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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

2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost Teased in Open Letter from the CEO

Torsten Müller-Ötvös has kept his brand at the cutting edge for years. After a decade of upgrades and fresh parts, it is time for something all-new. Starting with customer input, dealers sent their desires back to the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood. It allowed them to formulate an ethos or ideology known as "Post Opulence". It is based on the notion that buyers appreciate the luxury and quality of the object without it shouting our being overtly haute couture. Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge: Price, Review, & Specs This was not an easy task, and the car has been in development for over 5 years. The project is now on the final stretch, and he wants us to know they will not compromise the launch date or quality of each car despite social conditions. It will be exciting to see the Ghost leave its BMW 7-Series chassis in the dust, so stay with us for all your Rolls-Royce news. Browse All Rolls-Royce Ghost For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – May 14, 2020

Rolls-Royce Young Designer Competition Extended to June 1st

After receiving an unprecedented response from children around the world, Rolls-Royce has announced the extension of the Young Designer Competition. Anyone 16 and under has until June 1st to submit their illustrations. Entries from 70 countries have already amassed, and they are waiting to be judged by the Rolls-Royce Design Team. One lucky winner will receive a rendered illustration of their design, while the runners up will receive signed certificates from Torsten Müller-Ötvös, the Chief Executive officer. Young designers can share their work by clicking the button below, so stay with us for all your Rolls-Royce news. Learn More " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – February 26, 2020

Rolls-Royce Unveils Exclusive Digital Subscription Service

Refusing to acknowledge my automotive allegiances, I don't like hearing from the manufacturer. Recalls, service bulletins, and the occasional upgrade are quite annoying. Thankfully, the House of Rolls-Royce has unveiled an exclusive digital subscription service. This new mobile app is named "Whispers", and it is tailored to the 1% of their most wealthy customers. Stories and artwork catered to their owners are meant to inspire discussion and interaction around the world. So how does one access this new app: Buy a new Rolls-Royce. Our dealers are waiting for your call, so click the link below and stay with us for all your Rolls-Royce news. Browse All Rolls-Royce For Sale " width="680"> Related: Rolls-Royce Cullinan Price, Specs, Photos & Review

By Andrew Nabors – December 16, 2019

Rolls-Royce Builds Phantom With a Million Stitches

Flowers represent the best in nature. Calming and timeless, they are loved by young and old alike. And for one Swedish entrepreneur, he wanted to be surrounded by them in a new Rolls-Royce Phantom for sale. After many designs in the virtual world, a team of skilled upholsterers at Rolls-Royce built a Phantom with a million stitches. If you can dream it, they can build it, so click the button below and stay with us for all your Rolls-Royce news. Browse All Rolls-Royce Phantom For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – December 02, 2019

Rolls-Royce Unveils Red Phantom for AIDS Research

The House of Rolls-Royce marks 115 years of luxury with spectacular Red Phantom commission to benefit the global AIDS charity (RED)’s fight against AIDS. Rolls-Royce has partnered with acclaimed contemporary artist Mickalene Thomas to create custom artwork and livery wrap for the winning bidder. The auction will run December 4 - 13, 2019 online with global auction partner RM Sotheby’s. This one of a kind, 2020 Red Phantom was revealed during the celebration at One Thousand Museum during Art Basel in Miami Beach The House of Rolls Royce today revealed images of a Bespoke 2020 Red Phantom, commissioned to benefit (RED), the global charity and its fight to end AIDS. First sketches of the red-themed creation were revealed by the world’s leading luxury manufacturer seven months ago at the Sotheby’s Galleries in New York City. On Wednesday evening, December 4, The Red Phantom Bespoke Commission will be unveiled at a gala event at the One Thousand Museum in Miami as RM Sotheby’s launches an exclusive online auction to run through December 13, 2019. Proceeds above the cost of the item* will benefit (RED)’s fight to end AIDS. The winning collector will have the unique opportunity to collaborate with one of the world’s most respected contemporary artists, Mickalene Thomas, to create a work of art in the form of a custom wrap for the exterior of the car. Browse All Rolls-Royce Phantom For Sale Thomas will also create an original artwork inspired by the Red Phantom for the collector. When the digital hammer falls, the ultimate bidder will be the proud owner of the Red Phantom, a personalized work and design by Ms. Thomas and the honor of having supported (RED) in its mission. Related: Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Specs, Price, Photos & Review Source: Rolls-Royce Press Release

By Andrew Nabors – August 16, 2018

Rolls-Royce Pebble Paradiso Heading to Pebble Beach

If you are heading west for Monterey Car Week, get ready for something new from Rolls-Royce. They are bringing a trifecta of their latest Black Badge models, all with custom touches. The Black Badge appeals to a younger audience thanks to carbon fiber wheels, black chrome exterior trim, and a unique interior. Uploaded to Instagram earlier today, we see the Pebble Paradiso or Paradise.Rolls-Royce Wraith For SaleThis trio consists of a Dawn, Wraith, and a Ghost wearing the same exterior finish. Inside we are treated to 2-tone leather along with the composite dash. Aerospace aluminum is woven into the carbon fiber to give it a silver gloss.Rolls-Royce Dawn For SaleIt looks like the Dawn has received a locking tonneau cover, a perfect accessory for a quick trip. We will see them in person at The Quail, so stay with us for complete coverage of Monterey 2018.Rolls-Royce Ghost For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 24, 2018

Rolls-Royce Unveils The Adamas Collection

The House of Rolls-Royce has been responsible for many stunning models over the past few years. By far the most popular have been the Black Badge editions, so now they have taken that theme even darker. A press release this morning says "Adamas" in Latin means an imaginary stone of incredible hardness. Something untameable and with the physical traits of a diamond.CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös said: "Adamas is a Collection that fuses the extraordinary competence of our Bespoke craftspeople from the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex, with the rebellious spirit of Black Badge. The result is a motor car for those who seek more than the definitive of engineered luxury conveyance. This is a motor car for the risk-taker who is not afraid to embrace a bold and progressive statement of true and modern luxury, in its darkest form.” Rolls-Royce Black Badge Dawn & WraithStarting at the most prominent feature, the Spirit of Ecstasy has lost her Sterling silver attire. She now rises from the black chrome grille as 294 layers of aerospace carbon fiber. Not just any hand-laid process would suffice, so she takes 68 hours to be woven at precisely 25 degrees. She stands on a titanium base that has been vapor-blasted to a dark motif. Rolls-Royce Black Badge Dawn & WraithOn the inside, you will instantly be drawn to the clock. It features 88 black diamonds to form the infinity symbol, machined aluminum accents and it is mounted in a carbon fiber back plate. Look up and you will see 1,340 fiber optic lights, configured as the molecular structure of carbon as it is arranged inside a pure diamond. For the first time, the starlight headliner is color-coordinated to the interior.Rolls-Royce Cullinan SUV Shown in Action for First TimeThe first black-badge cars to have color choices, the two versions are Aphrodite Red over Black and Morpheus Blue over Black two-tone. Only 40 examples of the Wraith and 30 of the Dawn will be produced, so click the link below to find our dealer nearest you and they will have all the details. Stay with us for all your Rolls-Royce news.Browse Rolls-Royce For Sale

By Edward Jones – July 27, 2017

Eighth-Generation Rolls-Royce Phantom Unveiled

Rolls-Royce has finally pulled back the sheets on the new eighth-generation of their famed Phantom model.“The global introduction of a new Rolls-Royce is always a very special moment within the BMW Group. This particular occasion is all the more special because we are introducing an all-new Phantom, the flagship of the Rolls-Royce brand and the world’s foremost luxury product," said Peter Schwarzenbauer, Chairman of Rolls-Royce and Member of the Board of the BMW Group. New Phantom is a powerful statement of design, engineering and Bespoke expertise and I am delighted with the response we have received from our many highly discerning customers worldwide. The BMW Group remains fully committed to the future of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and is proud of the many achievements made by the brand since its acquisition.”

By Edward Jones – June 01, 2017

New Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Teased

The world has been without a new Rolls-Royce Phantom since last year, but now the English automaker has given us a glimpse as to what the upcoming model will look like. In a video titled "The Fred Astaire Phantom I," found below, we get to see one of the finest Roll-Royce vehicles ever created. Currently housed at the Petersen Museum in Los Angeles, the owner is letting the English automaker showcase it for their upcoming "The Great Eight Phantoms" exhibition in London.Also Check Out - Rolls-Royce Sweptail, Worth $12.8 Million, Unveiled at Villa d'EsteWhile this car is a beauty to behold, the video gives us a special glimpse at what looks like the upcoming Phantom VIII model. Click play on the video below to see the new Phantom for yourself.

By Andrew Nabors – May 30, 2017

Rolls-Royce Sweptail, Worth $12.8 Million, Unveiled at Vi...

If you have the means, the skilled coachbuilders at Rolls-Royce will build anything your heart desires. Last year, the design team released project 103EX as an example of what they are capable of. Inspired by the concept, an avid Rolls-Royce collector approached the factory with grand idea. A two seat coupe with a panoramic roof and a boat tail body. In the past, many luxury marques built coupes and convertibles in a "Sweptail" style, the lack of passenger room and storage space led to their demise.Also Check Out - Yellow Lamborghini Centenario Delivered in California Emphasizing the best attributes of designs from the 20's and 30's, Director of Design Giles Taylor said the “Sweptail is the automotive equivalent of Haute Couture". The project began in 2013 when a wealthy collector came to Giles and his team. Taking inspiration from the 1925 Phantom 1 by Jonckheere, and the 1934 Phantom II by Park Ward, the press release goes into detail about the intellectual journey between the owner and the designers. “Our job was to guide, edit and finely hone the lines that would ultimately give our client this most perfect of Rolls-Royces,” said Taylor. A series of Instagram posts by TestaRossaSam have several highlights of the build, so check out the video below. There's also a walkaround video by effspot, who notes that this car is worth around $12.8 million. If true, that could make this the most expensive production car ever. Stay with us for all your Roll-Royce news, and check out our new Rolls-Royce Wraith listings for inspiration on your custom built Rolls-Royce. A star is born. Our best effort to set the benchmark for the future of Grand Coupes. Through time, we'll see how The Sweptail places amongst all other iconic legends. #RollsRoyce #OneOff #Sweptail #RollsRoyceSweptail #OneOff #LagoDiComo #VillaDeste #08 #RollsRoyceOneOff A post shared by TestaRossaSam (@mwvmnw) on May 27, 2017 at 2:01am PDT

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