Rolls-Royce News

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 – May 04, 2018

Rolls-Royce Phantom With Gold Skis Taken Up Mountain

If you have ever wondered how an Oligarch travels, Top Gear has answered the question. First you need the latest in luxury, the Rolls-Royce Phantom. The eighth generation of their flagship is the first Phantom to be designed with help from BMW. It is also the first Phantom to have an aluminum spaceframe.This allows the car to be stronger and more composed than the unibody chassis of the Phantom 7. Having a spaceframe allows engineers to tune out any naughty harmonics or vibrations that plague cars of this size. It is the first Rolls-Royce with active sway bars and active shocks. The car scans the road ahead to look for changes in the pavement, and the shocks are instantly prepared to hold the body steady. This means you won't spill your champagne flutes that are stored between the rear seats.Other features Rolls-Royce introduced are 4 wheel steering and Silent-Seal tires. Developed in cooperation with Continental, they are filled with sound-absorbing foam that cancels out road noise. We could go on in more detail, but we'll save it for another day. Allow the cheeky Brits at Top Gear to show you how it all adds up to an amazing experience. Our dealers are ready to help you find your new Phantom, so click the link below and stay with us for all your Top Gear updates.Browse Rolls-Royce Phantom 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 – September 27, 2016

30 Bespoke Rolls-Royce Phantoms With Gold and Diamonds Ar...

When hotel magnate Stephen Hung demanded the very best, Rolls-Royce delivered. The largest order of customized cars in the company's history, Mr. Hung has taken delivery of 30 elegant Phantoms. The 13 hotel in Macau is rapidly approaching a Grand Opening, and guests will have the extended wheelbase cars at their disposal. Two examples are finished in gold with diamond accents and will be reserved for exclusive guests. The "Stephen Red" paint is infused with gold flakes for an expensive reflection.(Related - Rolls-Royce Introduces Bespoke Wraith in One-of-a-Kind Golden Yellow)The first car was delivered at the Geneva Auto Show earlier this year, and the factory spent countless hours ensuring the quality of each build. No detail was too small, as the 21" wheels are specific to this fleet, and the rear seats are checkered to replicate the hotel's marble entrance. For a finishing touch, the clocks were designed by master jewelers at Graff. Shipping 29 cars to the other side of the world without incident must be a world record unto itself, but we will probably surpass that in this year's upcoming car show season. Rolls-Royce is ready to build a fleet of Phantoms to your liking, so contact our dealers for more information.Rolls-Royce Phantom For Sale

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – February 24, 2016

Say Goodbye to the Current Rolls-Royce Phantom

For seven generations, we've come to know the Phantom as the staple luxury car from Rolls-Royce. Referenced in many well-known songs and regarded as one of the ultimate status symbols, the Phantom has colored one generation after the next. And now, we say goodbye to the seventh generation Phantom, which began production 13 years ago. So what's to come in it's place?First, it's important to note that production of the seventh generation Phantom will not cease until Novemeber 2016. Also, according to a press release provided by Rolls Royce, "Collectors around the world will be excited to learn that a spectacular collection of 50 unique Coupé’s and Drophead Coupés, called Phantom Zenith, will be built to celebrate the end of production of these truly exceptional cars."In its place, collectors and car enthusiasts can expect the Phantom VIII-- and technologically advanced, innovative, symbol of luxury that will explore the car maker's interest in "all-aluminum architecture."In essence, there's no need to worry, because the Phantom is here to stay, and a new generation marks an important milestone for the luxury brand. Check out the graphic below of the Phantom's history. What do you think? Ready for a new Phantom? Let us know in the comments below.Phantom's For Sale

By Edward Jones – August 21, 2015

Purple Velvet and Gold Rolls-Royce Phantom

Wraps are seemingly more popular now than they ever have been before. They can range from chrome and matte, to...velvet. Yes, velvet wraps exist, and have been especially popular for the cars visiting London during the well-known supercar summer.On August 10, 458MRP uploaded a video of a Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead covered in a purple velvet wrap. Contrasted against the purple are gold accents found on various trim pieces and wheels.(See Also: Man Buys and Immediately Races Porsche 918 Spyder, Carrera GT and McLaren P)Now that London is looking into banning excessive revving of supercars, these outrageous wraps and designs could be a visual replacement for the outgoing aural showcases.What do you think about this wrap, or velvet wraps all together? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to check out the Rolls-Royce Phantoms we have listed on duPontREGISTRY.com by clicking the button below.Phantom For Sale (Source: YouTube via Autoevolution) See More Rolls-Royce News, Pics and Videos

By Edward Jones – August 19, 2015

Rolls-Royce Phantom Nautica - Luxury Yacht Inspired

Rolls-Royce unveiled the Phantom Nautica on their official Facebook page today, a special model "inspired by the clean lines and fresh colours of a classic yacht."Like the crashing waves of the ocean, its exterior is finished in a two-tone Orchid White and Arabian Blue color scheme. Running alongside the lines of the ultra-luxury automobile are blue pinstripes that meet an anchor motif on its fenders.(Related: Bespoke Rolls-Royce Wraith & Phantom EWB for Entrepreneur Michael Fux)Inside, the cabin also takes a heavy amount of consideration from the ideal luxury yacht. White instrument dials are centered in front of the driver, while Tudor Oak veneer and Boxwood inlays surround both the driver and passengers. Tudor Oak is also found as the door capping.Adding supple luxury to the interior is Forest Fall leather seating highlighted by appropriate Navy Blue piping.The pièce de résistance for the cabin is a bespoke compass neatly tucked away in a drawer in the dashboard.The Phantom Nautica is just one of Rolls-Royce's models that highlights their "Inspiration is Everywhere" campaign for their bespoke work. For more from Rolls-Royce be sure to check back as more news is released. In the meantime, be sure to browse our fine selection of Rolls-Royces for sale by clicking the button below.Rolls-Royces For SaleGallery (Source: Facebook) See More Rolls-Royce News, Pics and Videos

By Caitlin Duffy – August 19, 2015

Bespoke Rolls-Royce Wraith & Phantom EWB for Entrepreneur...

Michael Fux is many things. An entrepreneur, a philanthropist, a savvy car collector, an American success story. But, to Rolls-Royce, he is the man who created a color.Fux has spent his entire life as an automotive enthusiast. In their Summer/Fall 2011 issue, NJ Inspire Magazine described how the man recognized for philanthropic endeavors by the House of Representatives first found his love of cars on his grandfather's lap in Cuba. Before emigrating to the United States in 1958, at the age of five, he would "help" steer the wheel while his grandfather, a taxi driver, drove.His family landed in Newark, New Jersey, in a one-bedroom apartment in a seven-story walk up. But Fux knew he wanted a different life, and through decades of work and genius levels of ingenuity, he's helped create the Michael Fux Family Center at the Miami Children's hospital and become the owner of more than 100 rare and exotic cars.During the past week, that collection grew by two more, each bearing the Rolls-Royce name and a color unique to Fux: Jade Pearl."The Bespoke colour scheme was personally commissioned by Mr Fux," describes the caption from a gallery posted to Facebook by the marque Aug. 12. "Finished in an Aqeuus Green with a Cornish White roof, Fux’s Jade Pearl Wraith is truly unique."In the gallery, we can see his new Bespoke Rolls-Royce Jade Pearl, another stunning creation from the marque's customization program. The exterior's colors continue to the interior, where lambswool floormats meet the plate engraved with Mr. Fux's name.At Pebble Beach, Fux also accepted delivery of a Rolls-Royce Bespoke Phantom EWB featuring the same stunning jade interior as the Wraith. You can see both in the gallery below, and the unveiling of the Phantom EWB in the video above. If you're interested in finding your own Rolls-Royce, browse our exclusive inventory at the button below.Rolls-Royces For Sale Gallery (Source: Facebook, The Michael Fux Foundation, NJ Inspire Magazine) See More Rolls-Royce News

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