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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 – April 24, 2019

Lamborghini Connects Humans to Huracans

If you remember your first experience in a Murcielago or a Gallardo, it was probably confusing. Italian supercars traditionally had controls that are not intuitive. They were fast and gorgeous, so many manufacturers were guilty of placing important controls in unlikely areas. Those days are over, because Lamborghini has connected humans to Huracans. It wasn't until the arrival of the Aventador that Lamborghini offered a symmetrical center console with a logical layout. Then came the Centenario. This limited edition supercar was the celebration of Mr. Lamborghini's 100th birthday. He would be happy to see the first integration of a touchscreen to control the car's systems. Lamborghini Huracan Evo Price, Specs, Photos & Review The HMI, or Human-Machine Interface is now standard equipment on the Huracan Evo, and it allows the driver or passenger to easily access every system. From displaying the torque bias to Apple CarPlay, it is placed at an ergonomic angle. Yes, this is long overdue, but the experience is not unlike drone racing. So check out the wild similarities in their latest upload, then click the link below to find a Huracan near you. Find Your Lamborghini Huracan Here Related: Huracan Evo Spyder Revealed Ahead of Geneva

By Edward Jones – April 18, 2019

How the Koenigsegg Jesko is Built, 300+MPH Version Coming...

In Ängelholm, Sweden is a massive old hangar that was the home of the Swedish air force's "ghost squadron." Now, that hangar is home to Koenigsegg, who honor their home with a ghost emblem on their hypercar. Top Gear Magazine's Jack Rix recently visited Swedish hypercar manufacturer's headquarters to get a tour of the new Koenigsegg Jesko (pronounced Yesko) from none other than Christian von Koenigsegg. During the interview, we get to learn something completely new about the Jesko. After Rix asks Christian von Koenigsegg if the Jesko will hit 300 mph, he notes that the specific model unveiled won't. However, there will be another version that has revised aerodynamics and options that will, theoretically, allow it to hit speeds of over 300 mph. Christian von Koenigsegg says this version could be called something like Jesko 300. Check it out for yourself in the video up above. view all koenigsegg's for sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 05, 2019

Mercedes-AMG G63 vs Porsche Cayman GTS vs Audi RS3

Top Gear has a history of unlikely comparisons, and their latest upload doesn't disappoint. These three have nothing in common, and they appeal to their own niche in the market. If you have ever wondered how they perform, here is a Mercedes-AMG G63 vs Porsche Cayman GTS vs Audi RS3. The first contestant is the latest G-Wagen. It packs a twin turbo V8 into a rugged 4WD chassis. Porsche's latest Cayman GTS uses a 2.5L turbocharged flat four cylinder mounted amidships. It offers 365 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels. Its cousin from Audi also sports a 2.5L, but its is an inline-4 with all wheel drive. It arrives with 394 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. How do these little guys compare to the 577 horsepower/627 lb-ft of the G63? Tell us which one you would pick in the comments below and have a great weekend! Browse Exotic Cars For Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 03, 2019

Modified Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG hits 199 MPH on the Autobahn

If you want the latest in performance and efficiency, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S offers both. But if you want to build a supercar sleeper, the previous generation E63 AMG is an affordable starting point. GAD Motors offers a 5.8L version of the 5.5L AMG V8 that was offered in every model of the previous generation. Combined with new turbos it sends 920 horsepower to the rear wheels. Somehow, our friends at AutoTopNL were able to push it to almost 200 mph on the Autobahn. The 5.5L and 6.3L C63 AMG cars are virtually indestructible, and they are one of the best bargains on the market. Our dealers have several to choose from, so click the link below and stay with us for more Autobahn action! View All E63 AMG For Sale Related: 2019 Bentley Continental GT goes 204 mph on the Autobahn 1,012 Audi RS6 goes 203 MPH on the Autobahn

By Edward Jones – March 29, 2019

McLaren 720S (Modified) Runs 1/4-Mile in the 8's for Firs...

Using 0 to 60 mph times as a comparison for cars or even a highlight seems to not be as important as it once was. This must be because cars are just becoming too quick and are starting to his limits. Think about it, we're going to get to a point where cars will accelerate as quickly as mechanically possible and milliseconds are going to separate the quickest from the second quickest. Many manufacturers are now showing off the 0 to 124 mph times of their cars and sometimes their quarter-mile times. In the aftermarket world, it's all about those quarter-mile times and the search for being the world's fastest. Recently, a heavily modified McLaren 720S riding on a set of Anrky Wheels ran a quarter-mile sprint in the 8s. According to our friend Brooks from DragTimes, this was the first McLaren to run an 8-second quarter-mile. Modifications included on the car include pure turbos, velocity exhaust, no cats and a bit more. Check out the run in the video above. view all mclarens for sale

By Edward Jones – March 26, 2019

Ferrari P80/C: A Short Film on Ferrari's Wild New Car

All of a sudden, the Ferrari P80/C was dropped onto the world and it was a beautiful moment. Nobody really expected this car, but we're all so very glad that it exists in the world. It's a one-off track-only Ferrari that's as extreme as they come. Ferrari put out a short film that details the conception and creation of the new P80/C, which can be seen above. In the video, the people responsible for the car talk about the car's inspiration, the design process and a lot more. I'll say that you'll feel much more acquanted with the car after you watch the video. Also be sure to see all of the Ferraris for sale on duPontREGISTRY.com by clicking the button below. see all ferraris for sale

By Edward Jones – March 22, 2019

Review of the Lamborghini LM002: The Rambo Lambo

Before the Lamborghini Urus, there was the LM002. Many don't realize that Lamborghini created this militaristic SUV back from 1986 to 1993. During that time, there were just over 300 examples created. Because of its low production numbers, it's a rarity to see an LM002, let alone drive one. That's why the new video from Carfection is pretty special. In the new video, they get a chance to drive around a pristine example of the LM002 around Italy during the recent Lamborghini Winter Academia. The host, Tim Stevens, notes that the classic SUV is incredibly "1980's" and the steering quite loose. Clearly, the LM002 is far less refined than the Urus but it sure does hold a special place in Lamborghini's lineage. Check it out in the video above.

By Andrew Nabors – March 19, 2019

Bugatti La Voiture Noire & Koenigsegg Jesko Caught Leavin...

One of the most bittersweet moments in the world of auto shows is navigating the show cars to their transporter. Our partnership with Motor Trend shows allows us to leave first in order to avoid potential damage from the frenzy of tear down. But things seem to work differently in Switzerland. In two new YouTube films, we can watch the Bugatti La Voiture Noire & Koenigsegg Jesko Leaving Geneva Auto Show. Maybe the transporters were late, but it is a bit nerve-wracking to watch these one-off supercars negotiate pallets and a frenzy of laborers. If you have ever attended a duPont REGISTRY live event, you know our show cars disappear in the twinkling of an eye. Nevertheless, SellerieCimes was able to help these two negotiate the situation while grabbing great footage. " width="680"> Yes, the Bentley is running, but those six tailpipes have been given the silent treatment for the anonymous owner. On the other hand, the Koenigsegg is pushed out to avoid scaring the workers. With so many variables to consider, it is enough to give the driver a panic attack. Tell us which one you would volunteer to steer in the comments below, and stay with us for all your exotic car footage. Related: Bentley La Voiture Noire Price, Specs, Photos & Review Koenigsegg Jesko Has Replaced the Agera RS

By Edward Jones – March 13, 2019

See the Ferrari F8 Tributo in Action for the 1st Time

A new video for the Ferrari F8 Tributo has finally been released, giving the world a chance to see the 488 GTB's successor in action. More importantly, we get to hear the F8 Tributo's engine roar as it whips around a track. The engine that you're hearing is a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8 engine that packs 720 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. Ferrari says that the F8 Tributo is actually the most powerful production V8 car they've ever produced. That kind of power translated to a 0 to 60 mph time of 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 211 mph. Want to see that power in action? Click play up above! see all ferraris up for sale

By Andrew Nabors – February 27, 2019

McLaren 720S Spider Road Review by Carfection

We know what you are expecting. Carfection videos always involve our friend Henry Catchpole driving on a gloomy road in Wales or Scotland. But perhaps he has his sights on warmer climates? In his latest upload, the McLaren 720S Spider Road Review is set in Arizona. Although the 720S coupe and its convertible counterpart look similar, the amount of engineering that went into the 720S Spider is unbelievable. Not only does it have an elctrochromatic roof, but the buttresses are also clear acrylic. This offers an incredible, almost 360-degree view. The same can't be said for the coupe. He does imply that the Spider might have less rigidity compared to the coupe, but McLaren have not compromised on any convertible in their history. Our dealers have all the innovative 720S specs, so click the link below for more info. Shop McLaren 720S For Sale Related: McLaren 720S New 1/4 Mile Record by Excell Racing McLaren 720S Spider Unveiled With Stunning Details

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