 917. The tribute car features nods to the original 917, including Viper Green accents and the iconic number "29" on various areas of the car. The Siffert family's involvement in this special project adds a deep personal touch, with his son Philippe and grandson Jérémy participating in the configuration process. This special GT3 RS showcases both the design characteristics reminiscent of the 917 and also the extensive customization options available through Porsche's Sonderwunsch program. The attention to detail is obvious throughout every inch of the GT3 RS, from the classic Porsche lettering to the modern sponsor decals. The exterior's Pure White paint, contrasted by Viper Green sections, mirrors the original race car's livery, while the interior features a refined racing atmosphere with Race-Tex materials and bespoke touches like Siffert's signature. This tribute Porsche celebrates Jo Siffert's enduring influence and Porsche's rich racing heritage. The Sonderwunsch program's ability to transform dreams into reality shines through in this commemorative chassis. The tribute 911 GT3 RS embodies the essence of "Driven by Dreams," symbolizing the passion that Jo Siffert brought to the world of motorsport. View all Porsche 911 GT3 RS examples for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Porsche 911 GT3 RS For Sale Source: Porsche

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 30, 2024

Brand-New 992 Porsche 911 GT3 RS Crashes Into A River In ...

The life of this 922 Porsche 911 GT3 RS was short lived after plunging into the water. Since its debut as Porsche's most track-focused supercar, the 992-generation 911 GT3 RS has made waves in the industry as the hottest car release of the year. And while the past few months have littered social media with jaw-dropping specs being delivered to both dealerships and new owners, it also comes with the unfortunate circumstances of some examples being totaled due to collisions and or accidents. One 911 GT3 RS is making headlines in automotive news after being involved in a freak incident, which left the $300k Porsche submerged underwater in Snoqualmie, Washington. From other reports, the driver seems to have escaped from the accident without any serious injuries. From what looks to be a sharp bend that runs along a river, predictions can only assume that the GT Silver Metallic GT3 RS overshot the corner before finding itself in a saturated situation. Images of the wreck, uploaded by @icsnapper on Reddit, document the 911 GT3 RS being extracted from the watery depths with its temporary new car tag still intact. If you thought this would be the perfect re-build for an automotive YouTuber, you may change your mind after seeing a destroyed C-pillar that deems it a total loss. While we can't predict the future of this now-totaled 992 Porsche 911 GT3 RS, you can definitely expect buyers' eyes to be on it when it hits the tow yard. View all Porsche 911 GT3 RS examples for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Porsche 911 GT3 RS For Sale @icsnapper Reddit Source: @icsnapper Reddit

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 23, 2024

Porsche x Delta Airlines Re-Launch Its Luxury Chauffeur S...

That's right, Porsche will pick you up in a 911 GT3 RS! Last year, Delta Airlines passengers flying into its Atlanta hub at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport were shocked to see a $2 million Porsche 918 Spyder on the runway sporting 'Delta' logos. The supercar chauffeur came thanks to an initiative promoting the partnership between the two industry giants, giving select Delta Airlines members a courtesy ride from the tarmac. Now with a new fleet of track-focused sports cars, Porsche and Delta are proud to re-launch the program with the new 992 generation Porsche 911 GT3 RS. For the specially selected passengers who wish to take the quicker route from the terminal, they will be offered the front seat into Porsche's most powerful and sophisticated GT3 RS to date. Porsche USA recently teased the fuel-driven opportunity on its Instagram page, showcasing a race-ready, Guards Red Porsche 911 GT3 RS at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport awaiting its next companion. The 992 Porsche 911 GT3 RS perfectly embodies the fusion of F1 inspiration with Porsche's iconic design. Its aerodynamic profile is drawn directly from the racetrack to the road. The heart of the GT3 RS is its naturally aspirated engine, a powerhouse of precision and speed, delivering 502 horsepower to its rear wheels. that highlight its capability for rapid acceleration and nimble handling. So next time you fly into Atlanta on Delta Airlines, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for a bright red Porsche 911 GT3 RS on the runway. View all Porsche 911 GT3 RS examples currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Porsche 911 GT3 RS For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by Porsche USA (@porscheusa) Source: Porsche USA

By Tyler Rampersaud – December 28, 2023

Merit Partners Acquires 4 Ultra-Rare PTS 997.2 Porsche 91...

These incredible cars are iconic, fast, rare, and unique. For any Porsche enthusiast or exotic car collector, there’s nothing quite like a Paint to Sample Porsche. With unique colors and an elevated degree of exclusivity, Paint to Sample cars make for some of the most precious gems in the Porsche world. However, when you combine a Porsche model that was rare in the first place with the enviable exclusivity of Paint to Sample, you get some of the most desirable Porsches ever, and that’s exactly what these four examples of the 997.2 Porsche 911 GT3 RS 3.8, in the private collection at Merit Partners are. Roughly 1,500 examples of the 997.2 generation of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS 2.8 were delivered worldwide, with 612 examples built for the United States and Canada. However, only 46 of those were made with Paint to Sample configurations. Merit Partners has acquired 4 of those 46 examples for sale, representing nearly 10 percent of all of the US Paint to Sample 997.2 911 GT3 RS 3.8s made. RS Green was one of the communication colors for the 997.1 GT3 RS, however, it was only available as a Paint to Sample color for the 997.2 generation. This example is not only one of only two North American examples in this color, but it’s also the lowest-mileage PTS example existing with only 80 miles on its odometer. The beautiful Paint to Sample Riviera Blue adorns only 6 North American examples, and this one is the lowest mileage one with only 2,522 miles. It was modified with Porsche Motorsports OEM parts by Toronto-based Pfaff Motorsports before its first delivery. GT Silver Metallic is one of the most iconic colors in Porsche’s expansive library. Only five examples of the 997.2 GT3 RS 3.8 were made in this color, and Merit Partners has acquired the lowest-mileage one, with only 1,850 miles on its odometer. In addition, the car has never before been publicly seen or photographed. Introduced in the 997 generation, Meteor Grey is only featured on one 997.2 GT3 RS 3.8 in North America, and Merit Partners has acquired it, with only 1,088 miles on its odometer. Like the GT Silver example, the car has never before been seen or photographed publicly. With an incredible private collection, Merit Partners has added to it some of the most incredible existing Porsches, featuring ultra-rare Paint to Sample colors, incredibly low mileage, and of course the GT3 RS’s track-ready engineering and performance. 75 years into Porsche’s history, and 60 years into that of the 911, these four masterpieces celebrate the legendary legacy of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Porsche’s legacy as a whole. View All Vehicles For Sale From Merit Partners Image Source: Merit Partners

Porsche News

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe