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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

ornamental conifer the british artist turning porsche cars into a canvas

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 07, 2020

Porsche Celebrates Vehicle Art By The Ornamental Conifer

It’s easy to say that vintage and modern Porsches are viewed as works of art, with collectors and enthusiasts all around the world celebrating the brand. Nico Sclater, better known as the Ornamental Conifer, is taking that appreciation to the next level by incorporating his art skills into projects featuring some of the rarest Porsche chassis. He is bridging the gap between the world of art and automobiles using his brushes, paints, and vision. Porsche is a brand that played a role throughout Nico’s childhood, starting with a little graphite grey Porsche 911 Darda wind-up car. The Ornamental Conifer is a well-known name throughout the Porsche community, being a part of previous projects with Type 7, Luftgekühlt, Race Service, and many more. See more projects from Nico Sclater aka The Ornamental Conifer by clicking the link below. Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – December 07, 2020

2021 Porsche Taycan Turbo S vs Tesla Model S Performance ...

Racing when fully charged seems like a no-brainer. Because drag strips don't have high-voltage capabilities, here is a 2021 Porsche Taycan Turbo S vs Tesla Model S Performance by DragTimes. Our friend Brooks wanted to put an end to speculation. His Porsche has posted impressive times in nearly every condition, but we have yet to see it launch when topped off. So thanks to his sponsors, Palm Beach International Raceway was closed to general admission for a shocking series of heads-up races. Both cars were charged to 100% and equipped with Draggy telemetry. The Porsche is rated at 750 horsepower with 774 lb-ft of torque while the Model S likely 690 hp and 824 lb-ft of torque. Click the button to learn more about the Porsche and stay with us for more DragTimes footage. Browse Porsche Taycan For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – December 07, 2020

2021 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup Is Ready To Race

While most of us are preparing for the Holidays, Porsche never stops innovating. Despite social distancing procedures at their Weissach proving grounds, the 2021 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup is ready to race. As the 7th-generation 911 Cup car, it was necessary to test it in every possible condition. The project began with a bare shell during the summer of last year, with a prototype hitting the track in only 10 days. 2021 Porsche 911 GT3 Review By Carfection The latest race car from Stuttgart embarked on a tour of Europe. From Monza, the team headed to Lausitzring and the Nürburgring with feedback from Porsche drivers young and old. The most intense testing came at Oschersleben when the GT Racing program simulated a complete weekend of competition. Manager Christoph Werner said "“The idea was to simulate an entire race weekend from our customers’ perspective and to use the vehicle as the teams would – including deliberately inciting problems, incorrect operations, and damage scenarios." Since 1990, Porsche has built 4,251 examples of the 911 that are ready to race. Our dealers cater to all motorsports programs, so click the button below to find yours and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche 911 GT3 Cup For Sale

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By Andrew Nabors – December 04, 2020

Ruf RCT Evo Is The Ultimate 964

Buy it, drive it, race it, and show it...Just don't call it a Porsche. The new Ruf RCT Evo is the ultimate 964, and that is how it shall be known. Alois Ruf and his family have built incredible interpretations of Stuttgart's supercars since 1975. RUF: Love at the Redline To show the world a gorgeous combination of the latest technology with classic lines, they took a page from the past. The first RCT was and is a very collectible 964. Referring to the 911 body from 1989 to '94, they were made popular in the U.S. by the world's greatest car magazine. " width="680"> Buyers can choose from narrow or wide bodies, in steel or fully carbon fiber. Their enhancements to the 3.6-liter Mezger flat-six have become a standard for the industry, so its onboard for an encore performance. The latest in suspension, brakes, and safety have been combined with connectivity and even wireless phone charging. Everything inside (even the roll cage) is covered in hand-stitched hides in whatever color your heart desires. Available in left or right-hand drive, you will have 425 horsepower, 420 lb-ft of torque, and a top speed of 199 mph. We knew the RCT was decades ahead of its time when it made our pages in 1993. Alois might have a few more grey hairs, but his wife Estonia and their family are still building the cars we want to drive. Click the button below to find yours and stay with us for all your RUF news. Browse RUF For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – December 02, 2020

Porsche Unseen Series Reveals 15 Incredible Concepts

Nearly a month ago they teased us with a gorgeous book of unreleased masterpieces. Now the Porsche Unseen series reveals 15 incredible concepts along with the inspirations behind them. As the culmination of this unprecedented campaign, Porsche has uploaded a 47-minute dive into stunning works from 2005 to the present-day. How To Buy Porsche Unseen: The Showcars By Stefan Bogner Like all great Porsche design studies, many of these are close to being production-ready. Having such a healthy design staff is how Porsche can offer styling that is unmatched, so we hope to see a few of these in person once Covid subsides. Tell us your favorite car in the comments below and stay with us for all your Porsche news. " width="680">

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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 Andrew Nabors – November 25, 2020

2021 Porsche 911 GT3 Review By Carfection

Engineers use extensive camouflage to hide upcoming cars. But it becomes impossible when journalists are camped out around every testing facility. That is why workers in Weissach have thrown in the towel to allow the first videos of their latest achievement, and we are able to see the 2021 Porsche 911 GT3 review by Carfection. 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 Specs, Photos, Price & Review Henry Catchpole and team uploaded this earlier today. Although it was filmed days before, Porsche decided to move up the launch because pesky photographers have caught most of it without disguise. The new GT3 is longer and wider, without adding any weight. Not only is the body all-new, the suspension was designed from the ground up (literally) around spherical bearings. The 4.0-liter flat six has a few updates and it sends power to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual. Until we have all the details our dealers have a few tidbits for you. Click the button below to find one near you and have a great Thanksgiving. Browse Porsche 911 GT3 For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – November 25, 2020

Jay Leno Drives His Porsche Carrera GT

Once a successor is announced, many supercars plummet in value. Porsche purists prevent this with each new generation, and that is why we are glad that Jay Leno drives his Porsche Carrera GT. While he has shown clips on Jay Leno's Garage and on the Tonight Show, our favorite comedian has finally filmed a proper review. Porsche Carrera GT Specs, Price, Review and Photos Knowing full well that it would be the last analog Porsche, Mr. Leno purchased this 2004 model new, intending on preserving it for posterity. After spinning a prototype at Talladega, his insights on the car were used as testimony for the Grand Jury in Paul Walker's wrongful death lawsuit. A few short trips behind the wheel have left me with the same assumptions. The Carrera GT was designed by the world's most talented drivers, and it offers no apologies. No stability or taction systems will save you, so plan your turns and throttle inputs far in advance. Respect the car or live in fear, because nothing will ever compare to the Carrera GT. Browse Porsche Carrera GT For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – November 24, 2020

Top Gear Sets New EV Drifting Record

Keeping your tires spinning is a difficult task in any situation. At first glance, electric cars would seem to be at a disadvantage, but Top Gear has set a new EV drifting record. Chris Harris didn't need the complications of All Wheel Drive, so Porsche supplied a new Taycan Turbo S without the front axles. The real treat is how efficient electric motors are once the wheels are spinning. Unlike gas, electricity adapts to load. Using incredible torque to light them up, the Taycan throttles back to just enough power to keep them moving. By only drawing a few amps on the battery, electric drifting is the future of spectator motorsports. The Taycan has even more tricks up it's sleeve, so click the button to find yours. Browse Porsche Taycan For Sale " width="680">

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

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