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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 Jordan Aquistapace – July 30, 2024

How To Buy: PUMA x Porsche's New "The Legend of Turbo" Co...

Discover the PUMA x Porsche collection celebrating 50 years of the Porsche 911 Turbo with stylish, retro-inspired fashion pieces. The 911 Turbo embodies the pinnacle of automotive engineering for the Porsche brand, skillfully combining the high-performance characteristics of a track-focused supercar with the refinement of a luxury sports car. Its advanced design and technology guarantee exceptional speed and handling while maintaining a level of comfort that sweetens everyday driving. This balance made the 911 Turbo a crucial piece of Porsche's puzzle for the past 50 years. PUMA is excited to launch its latest PUMA x Porsche Collection, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic Porsche 911 Turbo. The collection pays homage to the classic car with a blend of heritage and modern style, capturing the timeless allure of the 911 Turbo. Designed to evoke nostalgia, the lineup features twill jackets, flannel shirts, and unique tartan graphics inspired by the 1974 Porsche 911 Turbo's interior. "The Legend of Turbo" collection tells a heartfelt story through its design, from the proud Porsche owner to the young dreamer who aspires to own one. Each piece in the collection represents the emotion and pride associated with the Porsche 911 Turbo, creating a stylish link between past and present. Embrace the rich history and stylish flair of the PUMA x PORSCHE collection and celebrate five decades of the legendary Porsche 911 Turbo by clicking the link below. Shop The PUMA x Porsche "The Legend of Turbo" Collection Our Top Picks Porsche Legacy Statement Flannel Shirt Shop Now Porsche Legacy Statement Logo Tee Shop Now Porsche Legacy 911 Graphic Tee Shop Now Porsche Legacy Easy Rider Tartan Sneakers Shop Now Porsche Legacy Portable Bag Shop Now Source: PUMA

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 01, 2024

Porsche Returns To Pairs For The 50th Anniversary Of The ...

The Porsche 911 Turbo, first unveiled in 1974, returns to Paris. The 1974 Paris Motor Show saw the world premiere of the Porsche 911 Turbo, a moment that marked the beginning of an era for sports car collectors and enthusiasts. Half a century later, we revisit the birthplace of Porsche's most iconic creation. Picture strolling down the stylish Champs-Élysées when a familiar exhaust note captures you from behind. It's the 911 Turbo, a car that embodies boldness, energy, and timeless luxury. The Parisian spirit of energy perfectly mirrors the bold introduction of the Turbo back in 1974. Even with the lingering effects of the oil crisis, Porsche's decision to unveil a fast, powerful sports car was nothing short of fearless. The Turbo faced skepticism in Germany, where Sunday driving bans were still fresh in memory. Yet, Porsche's press release was unapologetically proud, emphasizing the Turbo's track-inspired performance without the harshness typical of high-performance cars. The 911 Turbo established itself as a car in a class of its own, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Porsche. The 911 Turbo has exceeded being just a car; it's a lifestyle. It's about pushing boundaries, demonstrating what's possible, and embodying the essence of "faster, higher, stronger." Just as the Olympic motto inspires athletes to peak performance, the Turbo inspires automotive greatness. In the bustling streets of Paris, the Turbo stands as an example of innovation and style, much like its debut at the Paris Motor Show. View all Porsche 911 Turbos for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Porsche 911 Turbos For Sale Source: Porsche

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 13, 2024

The 992-Generation Porsche 911 Turbo S Stars In The New '...

The new 'Bad Boys: Ride or Die' features the Porsche 911 Turbo S, continuing the franchise's legacy of showcasing iconic sports cars. This summer, the dynamic duo of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence return to the big screen in Sony Pictures' new action-comedy, "Bad Boys: Ride or Die." The film delivers an exciting mix of edge-of-your-seat action with a thrilling twist; Miami's finest detectives are now on the run. Detective Mike Lowrey, performed by Will Smith, is tearing up the streets in a black 992-generation Porsche 911 Turbo S Coupe, complete with its signature rear spoiler. This marks the third time a Porsche from Zuffenhausen has starred in the franchise, proving its role as an automotive icon in the "Bad Boys" universe. Porsche USA Dominique Tascioglu, Manager of Brand & Content Marketing, highlighted the connection between the "Bad Boys" franchise and Porsche, stating, "For nearly three decades, the Porsche 911 has helped create the bond between the iconic 'Bad Boys' Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett." Fans can also look forward to a special cameo from the original Bad Boys car, the 964 911 Turbo, bringing a nostalgic touch to the high-octane action. " width="680"> Porsche played a prominent role at the global premieres of "Bad Boys: Ride or Die," showcasing both the film's current 992-generation 911 Turbo S and also the iconic 964-generation Porsche 911 Turbo from the original movie. The Berlin premiere was especially glamorous, with actors, filmmakers, and international guests arriving on the red carpet in Porsche sports cars. Since the franchise's inception in 1995, Porsches have been a staple for the high-speed chases and dramatic escapes that define "Bad Boys." From the iconic black 964 Turbo 3.6 in the first movie to the Gentian Blue 992 Carrera 4S in "Bad Boys for Life," these legendary cars have become synonymous with the franchise's adrenaline-pumping action. View all Porsche 911 Turbo S examples for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Porsche 911 Turbo S For Sale Source: Porsche USA

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 12, 2024

How To Buy: Porsche Design's 911 Turbo Anniversary Lifest...

Incorporating classic styles from historic examples, Porsche Design knocked it out of the park with this collection! Almost as iconic as the styling of Porsche's legendary 911 silhouette, the Turbo variant epitomizes itself as the pinnacle of both luxury and performance. Since its debut into the automotive world in 1975, the Porshe 911 Turbo, and its seven on-going generations, continue to skyrocket in popularity and value amongst passionate Porsche collectors and purists. The fashion specialists at Porsche Design are proud to honor the 50th Anniversary of Porsche's 911 Turbo by releasing its all-new 911 Turbo Anniversary Collection. Inspired by a special Turbo example named after Ferdinand Porsche's oldest daughter, Louise Piëch, the head-to-toe line features unique details from Turbo 'Louise' like its eye-catching tartan interior. The 911 Turbo Anniversary Collection is where classic vibes meet contemporary flair, showcasing the evolution of the 911 Turbo and the massive imprint it has made in history. It's all about celebrating the iconic tartan pattern with a range of sweaters and tees that scream tradition. Reversible jackets and bucket hats add that extra sense of style that's perfect for everyday wear or your next track adventure. Every item in the collection captures the unmatched spirit and legacy of the Porsche 911 Turbo, showing off how legendary design can inspire a timeless look. Dive into a collection that honors one of the greatest and shop Porsche Design's new 911 Turbo Anniversary Collection by clicking the link below. Shop The Porsche Design 911 Turbo Anniversary Collection Our Top Picks Turbo No. 1 Bucket Hat Shop Now Turbo No. 1 Pullover Shop Now Turbo No. 1 Collector's Espresso Cup Shop Now Turbo No. 1 Reversible Jacket Shop Now Turbo No. 1 Kids T-Shirt Shop Now Source: Porsche Design

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 05, 2024

Porsche's Turbo Legacy: Celebrating 50 Years at Retro Cla...

Join Porsche at Retro Classics 2024 as they commemorate 50 years of Turbo innovation. Preserving the most cherished motorsport icons from Porsche's storied history, Retro Classics welcomes enthusiasts to Stuttgart to experience a blast from the past. At Retro Classics Stuttgart 2024, Porsche owners and enthusiasts will gather to celebrate a milestone in automotive history: 50 years of Porsche Turbo excellence. From April 25th to 28th, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Porsche Turbo at this renowned event. Highlighting the event is the legendary Porsche 911 Turbo "No. 1," an innovative masterpiece that marked the beginning of a revolutionary era. Step back in time and witness the design and performance that defined Porsche's iconic Turbo models. Explore rare examples like the 911 Turbo 3.0 Coupe and the 911 GT2, each showcasing Porsche's dedication to lightweight design and powerful engine platforms. Engage with industry experts as they discuss Turbo's impact on motorsport and series production, shedding light on its ongoing legacy. Dive into Porsche's rich heritage through historic archives, including original drawings and advertisements, offering insights into Turbo's evolution over five decades. Join Retro Classics 2024 and be a part of Porsche's Turbo legacy. View all Porsches for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Porsches For Sale Source: Porsche

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 26, 2024

Meet The TECHART GTsport: A New Take On The Legendary Por...

TECHART takes a crack at Porsche's most powerful 911! Leading the pack in Porsche customization, TECHART has established success within the industry by fitting iconic 911 examples with its collection of aesthetic and performance upgrades. Moving right along with Porsche and its most current models, the German tuning specialists are redefining the new 992 generation with builds that both turn heads and pack plenty of power. TECHART is excited to showcase its all-new GTsport customization concept for the Porsche 911 Turbo S at the Bangkok International Motor Show 2024. With only 30 units up for grabs worldwide, this is any Porsche fanatic's ticket to a club more exclusive than the VIP section. The GTsport's individualization concept lets owners sprinkle a bit of their own magic on the Porsche 911 Turbo S, turning an already impressive car into a personalized dream car. The best part? Choosing from a list of GTsport upgrades and add-ons to guarantee your Porsche reflects your style. From an aerodynamic front apron and side canards to a sleek carbon aero front hood and lightweight TECHART wheels, each upgrade boosts the 911's visual appeal and its performance. With an available power kit that promises to add some extra horsepower to your Porsche, TECHART is all about making sure you feel the rush every time you hit the pedal. In a nutshell, the TECHART GTsport offers Porsche customers a rare blend of exclusivity, personalization, and performance, making it a must-have upgrade for the 911 Turbo S. Discover all that TECHART has to offer in the world of Porsche by clicking the link below. Discover TECHART Source: TECHART

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 08, 2024

Introducing The TECHART GTstreet R Touring: A Fusion of L...

Porsche represents the gold standard in sports cars, serving as an ideal platform for tuning experts to showcase their skills in performance engineering and body upgrades. In the hands of professionals like TECHART, factory Porsche 911s are transformed to offer owners a completely new driving experience. The automotive world stands at attention when TECHART announces a new addition to its prestigious lineup. The GTstreet R Touring is the latest creation to emerge from TECHART's production center, offering the perfect combination of practicality for daily use and unmatched performance for weekend track days. Limited to only 25 units worldwide, this is your invitation to join an elite group of owners who value performance, exclusivity, and luxury. TECHART’s legacy, spanning over two decades, is vividly embodied in the GTstreet R Touring's excellence in customization, aerodynamics, and aesthetics. TECHART's design features more than 40 exterior carbon fiber parts that enhance its aerodynamics while defining its striking appearance. The interior matches the exterior’s aggressiveness, with a combination of leather, Alcantara, carbon, and aluminum finishes. TECHART's signature sports steering wheel and optional exclusive interior package offer further customization, allowing owners to curate their interior to their exact standards. The GTstreet R Touring is a powerhouse, equipped with TECHART’s TA092/T1.1 engine powerkit, which adds 60 horsepower to the Porsche 911 Turbo S, increasing overall output to 710 horsepower. For those craving even more power, an optional engine upgrade cranks it up to 800 horsepower. The GTstreet R Touring includes advanced features like sport springs and an optional Noselift system, alongside lightweight TECHART Formula VI forged wheels that fit perfectly with its aggressive stance. With a starting price of $108,000, the all-new TECHART GTstreet R Touring kit will be available from May 2024. Discover TECHART

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 14, 2024

Watch Tesla's Cybertruck Drag Race Against The 640HP 992 ...

Who do you think the winner will be? Now that EV technology has evolved from efficient urban commuters into more performance-focused platforms, plug-in vehicles are not standing tall against some of the most powerful supercars and hypercars on the planet. Leading the way of electrification in the automotive world, Tesla has proved that whether it's a sedan, SUV, or truck, mind-blowing performance can be achieved by incorporating state-of-the-art battery technology. After the Tesla Cybertruck finally made landfall and began deliveries to customers all around the country, the high-speed specialists at Throttle House decided to put the EV pick-up truck up against a true track monster, the 992-generation Porsche 911 Turbo S. The Porsche 911 Turbo S, in its 992 generation, showcases an impressive blend of engineering excellence and performance expertise. At its heart lies a 3.8L twin-turbocharged flat-six engine that delivers a jaw-dropping 640 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, the Turbo S ensures dynamic handling and remarkable traction across all driving conditions. Performance-wise, the 911 Turbo S impresses with its capability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.6 seconds, reaching a top speed of 205 mph. The Tesla Cybertruck is shaping up to be a real game-changer in the electric pickup segment. Underneath its futuristic, almost sci-fi exterior, it packs an innovative electric powertrain that promises to deliver not just smooth and instant torque, but also impressive efficiency. Performance-wise, the Cybertruck is rumored to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in the ballpark of just 2.9 seconds for the top-tier model, giving the Porsche 911 Turbo S a run for its money. Now that you have all the info needed to make an educated guess on who the winner will be, watch the new Tesla Cybertruck drag race against the Porsche 911 Turbo S. View All Porsche 911 Turbo S For Sale Source: Throttle House YouTube

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 11, 2024

TECHART's New GTsport: Exclusive Customization For The Po...

The 911 Turbo S isn't just a powerhouse of Porsche's diverse range; it's a dynamic platform perfect for upgrades and personalization. Its blend of top-tier performance and adaptability for aesthetic and performance tweaks makes it a standout choice for German automotive tuning specialists like TECHART. Showcasing the true potential of the current 992-generation, TECHART is proud to launch its new individualization concept GTsport for the Porsche 911 Turbo S. Transforming the Porsche 911 Turbo S into a bespoke masterpiece limited to just 30 units worldwide, this exclusive program offers an unmatched level of personalization, elevating any owner's 911 Turbo S into a realm of individuality and sophistication. At its core, the TECHART GTsport concept redefines customization. From the striking front apron with optional carbon fiber inserts to the meticulously designed rear diffuser, each element is crafted to enhance the 911's aesthetics and aerodynamics. Side skirts, air intakes, and the carbon rear spoiler blend performance with elegance, while the carbon aero hood adds a sleek, racing-inspired touch. Owners can also choose from an array of performance upgrades like the TECHART Power Kits TA 092/T1.1 and TA 092/T2.1, ensuring that their 911 Turbo S delivers exhilarating performance over factory standards. The option of TECHART's exclusive interior or the GTsport Exclusive Interior allows for a truly personalized cockpit, tailored exactly to the driver's taste and style. TECHART's meticulous detail extends to optional upgrades such as side mirror trims, a threaded spring kit, and a sports exhaust system. The TECHART GTsport reimagines the 911 Turbo S. This exceptional vehicle concept will be showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024, from January 12-14, offering a firsthand glimpse into the future of automotive individualization. Discover all that TECHART has to offer in the realm of performance-focused Porsches by clicking the link below for more information. Discover TECHART's GTsport Source: TECHART

By Tyler Rampersaud – August 31, 2023

2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S For Sale In PTS Deep Sea Blue

This fast and luxurious Porsche 911 is unique to boot.

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