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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 Edward Jones – January 28, 2021

You Can Play 'The Witcher 3' Game On Tesla's New Models

On January 22, 2021, Elon Musk tweeted out to his followers and asked if they would want to play The Witcher game on their Teslas. The response was a resounding yes. Now, Tesla's website shows 'The Witcher 3' game in their photo of their models' cinematic display. It doesn't come to me as a surprise that Tesla's computer can handle the graphically-intensive game considering the CPU has 10 teraflops of processing power. Another note that should be made is that Teslas can also connect to wireless controllers, so you can lean back and enjoy the story of Geralt. At this point, Teslas are becoming full-blown gaming systems and I'm all-in for it. What's next? How about they turn the windshield and windows into monitors and make Teslas full-size racing simulators? See All Teslas For Sale https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1219881215156801537 Source: Tesla.com

By Andrew Nabors – January 21, 2021

Ares Design Transforms Tesla Model S Into 2-Door Convertible

Cutting into an electric car can be hazardous to your health. But never denying a customer's idea for something unique is how Ares Design transformed a Tesla Model S into a 2-door convertible. Based in Modena, their coachbuilders deleted the roof, b-pillars, and doors. After first crafting a decklid by hand, a fabric top and an elegant frame were fashioned to fold away for a roadster look. After new doors, the body was treated to carbon fiber aerodynamics and steel reinforcements front to rear. Find your Tesla by clicking the button below Browse Tesla For Sale P.S. Did you see their four concepts unveiled at Salon Prive? Images (C) Ares Design Modena

By Andrew Nabors – November 06, 2020

Tesla Tequila Is High Voltage Relaxation

Oh Elon, you never miss a unique opportunity to support your brands. From the Boring Company flamethrower to a carbon fiber surfboard, their latest promotion combines aged Agave with a hand-blown bolt of lightning. If you need the perfect gift for the Holidays, Tesla Tequila is high voltage relaxation. Limited Edition Tesla Surfboard: Sold Out! Aged for 15 months in French oak barrels, you will encounter notes of dried fruit, vanilla, and cinnamon. It is rated at 80 proof and the presentation has landing legs borrowed from SpaceX. It is a collaboration between Nosotros Tequila and imported by Speakeasy Company. The retail price of $250 includes FedEx shipping, although each order is limited to 2 bottles. Click here to learn more, and needless to say, you should only partake when you don't need to drive. Click the button for great offers on pre-owned Teslas and stay with us for more great gifts from your favorite automakers. Browse Tesla For Sale

By Edward Jones – September 23, 2020

1,100 Horsepower Tesla Model S Plaid Sets Insane Nurburgr...

During Tesla's 2020 annual shareholders meeting, Elon Musk unveiled the new Tesla Model S model. This new model will be an absolute monster, packing a whopping 1,100 horsepower from a tri-motor all-wheel-drive setup. Tesla notes that this new model will have the "quickest 0-60 mph and quarter-mile acceleration of any production car ever." Sure, it can run in a straight line. But what about around a circuit? Don't worry, because they covered that with an insane lap around Laguna Seca that clocked in at 1:30.3. To put that into perspective, that's faster than the McLaren P1's time. You can see the onboard video for yourself by clicking play above. If you'd like to add a Model S Plaid to your collection, they start with a price tag of $139,990 and it will be available in late 2021. See All Teslas For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – August 18, 2020

Tesla & Radio Flyer Unveil Tiny Model Y

Elon doesn't do much advertising, something we will never understand. However, his licensing deals are pure genius. From flamethrowers to surfboards, fans of his brands quickly buy anything related to Tesla, Space X, or The Boring Company. Mr. Musk's latest collaboration will evoke warm memories from parents and years of fun for kids. Tesla and Radio Flyer have unveiled a tiny Model Y known as "My First Model Y". It will be available on Amazon next month, and being kid-powered it is mostly carbon-neutral. Click here for a great deal on a full-size Tesla for sale, and click the button below for all the details from Radio Flyer Learn More

By Edward Jones – May 27, 2020

Tesla Cuts Prices in North America

If you're in the market for a new Tesla, you're in luck. Reuters is reporting that Tesla has cut prices by as high as 6 percent in North America. This comes after a the automaker saw a decrease in demand due to the ongoing lockdowns across the country. Now that we are starting to see these lockdowns lift, Tesla is hoping that these price cuts will entice new buyers. On top of this, Reuters also notes that Tesla's Supercharger service will no longer be free to new Model S and Model X customers. So, if you're looking to add some electric power to your garage, now may be the best time ever. You can also check out our inventory of Tesla by clicking the button down below. See Teslas for Sale Source: Reuters

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 20, 2020

Tesla Cybertruck 1:64 RC Car Now for Sale

Ever since the Tesla Cybertruck was unveiled and the word “Preorder” left Elan Musk’s mouth, the list of eager future owners has grown close to 500,000. A new pre-order list was unveiled, but for a smaller version of the Tesla Cybertruck by Hot Wheels. Mattel is releasing a 1:64 scale remote-controlled model with two-speed settings placed on the hand controls: chill and sport mode. The speed to scale in which the electric-powered model can travel is rumored to be 500mph, with the ability to fit on already existing Hot Wheels tracks. Packaging includes both the scale model, as well as the remote control that doubles as the direct charge source. The model was released April 18th, 2020 on Hot Wheels sit for the retail price of $20. Click below for more information on the new Hot Wheels remote control Tesla Cybertruck! Shop Now Source: HotWheelsCollectors.Mattel.com

By Andrew Nabors – April 06, 2020

Tesla's Ventilator Design Team

Elon Musk and his engineers seem capable of achieving the impossible. From landing rockets to "Ludicrous Mode", they have destroyed the walls between thought and production. That is why we're awestruck at Tesla's ventilator design team. If you ever needed a proper example of how fuel injection works, this would be it. Using parts from the Model 3, their apparatus mixes hospital oxygen to a desired pressure, flow, and saturation. An O2 sensor and a mass airflow meter in the exhaust send commands back to the intake to constantly make adjustments. Although it looks complicated on the bench, this design is poised to change the world of Respiratory Therapy. Well done to all involved! Find Your Tesla Here " width="680">

By Edward Jones – March 23, 2020

Early Tesla Model Y Review by DragTimes

Brooks of DragTimes has finally received his new Tesla Model Y, the latest model to come out of Elon Musk's factory. He posted a video to his YouTube channel that goes over every little aspect of the car, giving us a review of his first-generation Model Y. This new model is very similar to the Model 3, but offers more space, but not as much as the Model X. In the video, he details all of the features as well as the quality of the SUV's build. He opted for the Black Out Package, which adds black trim to the exterior. From the fit to the finish, he points it all out. He notes a few issues with the exterior, but does not that the interior has no issues. If you were interested in picking up a Model 3 early on, be sure to watch the video and get some words from a new owner. See All Tesla for Sale

By Andrew Nabors – January 09, 2020

Tesla Hits Record-Breaking Market Value

If you need innovation in any industry, tell Elon Musk it is impossible. A majority of automotive analysts said it wouldn't be profitable, and the delivery goals were too ambitious. They have all been silenced as Business Insider reports that Tesla has hit a record-breaking market value. When the closing bell rang on Tuesday, the market value of Tesla was nearly $85 Billion. They are officially the highest-valued U.S. automaker of all time. Those who bought-in when they went public have reason to celebrate, and this will undoubtedly motivate other U.S. brands to get their electric cars to market. Click the button below to find a Tesla near you, and stay with us for more shocking news. Browse all Tesla For Sale " width="680">

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