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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 06, 2020

Porsche Travel Experience: Croatia

Sitting at the crossroads of Western Europe and the Balkans, Croatia offers medieval architecture and a stunning coastline along the Adriatic. After a long-suffering under Soviet-rule, the nation is bustling with tourism and technology investments. That's why a gorgeous group of new 992 Series Porsche 911 took part in the Porsche Travel Experience: Croatia. Fast cars and great food are to be expected, but we are also given a glimpse behind the scenes at Rimac. Porsche engineers discovered the genius of Mate Rimac after dissecting the Concept One. After purchasing a majority of his company, he supplies the batteries and motors for the new Porsche Taycan for sale. The Rimac C_Two looks ready for action, so stay with us for all your Porsche uploads. Browse new Porsche 911 For Sale " width="680"> Related: 2020 Porsche 911 (992): Price, Specs, Photos & Review

By Andrew Nabors – February 04, 2020

Porsche 911 Turbo S+ by Hennessey Performance

Many shops love to specialize in a brand or specific model. While a majority of their business comes from domestic cars and trucks, get ready for something unprecedented. If you like rear-engines and AWD, get ready for the Porshe 911 Turbo S+ by Hennessey Performance. A quick glance at the dyno shows 493 horsepower and 566 lb-ft of torque, at each wheel. Not even considering the AWD and PDK drivetrain losses, it offers 50 more lb-ft of torque at the wheels than it did in stock form. We will publish the other performance data once its released, so you know what has to be done: Buy a used Porsche Turbo for sale and send it to Sealy, Texas. Trust us, you won't be disappointed. Browse Used Porsche 911 Turbo S For Sale " width="680"> Related: Porsche 911 Turbo S Price, Specs, Photos & Review: 2013-2019 991

Photography: Christoph BauerPostproduction: Wagnerchic – www.wagnerchic.com

By Andrew Nabors – February 01, 2020

Porsche "Big Game" Behind the Scenes

If you are a Porsche fan get ready for action. We have been the trusted resource for selling Porsche cars for 35 years, so it is only natural that we offer this film to you. Last year saw dismal commercials, so sit back and watch Porsche Big Game behind the scenes. Find Your Porsche Here Tell us what you think of the Big Game in the comments below!

By Andrew Nabors – January 31, 2020

Porsche Unveils Aimé Leon Dore 964 Carrera 4

When it comes to collaborations, Porsche simply outclasses any other automaker. Haute couture and horsepower might seem mutually exclusive, but prepare to be amazed. This project probably involved hundreds of hours in design and in production, so we are thrilled to see Porsche has unveiled an Aimé Leon Dore 964 Carrera 4. This gorgeous 1990 Porsche 911 will be on display at the Jeffrey Deitch Gallery in NYC from February 6-9. We hope this isn't a 1 of 1, because it would certainly look great in my driveway. Click the button below to find your 964 Series 911 and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse all 964 Porsche 911 For Sale " width="680"> Related: Porsche 964 Specs, Photos, Price & Review

By Edward Jones – January 30, 2020

New Porsche Exclusive Options for the Taycan Detailed

Now that the Porsche Taycan is out, that means we are going to start seeing more intriguing looks at the electric sports car. For instance, Porsche is now starting to detail the options available for the car through Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. In total, there are 90 exclusive options available for the Taycan. Here are some examples of what's being offered. The Sport Design package is offered in three different variants. The differences between these variants can be found in the front apron, sill panels and side fins of the diffuser. Other exterior Exclusive options include the LED matrix headlights with Dynamic Light System Plus, 21-inch Exclusive Design wheels and, of course, a lot more. Inside the Taycan, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur also offers a wide range of options. The Carbon interior package adds matte carbon trim to the cabin, giving the electric Porsche an even more sporty appearance. Even the seatbelt color can be selected from a colorful palette: Graphite Blue, Truffle Brown, Lime Beige, Crayon, Blackberry, Meranti Brown, Slate Grey and Bordeaux Red. SEE ALL PORSCHE TAYCANS FOR SALE

By Andrew Nabors – January 28, 2020

Porsche Taycan Turbo S vs Turbo by DragTimes

We've waited long enough, and now Porsche's Tesla Fighter has arrived from Deutschland. By launching two versions simultaneously, you need to choose the right sedan for your needs. That's why our friend Brooks just filmed a Porsche Taycan Turbo S vs. Turbo by DragTimes. Porsche Taycan Price, Specs & Sound For a quick refresher, the Taycan Turbo S is their electric flagship. For an MSRP of $185,000, you will have 750 horsepower from a 93 kWh Battery. It offers 774 lb-ft of torque and a range of 192 miles. Little brother is the Taycan Turbo. It arrives with 650 horsepower, 626 lb-ft of torque and a range of 201 miles. Using the same battery with smaller motors, it is slower but more efficient. Our dealers have several to choose from, so click the link below after this heads-up action! Browse All Porsche Taycan For Sale " width="680"> Related: Porsche Taycan Top 5 Highlights

By Andrew Nabors – January 27, 2020

Porsche Previews Their "Big Game" Commercial

Given the expense of advertising during the "Big Game", leave it to the Security Team at Stuttgart to deliver an amazing film. Given the new models that are arriving daily, Porsche has previewed their "Big Game" commercial. "The Heist" follows a vandal, who steals a new Porsche Taycan Turbo for sale right off the showroom floor. We would advise against this, as Porsche facilities are more secure than most banks. We're not here to spoil the action, just to let you know that our dealers have several new Taycans to choose from. Tell us what you think in the comments below and stay with us for more Porsche news. P.S.: Porsche may have shown off the new 911 GT3 in the video. See if you can spot it. Browse All Porsche Taycan For Sale " width="680"> Related: Will Smith Surprises Lyft Riders in a Porsche Taycan

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By Andrew Nabors – January 22, 2020

The Brumos Collection Celebrates 60 Years of Porsche Racing

Grand Opening January 23rd Museum Styled After A 1924 Ford Assembly Plant See Steve McQueen's 917-10 From the movie "LeMans" The year was 1988 and my father landed a big promotion. He decided to reward himself with a new Porsche 944 Turbo, and there was only one dealer he would consider. As a native of Jacksonville, Florida, Brumos Porsche was a destination vacation for Porsche fans around the world. Once dad saw his new car, the sales team allowed us to view the most valuable Porsche collection outside of Germany. Those historic cars are still burned into my early memories, and that is why I am excited that the Brumos Collection celebrates 60 years of Porsche Racing. Team Brumos dominated endurance racing for decades. Starting in 1971, Peter Gregg and Hurley Haywood won Daytona four times in their Porsche 911 Carrera RSR, and the team's final run was in a Porsche 911 GT3 at Road Atlanta in 2013. Our friends at Fields Automotive purchased the historic dealership, choosing to not retain the historic name, so we're thankful for this new museum. Built almost exactly identical to the 1924 Ford factory in downtown Jacksonville. This collection is not open to the public, so click the link below for tickets and details. brumoscollection.com " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – January 16, 2020

Porsche Unveils 718 Series GTS 4.0 Boxster & Cayman

This has only happened a few times in automotive history. A brilliant engineer gets the urge to stuff their largest engine into their smallest car. Zora Duntov did it with the Corvette, and Carroll Shelby did it with the Cobra. Now Stuttgart has joined the club, as Porsche has unveiled the 718 Series GTS 4.0 Boxster & Cayman. Downstairs lurks a new Porsche 911 GT3 RS for sale. It is powered by the same 4.0L monster. This masterpiece of German precision sends 520 horsepower and 346 horsepower to the wheels at almost any rpm. The notion of this much power in a mid-mounted chassis is maniacal, so Porsche's press release mentions the engine is de-tuned to 400 metric horsepower and mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. A leap from 0-62 mph happens in 4.5 seconds and the top speed is 182 mph. Our dealers are ready to take your order, so click the buttons below to find one near you. Browse Porsche 718 Cayman For Sale Browse Porsche 718 Boxster For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – January 13, 2020

Porsche & Boeing Submit Patents for Electric Aircraft

One of the most well-informed groups of enthusiasts can be found on the Taycanevforum. They amalgamate the latest in electric propulsion, and this includes scanning the Patent Office for the inevitable electric plane. This why we are intrigued that Porsche & Boeing submitted patents for an electric aircraft. The Patent shows four fans, including two lifters in the wings and a pair of tilt-rotors on the rear. Like all high-voltage batteries, they get hot when working hard. This is where the real innovation lies. The batteries are surrounded by cooling channels, which keep them cool while providing a blast of hot air to help the fans. Browse All Porsche 911 For Sale Cool batteries lead a happy life, so perhaps this machine is set to shake up the world of aviation. Tell us what you think in the comments below, and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Related: Porsche & Boeing Join Forces to Create UBER Air

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