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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 – February 11, 2020

Jay Leno Drives Porsche Taycan Turbo S

A decade in development was worth the wait. After carefully studying their target market and building an innovative electric drivetrain, this is the one you have been waiting for. To see how it compares to other electric sedans, let's watch Jay Leno drive the new Porsche Taycan Turbo S. The question on everyone's mind is "Why does it need a 2-speed transmission on the rear motor?" Because Porsche partnered with Rivian to build the world's most efficient automotive electric motor, the automatic transmission has a low and high gear. Cars that make incredible torque used 2-speed automatics for decades. Corvette had one from 1953 to 1967. Porsche uses a dog-box 1st gear for incredible strength and a wet clutch for 2nd. This optimizes the engine rpm and saves battery power. For Eco mode, the rear gearbox goes neutral and the motor is off. This offers the most city range, as the Taycan is capable of front-wheel drive. Check Out Jay Leno's Car Collection Porsche didn't build the Taycan to fill a gap in their lineup, they built it to be their fastest-accelerating car of all time, and force the industry to catch up. Click the link below to find yours and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse All Porsche Taycan For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – January 30, 2020

New Porsche Exclusive Options for the Taycan Detailed

Now that the Porsche Taycan is out, that means we are going to start seeing more intriguing looks at the electric sports car. For instance, Porsche is now starting to detail the options available for the car through Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. In total, there are 90 exclusive options available for the Taycan. Here are some examples of what's being offered. The Sport Design package is offered in three different variants. The differences between these variants can be found in the front apron, sill panels and side fins of the diffuser. Other exterior Exclusive options include the LED matrix headlights with Dynamic Light System Plus, 21-inch Exclusive Design wheels and, of course, a lot more. Inside the Taycan, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur also offers a wide range of options. The Carbon interior package adds matte carbon trim to the cabin, giving the electric Porsche an even more sporty appearance. Even the seatbelt color can be selected from a colorful palette: Graphite Blue, Truffle Brown, Lime Beige, Crayon, Blackberry, Meranti Brown, Slate Grey and Bordeaux Red. SEE ALL PORSCHE TAYCANS FOR SALE

By Andrew Nabors – January 28, 2020

Porsche Taycan Turbo S vs Turbo by DragTimes

We've waited long enough, and now Porsche's Tesla Fighter has arrived from Deutschland. By launching two versions simultaneously, you need to choose the right sedan for your needs. That's why our friend Brooks just filmed a Porsche Taycan Turbo S vs. Turbo by DragTimes. Porsche Taycan Price, Specs & Sound For a quick refresher, the Taycan Turbo S is their electric flagship. For an MSRP of $185,000, you will have 750 horsepower from a 93 kWh Battery. It offers 774 lb-ft of torque and a range of 192 miles. Little brother is the Taycan Turbo. It arrives with 650 horsepower, 626 lb-ft of torque and a range of 201 miles. Using the same battery with smaller motors, it is slower but more efficient. Our dealers have several to choose from, so click the link below after this heads-up action! Browse All Porsche Taycan For Sale " width="680"> Related: Porsche Taycan Top 5 Highlights

By Andrew Nabors – January 27, 2020

Porsche Previews Their "Big Game" Commercial

Given the expense of advertising during the "Big Game", leave it to the Security Team at Stuttgart to deliver an amazing film. Given the new models that are arriving daily, Porsche has previewed their "Big Game" commercial. "The Heist" follows a vandal, who steals a new Porsche Taycan Turbo for sale right off the showroom floor. We would advise against this, as Porsche facilities are more secure than most banks. We're not here to spoil the action, just to let you know that our dealers have several new Taycans to choose from. Tell us what you think in the comments below and stay with us for more Porsche news. P.S.: Porsche may have shown off the new 911 GT3 in the video. See if you can spot it. Browse All Porsche Taycan For Sale " width="680"> Related: Will Smith Surprises Lyft Riders in a Porsche Taycan

By Edward Jones – December 11, 2019

Porsche Taycan Ventures Into L.A. in New Series

The new Porsche Taycan is going to make waves when it finally starts rolling out onto the streets. Electric cars are more popular than ever right now, and an EV with a Porsche badge is a recipe for success. Porsche has launched a new YouTube series called the "Taycan LA Stories" that shows how some of their customers appreciate the new model. From Raquel Tavares, the health-conscious founder of Fourth & Heart, to Russell Gewirtz, the writer of 'Inside Man,' you'll see just how some L.A. citizens appreciate the groundbreaking Taycan. SEE ALL PORSCHES FOR SALE " width="680"> " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – December 05, 2019

Porsche Taycan Top 5 Highlights

Being first to market is not a wise strategy. That's why Porsche has studied their competitors in order to build the perfect electric sedan. If the anticipation is too much to handle, you should not watch this. But if you can handle high-voltage and German precision, here are the Porsche Taycan Top 5 highlights. Browse All Porsche For Sale Related: Porsche Taycan Performance Highlights Porsche Taycan Turbo Road Trip: Niagara Falls to Manhattan

By Andrew Nabors – November 21, 2019

Porsche Taycan 4S, Macan Turbo & 99X Unveiled in L.A.

The City of Angels has a finger on the pulse of the automotive industry. While other manufacturers save money by attending the smaller shows, Porsche has unveiled the Taycan 4S, Macan Turbo and 99X in L.A. CEO Oliver Blume formally announced two battery options for the base-model Taycan. The entry-level battery is 73 kWh, offering 522 horsepower for around $105,000. The performance battery has 93.4 kWh and 562 horsepower for $5,000 more. Both batteries offer 3 years of free charging (in 30-minute intervals). A nominal charge time of 22 minutes is all it takes to go from 5% to 80%. This allows you to travel 2,100 hours in 24 hours with charging included. Formula E fans will enjoy watching the debut of the Porsche 99X race car this weekend in Riyadh, so good look to TAG Heuer Team Porsche on their first outing. The final news is a new Macan Turbo with 434 horsepower from a revised 2.9L V6. Fitted with Sport Chrono, it reaches 60 mph in only 4.1 seconds! Browse All Porsche For Sale " width="680"> Related: Porsche Taycan Performance Highlights Announced Porsche Unveils 2021 Macan Turbo

By Andrew Nabors – November 06, 2019

Porsche Taycan Performance Highlights

Lookout Elon, Stuttgart has you in their crosshairs. There is a new name in the world of electric cars, and it will make an entrance worthy of praise. In their latest upload to YouTube, it is easy to spot the Porsche Taycan performance highlights. Starting with Electric Sport Sound, the driver can choose to hear simulated engine noise added to their audio. Outside, a futuristic sound is generated up to 20 mph, as mandated by the Government. Browse New Porsche 911 For Sale You will have four driving modes, each with the ability to customize brake regeneration. Choose from no brake assistance or up to 355 horsepower of stopping force. Other goodies include rear-wheel steering, Porsche Active Suspension Management, Porche Torque Vectoring+, and configurable "Joker Keys". These are hotkeys within easy reach that can be mapped to your favorite systems. Tell us what you think of the Taycan in the comments below. Related: Porsche Taycan Turbo Roadtrip: Niagara Falls to Manhattan

By Edward Jones – October 14, 2019

New Porsche Taycan 4S Just Announced

The new Porsche Taycan 4S has been announced as the third version of the electric sports sedan. So far, only the Taycan Turbo and Taycan Turbo S have been announced. Porsche will be launching the Taycan 4S with two different battery sizes: Performance Battery (522 hp) and Performance Battery Plus (563 hp). For both of the models, they can sprint from 0 to 60 mph to 3.8 seconds and hit a top track speed of 155 mph. Where the Taycan 4S will truly stand out is in the price department. While the Taycan Turbo has a starting price of $150,900 and the Taycan Turbo S at $185,000, the Taycan 4S will start at just $103,800 for the Performance Battery. For the Performance Battery Plus version of the Taycan 4S, the price will be set at $110,380. With this pricing, those buying a Tesla Model S (Performance trim) could throw an electric Porsche into consideration. Expect the Porsche Taycan 4S to arrive in the US in Spring 2020. see all porsches for sale

By Andrew Nabors – September 06, 2019

Porsche Taycan Turbo Road Trip: Niagara Falls to Manhattan

Porsche does not waste time when it comes to unveilings. They save precious time for the details and build quality of their lineup. To show the world what their new electric sedan is capable of, the Porsche Taycan Turbo was Niagara Falls to Manhattan. Covering 408 miles, they stopped for a high voltage charge at an Electrify America station in Bloomsburg, PA. It took the battery from 14% to 85% in 24 minutes, enough for the remaining 158 miles into NYC. Stefan Weckbach is VP of the Taycan Product Line, and he said: " “It’s fantastic to see the Taycan take to the road in its final form for the first time, and to demonstrate its ability to cover big miles in complete comfort." "Of course, many owners will use their Taycan the way a Porsche is designed to be used - to be driven hard. The car is more than up to this challenge. At the moment, this is the one and only Taycan undisguised and on the road in the US. I can’t wait for it to reach customer’s hands and for many more to hit the roads around the world." If you want a powerful Porsche sedan with battery power, click the link below for great offers on the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid. Stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid For Sale Related: Porsche Taycan Configurator Reveals Interesting Options

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