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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 – May 01, 2025

Discover Porsche Design's 911 GT3 Touring Soundbar 2.0

Dive into the deep end of audio luxury with the 911 Soundbar 2.0! In addition to creating a luxurious lifestyle line that features head-to-toe styles that complement the Porsche 911 GT3 RS in your garage, Porsche Design flexes its technological side by showcasing a high-quality collection of electronics for any home or office. And while the sound quality of its 911 Soundbar 2.0 perfectly resembles that of a 911 cabin, its design uses the OEM air intake grille of a Porsche 911 GT3 Touring. But what really makes the 911 Soundbar 2.0 stand out is the 2.1.2 virtual surround sound system that pumps out 300 watts of power, complete with all the bells and whistles a Porsche owner could want. It supports 4K via HDMI ports, has Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless streaming, and even caters to audiophiles with support for Dolby Atmos and DTS-HD. Stream with Apple AirPlay 2, GOOGLE Chromecast, and Spotify Connect. Shop the new 911 GT3 Touring Soundbar 2.0 and all other Porsche Design electronics by clicking the link below. Shop Now Source: Porsche Design

A Porsche Design sports watch with a tachymeter bezel is partially buried in snow, featuring a white face with black and red accents and three subdials, reminiscent of the sleek style found in the Chronograph 1.

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 20, 2025

How To Buy: Porsche Design's New Chronograph 1 – F.A.T. 2...

The chronograph reinvents an icon with a luminous white dial, honoring motorsport heritage. Porsche Design is once again pushing the boundaries of motorsports and horology with the new Chronograph 1 – F.A.T. 2025 Edition, a modern reimagination of its famous all-black Chronograph I from 1972. This time, however, the dial flips the script with a fully luminescent white Super-LumiNova coating, guaranteeing perfect readability in any condition. Limited to just 136 pieces, the chronograph is inspired by F.A.T. International, a motorsport community rooted in Porsche's racing legacy, and pays tribute to the legendary 1994 Le Mans-winning Porsche 962 race car. The design maintains the unmistakable Porsche Design DNA, featuring a black titanium case, bold red stop-seconds hand, and exclusive details like the 962 silhouette on the hour counter. More than just making a statement, the Chronograph 1 – F.A.T. 2025 Edition is built for endurance racing and extreme conditions. The watch houses the COSC-certified Porsche Design caliber WERK 01.240 with flyback functionality, perfect for timing laps with precision. Quick-change straps, including a rugged white textile option and the exclusive "F.A.T. Mankei Strap," make it a timepiece that seamlessly transitions from the track to everyday wear. The Chronograph 1 – F.A.T. 2025 Edition will also play a key role at the 2025 F.A.T. Ice Race, where Porsche Design returns as the official timing partner. Shop the new Porsche Design Chronograph 1 – F.A.T. 2025 Edition by clicking the link below. Shop Now View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Porsche Design

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 05, 2025

Orlando Bloom Joins Porsche Design As Its Latest Brand Am...

Hollywood meets the art of Porsche Design. Leading the world of luxury with a lineup of iconic sports cars and a collection of lifestyle offerings, Porsche has grown into a beloved brand that celebrates the bridge between timeless style and automotive mastery. And with a full-circle brand that represents the lifestyle of purists who value craftsmanship and quality, it is no surprise that some of the biggest names in motorsports and entertainment align with Porsche Design's values. Joining a list of celebs and sports stars, including names like Patrick Dempsey, Mark Webber, and Paul Casey, Porsche Design is proud to announce actor Orlando Bloom as its latest Brand Ambassador. Orlando Bloom, known for his iconic style and love for all things automotive, is now the face of Porsche Design. As a lifelong Porsche enthusiast, Bloom represents the brand and its future path perfectly. In the latest campaign, he wears the Chronograph 1 – All Black Numbered Edition inspired by the dashboard of the Porsche 911. Alongside the watch, he sports seven different models from the Porsche Design Eyewear Collection, including the legendary P'8478 sunglasses. Porsche Design CEO Stefan Buescher praises Bloom as the perfect ambassador, reflecting the brand's values of authenticity and passion for perfection. With Bloom at the forefront, Porsche Design continues to redefine style. Shop Porsche Design Our Top Picks Chronograph 1 - All Black Numbered Edition Shop Now Sunglasses P'8478 – Turbo No. 1 – Limited Edition Shop Now Porsche eBike Cross Performance EXC 2nd Gen. Shop Now Porsche Classic Document Folder Shop Now Hoodie - Roughroads Shop Now Source: Porsche Design

A person sits in the driver's seat of a brown sports car, possibly a Porsche, with the door open, while another stands outside in a Poggy sweater featuring cars, in a parking area.

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 21, 2025

Discover Porsche's New Capsule Collection By Poggy

For millions of passionate car enthusiasts with a goal of one day owning their dream car, that dream often takes on the iconic shape of a classic Porsche 911. Whether it be a split second when one caught your eye or a specific example that gained significance as a family heirloom, there's no denying that the story behind one's love for 911s proves to be just as special as the car itself. It's a similar story shared by streetwear and fashion revolutionary Motofumi "POGGY" Kogi, whose eternal love for Porsche has transformed him from a dreamer into an owner. In collaboration with Porsche Japan and the manufacturer's bespoke Sonderwunsch program, Poggy recently debuted his brand-new 992 Porsche 911 Carrera T in a jaw-dropping spec. Today, Poggy and Porsche are proud to announce an exclusive capsule collection inspired by his newly beloved car. The collection is categorized by Poggy's dreams centered around Porsche and, more specifically, the reasons why it attracts the attention of so many people. Drawing inspiration from icons like Jackie Stewart and Princess Diana, it celebrates timeless style with a nostalgic twist. From tartan patterns to casual V-neck sweaters paired with blazers, the collection feels like a tribute to a time when luxury met simplicity. It's about capturing the feeling of driving a Porsche while dressed in a way that's relaxed but still refined. Poggy imagines the 911 not as a status symbol but as something to enjoy every day, whether it's filling up at a gas station in workwear or heading out in denim with a touch of character. There's even a nod to childhood nostalgia, like a sepia-toned Porsche reminiscent of the 1970s. View all Porsche 911s for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Porsche 911s For Sale Source: baycrews.jp

A sleek Porsche is parked in front of a table with a La Marzocco coffee machine emitting steam, a trusty coffee grinder, and books stacked cozily on one side.

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 23, 2024

Shop Porsche x La Marzocco's Limited Edition 911-Inspired...

Built on a history of success both on and off the race track, it's easy to understand why everything Porsche touches turns to gold. Whether it is dominating mountain trails on adventurous e-bikes or ripping waves on a Pink Pig-inspired Almond Surfboard, it seems that the manufacturer's pursuit of excellence carries throughout each and every one of its creative collaborations. Today, Porsche is proud to announce its newest collab with the Italian coffee machine professionals at La Marzocco, showing off a special edition Linea Micra portafilter model limited to only 911 units. Porsche’s latest compact espresso machine is available in two finishes: Slate Grey Neo and the iconic Martini Racing livery. The Martini Racing edition honors Porsche’s long-standing partnership with the motorsport legend, incorporating characteristics from the 911 Carrera RSR that defeated the 1973 Targa Florio endurance race. Both showcase Porsche’s eye for detail, with twist handles inspired by the drive mode switch and a magnetic drip tray styled after the 911 GT3 Touring Package. Anodized aluminum accents on the rotary handles and portafilter give it a performance look, while the analog pressure gauges channel the feel of a classic Porsche speedometer. Unveiled at Soho Farmhouse in London and showcased at events like the Los Angeles pop-up café and the Shanghai Coffee Festival, these machines are now available at Porsche dealers, the Porsche online store, and Porsche Design shops. For those looking to level up their coffee setup, accessories include a La Marzocco electric grinder and matching cups for espresso and cappuccino lovers. Shop all products from the Porsche x La Marzocco collaboration by clicking the link below. Shop All Porsche x La Marzocco Source: Porsche

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 11, 2024

Porsche x Frauscher Debut A New Electric Sports Boat Insp...

Porsche's new electric boat With a new focus on sustainable mobility, Porsche continues diversifying its model lineup with new EVs like the Macan Turbo Electric, catering to those in search of performance and efficiency. The manufacturer's forward-thinking approach even extends to the open waters with its ongoing partnership with the marine specialists at Frauscher Shipyard. The Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom is where electric performance meets modern German design. Following the success of the first eFantom, the new closed version is part of a limited First Edition run of just 25 boats. At 28.4 feet long and powered by the electric motor from the Porsche Macan Turbo, it produces up to 536 horsepower with a top speed of around 56 mph. The 850 Fantom's automotive touches, like a sports car-inspired cockpit and customizable finishes, bring Porsche's look and feel to the water. Underneath its stylish design, the Fantom packs plenty of tech. A high-voltage 100 kWh battery offers a range of about 62 miles at slower speeds, and you can charge it quickly with DC fast charging or more leisurely with AC power. Onboard, you'll find options like a 12-inch infotainment display with Bluetooth and WiFi, plus LED lighting inside and underwater. A folding sunshade and spacious lounge areas make it just as comfortable for a relaxing cruise as it is for showing off its speed. Set to debut at "boot Düsseldorf" in early 2025, the Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom has a starting price of about $604,000. View All Porsches For Sale Source: Porsche

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 04, 2024

How To Buy: The New Porsche x HEAD Ski Collection Inspire...

Porsche and HEAD have teamed up for its second collaboration, debuting its new 2024 ski collection that pays homage to the legendary 911 Turbo on its 50th anniversary. With a similar focus on excellence and performance, the collaboration brings the winter world three exclusive ski models, each inspired by the distinct characteristics and racing heritage of the Porsche 911 Turbo. The collection includes the 7 Series and 8 Series skis, along with a special W Series designed for women. Each model features HEAD's innovative Protector binding, which helps protect knee strain, making each run smoother and safer. Beyond just skis, Porsche and HEAD's new collection also features a lineup of winter-worthy apparel and accessories, all designed in the iconic tartan pattern from the first-generation Turbo. The lineup includes ski jackets, pants, and helmets, each developed to boost performance and style on the slopes. From durable ski bags to the award-winning RADAR 5K PHOTO MIPS helmet, the collection caters to every need of the adventurous sports enthusiast. This Porsche x HEAD collection is now available for the winter season, giving fans of both Porsche’s 911 Turbo and skiing to hit the mountains with gear that marries the two. Shop the all-new Porsche x HEAD 2024 Ski Collection, inspired by 50 years of Turbo, by clicking the links below. Shop All Porsche Winter Collections Our Top Picks Ski 7 Series – Turbo No. 1 Shop Now Ski Helmet Shop Now Carbon Ski Poles Shop Now Women's Ski Pullover – Turbo No. 1 Shop Now Ski 8 Series – Turbo Shop Now Source: Porsche

A skier executes a mid-air trick against a clear blue sky, with snow-covered mountains in the background, showcasing precision akin to sports car engineering.

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 18, 2024

How Porsche Blends Sports Car Engineering Into Its High-P...

Porsche and Head collaborate to create freeride skis using technology derived from the race track. Porsche and Head have teamed up to launch something unexpected, the Porsche x Head 106 Series freeride skis. Designed by Porsche’s Michael Mauer and backed by skiing legend Aksel Lund Svindal, these skis combine supercar-inspired looks with mountain-ready functionality. The transparent top layer reveals a core made from natural fibers like rattan and flax—materials Porsche also uses in its race cars. It's a cool nod to sustainability without losing focus on performance. Made in Austria, the 106 Series skis are built for freeriders looking to explore untouched powder with style and control. Available in two lengths, they recall a mix of Porsche’s design finesse and Head’s skiing know-how. The short film Time:Out gives a behind-the-scenes look at how the skis came together, capturing the shared passion for innovation and outdoor escapes. Look for these skis starting in November at select retailers. The new Porsche x Head 106 Series freeride skis, along with the entire 2024 Winter Collection, are now available by clicking the link below. Shop The Porsche x HEAD Ski Collection Source: Porsche

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 05, 2024

How To Buy: Porsche x RECARO's Pepita Houndstooth Gaming ...

Elevate Your Gaming with the Limited-Edition RECARO x Porsche Gaming Chair. When it comes to gaming chairs, it's all about balancing comfort, style, and performance. The new automotive-inspired Porsche x RECARO Gaming Chair hits the trifecta. A fuel-driven collaborative between RECARO and Porsche, this gaming chair is essentially an art piece you can sit in. From the bucket seat center made from original Porsche Pepita houndstooth fabric to the black side panels and seat shell, this chair screams performance with the Porsche Crest embroidered on the headrest and the RECARO logo at the back. Crafted from high-quality upholstery foam and breathable fabrics, it provides optimal seat comfort and an excellent seat climate regardless of temperature. The chair also offers an integrated anti-submarining seat ramp and firm lumbar support for a relaxed posture and relief for your back during marathon gaming or work sessions. Of course, adjustability is key for any type of high-quality gaming chair. This one takes it to another level with a unique 5D armrest with an array of comfort-focused adjustment options. Additionally, the seat height and backrest can be adjusted effortlessly, ensuring a personalized seating experience. Manufactured in Germany and limited to 1,911 units, each chair bears a unique limited edition number label on the headrest. Shop the all-new Porsche x RECARO Gaming Chair by clicking the link below. Shop The Porsche x RECARO Gaming Chair Source: Porsche

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 01, 2024

Porsche x Almond Surfboards Collaboration Pays Tribute To...

Porsche and Almond Surfboards release custom boards and a laid-back apparel collection. Along with dominating both on and off the track with timeless icons like the 911, Porsche stands out as a well-rounded brand that adds an extra touch of luxury and performance to any industry it dives into. Porsche has recently teamed up with Almond Surfboards to celebrate Southern California's iconic Porsche and surf culture of the 1960s. The collaboration features custom-made surfboards in classic Porsche 911 colors like Bahama Yellow, Irish Green, Polo Red, and the famous Pink Pig racing livery. Each board is meticulously hand-shaped by Almond Surfboards in Costa Mesa, California, and customers can personalize their board with their favorite color and racing number. The collaboration, deemed "Single Fins & Air Cooled Engines," is inspired by the shared passion for Porsche 911 sports cars and classic single-fin surfboards. Each represents timeless design and a deep connection to both the open road and the ocean. The collection includes two sizes of surfboards, 7’10” and 9’11”, made with polyurethane foam, basswood stringers, and wrapped in fiberglass. Each board is custom numbered, marked "Made in California," and comes with a handcrafted fiberglass single fin and a wooden wall bracket for display. In addition to automotive-inspired surfboards, the Porsche x Almond collaboration offers apparel like t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, and accessories, all capturing the laid-back vibe of 1960s surf culture. Each piece is designed and printed in California. This collection celebrates the enduring legacy of Porsche and Southern California's surf scene, offering enthusiasts a chance to connect with both worlds in style. These limited-edition surfboards, along with the capsule collection of surf-inspired apparel and accessories, will be available starting October 1, 2024, through Porsche’s online shop, select Porsche Design stores, and the Almond Surf Shop. View all Porsches for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Porsches For Sale Source: Porsche

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