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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

A bespoke chess set featuring abstract, angular black and white pieces on a minimalist rectangular board, viewed from the side against a dark background—an ultra-luxury design reminiscent of Rolls-Royce sophistication.

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 16, 2025

Rolls-Royce Just Revealed A Bespoke Ultra-Luxury Grandmas...

Rolls-Royce has long since established itself as a lifestyle rather than just a luxury car manufacturer. Whether it's the quiet cabin of a Ghost or the commanding presence of a Cullinan, every model in its lineup delivers luxury that extends far beyond the drive. Rolls-Royce continues to embrace its craftsmanship and attention to detail well outside of any interior with a lifestyle collection for its ultra-luxurious clientele. Rolls-Royce is bringing its signature touch from the road to the living room with the release of the Rolls-Royce Chess Set. Designed with the same look and feel found in its cars, the sculptural set reimagines the traditional game of chess into an elevated experience. The leather-wrapped board subtly resembles the brand's iconic "waft lines," with hidden drawers, magnetized ceramic-coated pieces, and polished aluminium. Clients can personalize the chess set with various veneers and 13 leather colors drawn straight from the Rolls-Royce extensive palette, making it the perfect reflection of each owner's taste. Now available through select showrooms and Private Office boutiques, it's the ultimate accessory for those who treat game night like a grand event. View All Rolls-Royces For Sale Source: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

P90489984 highRes cullinan inspired by 1

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 01, 2022

Rolls-Royce Unveils 'Cullinan - Inspired by Fashion' For ...

While fashion trends continuously change to keep up with runway standards, luxury car brands follow by incorporating inspiration from the year’s hottest and most popular styles. The House of Rolls-Royce is proud to showcase its ‘Cullinan - Inspired by Fashion’ campaign, featuring two prêt-à-porter collections that include the bold Re‑Belle and striking Fu-Shion. Presented by the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective, high fashion plays a crucial role in the fine line of Cullinan examples that reflect vibrant hues and textures. The works of art are set to be unveiled to guests and clientele of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars during Art Basel in Miami. View All Rolls-Royce Cullinan For Sale The Cullinan Re-Belle is the ultimate statement piece by introducing head-turning exterior finishes such as Lime Green and Wildberry. Each interior offers pristine white leather as the base, while Lime Green and Peony Pink accents enhance the cabin with a splash of color. The fascia is finished with extraordinarily detailed handwoven stainless-steel fabric as a nod to the styles seen on the catwalk this year. The Cullinan Re-Belle also comes available in Gunmetal or Arctic White colors, depending on the selected interior. On the more aggressive Black Badge end, Rolls-Royce Cullinan Fu-Shion takes on an appearance reminiscent of evocative streetwear and its functional elements. Starting with the interior, designers at Rolls-Royce created two astonishing configurations, using combinations of Military Green, Navy Blue, and Mandarin or a blend of Arctic White and Cashmere Grey leather with Forge Yellow accents. Depending on the choice of interior, each Cullinan’s exterior can be commissioned in Military Green, Burnout grey, Forge Yellow, or Tempest Grey. The ‘Cullinan - Inspired by Fashion’ also introduces a new Starlight Tailgate, which takes over 22 hours and 192 softly illuminated starts to manufacture. Clients interested in the once-of-a-lifetime opportunity will also be invited to purchase matching luggage sets, compromised of the 24hr Weekender, 48hr Weekender, Holdall, Tote Bag, and Organiser Pouch. View all current Rolls-Royce Cullinan examples for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. View All Rolls-Royce Cullinan For Sale Source: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 03, 2022

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Celebrates The 100th Anniversary O...

The first Rolls-Royce primarily designed as an owner-driver car, and a direct ancestor of today’s product portfolio. Starting as a pioneer in coach-building, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars quickly gained traction and became one of the most influential luxury brands in the world. The U.K.-based automaker is responsible for continuing the tradition of hand-building luxury examples intended for the rich and famous. Today, Rolls-Rolls is proud to mark yet another astonishing milestone with the 100th anniversary of its iconic ‘Twenty’ model. Launched on October 6, 1922, the ‘Twenty’ refers to the model designed by Sir Henry Royce and its legacy as the most important model for the marque. It plays a significant role in history as it was the first example intended to be owner-driven, rather than the chauffeured-use versions. This ultimately would be the driving factor and mechanical template for many generations of Rolls-Royce vehicles. MUST-READ: The Best Rolls-Royce Cullinans You Can Buy Today Although a distant memory retaining the look of early automotive engineering, the Rolls-Royce Twenty prides itself on being the direct ancestor to today's Ghost, Wraith, Dawn, and Cullinan. Ending its successful and innovative production series in 1929, the Rolls-Royce Twenty saw no fewer than 2,940 examples built. Its lineage lives on as past, present, and future models continue to incorporate characteristics and aspects of the early 1920s pioneer. Above all, they embody Sir Henry Royce’s most famous dictum: “take the best that exists and make it better”. View all current Rolls-Royce models for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming luxury lifestyle and automotive news. VIEW ALL ROLLS-ROYCE FOR SALE Source: Rolls-Royce

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 23, 2022

Stüssy Teases An Upcoming Collaboration With Rolls-Royce ...

With an Instagram caption that reads "no traffic on the pch...", we can only imagine what Stüssy and Rolls-Royce has planned. With streetwear making a huge impact on the luxury lifestyle industry, world-renowned brands are teaming up with iconic manufacturers to highlight the significance of both product offerings. Since the late 80s and early 90s, the creative team at Stüssy have specialized in building a popular clothing and accessories line with inspiration born from the Southern California surf scene. Although its influence began at the beach, Stüssy now operates as an industry-leader with plenty of successful collaboration collections. Stüssy is now making automotive news after teasing collectors and enthusiasts with an Instagram post of a custom Rolls-Royce front end. MUST-READ: The Best Rolls-Royce Cullinans You Can Buy Today Quietly hinting towards a possible upcoming partnership with Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, the legendary emblem is redesigned to read “STUSSY MOTORS” in the same elegant font. Along with the logo, the streetwear-inspired Rolls-Royce also features a bent crown emblem that replaces the brand’s famous Spirit of Ecstasy. Although specific information has yet to be announced, a Stüssy x Rolls-Royce release is sure to be highly anticipated for any car enthusiast. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for information on the Stüssy x Rolls-Royce collaboration and more automotive news. View all current Rolls-Royce inventory for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. VIEW ALL ROLLS-ROYCE FOR SALE Source: @stussy IG

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 06, 2021

The House of Rolls-Royce Unveils The $55,000 Bespoke Whis...

The Cellarette derives from the marque’s rich heritage of providing clients with effortless and affable hosting opportunities. When it comes to providing a luxury lifestyle experience, Rolls-Royce stands tall as a leader in the automotive industry. Although the brand's presence is focused on exclusive luxury vehicles like the Rolls-Royce Dawn and Cullinan, it’s also incorporated into lifestyle products for owners and enthusiasts. The House of Rolls-Royce is proud to announce the newest addition to its line of collectibles, the Bespoke Cellarette. The Rolls-Royce Cellarette is a whiskey and cigar chest accompanied by an array of design features to help entertain guests during an elegant event. The exterior of the Cellarette is crafted from polished aluminum and features overlays of genuine Rolls-Royce Havana leather. MUST-READ: Rolls-Royce Announces The New Boat Tail Display At The Concours d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Along with its elegant design, the exterior also includes a functional serving tray finished in Obsidian Ayous Open Pore veneer with Spirit of Ecstasy inlay. The exterior opens to a warm ambient glow of Armagnac leather, where an array of luxury accessories are revealed. The Rolls-Royce Cellarette includes a set of hand-blow lowball glasses finished with the iconic ‘RR’ monogram. At the opposing end is a humidor which, when opened, offers the user a cigar tray. Cigars are nestled in Spanish Cedarwood at the chosen humidity level for optimum enjoyment, a measure that is precisely monitored by a hygrometer. The humidor includes a detailed cigar cutter and lighter made by S. T. Dupont, Paris, engraved with the Spirit of Ecstasy Expression, and a commemorative ashtray. The Rolls-Royce Cellarette is available to acquire through Rolls-Royce dealerships, with prices starting from £40,570 (Est. $54,990). Click the link below to view all the current Rolls-Royce examples for sale on duPont REGISTRY. View All Rolls-Royce For Sale Media/Information Source: BMW Group

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