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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 – 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 – September 01, 2020

Watch the 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost Reveal With us!

" width="680"> Tell us what you think of their latest achievement and stay with us for all your Rolls-Royce news.

By Andrew Nabors – August 07, 2020

Rolls-Royce Spirit of Ecstacy Explained by Supercars in S...

Have you ever wondered about the world's most coveted hood ornament? This beautiful sculpture was often stolen by punks who could never afford such an amazing car. That all changed when the Ghost unveiled a unique feature. At your command, the flying lady can drop into a titanium box. Much like how the Declaration of Independence drops into a nuclear-hardened bunker every night, we treasonous colonists can appreciate protecting a national treasure. Matthew Jones is in charge of the English brands at Dimmitt Automotive Group. He knows more about Aston-Martin, McLaren, and Rolls-Royce than the engineers from each brand. Allow him to explain her in a proper English accent, and stay with us for his latest uploads. Browse Rolls-Royce For Sale

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 – May 21, 2020

Rolls-Royce Unveils 1:8 Scale Cullinan

You will have to look closely to believe your eyes. Consisting of over 1,000 parts and 450 hours to complete, Rolls-Royce has unveiled a 1:8 scale Cullinan for sale. It looks big even at this size, which is a testament to the bold lines and features bestowed by the design team. The doors open to reveal illuminated sill plates, and the LED headlights are operated by a full-size Cullinan key fob. Each body panel is painted, color sanded and buffed by hand using the same processes as the assembly line. Customers can choose from over 40,000 colors, or it can be painted to sample. It is presented in a polycarbonate display case against a gloss black background. There is only one place you can buy it, and that is at one of our Rolls-Royce dealers. So click the button below to find one near you. Browse Rolls-Royce For Sale

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 – August 14, 2019

Rolls-Royce Ghost Zenith Collection Celebrates 10th Anniv...

It is hard to believe that the production of the Rolls-Royce Ghost began a decade ago. It was inspired by their 200EX concept car, and it has been a great success for the brand. To commemorate this achievement, the Rolls-Royce Ghost Zenith Collection celebrates the 10th anniversary. Limited to only 50 examples, each one will have engraved blueprints of the 200 EX on the dash. CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös said: "The Ghost Zenith Collection presents an entirely forward-looking study of the unique characteristics that have seen Ghost ascend to the status of the most progressive super-luxury saloon ever conceived. This unique Collection provides patrons of the marque with a rare opportunity to own a motor car truly evocative of our time. Ghost is the most successful Rolls-Royce ever created and the Zenith Collection marks an important milestone in our modern history.” We hope a few of these special cars make it across the pond, and we need you to make it happen. Click the link to find our dealer near you and stay with us for all your Rolls-Royce news. Browse Rolls Royce Ghost For Sale " width="680"> Related: Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge Price, Review & Specs Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge Specs, Price, Photos & Review

By Andrew Nabors – May 29, 2018

Rolls-Royce Dawn That's "Inspired by Music"

Sometimes, automakers get carried away when testing. That's probably what happened with Rolls-Royce was measuring the sounds of the Dawn. In my humble opinion, the Wraith and Dawn earn top honors for eliminating the noise of an urban Florida setting.Michael Fux’s Custom Rolls-Royce “Dawn in Fuxia”, Inspired by a FlowerTo test even the slightest acoustical emission from their cars, Rolls-Royce has a giant anechoic chamber. This is a room surrounded by the same nose-absorbing tiles as a music studio. So a few jazz-inspired engineers decided to allow the Dawn to make its own soundtrack.Rolls-Royce Unveils the Dawn Black Badge Before GoodwoodFrom the door locks to the umbrella, every sound is rewarding. That's because there are no expenses spared when engineering or building these cars. Even the soundtrack of the Big V12 is carefully managed by the exhaust. Even this footage barely conveys the quality of the Dawn. So click the link below and schedule a test drive, you won't be disappointed.Browse Rolls-Royce Wraith For Sale

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

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