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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Andrew Nabors – April 30, 2020

RUF: Love at the Redline

Alois Ruf opened a small garage in 1939. His love of cars was not only in repair but improving performance at the same time. To celebrate eight decades of building amazing cars, their team compiled an epic half-hour of history. Many people believe they are just an aftermarket tuner, however that couldn't be farther from the truth. Dr. Porsche was so enamored with Alois' abilities that the two became great friends. RUF SCR Production Begins Therefore, RUF receives naked 911 body shells and builds each one by hand. Everything except the body is from RUF, so their 911 models have RUF VINs. What began as a garage has evolved into one of the world's most exclusive manufacturers. Its a truly amazing story, so stay with us for all your RUF news. RUF CTR For Sale at Prestige Imports And here are a few of our favorites, our hats are off to the Ruf family for believing in duPont Registry from the beginning, and for your continual support for over 3 decades. " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – April 29, 2020

Inside the Porsche Museum at Night

When the lights go out and the doors are locked, its time for an air-cooled party. That was the inspiration behind photographer Max Leitner's latest photoshoot. Using the massive LED screen, smoke machine, and a few different lenses, he was able to capture Porsche's greatest cars in a unique setting. Hopefully, this is just a preview of a full-length film, because if you have seen one Porsche, you want to see them all. Click the button below for a great offer on a new 911 and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche 911 For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – April 28, 2020

Porsche 911 Carrera S and 4S Gets 7-Speed Manual Option a...

The Porsche 911 Carrea S and 4S just became a lot more tempting for those who enjoy bangin' gears as the automaker has announced that a seven-speed manual transmission can be ordered for these model. What's more, this option comes at no extra cost and comes combined with the Sport Chrono Package but it looks to be only available in the European markets. When the Carrera 4S is equipped with the manual transmission, it weighs around 100 lbs lighter than one equipped with the PDK transmission. Hopefully, we'll be seeing this option in North America soon. Porsche also announced a few other tempting options for the iconic sports car. First is Porsche InnoDrive, the automaker's smart cruise control technology that controls the speed of PDK-equipped models for the next three kilometers using navigation data. Next is Smartlift, a front-axle lift system that provides an extra 40 mm of clearance. Going inside the cabin, Porsche is now introducing the leather package 930 for the 911 Carrera models. This leather package was previously introduced with the 911 Turbo S. Other options include lightweight and noise-insulated glazing, a lightweight laminated safety glass that drops cabin noise; Ambient Light Design Package; the new Python Green exterior paint finish. All Porsche 911s For Sale Source: Porsche Newsroom

By Andrew Nabors – April 27, 2020

Porsche Track Precision App Will Keep You Out Front

There is always one or two guys at each track day. They show up in a million-dollar racing trailer to unveil a car they have no business driving. They never hit the same points in the corners nor do they allow faster cars to pass. Now it is your turn to show them your tailpipes because the Porsche Track PRecision App will keep you out front. Top 50 Best Sports Cars For Sale Of course, it records your lap times, and it also tracks brake pressure, throttle input, steering angle, and G-forces. The HD camera in the front bumper allows you to watch and share your success, or work on tricky corners. The Porsche Track Precision App is available for all Boxster, Cayman, and 911 models, and their GT models that have had CW45/16 firmware upgrade. Our dealers have all the information so click the button below and get ready to race. Browse Porsche For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – April 24, 2020

Behind the Scenes With the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E Team

Going behind the scenes in motorsports is incredibly enthralling as there is so much going on at any given time-- the drama doesn't end when the cars pass the finish line. Because there are so many stories to be told in motorsports, Porsche went behind the scenes with the TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E in the new series called "The Inner Drive" on YouTube. The first episode is out now, and it all starts with their debut season and very first race. There's a lot of incredible racing footage as well as inspiring interviews with race drivers, the head of operations Amiel Lindesay, artist and fashion designer Amine Bendriouich and Raha Moharrak, the first Saudi woman and youngest Arab ever to climb Mount Everest and the Seven Summits. Check out the first episode for yourself by clicking play down below. You can also read more about the episode by clicking here. See All Porsches for Sale Source: Porsche Motorsport

By Andrew Nabors – April 23, 2020

Porsche Classic Unveils Communication Management

If your 911 could use some modern technology, Porsche Classic Communication Management is the only sensible choice. Aftermarket head units look out of place, and none of them can offer what Porsche has developed. Available in single or double-DIN, treat your car to Apple CarPlay, text messages, HD FM, Sirius XM, USB, SD Card, Bluetooth, Aux cord, and the latest in navigation. Top 50 Best Sports Cars Of All Time It has RCA jacks for amplifier integration and the display can easily change between 2D and 3D. Due to fighting companies in the U.S., you won't find another head unit with so many formats. So not only is this perfect for your Porsche, it would make a great gift to anyone who demands the best from their audio system. Click the button below for more info and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Learn More " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – April 23, 2020

One-Owner 2018 Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabrio For Sale

Nothing beats the fun and agility of All Wheel Drive. Except when it is combined with rear-wheel steering. To allow such a car to be the best in the world, place the engine behind the rear axles, and add twin turbos. Allow it to send 580 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque to the ground and you will have the ride of a lifetime. Ever since the 959 proved the feasibility of such a supercar, the Turbo S has not had a worthy competitor. Porsche conservatively rates a 0-60 time of 2.7seconds (while spinning all 4 tires). It does this by holding the intake and turbos wide open while only firing half the cylinders. Once your desired boost and RPM are reached, hold on. You will have consistent quarter-mile times in the mid-10s and exhaust that is quiet by supercar standards. This example includes a window sticker showing all the must-have options and an original price of $230,440. We don't know why he is parting with it, but life happens. With only 4,200 miles, this car is barely broken in. No signs of wear inside or out make it a perfect investment. You will be shocked by his asking price, so click the button below because it won't last long! View Listing

By Andrew Nabors – April 23, 2020

Last Porsche 911 Speedster Auction Hammers for Record Price

We have been covering this story since the beginning, knowing it would promote generosity and charity in this time of need. In an unprecedented move, Porsche decided to partner with RM Sotheby's to help the United Way. The bidding ended yesterday at 1 p.m., and the last (991 Series) Porsche 911 Speedster hammered for a record price. Top 50 Best Sports Cars Of All Time After 32 bids and 48,500 unique page views, the winner offered $500,000. The auction fees and buyer's premium added another $50,000 for a total of $550,000, a sum that Porsche Cars North America decided to match. Not only will the winner receive the last 991 Series Porsche 911, it is a Heritage Edition Speedster with a "Unique Gift Package". We don't know who bought the car, but are hats are off to whoever decided to help the United Way with COVID-19 relief. As always, stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche 911 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 22, 2020

Porsche Taycan Interior Takes Sustainability to a new Level

Leather tanning has been a dirty business for the last 1,000 years. Not only is it wasteful, but the byproducts are also poisonous to say the least. We were thankful when microfiber arrived as it lessens the environmental impact of the auto industry. Just when we thought we knew everything about this revolutionary sedan, the Porsche Taycan interior takes sustainability to a new level. Top 50 Best Sports Cars Of All Time Traditional hides have a limited lifespan because they are continually assaulted by the sun, the atmosphere, and even the oils from our skin. That is why OLEA will allow the Taycan's interior to last the life of the car. It is plant-based and dyed using olive leaves, just another way Porsche is ahead of everyone else. If you haven't experienced a Taycan in person, click the button below and leave all preconceived notions of perfection behind. Browse Porsche Taycan For Sale " width="680">

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By Andrew Nabors – April 21, 2020

Final 991 Series Porsche 911 Auction Is Open For Bidding

It is hard to believe the 7th generation of the Porsche 911 has been with us since 2011. In that time it earned our love and respect by expanding the lineup and saving the manual transmission. But all good things must come to an end, so RM Sotheby's and Porsche have announced that the final 991 series Porsche 911 auction is open for bidding. This gorgeous Heritage Edition Speedster is a fitting conclusion to the series, and it reminds us that Porsche stays true to their history. All proceeds are going to the United Way, and the auction will end tomorrow at 1 PM Eastern Time. Click the button below to place your bid and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Click Here To Bid " width="680">

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