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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 – January 13, 2021

Rolls-Royce Inspiring Greatness Episode 11: Levison Wood

For those who wish to see the headwaters of the Nile, an inconspicuous vehicle is needed. This adventure is documented by a published author and explorer in Rolls-Royce Inspiring Greatness Episode 11: Levison Wood. Rolls-Royce Bespoke Commissions Set New Records In 2020 Like a modern-day Dr. Livingstone, Levison enjoys highlighting cultures and places isolated to the developed world. His latest adventure lasted nine months, traveling 4,200 miles along the Nile. A new Rolls-Royce will inspire your greatness, so click the button below. Browse Rolls-Royce For Sale Also: These Rolls-Royce Boutique Accessories Are Amazing " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – January 13, 2021

Rolls-Royce Bespoke Commissions Set New Records In 2020

Lockdown was a time to reflect and focus on what's important. For those who value individuality and craftsmanship, Rolls-Royce bespoke commissions set new records in 2020. The artists and coachbuilders at the House of Rolls-Royce delivered an unprecedented number of unique models, addressing and surpassing the owner's wishes. Rolls-Royce Inspiring Greatness: Gennadiy Golovkin Their latest press release highlights achievements in embroidery, paint, constellations in the Starlight headliner, and the hidden messages in the Wraith Kryptos Collection. The most prominent area for customization remains to be the Gallery found on the dash of the new Rolls-Royce Phantom for sale, and the Dawn Silver Bullet was crafted to cut through the air. Here is an opportunity to order the car of your dreams, so click the button below to tell your story. Browse New Rolls-Royce For Sale Images (C) Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

By Andrew Nabors – December 17, 2020

Rolls-Royce Inspiring Greatness: Gennadiy Golovkin

One fighter enjoyed a streak of 23 knockouts from 2008 to 2017. From fighting on the streets of Kazakhstan to beating the world's best middleweights, he is the inspiration for the latest episode of Rolls-Royce Inspiring Greatness: Gennadiy Golovkin. Even though his Wraith Black Badge is the latest in luxury, he enjoys the brand's dedication to being "old school". His orthodox stance and precise hits have yielded the highest knockout-to-win ratio in middleweight history, ending over 6 of his opponents' winning streaks. He applauds Rolls-Royce for continually improving their lineup to offer the best in luxury cars. To understand what he means, click the button to find a Wraith near you and stay with us for more great uploads from Rolls-Royce. Browse Rolls-Royce Wraith For Sale " width="680"> Image (C) Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

By Andrew Nabors – December 17, 2020

Rolls-Royce Releases More Clues To The Wraith Kryptos Code

Owners around the world are starting to take delivery of the new Wraith for sale. The allure of the car deepens by the minute as Rolls-Royce has released more clues to the Wraith Kryptos code. This cryptographic cipher involves details on the interior and exterior that are unique to the Kryptos edition. Their latest press release reaffirms that the answer will remain locked in a safe, inside the home of CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös. His message to all 50 owners is: 2021 Rolls-Royce Wraith Kryptos Collection Deepens the Mystery "The Spirit of Ecstasy, the figurine that graces the bonnet of every Rolls-Royce motor car, holds the key to uncovering this code. The word KRYPTOS is engraved in Rolls-Royce cipher around the base of the figurine, and with this information, clients will be able to embark on their cryptographic journey. The first client to decrypt this code will receive a unique gift from Rolls-Royce in recognition of their extraordinary talent!” Once your Wraith arrives, use their "Whispers" app to submit your answer. Two employees know one half of the answer, and they will not combine their efforts until the Torsten confirms a winner. So, dust off your Enigma machine and head to your Rolls-Royce dealer for all the details. Browse Rolls-Royce Wraith For Sale Images (C) Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

By Edward Jones – November 24, 2020

Rolls-Royce 'Neon Lights' Limited Editions Announced

Rolls-Royce was recently commissioned by clients in the United States to create a special 'Neon Lights 'trio of the Wraith, Dawn and Cullinan Black Badge luxury vehicles. The Wraith Black Badge is finished in a Lime Rock Green that Rolls-Royce Bespoke Paint Specialist Sami Coultas created after being inspired by an Australian green tree frog. Next is the Dawn Black Badge that is finished in Eagle Rock Red that mirrors the flowers of ‘Ōhi‘a lehua, a Hawaiian evergreen tree. Last but not least is the Cullinan Black Badge which has a Mirabeau Blue finish mimics the wings of an exotic butterfly, Rhetus periander. Each of these vehicles come with a Technical Fibre fascia with a graphic that gives off a neon glow. If this all sounds awesome to you and you're interested, you're in luck. Rolls-Royce has just announced that three more examples of each model will be created, making it four in total for each and 12 in total overall. They're available for commission worldwide. See All Rolls-Royces For Sale

Elijah Machado Rolls Royce Yound Design winner 3

By Andrew Nabors – November 12, 2020

10-Year-Old Texan Wins Rolls-Royce Young Designer Competi...

Every year Rolls-Royce enlists help from children around the world. Giving them a blank page to pen their ultimate car, each nation has been awarded a representative. Now that the results are in, a 10-Year-Old Texan has won the Rolls-Royce Young Designer competition to represent the U.S. Entry # 3325 was submitted in June and it easily overpowered every other American. Elijah Machado envisions a future where cars can break the sound barrier with help from rocket assistance. He envisions a future of automation and of comfort. While the finer details might take serious leaps in technology, we need holographic steering wheels ASAP. A few of the other options are already found in the latest Rolls-Royce models, so click the button below to find yours and stay with us for all your Rolls-Royce news. Browse Rolls-Royce For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – November 09, 2020

2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost Review by Supercars In Seconds

Many casual observers find it hard to believe the Ghost is over a decade old. That's because the most successful Rolls-Royce in years can be seen at the most exclusive locations around the world. But time waits for no car, and that is why the new 2021 Rolls-Royce for sale is all new. With more power and luxury than you could ask for, here is a 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost review by Supercars In Seconds. 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Revealed Our friend Matthew Jones is the resident English Sales Manager of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Tampa Bay. Because he keeps a finger on the pulse of all things luxury, his insights into what the brand offers should be taken seriously. Therefore, he is quick to note the most obvious new features. Starting with a new engine, the 6.75-liter V12 makes the same 563 horsepower. Where it shines is offering 627 lb-ft of torque at almost any RPM. As this is the first Ghost to have AWD and All Wheel Steering, it offers more fun and confidence when cornering. The new spaceframe chassis does away with the ancient uni-body, and all 8 control arms are insulated from the hubs. Details as small as the radio buttons can be mapped to control almost every aspect of the car, something we would like to see from every automaker. Perhaps the only aspect that carries over is the smooth response of the automatic transmission. If you want all the details on this car we implore you to contact the dealer by clicking the button below and stay with us for more insightful reviews. Browse Inventory at Dimmitt Automotive " width="680">

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 27, 2020

Rolls-Royce Delivers An Amazing Earth Inspired Bespoke Wr...

Rolls-Royce is all about experiencing personalized comfort for the driver and passengers when entering one of the luxurious models offered in the lineup. A bespoke division allows customers to incorporate their vision into the production of the vehicle. The Bespoke Rolls-Royce Inspired by Earth is one of the best examples featuring design cues from the entire Solar System and our planet as seen from space. The Wraith commissioned through Rolls-Royce Abu Dhabi is presented in a Royal Blue exterior finish, which represents the water that takes up 75% of the Earth’s surface. The hand-painted hood design signifies a satellite view of the Middle Eastern Region. View All Rolls-Royce Wraith For Sale Inspiration finds its way into the interior, where the Moccasin leather seats mimic the sands of the Middle Eastern Deserts. Interior trim pieces have been redesigned using Navy, Cobalto Blue, and Emerald Green to help symbolize nature in all of its forms. The passenger fascia highlights the Piano Milori veneer with an extravagantly air-brushed satellite image of the Middle East. The Rolls-Royce Bespoke Starlight Headliner features all the planets of the Solar System, centered on the Sun. The Bespoke Wraith by Rolls-Royce Abu Dhabi is a work of art and a glimpse into the future of visionary designed vehicles.

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By Edward Jones – October 13, 2020

Rolls-Royce Unveils Winners of Young Designer Competition

To keep children busy during the ongoing pandemic, Roll-Royce asked children under 16-years-old to design what they believe would be the car of the future. After receiving over 5,000 entries from over 80 countries, the judges had to go through them all and pick the winners. Once the winners were picked in four different categories, Rolls-Royce's design team then digitally rendered them in a way that they look like real projects. You can see the winners down below. See All Rolls-Royces For Sale Category: Technology ROLLS-ROYCE BLUEBIRD II BY CHENYANG, AGE 13, CHINA. TECHNOLOGY CATEGORY WINNER IN THE ROLLS-ROYCE YOUNG DESIGNER COMPETITION. Category: Environment ROLLS-ROYCE CAPSULE, BY SAYA AGE 6, JAPAN. ENVIRONMENT CATEGORY WINNER IN THE ROLLS-ROYCE YOUNG DESIGNER COMPETITION. Category: Fantasy ROLLS-ROYCE TURTLE CAR, BY FLORIAN AGE 16, FRANCE. FANTASY CATEGORY WINNER IN THE ROLLS-ROYCE YOUNG DESIGNER COMPETITION. Category: Fun 12.10.2020 | ID: P90403569 ROLLS-ROYCE GLOW BY LÉNA, AGE 11, HUNGARY. FUN CATEGORY WINNER IN THE ROLLS-ROYCE YOUNG DESIGNER COMPETITION.

By Andrew Nabors – September 24, 2020

2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Revealed

Your driver is probably a great person because you compensate him well. But he has his own life aside from your backseat directions and commentary on the upcoming election. That is why more legroom will keep the conversation to a minimum. That's because the 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended is longing for you. One of the many benefits of moving the Ghost to a new chassis is the ability to add length without compromising comfort or suspension. The aluminum spaceframe is relatively easy to modify, compared to the steel Ghosts of the past. Adding 6.7 inches of rear legroom not only adds to the ride quality, but it was also done with care to not disrupt their "Post Opulence" styling. " width="680"> This was done by extending the rear doors, rockers, and roof without altering their trademark lines. New "Serenity Seats" recline almost flat to mimic a business jet interior. The champagne fridge was designed with advice from a Master Sommelier, his advice to keep the temperature at 51 degrees made it to production. The cabin has 220 lbs of sound and heat insulation which is easily moved by their revised 6.75-liter V12. With 671 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, you and your driver will not have a worry in the world. Click the button to learn more from our dealers and stay with us for all your Rolls-Royce news. Browse Rolls-Royce Ghost For Sale

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