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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

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By Jordan Aquistapace – November 30, 2020

How To Shop Porsche Design Cyber Monday Deals

Cyber Monday calls for great deals on some of our favorite brands, like Porsche Design. The lifestyle branch of the German auto manufacturer is currently offering huge savings on the fashion and sports collections. No matter the season or climate, Porsche Design has you covered from head to toe with an array of clothing and accessories. The clothing lines pull inspiration from the process of how each sports car is made, using premium materials to provide a comfortable daily experience. The Porsche Design Cyber Monday sale has something for everyone in the family and is now available. When: Now Available Where: Porsche Design Porsche Design

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 19, 2020

How To Buy: Porsche x PUMA Motorsport Icons of Fast Colle...

In the world of fashion, color coordination is a must, whether it’s matching a hat and t-shirt, or shoes with a Porsche. The German auto manufacturer is known for producing vibrant color options to some of its most powerful models on the road, both vintage and new. The partnership between Porsche and Puma Motorsport reflects those colorful specs through a collection of on and off-track sneaker silhouettes inspired by the Porsche Turbo. The Icons of Fast Collection puts that thought into perspective by matching vehicle paint codes and shoe colors, but also the style of that era as well. A vintage Porsche 930 Turbo is paired with a casual retro Puma silhouette, while the new 992 Turbo presents a minimal race-focused track shoe. The limited-edition collection includes only 500 pairs of each uniquely designed sneaker. Every Porsche generation is celebrated as a milestone, just as Puma Motorsport does with each sneaker released. Be the first to get the Porsche x Puma Motorsport Icons of Fast Collection by using the release information below. When: November 17th, 2020 Where: PUMA Motorsport (Available) Price: $150 Source: Porsche Design

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 13, 2020

An Early Look At The Porsche Design X AOC AGON PD27 Gamin...

Gaming has become much more than just aimlessly completely career modes. It is now a worldwide platform to compete and even gain skills for real-life scenarios. The transition to a more professional stage requires equipment to help provide the best and most realistic gaming experience. Porsche Design is entering the gaming industry with the help from AOC, the leader in the gaming monitor market, to introduce its PC Monitor. The Porsche Design x AOC AGON PD27 monitor incorporates the same design and performance that goes into Porsches seen on and off the track. The display presented as a 27” QHD display, features an eye-catching design with a 240 Hz refresh rate developed for the most ambitious gamers and professional esports enthusiasts. The curvature of the monitor gives off the feeling that you are behind the wheel of a Porsche GT2 RS going into the first turn at the track. A wireless gaming keypad will be included to quickly switch display settings in different game genres, like FPS, RGB, and others. The AGON PD27 will be available on December 5th through the Porsche Design website for $799.99. Learn more about the Porsche Design x AOC gaming monitor by clicking the link below. Learn More " width="680"> Source: AOC YouTube

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 11, 2020

Wheels X Wardrobe: Private Porsche

Earlier this week, we covered the collaboration project between Porsche and Embraer. The special release features a limited edition 911 Turbo S and Phenom 300E Business Jet. Any ten individuals willing to purchase the private jet will also receive the Porsche 911 Turbo S, as well as a custom Porsche Design 1919 Globetimer UTC watch. This week’s Wheels X Wardrobe breaks down the perfect fit and essentials for the delivery day of your new Jet, Porsche, and luxury timepiece. Vehicle Porsche 911Turbo S MSRP $203,500 View All Porsche 911 Turbo S For Sale Jet Embraer Phenom 300E Business Jet Price Not Listed Learn More Watch Porsche Design 1919 Globetimer UTC $6,350 Shop Now Top Porsche Design P'8685 Sunglasses $1,150 Shop Now Porsche Design Neoprene Leather Mix Jacket $1,900 Shop Now Porsche Design Casual Slit Pocket Polo $195 Shop Now Bottom Porsche Design Casual Pin Buckle 35 Belt $310 Shop Now Porsche Design Travel Pants $325 Shop Now Footwear Porsche Design Traveller Lace Up High Top Sneaker $480 Shop Now Accessories Porsche Design Carbon Passport Holder $210 Shop Now Porsche Design Roadster 4.1 L Backpack $370 Shop Now Porsche Design Roadster Hardcase Hybrid S Trolley $520 Shop Now The Private Porsche Breakdown 2020 Porsche 911 Turbo S MSRP $203,500 Embraer Phenom 300E Business Jet (Price Not Listed) Porsche Design 1919 Globetimer UTC Watch $6,350 Porsche Design P'8685 Sunglasses $1,150 Porsche Design Neoprene Leather Mix Jacket $1,900 Porsche Design Casual Slit Pocket Polo $195 Porsche Design Casual Pin Buckle 35 Belt $310 Porsche Design Travel Pants $235 Porsche Design Traveller Lace Up High Top Sneaker $480 Porsche Design Carbon Passport Holder $210 Porsche Design Roadster 4.1 L Backpack $370 Porsche Design Roadster Hardcase Hybrid S Trolley $520

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 27, 2020

Get Comfortable In Porsche Design's First Ever Bathrobe

What is more comfortable than the plush leather seats of a Porsche Taycan? The answer is the new Porsche Design Bathrobe. The lifestyle branch of the German automotive manufacturer released the first-ever bathrobe featured in Anthracite Grey with tons of Porsche Design logos. The robe is made from premium terry velour, providing a minimal style that offers a comfortable experience at home. The Porsche Design Bathrobe is currently available for the price of $285 by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Andrew Nabors – July 29, 2020

Porsche Wants You to Design Your Watch

Porsche Design offers the latest in European accessories. And now they are giving you the freedom to personalize your timepiece. Although the configurator is in German only, we happen to know where you can find someone to help. Your local Porsche dealer has at least a few employees that would be happy to translate, and they might even spec out a matching new 2021 Porsche 911 while you are deciding on over 1.5 million possibilities. Here is how it begins: Case & Bezel The programme is built upon the Chronotimer Series 1. The high-quality case is extremely lightweight, hypoallergenic and highly durable, thanks to the use of the high-tech material titanium. The surface is finished in glass bead blasted titanium or classic black – just like the bezel which can also be configured in the 'tachymeter’ or 'timer’ variants. Dial & Hands The dial is visually and functionally inspired by the rev counter of the Porsche 911 and, as is customary for Porsche Design, reduced to the essentials: white hands and indices on a matt black background which are optimally readable through 7-layer anti-reflective sapphire crystal. Strap & Stitching The titanium bracelet is available with a surface finish in either black or titanium or as a soft leather strap, with over 14 different color options to match the color palette of the 911 interior. With colored contrasting stitching in over 19 different color options in genuine Porsche vehicle thread, you can give the strap that final flourish. Rotor & Movement A total of six design variants are available for the winding rotor of the mechanical, in-house Porsche Design Chronograph calibre with COSC certification: the characteristic PD icon rotor in classic black or five designs derived from the 911 wheel range. The wheel center is adorned with the Porsche Crest and 24 different paintwork options from the 911 color program are available for the winding rotor. Engraving If desired, the back of the titanium case of the custom-built chronograph can be personalized to your preference with the most modern and precise laser engraving. A maximum of twelve characters provides ample space for a name, license plate number or the vehicle ID number of your sports car. Click the button below for all the details from Porsche Design, and stay with us for all your Porsche accessories. Learn More

By Edward Jones – June 02, 2020

Porsche Design Introduces the 911 Targa 4S Heritage Desig...

Earlier, we touched on the new Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition being revealed and now we're back to discuss a bit more about the watch the accompanies this new special edition Porsche. The new 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design edition chronograph was unveiled alongside the Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition as a perfect accessory. Its design was inspired by the Porsche 356 and 911 Targa, just like the new limited-edition Targa 4S. Its face, for example, was inspired by the 356's speedometer and tachometer. It features Phosphorous Green rings and numbers, and a font that is in-line with Porsche's design characteristics. Superluminova is used for the hour indices for maximum visibility no matter the time of day. As for the strap, it's made of genuine Porsche interior leather, complete with "911" embossed in it. Controlling the movement and located in the titanium housing is the in-house developed Calibre WERK 01.100, which is COSC-certified (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres). From the bad, you can spot the movement through the gaps in the Fuchsfelge-inspired rotor design. This design can be optioned in either black or platinum, and features the Porsche badge in the center, just like the car. Only 992 examples of this extraordinary watch are being created. For more information, be sure to click the button below to visit Porsche-Design.us. View on Porsche-Design.us Source: Porsche

By Edward Jones – May 26, 2020

Photographer Recreates Iconic Photos With LEGO Porsches

Building LEGO sets is one thing, but taking those finished sets and setting them up for real photoshoots is another. Dominic Fraser did just this very thing as he found himself stuck inside during the quarantine without being able to partake in his standard photoshoots. With a house full of cameras and his children's LEGO sets, he created a new Instagram series. In this series, he recreates iconic Porsche photos that have been taken over the years, including the famous picture of the 930 Turbo catching air. “If anything, it’s helped my photography because I’ve really had to think about the technicalities of the shot, and to visualize exactly what I’m trying to capture,” Fraser says. “It’s been a more conceptual process than I’m used to with actual cars – in real life, you shoot much more in the moment.” Check out all the images below, including some behind-the-scenes images. And I've also included a button below where you can browse all of the LEGO Speed Champions sets so you can recreate some iconic images yourself. Shop LEGO Sets Source: Porsche Newsroom

By Edward Jones – May 15, 2020

Roads to Taycan: Learn How Porsche's Groundbreaking Model...

The Porsche Taycan has become the hottest ticket in the German automaker's lineup. Not only is it Porsche's first fully electric modern model, it's also lightning quick and has plenty of style to go around. But, creating an electric Porsche with 750 horsepower and a 2.6-second 0 to 60 mph time wasn't an easy feat. Engineers, designers and testers worked tirelessly to bring the Taycan to life as we see it today. While we weren't there to see everything come together, Porsche has the "Roads to Taycan" book that documents the model's various stages of testing. This includes testing that took place in locations like South Africa, Sweden and Shanghai. Beautiful photos taken by Christopher Bauer, who has been a photographer for Porsche since 1985. Click the link below to pick this book up for yourself. I should note that this book was only printed 2019 times, so it's quite limited. Porsche Taycan Horsepower & Specs Shop Now Source: Porsche

By Andrew Nabors – December 13, 2019

Porsche Formula E as Seen Through Leica Optics

When it comes to Point & Shoot, Leica leads the way. Not only do they build amazing cameras, but their lineup also includes rifle scopes, military hardware, and ophthalmic equipment. So it's only natural that 3x LeMans Winner André Lotterer shoots the Porsche Formula E through Leica optics. Browse Leica Optics We use our Leicas at many events because of the quality and practicality, as such, they are also a perfect Christmas gift. Click the button above for great deals from our friends at B&H, and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Related: New Star Wars Starship Designed by Porsche & Lucasfilm Porsche 911 Turbo S Price, Specs, Photos & Review

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