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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 – July 27, 2020

Mark Webber Delivers Driving Insights to Celebrity Chef J...

If you are looking for an amazing meal in Adelaide, Chef Jock Zonfrillo blends contemporary Australian with a bit of his Scottish heritage. Respecting the new 911 for being a lean & gorgeous presentation, Porsche Master Driver Mark Webber decided to show him what its capable of. The Bend Motorsports Park offers something for everyone, as its multiple configurations are perfect for Supercar, Australian LeMans, MotoGP, and even the Boy Scout Jamboree. Find Your New Porsche 911 Here If you don't want to head down under, we highly recommend a Porsche Driving Experience. Located in L.A. or at the headquarters in Atlanta, they are the best way to get the most our your 2021 Porsche 911 for sale. Click the button above to find yours and stay with us for all your Porsche news.

By Andrew Nabors – July 09, 2020

Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage: Behind the Scenes

Have you ever wondered what goes into filming an epic automotive advertisement? Rarely does Porsche allow the world to see their creative process, but the veil has been lifted in their latest upload. The new 911 Targa 4S for sale was shot to evoke American culture of the '50s. This involved intricate casting and wardrobe personnel along with matching the sights and sounds of the era. Much has changed over the past seven decades, but Porsche's American fanbase is as strong as it was back then. Tell us your favorite Porsche story in the comments below and click the button below to find a Targa near you. Browse Porsche Targa For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – July 08, 2020

Porsche Celebrates Their Open-Top History

Once their new factory opened in Stuttgart, Dr. Porsche knew his brand needed a dedicated race car to accompany the 356 Speedster. Inspired by his father's designs of the 1933 Auto Union, the 550 Spyder was a topless, mid-engine endurance machine. Only 90 were assembled, and they set the stage for seven decades of roadsters. The 914 was introduced in 1969, and they remain affordable & fun machines. The 911 Targa was born in 1966, and the 2021 example is a testament to longevity. Along with the 911 Speedster, it allows their flagship to offer four distinct body styles between coupe and cabriolet. But the mid-engine design was not forgotten, as the Boxster and 718 Spyder are perfect for Summer cruising. Tell us your favorite open-top Porsche in the comments below and stay with us for more Porsche history. " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – June 11, 2020

2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S Top Speed on the Autobahn

Driving Stuttgart's latest supercar should be on everyone's bucket list. Nothing except a name has carried over from the 991 series. With 640 horsepower and 590 lb-ft at all wheels, let us show you the 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo S in a top speed run on the Autobahn. Having no speed limits in rural areas, it is easy to justift using launch control at the base of the on-ramp. It will shatter 60 mph in 2.6 seconds as the quarter-mile arrives in the low 10's. Measuring such a car in only 1,320 feet is a waste of time, so that is why all our Autobahn runs have the same driver. Max at AutoTopNL realizes the differential gearing is meant to maximize boost above 100 mph, and that is why he pushes the car past its published top speed. Click the button below to learn more from our dealers and stay with us for more Autobahn acceleration footage. Browse Porsche 911 Turbo For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – June 09, 2020

Porsche 911 Owners' Stories: 996 GT3

Nothing easy comes without effort. We see that play out time and again by our dealers and fans. Once a determined enthusiast finds their dream car, nothing will stop them in attaining it. Such was the case with Loren, the latest star in Porsche's 911 Owners' Stories. In a quest to afford a new Porsche, he began to work on older ones, buying fixing, and flipping them for a tidy profit. That has evolved into his own Porsche workshop and a collection of 10 cars. " title="YouTube video" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen> His pride & joy is a 996 Porsche GT3. While retaining the same block as the 993 Series, the GT cars along with the Turbo had separate water jackets on each cylinder bank. Using the same chassis as the Turbo, the GT3 utilized the reinforced front suspension (without AWD) to achieve 1.03G on the skidpad. It was the highest lateral grip of any production car to-date. The 3.6-liter offers 375 horsepower and 284 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual. Along with the other Porsche 996 series, they are the most affordable 911 models on the market. They will definitely become collectible in a few years, so find one as a daily driver and stay with us for all your Porsche 911 news. Browse Porsche 911 For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – June 05, 2020

Porsche 911 Owners' Stories Will Make You Smile

Once you drive a classic Porsche, the first thing you will want to do...is drive a classic Porsche again. We have been the leading authority in the buying and selling of air-cooled masterpieces for over 35 years, so take it from us. You owe it to yourself to experience the perfection of the 993 series. Porsche 993 Price, Specs, Photos & Review With impending emissions laws on the horizon, Stuttgartt decided to offer a proper farewell to the traditional Porsche 911. Only sold from 1995 to '98, they are the perfect investment. Offered as a naturally aspirated Carrera, the base model was joined by a convertible, with or without AWD. The Targa offered the first iteration of a powered glass roof, and the 993 Turbo offers incredible power in a featherweight chassis. Click the button to find yours and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche 993 For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – June 04, 2020

Porsche Celebrates 50th Anniversary of LeMans Win

Porsche and LeMans are inseparable. Since the 356 made its world debut in 1951, class victories were commonplace. It took nearly two decades to reach the top, and next weekend marks half a century since their first Overall Victory. Chief Engineer Norbert Singer was given a blank check to take on the world, and his 917KH set a precedent for all future Porsche supercars. To remind everyone what they are capable of, the race-winning car is being dusted off and treated to a tune up. The Porsche Museum will have it front and center for the weekend of June 13th. Car #23 was driven 343 laps and 2,863 miles by Hans Herrmann and Richard Attwood. The Porsche 917 series went on to dominate tracks around the world with factory teams and privateers, and it inspired the wild 959, Carrera GT, and the 918 Spyder. Cick the button below to experience Porsche's latest supercar for yourself and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Browse Porsche 918 For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – June 03, 2020

Porsche AR Visualizer Puts Your Dream Car in Your Driveway

Going to a Porsche dealer is fun for the family, as I learned at an early age. But in an era of social distancing, it can be wise to do your research in a virtual realm to get your ideal ride in the crosshairs. That is why the Porsche AR Visualizer puts your dream car in your driveway. Available for iOS and Android, it offers every model in the Porsche lineup along with interior and exterior options. What's more, it offers insights into the technology and engineering contained within. Unlike other configurators, you will not be hounded by local dealers who need to move metal. Instead, we offer the world's best resource for finding your new Porsche. We have been representing Porsche's best dealers since 1985, so it would behoove you to allow us to get you in the Porsche you want. Click the buttons below to download then browse our website for new Porsche models for sale. Download For Android Download For iOS " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – May 29, 2020

Porsche 911 Owner Stories: 1978 SC

Owners of classic Porsche 911s often fall into two separate but equal groups. Those who immediately opt for a full restoration, and drivers who do it one piece at a time. Lawrence Fitz-Simon is an Englishman living in LA who enjoys the imperfections that build up over 4 decades. The 911 SC is the "Super Carrera". Powered by a 3-liter, it originally arrived with 188 horsepower. Considering the featherweight chassis, the SC series is loved by Porsche purists for reinvigorating the brand. Click the button below to find your air-cooled masterpiece and stay with us for all your Porsche updates. Browse Porsche 911 SC For Sale " width="680">

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By Andrew Nabors – May 27, 2020

Porsche Track Experience Celebrates 20th Anniversary

Growing up on Amelia Island, Hurley Haywood has never denied an autograpgh or a story from behind the wheel of Porsche's LeMans-Winning Supercars. This 5-time champion remains a brand ambassador for Porsche, and the honorary Chief Instructor. It you want to learn every aspect of your Porsche, pack your bags for Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama. Programs range from one-day vehicle basics to a 4-day course. The latter will allow you to apply for a racing license after spending hours between classroom and on the track. Known by many Porsche fans as the "Augusta of race tracks", conquering the 2.38 mile course has 16 corners and 80 feet of elevation. Last year the entire circuit was repaved to push Porsche's 2020 lineup to its limits. Other venues include the Weissach proving grounds at the Nurburgring and Porsche's road course at the headquarters in Atlanta. Click the button to learn more about the program and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Learn More

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