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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 20, 2020

In-Depth Video Review of the Koenigsegg Regera Megacar

According to Koenigsegg, the Regera is not a hypercar but is instead a "Megacar." Considering that the Regera packs just about 1500 horsepower and 1500 lb-ft of torque, it's definitely easy to say that this car is truly "mega." YouTube channel Mr JWW recently had the chance to spend some serious time with the famous Regera. In the video he uploaded, he goes over every little detail of the megacar, from the interior to the exterior. The video may be almost 30 minutes long, but it's a must-watch as no detail is overlooked. As a bonus, he also takes it out on his track for the very first time. The entire video is incredibly entertaining. Check it out below! SEE ALL KOENIGSEGGS FOR SALE " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – January 07, 2020

Sony Unveils VISION-S at CES

Industry analysts have wondered how Sony has lost market share in TVs and personal electronics. Three decades ago, Sony products could be found in homes around the world. Now they have thrown their hat into the ring to build the ultimate electric car. Get ready for the future, as Sony has unveiled the VISION-S at the Consumer Electronics Show. In keeping with Sony traditions, this car was developed in secret, leveraging their decades of expertise in cameras and entertainment technology. No less than 33 of the world's best cameras are placed around the car for 360-degree safety. Another 3 monitor driver and passenger for symptoms of illness or fatigue. Powered two 200 kW motors, it reaches 62 mph in 4.8 seconds despite a 5,180-lb curb weight. It is heavy on purpose. Sony is aiming for the best safety rating in the world. The battery capacity was not disclosed, but it is a flat design that can form the base of crossovers or even utility vehicles. The automotive industry should be scared because this car is ready for production. Tell us what you think about this concept in the comments below. " width="680"> Related: Sultan of Brunei Car Collection is at 7,000 Cars & Growing

By Edward Jones – January 02, 2020

See the 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500 Race a 2018 Ford GT

If you're looking for American power in the form of a car, Ford has plenty of options for you. Two of their most powerful models are the Mustang Shelby GT500 and GT, with one being a raw muscle car and the other a Le Mans car built for the road. DragTimes recently had the chance to test these two cars against each other. While Brooks of DragTimes has his own GT supercar, the Shelby GT500 came from Ken of Palm Beach Dyno who just took delivery of the sinister Mustang. Check out the video down below where they give a solid comparison between the two monster Fords. SEE ALL FORD GT'S FOR SALE SEE ALL SHELBY GT500'S FOR SALE

By Edward Jones – December 18, 2019

Zenvo TSR-S Drag Races Pagani Huayra Roadster

The Zenvo TSR-S is a wild hypercar that we need to see more of. It packs 1177 bhp, can run 0 to 62 mph in 2.8 seconds and 0 to 124 mph in 6.8 seconds. Furthermore, it has the craziest rear wing ever that tilts depending on the car's aerodynamic needs. The TSR-S is insane. YouTube channel Gumbal recently uploaded a video of the TSR-S drag racing both a Porsche 918 Spyder and Pagani Huayra Roadster. The Huayra Roadster is a relatively new model, so seeing it on the drag strip is quite exciting. Check it out down below! It should be noted that early starts do happen in the video. SEE ALL PAGANI'S FOR SALE

By Andrew Nabors – December 10, 2019

Gordon Murray Automotive Unveils T.50 Supercar

In 1978, Bernie Ecclestone wanted to win F1 at all costs. He and his driver Nicki Lauda needed a revolutionary car, and a designer willing to build it. They found an automotive genius in Gordon Murray. His Brabham BT46 used a massive fan to keep the car sucked to the pavement. Over the past 50 years, Professor Murray has also been responsible for Brabham's F1 wins, McLaren's F1 team, the McLaren F1, and the Mercedes-McLaren SLR. Other hits include the Light Car Company's Rocket. Canepa Group to be N. American Representative for T.50 Supercar Because his vision for a street-legal supercar was more than McLaren was willing to undertake, he established Gordon Murray Design in 2007. The idea of a modern fan-car has never escaped him, and that was the impetus behind the new T.50. To keep weight to a minimum, Cosworth was commissioned to build a 4.0-liter V12 that could also support the rear suspension. It allows the curb weight to be under 1,000 kg, as it tips the scales at 2,160 lbs. The driver is center-seated, in front of 650 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. This masterpiece has a redline of 12,100 rpm, and it has a 6-speed manual transmission. Now we get to his Ace In The Hole. Every feature of the belly pan directs air into a 15.7" fan. A dozen movable spoilers and surfaces offer six modes of downforce. For top speed runs, Vmax mode sends all high-pressure air into the intake for an extra 30 horsepower. Browse Inventory at Canepa Motorsports Because the fan sucks in almost all boundary-layer turbulence, the T.50 has almost no drag and incredible downforce. By reviving technology he pioneered over 40 years ago, he has sent every automotive engineer back to the drawing board. Only 100 cars will be produced, with a majority aimed at Japan and U.S. specifications. For pricing and details, please contact Canepa Automotive in the button above. " width="680"> Related: Jay Leno's Car Collection

By Edward Jones – December 03, 2019

Kathy Cargill Shows Off Her Wicked McLaren Senna in Colorado

Kathy Cargill is a Colorado resident who has a love for McLaren automobiles. Currently, her stable includes two examples of the 570S, a 720S and Senna. Her beloved McLarens are housed in their own garage where she takes care of each and every one of them. McLaren Automotive recently visited Kathy's stable in Colorado where she gave them a look around her custom-built garage. She also takes her Senna out for a spin through the picturesque mountain roads of Colorado. Check it out below and see all of the McLaren Sennas currently listed for sale on duPontREGISTRY.com. SEE ALL MCLAREN SENNAS FOR SALE

By Edward Jones – November 18, 2019

Jay Leno Drives the 2020 Corvette Stingray Convertible Z51

The new 2020 Corvette Stingray Convertible Z51 recently visited Jay Leno's Garage, giving him a chance to see how the new C8 performed in convertible form. Joining the Corvette was Tadge Jeuchter, the Executive Chief Engineer behind the new Corvette. During the video, found below, the two talk about a lot of the Corvette's finer points. Interested in why the Convertible released so quickly after the Coupe? What is the body made out of? What does the C8 carry over from the C7? The answer to all of those questions and more can be found out by watching the new episode of Jay Leno's Garage down below. SEE ALL CORVETTES FOR SALE " width="680">

By Edward Jones – October 07, 2019

Oh No: Porsche 911 GT2 RS Crashes Into Pagani Huayra BC

Just imagine. You're driving your beloved Pagani Huayra BC around Monza during a track day, having the time of your life. As you enter Variante del Rettilifilo, the first corner on the track, you look behind you and see a Porsche 911 GT2 RS coming up fast and then BAM. That German supercar slams into the side of your Pagani. Well, if you can't imagine that happening, then click play up above. In the video, uploaded to YouTube Channel "Varryx," you'll see a 911 GT2 RS crashing into a Huayra BC. It's just sad. The details of this crash haven't been released yet, meaning we don't know the condition of the drivers or if there was an exact reason for the 911 GT2 RS speeding into the corner. If we learn any more info, we'll be sure to update this article. see all paganis for sale Related Video: " width="680"> Hat Tip to autoevolution

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By Andrew Nabors – September 26, 2019

Genovation GXE Breaks World Electric Speed Record Again

Every electric car on the market has a top speed limiter, except one. It is true that electric motors make incredible torque even at zero RPM. That is why Tesla, Lotus, Pininfarina and golf carts don't have transmissions. Instead, they have a fixed ratio between the wheels and the motor. But what if you took some of the burdens off of the system? That is how the Genovation GXE has broken the electric speed record again. If you want to build an aerodynamic and balanced electric car, the Corvette Z06 is a perfect starting point. Because the transaxle is part of the rear suspension, they decided to keep it onboard. The result is an electric car that uses less power to go faster than any other street-legal production battery EV. 2020 Corvette Stingray Price, Specs, Photos & Review Their latest run at the Shuttle Landing Facility topped out at 210.2. One of their closely guarded secrets is the differential ratio, as it is the final say in how much power is sent to the ground. Our guess is that it's lower than 2.73, so the car will undoubtedly go faster. Congratulations to the Genovation team, and here's to a new record time. " width="680"> Related: Genovation GXE: Powered By Passion Genovation GXE: Your Electric Corvette Has Arrived

By Edward Jones – September 17, 2019

New 'FORD v FERRARI' Trailer Brings the Drama

A new trailer for the upcoming film 'FORD v FERARRI' film was released and it's hinting at the much-anticipated drama. The rivalry between Ferrari and Ford during this period of time was hot on and off of the race track, and this film looks to bring it all to the big screen. see all ford gt's for sale This new trailer also focuses on Ken Miles, the prolific racer that's played by Christian Bale. He was the mastermind behind the wheel, but the trailer shows that many at Ford weren't prepared for him. Check it all out in the trailer down below and get ready for the film to hit theaters on November 15. " width="680"> Also Check Out: The “FORD v FERRARI” Trailer is Finally Here Ferrari 488 GTB vs Ford GT in the 1/2 Mile

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