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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 – February 16, 2021

Porsche Design Unveils An Exclusive Custom Chronograph Fo...

After much anticipation, Porsche unveiled the 2022 992 911 GT3 as part of the new addition to the track-inspired lineup. The great news continues with the release of the Porsche Design 911 GT3 Chronograph, a new luxury timepiece available exclusively to owners of the new chassis. Each watch features the ability to completely customized the appearance of the chronograph to match the specification of your personal GT3, using the Porsche Design Chronograph Configurator. Like its motorized role model, the new Porsche Design Chronograph 911 GT3 exudes inspiration with its ornate design, consistent performance, and exquisite craftsmanship. The close connection between the timepiece and the sports car is unmistakable at first glance. The watch is driven by the Werk 01.200 movement, which can be viewed through the GT3 Wheel styled winding rotor. The Porsche Design GT3 Chronograph is sure to pair well as a collector’s example next to the all-new Porsche 992 911 GT3. Configure and learn more about Porsche Design’s custom chronographs by clicking the link below. Porsche Design Chronograph Configurator Porsche Design For more Porsche Design news, Check out Porsche Design Spring/Summer ’21 Fashion & Sport Collections Now Available

By Andrew Nabors – February 16, 2021

2022 Porsche 911 GT3 Revealed

Nothing could have prepared us for how the 992-series is in any situation. In order to keep lesser cars far behind, watch the Porsche 911 GT3 reveal with us. Put your TPS reports on the back burner and grab some popcorn. Since the debut of the 8th-generation (992 series), we have watched the GT3 test mules evolve on tracks around the world. With buyers embracing the manual transmission of the GT3 Touring, how will this new car face the 3-pedal question? What we see so far is a new flavor of their 4-liter flat-six offering 510 horsepower. It began life as the 911 Cup engine, with the only differences being the exhaust system and the computer tuning. A new 7-speed PDK (dual-clutch) transmission has specific gear ratios for the naturally-aspirated GT3, and thankfully the six-speed manual is also available for order. The aforementioned PDK is how it was able to shave 17 seconds from the previous GT3's lap time on the ring. Running the historic track in 6:59.927 makes it a decent bit faster than the 918 Spyder. The suspension is all-new, taking inspiration from the GT3 Cup. Cast iron rotors have returned for those who need track-day endurance. All wheels are 1" wider while maintaining optimal un-sprung mass. Incorporating sound deadening into the exhaust particulate filters eliminated the resonators on each cylinder bank, saving even more weight behind the centerline of the rear wheels. Every aspect from carpet to motor mounts has been shaved to get the curb weight down to 3,164 lbs. Over 50% more downforce makes the car more confident, and the driver now has four settings for the front splitter. A new generation of the 911 GT3 Touring will join the lineup later this year, so in the meantime tell us how this car compares to the 2018 Porsche 911 specs. Porsche 911 GT3 For Sale Image (C) Porsche Cars North America

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By Jordan Aquistapace – February 12, 2021

How To Buy: Puma x Porsche KING Platinum 911 Legacy Socce...

Porsche continues to prove itself on the track time and time again, but what about the more unfamiliar area? Puma is helping Porsche take to the soccer field with the all-new Limited Edition Puma King Platinum 911 Legacy. The inspiration behind the cleats ties into the 1960s, when the iconic Porsche 911 and Puma King were first launched. The highlight of the soccer chat is the vibrant Poppy Red colorway, which turns as many heads as a PTS color Porsche 992 Turbo S. The super-soft K-Leather upper is enhanced with 3D touch texture and PUMA exclusive Lazertouch technology for refined touch and feel on the ball. The fit is enhanced with a snug knitted tongue and the ultra-modern slim silhouette combined with the super-lightweight ‘RAPIDSPRINT’ outsole make the Puma King Platinum 911 Legacy the fastest and lightest Puma King ever. The Porsche x Puma cleats are currently available and are limited to 911 pairs to signify the iconic 911 model. When: Available Now (Limited to 911 Pairs) Where: Puma Website Price: $250 For more Porsche Gear news, Check out Porsche Design’s New Eyewear Collection Featuring Patrick Dempsey Now Available Image Source: Puma

By Andrew Nabors – February 11, 2021

2022 Porsche 911 GT3 Teases Potent Aerodynamics

A silhouette of a massive spoiler in a dark garage is how the 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 teases potent aerodynamics. It is ok to like or dislike normal cars, but the GT3 has never attempted to be normal. You either love it or hate it. Quite frankly, if you are in the latter group this is not the blog for you. Everyone has that one friend that offers a chainsaw when asked for a butterknife. Therefore, a new Porsche 911 GT3 for sale will trade civility for cornering, and it will arrive with downforce that is proportional to its abilities. Be here Tuesday at 9am Eastern to watch it with us to see how the GT3 has evolved. Porsche 911 GT3 For Sale Image (C) Porsche A.G.

By Andrew Nabors – February 10, 2021

Porsche Taycan Sets New Indoor Land Speed Record

The world's largest contiguous exhibit hall in the U.S. is located in the Big Easy, and that is where the Porsche Taycan set a new indoor land speed record. Knowing full well what the new Taycan is capable of, driver Leh Keen and the team invited Guiness World Records to join them in New Orleans. To optimize traction on the slick concrete, the AWD Taycan Turbo S was fitted with tire warmers. It took a few runs to optimize the battery regeneration mode and to harness 750 horsepower. In an ideal situation the car would reach 60 mph in 2.6 seconds, so how fast can it go while still braking safely? They reached 102.6 mph, so please don't try this at home. Remember, Guinness Awards and Darwin Awards are not separated by much, so check out the Taycan price and specs to find one for yourself. Porsche Taycan For Sale

By Edward Jones – February 03, 2021

See Two Years of the Porsche 911 GT3's (992) Development ...

While we wait for the official unveiling of the new Porsche 911 GT3 (992), we have the perfect video for you to watch. YouTube channel Automotive Mike has compiled a video of the new 911 GT3 being developed over a course of two years at Nurburgring, starting in October 2018. As the video progresses, you can see the progression of the model itself. In the end, we see a car that will more than likely be what is to be revealed in due time. Click play up above to see it for yourself and get excited about the official unveiling. You can also check out all 911 GT3s for sale by clicking the button below. See All 911 GT3s For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – February 03, 2021

2022 Porsche Taycan Sets 13 New Records At Brands Hatch

Falling asleep on the 14th floor can be tricky because you know what floor you are really on. Despite the foreboding feelings about the number, the 2022 Porsche Taycan has set 13 new records at Brands Hatch. While a sunny, dry weekend was too much to ask for it didn't stop the Taycan lineup from being quick-charged. Their press release highlights the car's ability to jump from 5% to 80% in less than 23 minutes. The track is famous for a 1,000 km endurance race. That's 622 miles in Freedom Units, a tough task for any car. Compared to all-electric cars weighing over 1,000 kg, they chopped down all previous times for a standing start. Not only does is the Taycan the most efficient electric car on the market, but it has also been proven to perform in all weather. Click the button below to find yours and stay with us for all your Porsche news. Porsche Taycan For Sale Images (C) Porsche Cars North America

By Andrew Nabors – February 02, 2021

Porsche Classic Asks What Makes An Icon?

No other automaker cares as much for their heritage, so Porsche Classic asks: "What makes an icon?" What began with printing new copies of old literature has evolved into factory restorations and upgrade parts for older models. What you might not know is that they continually test new tires to recommend the perfect rubber for your Porsche. For some reason, they do not offer radiators, water pumps, or coolant hoses...If you know why please tell us in the comments below. A classic Porsche 911 for sale is an investment that will change your life, so click the button to find one near you. This is why a classic Porsche is one of the top 50 best sports cars of all time. Browse Porsche 911 For Sale

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 28, 2021

Shop The New Puma Motorsport x Porsche Legacy Spring/Summ...

As new product continues to roll out for the new year, Puma Motorsport is proud to release the Spring/Summer 2021 Porsche Legacy Collection. The new line of clothing, footwear, and accessories is inspired by vintage Porsche design using premium materials to provide a perfect fit. The tops incorporated into the collection feature graphic and minimal designs on t-shirts, zip-ups, and long-sleeves, each paying homage to the iconic Porsche 911. The bottoms feature an array of sport driven track pants and shorts sporting both the Puma and Porsche logos. The footwear portion of the Puma x Porsche Legacy collection is made up of casual and comfortable styles for both on and off the track, with more available colors. A selection of hats and bags are designed using period correct 911 font, colors, and designs. The Puma Motorsport Porsche Legacy spring/summer 2021 collection is currently available by clicking the link below. Shop Now For more Puma Gear news, Check out Puma Motorsport Releases Scuderia Ferrari Spring/Summer 2021 Collection

By Andrew Nabors – January 27, 2021

Porsche Top 5 Highlights Of The 550 Spyder

With sales of the first 356 beginning to takeoff, Ferry built a masterpiece. In order to understand what made it iconic, here are the Porsche Top 4 highlights of the 550 Spyder. One of the lightest cars of all time, it made use of independent suspension and a clever differential to power completely through corners. This how 1.5-liter lapped cars packing double or triple the power. The car was so incredible that Corvette's Chief Engineer took a long weekend in 1955 to drive for Porsche at LeMans. Aside from the late Janes Dean, Patrick Dempsey was just named Brand Ambassador by Porsche Design for 2021. Browse Porsche For Sale Image (C) Porsche Cars North America

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