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

By Tyler Rampersaud – October 11, 2022

This 1994 Porsche 911 Speedster For Sale Is A True Porsch...

Here’s the chance to own one of the most iconic names in Porsche history. Even before the 911 that made the Porsche brand forever world-famous, the Speedster name has been an important designation for Porsche cars. For decades on end, the Speedster name has indicated high performance, enhanced style, and also exclusive rarity, making Speedster Porsches some of the most desirable cars from the brand ever made. This 1994 Porsche 911 Speedster is no exception, and with its all-black configuration, it’s a true timeless classic that any car enthusiast or Porsche purist is sure to covet for their own garage. MUST READ: The Best Paint to Sample Porsches You Can Buy Today The fact that this 911 is a Speedster can be seen from its distinctive open-top silhouette, with a rear portion, windshield, and two-seater setup that is different from other Porsche 911s. Another distinctive surprise is the fact that the black that makes up most of the car is interrupted by bright yellow accents throughout the interior. With only 8,688 miles logged on the odometer, the car is in amazing condition for its age, and is sure to stand out even in some of the greatest car collections. It’s available for sale at McLaren Philadelphia in West Chester, Pennsylvania through duPont REGISTRY, and if you’re a fan of 911s or classic Porsches, you should absolutely check it out by clicking below to view the price and full listing. View Price And Listing

By Tyler Rampersaud – September 21, 2022

This 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS For Sale Is Unbeatable On Th...

The Porsche 911 doesn’t need to prove itself, but the 911 GT2 RS does anyway. When it comes to sports cars, there’s quite literally nothing in the world quite like the Porsche 911. For decades, the car has captured the hearts of fans all over the world who love it for both its classic charm and ever-impressive performance potential. Realizing that performance potential just about to the fullest is the GT2 RS version of the Porsche 911, which in its 991 generation produced absolutely insane speed and power with its twin-turbo engine, rear-wheel drive, and lightweight setup. This example for sale is one of the best of the best, and it’s loaded with options and appointments that increase both performance and style, both things that the Porsche 911 excels in, to begin with. MUST READ: 2022 Porsche 718 Cayman T: 1,000 Mile Car Week Companion With only 612 miles clocked in, this 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS is ready to be driven by a performance enthusiast who can appreciate its incredible engineering. On top of the monstrous power in this car, this example is equipped with the optional Weissach package, which adds performance appointments and details, as well as lightweight magnesium wheels that shave even more weight off the already-lean performance car. A leather and Alcantara interior with features like a Bose sound system, front axle lift, and a color scheme that pairs black with black, with more black, make this brash racing-ready machine elegant to look at and drive, as well. Available for sale by Canepa through the duPont REGISTRY, the opportunity to own an iconic machine capable of lapping the Nürburgring in less than 7 minutes is here, but not for long. VIEW PRICE AND LISTING

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 14, 2022

Learn About The Holy Grail Of All Porsche 911s

The Cultivated Collector takes a deep dive on its 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 RS. With a historic lineage that includes some of the world’s most influential sports cars, early example Porsche models hold significance as pioneers for the industry-leading automotive manufacturer. Porsche has been using motorsports as the inspiration for developing high-performance road cars, cooperating with homologation regulations that would allow it to be legal for competition use. The car that checks all of those boxes is the Porsche Carrera 2.7 RS, with a total of 1,580 highly-desirable chassis produced at the factory in Stuttgart, Germany. President of The Cultivated Collector Matthew Ivanhoe showcases the dealership’s astonishing 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 RS in the inaugural episode of Automobiles Of Distinction. The passionate team at The Cultivated Collector of New Canaan, CT take pride in specializing in investment-grade classic and exotic automobiles, and even more specifically, homologation examples with rich motorsport history. MUST-READ: Porsche Tells The Story Of The PDK Transmission, Which Dates Back To The 1960s This Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 RS configuration features a vibrant light yellow exterior finish with contrasting black ‘Carrera’ decals and badging. Its pronounced ‘duck tail’ rear wing proves to be the most notorious aspect of its design, aside from the set of iconic Fuchs wheels. Leaving performance to do its talking, the 911 Carrera 2.7 RS interior takes on a subtle design with black leather/suede layered over the 3-piece seats and rear buckets. The Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 features a 2.7-Liter Flat-Six fuel-injected engine that produces over 210-horsepower 188-ft lbs of torque to its rear wheels. Its traditional 5-speed transmission and 6,300 rpm top-line launch the 911 from 0-60mph in 5.8-seconds, making it the first production car to break the six-second mark set by the German trade journal ‘auto, motor und sport’. With a body made from thin sheet metal, thin windows, and plastic parts, Porsche was able to achieve a 152mph top speed because of its strategic weight reduction. This 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7 RS from The Cultivated Collector is currently available through duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming luxury lifestyle and supercar news. VIEW LISTING

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 07, 2022

Check The Spec: 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 In PTS Carbon Steel ...

A chance to own a new Porsche GT3 with a new color. Making a positive mark on the automotive industry since its anticipated release, the new 992 Porsche 911 GT3 is the next generation to take the reigns of the performance category. The supercar specialists at Ferrari Maserati of Central Florida are excited to feature this 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 as part of its inventory of exclusive supercars. The exterior of this 911 GT3 features a special paint-to-sample Carbon Steel Grey finish, which includes a metallic flake that glistens in the sun upon direct contact. The stealth-like theme is further accentuated with red highlights that are incorporated into the 20/21-inch sport wheels and ‘GT3’ badging. MUST-READ: Check The Spec: Lamborghini Huracán STO Finished In Nero Noctis And Viola Pasifae While the exterior subtly highlights the styling of the 992 body style, the interior configuration continues its dark theme with a black leather and Alcantara design with red contrast stitching. The driver-oriented feel is achieved with a set of carbon sport bucket seats, Sports Chrono Package, Alcantara sport steering wheel, and carbon fiber trim. The Porsche 992 911 GT3 delivers over 503-horsepower from a 4.0-Liter Naturally-Aspirated Flat-Six engine, which is managed through a classic 6-speed manual transmission. The updated performance of the new generation 911 GT3 launches it from 0-60mph in just 2.7-seconds, with a new top speed of 198mph. This 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 from Ferrari Maserati of Central Florida is currently available through duPont REGISTRY with 100-miles for $349,895. Click on the button below to view the vehicle listing for more information. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more upcoming Check The Spec specials. View Listing

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 10, 2022

Check The Spec: A 2019 Porsche 911 GT2 RS With A $140K S...

A chance to own a one-of-a-kind Porsche 911 GT2 RS. With factory vehicle configuration processes allowing for endless possibilities, luxury automotive brands continue rolling one-of-one examples off the production line for lucky new owners. The supercar specialists at Ferrari of Fort Lauderdale are proud to present this one-of-a-kind 2019 Porsche 911 GT2 RS, featuring an ultra-rare factory paint job directly from the German automotive manufacturer. The exterior of the 911 GT2 RS presents itself in a Python Green Chromaflair paint code, a Porsche special wish customization option that adds $12,830 to the window sticker. The iridescent-like finish shifts color depending on the amount of light and angle of the supercar. Inside, the cabin includes a modest Black Alcantara and leather interior layout with Platinum Grey contrast stitching that complements the styling of Porsche’s coveted Weissach Package. Along with enhancing the visually pleasing aspects of the Porsche 911 GT2 RS, this build is also equipped with functional everyday options like a front axle lift system, Bose surround sound, sports chromo package with lap trigger prep, extended range fuel tank, and much more. The head-turning example highlights the craftsmanship and creative abilities of the Porsche brand, opening the doors to dream builds for collectors and enthusiasts. This 2019 Porsche 911 GT2 RS is currently available at Ferrari of Fort Lauderdale with 20-miles for $649,900. Click the link below to view the vehicle listing on duPont REGISTRY. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury supercar news. View Listing

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 20, 2021

Check The Spec: 1997 Porsche 911 Turbo Finished In PTS Go...

A chance to own one of the most head-turning vintage Porsche examples. While the market for vintage Porsche examples increases, the opportunity to find the perfect spec begins to become a more challenging process. The supercar specialists at Chicago Motor Cars are proud to present this pristine 1997 Porsche 911 Turbo. The exterior of the 911 Turbo is finished in paint to sample Gold Metallic directly from the Porsche factory. The bright and shiny theme is complemented with a set of chrome-style turbo twist wheels that help provide traction to the 400-horsepower German sports car. MUST-READ: The Best Paint to Sample 911's You Can Buy Today Opening the doors to this Porsche 911 Turbo highlights the vibrant ‘90s style two-tone Cashmere and Mocha interior layout. Making it the perfect configuration is the 6-speed manual transmission that manages the power output from Porsche’s iconic 3.8L Turbocharged Flat-Six engine, a powertrain considered to be highly desirable by all owners and enthusiasts. This 1997 Porsche 911 Turbo is currently available with 41,399 miles for $219,800. View the Chicago Motor Cars’ listing for this one-of-a-kind vintage Porsche 911 Turbo on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View The 1997 Porsche 911 Turbo Listing

By Andrew Nabors – July 23, 2021

How to Buy the 2021 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design ...

Nothing beats the looks of a classic Targa, and that's why collectors seem willing to pay any amount to restore and enjoy them. But what if we told you there was a way to experience the best aspects of a classic 911 along with every modern amenity? If that piques your interest, this is how to buy the 2021 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition. Porsche doesn't use the term Heritage very often. So it is with great reverence that each example is assembled by their Exclusive Manufaktur department. The same dedicated team responsible for the Turbo S Exclusive are not rushed when crafting even the smallest details by hand. Because this is the first Targa of the 992-series, only 992 cars will be offered. Only Porsche's most successful dealers will have an allotment, and they will only have four colors to choose from. White accents are retro-inspired, and the car's badges and logos are gold (not gold plated). No detail is too small, as the grille badge is engraved with all four Porsche heritage models. Buy February 2021 Issue Inside you are treated to more leather than any lesser 911 along with the return of corduroy inserts for the seats. This classic touch holds you in place during intense corners and cotton is much more sustainable than microfiber. If you haven't seen a modern Targa transform, the rear glass literally ingests the roof panel in an elegant mechanical dance. Sure you trade off a little cargo room, but the secret sauce is what lies beneath. A 3-liter uses twin turbos to offer 443 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque to all wheels. All options (including Sport Chrono) are standard, so your only decision here is choosing the 7-speed manual with locking differential or the 8-speed PDK with E-diffs. The latter is capable of reaching 60 in 3.6 seconds if you don't need three pedals. So now that you know the important details you must find a dealer able to order one. It's not a coincidence that most successful Porsche dealers allow us to represent them. Strike while the iron is hot because these cars will become the centerpiece of amazing collections like yours. Sell My Porsche 911: Get a Cash Offer View Listing View Listing View Listing View Listing View Listing View Listing

By Edward Jones – February 26, 2021

PTS Club Blue 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S For Sale

I have to admit that I'm a sucker for blue cars (I'm even in a Facebook group dedicated solely to blue cars). If you are too, or if you're a fan of the unreal 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S, then The Porsche Exchange has the perfect car for you. This example of the 2021 911 Turbo S is finished in Club Blue (Club Blau) and is downright mesmerizing. The color used is paint-to-sample, making this an incredibly unique example of the 911 Turbo S. Like all-new 911 Turbo S examples, this one has incredible power. With an increase of 32 horsepower over its predecessor for a total of 572 hp with 553 lb-ft of torque, this German sportscar is an absolute rocket. In fact, its acceleration is also stated to be 2.7 seconds, 0.2 seconds faster than the previous generation. This 911 Turbo S is for sale in new condition with a blue/black interior that perfectly matches the exterior. For more information, be sure to click the button below. View Price and Listing

By Edward Jones – February 25, 2021

Highly-Optioned 2019 Porsche 911 Speedster in Guards Red ...

Presented by Porsche Centre Langley - This very Highly Optioned Guards Red 2019 991.2 Speedster has just been made available for sale. Collector cars like this do not come around very often. Originally custom ordered this one-owner car is a 10 out of 10. It is essentially like-new and has a clean carfax. The Speedster is released approximately every 8 years at the end of each 911 generation and this show car is #488 of 1948 produced for the world in 2019. This very rare Speedster has all the right options including front axle lift, chrono package, black leather interior with stitching in red, bose sound, 2 zone climate control, carbon fibre illuminated door sill guards, guards red seat belts, auto dimming mirrors, extended range fuel tank, tinted LED headlights in black including PDLS plus and much more. The New 4.0L Flat 6 Engine produces an exhilarating 502hp and sounds amazing. This car is pure fun every time you get behind the wheel! They can provide the official build sheet upon request and the new owner will receive a certificate of authenticity from Porsche. Please call or email now to speak with one of our highly trained Sales Executives before it is gone! Porsche Centre Langley has been the recipient of the prestigious Porsche Canada Premier Dealer Award in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. They are located just a short distance from Highway 1 in beautiful Langley British Columbia Canada. Porsche Centre Langley is part of the Open Road Auto Group. As Western Canada’s largest auto group they also have a Luxury Car dealership in Bellevue Washington which makes it much easier to ship cars into the U.S. market. View Price and Listing

By Andrew Nabors – July 09, 2020

Highly Optioned 2002 Porsche 911 GT2 For Sale

Last month we lost a legend. Hans Mezger was Porsche's Chief Engineer, and he passed away of natural causes at the age of 90. During his reign at Stuttgart, he designed the first flat-six engine for the 1963 Porsche 901, the model that evolved into the 911. From there he oversaw it evolve from carburetors and air-cooling to twin-turbos and full water jackets. The 996 series 911 was forced to abandon his air-cooled design to meet emissions laws, so he literally went back to the drawing board. The last air-cooled Porsche was the 993 series that concluded in 1998. Development of the Carrera engine was well underway in the mid-90s, with Hans utilizing some of the water cooling principles he pioneered on the TAG twin-turbo V6 that dominated Formula 1. While the Carrera debut went without a hitch, things get tricky when boost is introduced. That's why he spent over two years perfecting the 996 GT2's 3.6 to make sure it was a beast with no leaks. Due to the complexities in sending 456 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels, only 303 examples of the 996 Series GT2 made it to the U.S. between '02 and '05. Needless to say, this car is rare, but it was also ordered by a Porsche collector with all options and Special Wishes. The gauge needles are machined aluminum, the Sport Seats are painted to match, and the pillars are covered in leather. If the color is appealing, you might want to know this is the ONLY GT2 ever ordered in Adriatic Blue. This is a fleeting opportunity to own one of Mezger's final masterpieces, and it deserves to be the centerpiece of your collection. Because Bruce Canepa specializes in classic Porsches, his team has all the details and service records, so click the link below to view our listing and stay with us for more amazing finds from Canepa Motorsports. View Listing

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