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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 – February 23, 2021

Rolls-Royce Phantom Tempus Collection Unveiled

Even the finest instrument needs an occasional tune-up, and that is why the Rolls-Royce Phantom Tempus Collection has been unveiled. This limited run of their long-wheelbase flagship is inspired by space-time and astronomical wonders. Kairos Blue is infused with flakes of mica to resemble a night sky, and the interior is just as awe-inspiring. The most prominent features begin with the gallery, the vertical dash panel facing the passenger seat. Black anodized aluminum has 100 columns milled into the face. All 20 cars have a Pulsar Headliner with fiber optic embroidery, and a hand-painted champagne chest is along for the ride. The Spirit of Ecstasy is engraved with a date of your choice, but all cars are already sold. This is just a small sampling of what they are capable of, much like the Koa Commission does. Click the button to summon your Phantom and stay with us for all your Rolls-Royce news. Rolls-Royce Phantom For Sale Images (C) Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

By Andrew Nabors – February 12, 2021

Rolls-Royce Reveals The Koa Phantom Commission

Hawaii is home to species that are not found anywhere else, so one discerning customer decided to bring the islands to his garage. Rolls-Royce has revealed the Koa Phantom commission with incredible woodwork and customizations. Jack Boyd Smith Jr. and his wife were enamored with the Phantom at Pebble Beach in 2017. Working with Rolls-Royce Bespoke, it took months to nail down the details of wood, leather, and color. To be worthy of joining their collection, the team first examined his museum of over 60 unique automobiles in Elkhart, Indiana. Inspired by a Koa wood rocking chair at their home, negotiations began to procure a perfect log. Hawaii has tough laws protecting their trees to ensure the sustainability of the species, and Jack knew perfection can't be rushed. Once they were able to perfectly match the color of his 1934 Packard Twelve Coupe, the exterior of this Long Wheelbase Phantom was adorned with monograms of its owners. Every available inch of the interior was filled with Koa wood. No veneers here, each piece is the work of a master carpenter. From the picnic basket to the champagne flutes, no detail was overlooked. The story of your Phantom begins with our dealers, so click the button below to begin the journey. Did you see the amazing Big Game party hosted by Rolls-Royce Tampa Bay? Rolls-Royce Phantom For Sale Images (C) Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

By Andrew Nabors – February 01, 2021

Rolls-Royce Phantom 'Iridescent Opulence' Unveiled in Abu...

Somehow they did it again. Building a stunning car that puts all competitors to shame, the Rolls-Royce 'Iridescent Opulence" has been unveiled in Abu Dhabi. This gorgeous commission is what happens when a customer chooses the path less traveled. While there are normal options a dealer might choose, this discerning individual wished to embrace old-world touches in the wood, leather, and paint. Sustainability in the wood along with feathers of exotic birds were sourced in a non-destructive manner. The details of this build are an inspiration to us along with all potential customers, so click the button below to learn more about it from your dealer. It is the perfect way to inspire greatness! Rolls-Royce Phantom For Sale Images (C) Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

By Andrew Nabors – June 11, 2020

Rolls-Royce Clean Room Behind the Scenes

After a long day in the office, you mind might wander around the interior. The passenger side of the dashboard has been an afterthought until the release of the latest Rolls-Royce Phantom for sale. That is because before your car begins production, skilled artisans create your gallery. 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Specs, Price, Photos, & Review The horizontal expanse that separates the upper and lower dash is a blank canvas. We have seen all species of hardwood, not veneers, blocks of wood carved by master carpenters. Other examples include the DNA sequences of a husband and wife etched into a billet of aluminum. If you can dream it, they can build it. Such precision requires a clean room with ionized air kept at a slightly positive pressure. In theory, you could probably order machined plutonium for the ultimate in ambient interior lighting. Tell us how your ideal interior for your Phantom, and click the link below to learn more from our dealers. Browse Rolls-Royce Phantom For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – April 20, 2020

Highly Optioned 2020 Rolls-Royce Phantom For Sale

England's most iconic luxury brand entered a new era with the 8th generation of their flagship. Starting from a clean sheet, engineers delivered an all-new Phantom for the 2019 model year. The first Rolls-Royce to be built on an aluminum spaceframe, and to offer rear-wheel steering. Designers also added unprecedented means of customization, so we're proud to offer this highly optioned 2020 Rolls-Royce Phantom for sale. Finished in black with Mandarin leather, the normally dark starlight headliner matches the interior. Immersive seating includes massaging front buckets with contrast piping. Rear passengers are treated to their own HD screens and wood tables. It currently rides on forged Vossen 24" wheels built specifically to handle this car's weight and performance. In total, you are looking at over $50,000 in options and accessories, so don't let this one get away. Click the button below for all the details and stay with us for more amazing inventory from TOYZ Autoart. View Price & Details https://www.instagram.com/tv/B_NMRLcF4Ez/

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 03, 2019

2020 Rolls-Royce Phantom by SPOFEC is Classy & Fast

As we approach the Holliday Season, don't forget about your car. The 8th generation of their flagship sedan has not been considered by the aftermarket because most companies assume the owners prefer not to alter their cars. It took a team of engineers and stylists to improve on perfection, and that is why the 2020 Rolls-Royce Phantom by SPOFEC is classy & Fast. Starting with 24" forged wheels, it took extensive computer time to ensure they were strong enough to handle the ample weight and increased power. They are available in 72 colors and wrapped in 295/30/24 tires of your choice. Suspension upgrades keep the car lowered for the perfect look up to 87 mph. When you hit 88, it rises to normal height to reduce drag & increase comfort. Browse Rolls-Royce Phantom For Sale Developed by NOVITEC, a new N-TRONIC engine tuning delivers 685 horsepower and 745 lb-ft of torque. That enables a 0-60 time under 5 seconds. Click the button above to find your Phantom, then allow SPOFEC to unlock its true potential! " width="680"> Related: Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Specs, Price, Photos & Review

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 Edward Jones – May 07, 2019

Rolls-Royce is Celebrating Their 115th Birthday With a On...

Rolls-Royce will be celebrating their 115th birthday with a very special, one-of-a-kind Phantom. The English automaker announced the new one-off luxury car during an exclusive dinner at Sotheby's in New York City. This special Phantom will be offered up through an online-only auction that will occur this Fall. The design of the Phantom itself has yet to be revealed, but there are initial sketches of the car available. Rolls-Royce says that whoever wins the car will take delivery of it through one of their 44 retail partners in the Americas. “While Roll-Royce motor cars have a history of crossing the block at RM Sotheby’s, tonight we are looking to the future of the brand," said Martin Fritsches, President and CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Americas, at the event in NYC. "The eight generation Phantom will carry the longest running name in luxury motoring into a new era. Built on the ‘architecture of luxury,’ this new Phantom commission offers one special owner the chance to enjoy a motor car that is bound to be a classic over the next 115 years." see all rolls-royces for sale Also Check Out: Rolls-Royce Miami Awarded American Dealer of the Year for 2018 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Powers Through the Snow of Sun Valley Why You Should Buy a Rolls-Royce Cullinan

By Edward Jones – August 31, 2018

Rolls-Royce EW Phantom Gets "Privacy Suite"

Rolls-Royce is taking privacy to a new level with the addition of a "Privacy Suite" in their Extended Wheelbase Phantom. This new feature will allow the rear passengers to have the utmost privacy without compromising their space or luxury.The new Privacy Suite starts with a separator made of Electrochromatic Glass, which can be transformed from glass to opaque with the touch of a button. Rear passengers also have sole control a space that can be opened in order to pass objects from the rear to front, or front to rear. A light shines on the opening so passengers can see what's being passed through.There's also increased acoustic insulation that prevents any sound made in the suit from making it to the front cabin. If the rear passengers need to communicate with the front cabin, they can use the intercom system that Rolls-Royce has implemented.2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Specs, Price, Photos & Review

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