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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 Andrew Nabors – February 11, 2021

2022 Porsche 911 GT3 Teases Potent Aerodynamics

A silhouette of a massive spoiler in a dark garage is how the 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 teases potent aerodynamics. It is ok to like or dislike normal cars, but the GT3 has never attempted to be normal. You either love it or hate it. Quite frankly, if you are in the latter group this is not the blog for you. Everyone has that one friend that offers a chainsaw when asked for a butterknife. Therefore, a new Porsche 911 GT3 for sale will trade civility for cornering, and it will arrive with downforce that is proportional to its abilities. Be here Tuesday at 9am Eastern to watch it with us to see how the GT3 has evolved. Porsche 911 GT3 For Sale Image (C) Porsche A.G.

By Edward Jones – February 03, 2021

See Two Years of the Porsche 911 GT3's (992) Development ...

While we wait for the official unveiling of the new Porsche 911 GT3 (992), we have the perfect video for you to watch. YouTube channel Automotive Mike has compiled a video of the new 911 GT3 being developed over a course of two years at Nurburgring, starting in October 2018. As the video progresses, you can see the progression of the model itself. In the end, we see a car that will more than likely be what is to be revealed in due time. Click play up above to see it for yourself and get excited about the official unveiling. You can also check out all 911 GT3s for sale by clicking the button below. See All 911 GT3s For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – February 02, 2021

Porsche Classic Asks What Makes An Icon?

No other automaker cares as much for their heritage, so Porsche Classic asks: "What makes an icon?" What began with printing new copies of old literature has evolved into factory restorations and upgrade parts for older models. What you might not know is that they continually test new tires to recommend the perfect rubber for your Porsche. For some reason, they do not offer radiators, water pumps, or coolant hoses...If you know why please tell us in the comments below. A classic Porsche 911 for sale is an investment that will change your life, so click the button to find one near you. This is why a classic Porsche is one of the top 50 best sports cars of all time. Browse Porsche 911 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – January 21, 2021

Richard Tuthill Drives Singer Porsche 911 ACS

Known around the world for building the ultimate rear-engine rally cars, Richard Tuthill drives the Singer Porsche 911 ACS. He offered his expertise to Singer in order to create the ultimate off-road Porsche. Two cars were commissioned, one to race and the other to show what Singer is capable of. This could be you, but you will need a classic 911 to start with. Click the button below to find yours and take a path less traveled. Browse Porsche 911 For Sale Did you see what makes the Singer ACS so unique?

By Andrew Nabors – January 19, 2021

Porsche Taycan Turbo vs 911 GT3 RS vs 911 GT3 Cup

Turbocharging is a great way to make big power, but they weren't invited to Sandown International Raceway. That is where we see a Porsche Taycan Turbo vs 911 GT3 RS vs 911 GT3 Cup. The Taycan Turbo is just a name for their mid-level electric sedan, and the most potent GT3 cars offer naturally-aspirated power. Porsche Boxster 25 Years Edition Is Powerful & Exclusive Comparing an all-out race car against its street-legal sibling is fun, but their screaming 4-liter flat-sixes were up against instant torque and All Wheel Drive. My choice would be a GT3 RS Weissach, so tell us which new Porsche is right for you in the comments below. " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – January 06, 2021

2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S PTS On Display At Manhattan Moto...

When considering the future provenance of your car, color is among the most important attributes. That is why we are glad to show you this stunning 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S Paint-To-Sample on display at Manhattan Motorcars. Manhattan Motorcars Virtual Dealership Tour The most prominent Porsche dealer in the Northeast has a hotline to Zuffenhausen. A few weeks ago, the order was received for a 911 unlike any other. Nogaro Blue is a historic color that deserves to be seen on their flagship. Offset by Exclusive Series wheels and Sport Exhaust, this car is very worthy to have 640 horsepower at all wheels. The 2-tone interior and other "Special Wishes" are just a few reasons why Manhattan Motorcars should be your first choice when considering a Porsche. Click the button below to see why. Browse Inventory " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – January 06, 2021

Fast Financials 2020 Q4: Porsche Taycan Shocks The World

As a signal to everyone that electric cars are the future, our latest Fast Financials for Q4 shows clearly that the Porsche Taycan has shocked the world. In a press release earlier today, Porsche reported their 2nd strongest year-to-date. Model Year 2020 ALL 911 8,840 ALL 718 3,447 ALL TAYCAN 4,414 ALL PANAMERA 3,870 ALL CAYENNE 18,092 ALL MACAN 18,631 GRAND TOTALS 57,294 With a grand total of 57,294 cars sold, the Taycan represents 4,414 examples in its first full-year of production. Considering it beat the Panamera by nearly 1,000 cars, this is an impressive first year for the electric luxury sedan. The Cayenne and Macan remain at the front of the pack, followed by the 911, with the 718 series rounding out the group. Of course, the actual profit and cash flows are heavily guarded because Porsche is the centerpiece of the VW empire. These numbers speak for themselves, so click the button to find one for yourself. Browse Porsche For Sale Image (C) Porsche Cars North America

By Andrew Nabors – January 05, 2021

Singer Unveils 1990 Porsche 911 All-Terrain Competition S...

Richard Tuthill is a legend among off-road Porsche racers. Thanks to his insights at winning races, Singer has unveiled their 1990 Porsche 911 All-Terrain Competition Study. With the same attention to detail as their gorgeous "Dynamics and Lightweighting Study", this build is their first dedicated race car. Designed to tackle the world's toughest events, Singer & Richard chose to benchmark the Baja 1000, and the Dakar Rally as a starting point. Based around a Mezger 3.6-liter, they tuned it to deliver 450 horsepower on pump gas. The client commissioned two cars, one in Singer's iconic Parallax White, and the second in Corsica Red. The white car is focused on desert terrain while the red one is meant for high-speed events on tarmac. Porsche 964 Price, Specs, Photos, Price & Review Both cars have carbon fiber body panels with quick-change abilities for repairs in any situation. Riding high on full-time 4WD, all three differentials are limited-slip. Dual shocks at each corner have 5 adjustments. Forged 16" x 8" wheels are stopped by 4-piston brakes, along with an independent handbrake. The 5-speed dog-box sequential can be shifted with paddles, and every aspect of both cars is FIA-compliant. All you need is a Porsche 964 series 911 for sale. Click the button below and get ready to race. Browse Porsche 911 For Sale " width="680"> Images (C) Singer Group

By Andrew Nabors – January 05, 2021

2021 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Top Speed On The Autobahn

Winter in Germany doesn't stop their most capable cars from attacking the world's best highway. In order to experience a convertible unlike any other, our friends at AutoTopNL have (safely) filmed a new 2021 Porsche 911 Targa 4S at top speed on the Autobahn. Jay Leno Drives 2021 Porsche 911 Targa 4S While the new Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet for sale packs a bonkers 640 horsepower, it doesn't offer the amazing Targa roof. With standard All Wheel Drive, the Targa 4 packs 379 horsepower, with the Targa 4S sending 443 horsepower to all wheels. It leaps to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds with a top speed of 188 mph. We have a black-on-black example at our headquarters, and it doesn't disappoint. Click the button to find yours and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche 911 Targa 4S For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – December 22, 2020

Porsche Top 5: 959 Paris-Dakar Highlights

What happens when you build the world's fastest production car? You send it into an inhospitable territory to prove the Porsche Top 5 959 Paris-Dakar highlights. For the 1986 running of the world's hardest rally, the supercar from Stuttgart was fitted with their first sequential turbochargers. Bruce Canepa Explains The Porsche 959 Boost was limited to 400 horsepower because 86 octane was all teams could use across the desert. Therefore, the drivers were blessed to have four driving modes to control the All-Wheel Drive system. The crankshaft had 7 main bearings and titanium rods, features that can be seen on the latest Porsche 911 Turbo for sale. After 8,700 miles the Porsche 959 teams finished first and second, immortalizing the car and its innovations. Click the button for an experience unlike any other and stay with us for all your Porsche uploads. Browse Porsche 911 Turbo For Sale " width="680"> Image (C) Porsche North America

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