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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 – August 20, 2020

See the New and Insane Cannonball Record

Breaking a Cannonball Run record is a truly momentous feat. This sprint across the continental United States requires so much in terms of dexterity, technology, planning, and so much more that only a few try to break these records. For Doug Tabbutt, Arne Toman and Dunadel Daryoush, they saw the lockdown from the pandemic as the perfect opportunity to go out and become the new Cannonball records. Now, Toman and Tabbutt are no stranger to the Cannonball Run, as they actually held the record back in 2019 with a time of 27:25 behind the wheel of a 2015 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. So, they knew what they were getting themselves into. For their car, they went with a modified Audi S6 that was purchased shortly before the attempt. After fitting the car with all of the Cannonball essentials, they were ready to break the record. And they did. They had traveled across the country in 25 hours and 39 minutes with an overall average speed of 110 mph. This time allowed them to break the previous record of 25:55, which was made earlier this year by a solo driver. VINwiki's video above paints a great story of how the record was broken. The record-breaking trio tell the entire tale, from the ups and downs to the moment when lane-assist had them thinking the entire attempt was done for. It is absolutely a must-watch. " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – August 13, 2020

RM Sotheby's Online Only Monterey Preview Compilation

Taking precautionary measures is paramount to staying healthy these days. That's why this weekend will see fast-paced bidding on 100 of the world's best cars. What normally would take place at the Portola Hotel is now being done online, thanks to RM Sotheby's new & lightning fast servers. Bidding opened on Monday at 1 PM, and it will end sharply on Saturday at 2 PM (EDT). With that in mind, they grouped all the videos into the RM Sotheby's Online Only Monterey Preview Compilation. Click the button below to view the lots and stay with us for all your RM Sotheby's news. View Catalog & Current Bids " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – August 12, 2020

Porsche Supercars Cruise Across Southern Germany

We are blessed to have amazing roads in all 50 states, but they don't compare to the history of driving in Deutschland. The ancient Kingdom of Bavaria comprises one-fifth of Germany, and it borders the Porsche family's Austrian hometown of Zell am See. The Black Forest was home to fierce tribes who kept Rome from expanding, and Lake Constance provides a picturesque border with Switzerland. These narrow, winding highways are why Porsche places such an emphasis on handling. In this latest shoot for CURVES Magazin, these Porsche supercars consist of the Carrera GT, Cayman GT4, 918 Spyder, and a 911 Turbo. Tell us your favorite in the comments below and stay with us for all your Porsche news. " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – August 12, 2020

2021 Bentley Bentayga Speed is for Fast Families

Remember when everyone said pollution laws would kill 12-cylinder engines? Harmful emissions are caused by low-compression engines found in cheap cars. That's why race engines and exotic cars are much cleaner and kinder to the environment. In an effort to make their W12 cleaner, Bentley engineers raised the compression ratio and then developed all-new software for the new 2021 Bentley Bentayga Speed. Whenever you don't need 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, the computer shuts off alternating patterns of six cylinders. Twelve cylinder engines have 2nd order harmonic balance, so it can run silky smooth on 6 with power to spare. Allowing six cylinders to cool down not only saves fuel, it allows the catalytic converters time to rest. So this could be the cleanest 12-cylinder engine on the market. Another genius move is to unlock the transmission when you let off the gas pedal. In 5th to 8th gear, coasting shifts the transmission into neutral like the freewheel clutch on your bicycle. This lets the engine idle until its needed again. Flooring the skinny pedal will have you at 62 mph in 3.9 seconds on your way to 190 mph. Browse Bentley Bentayga For Sale " width="680"> The engine offers 664 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 to 5,000 rpm, so be prepared for brutal acceleration in any situation. Each one is built by hand, and it represents 10% of the time needed to build the entire car. If this is too much for you, the Bentayga V8 still offers 542 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, its a tough choice! Click the button above to find out more from our dealers and stay with us for all your Bentley news.

By Andrew Nabors – July 21, 2020

Dimmit Automotive's McLaren Matt Launches New Youtube Series

Just around the corner from our headquarters is one of McLaren's most successful stores. As a cornerstone of Dimmitt Automotive Group, McLaren Tampa Bay is led by an Englishman who knows every detail of their lineup. Matthew Jones has such enthusiasm for the brand that he is treated like royalty at local events. His sales successes are based not only on knowledge of McLaren, but he is also well aware of the abilities of other luxury makes and models. That is why "McLaren Matt" has launched a new YouTube Series. From a Porsche 911 GT3 RS to an Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio, you will enjoy these short clips by Mr. Jones. Please like and subscribe, as this channel will undoubtedly feature cars from our collection once the world is back to normal. View Inventory " width="680"> Watch More

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By Edward Jones – July 06, 2020

Best Cars to Buy With $1,200 to Unlimited Budget

We've all dreamed about what cars we would buy with certain amounts of money. Imagine if someone gave you $500,000, no questions asked. What would you buy? What about $35,000? $5,000? Unlimited money? VINwiki has been asking car experts what they would buy with various amounts of money, ranging from a $1,200 stimulus check to an unlimited amount of money. You can see all of the videos by scrolling down below. Also, keep an eye out for our very own Dylan Orluck who gave his picks in the videos. Be sure to let us know what you'd buy in the comments sections down below. Unlimited Budget " width="680"> $500k Budget " width="680"> $250k Budget " width="680"> $150k Budget " width="680"> $100k Budget " width="680"> $75k Budget " width="680"> $60k Budget " width="680"> $35k Budget $25k Budget " width="680"> $15k Budget " width="680"> $10k Budget " width="680"> $5k Budget " width="680"> $1,200 Budget " width="680">

By Edward Jones – July 06, 2020

Porsche Testing a Mysterious 911 With a Ducktail

A mysterious Porsche 911 Turbo (992) is currently being test on the Nurburgring and it's definitely catching eyes. While it remains under camouflage, there's one aspect that's easily spotted: it's ducktail. This type of wing hasn't been seen on a Porsche in quite some time so this is exciting for not only Porsche fans but automotive enthusiasts in general. YouTube Channel 'Automotive Mike" captured the mystery 911 being test on the Nurburgring during the Industry Pool. He notes that Porsche has indeed hinted at a two-seater lightweight version of the 911 and this could be that very car, but the real answer as to what it is remains in the air. Check out the video below and let us know what you think in the comments down below. See All Porsche 911 Turbos for Sale

By Andrew Nabors – June 16, 2020

2021 Mustang Mach 1 Combines Historical Influences With S...

Innovation never stops at Ford. Their Coyote 5-liter V8 offers incredible low end torque along with high-rpm exhilaration. With such a powerhouse under the hood, it was only a matter of time before they turned their attention to the chassis and aerodynamics. That is why the 2021 Mustang Mach 1 combines historical influences with Shelby hardware. With 480 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, a new Tremec six-speed manual is the first Mustang to offer active rev-matching. The dual-disk clutch easily grabs the flywheel since the computer matches RPM to the input shaft. A 10-speed automatic with two oil coolers is optional, but it can't be had with the Handling Package. Buyers who select this option will receive more aggressive spoilers, fender flares, and a Gurney Flap for 150% more downforce. Also included are Tarnished Dark aluminum wheels measuring 19"x 10.5" front and 19" x 11" rear offer incredible grip in any situation. They are the basis for an all-new EPAS calibration, bespoke MagneRide shock tuning, and solid sway bars. Other standard equipment includes separate cooling circuits for engine oil, transmission fluid, and the differential. For the first time on a Mustang, a full-length belly pan forces high-pressure tubeulance against the brake rotors, keeping them cool while the car is glued to the road. Our Ford Dealers have all the details, so click the link below to learn more and stay with us for all your Mustang news. Browse Ford Mustang For Sale

By Edward Jones – June 12, 2020

How to Load the Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Into a Trailer

The Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport is undoubtedly an expensive car. If you're looking for a definitive price, it's somewhere well over $3 million. When it comes to transporting such a substantial car, it's not an easy feat because you have to have nerves of steel to get one into a trailer. In the video below, you'll see a Chiron Pur Sport being loaded into a trailer for transport in Hamburg, Germany. YouTube channel 'supercarsofhamburg' captured the process and uploaded it. While it is a tedious and truly interesting process to watch, what's even more exciting is getting such a close look at the hypercar. Check it out for yourself down below! See All Bugatti Chirons for Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – June 05, 2020

New Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan in Detail

Through recent history, Mercedes-Benz has shared the launch of new technology and design language between the flagship S-Class and the sales-leading E-Class. Poised to remain their most popular model, we recently covered the E-class coupe, convertible and AMG editions for 2021. We knew a sedan was in the works because 2-door cars appeal to a smaller audience. If you demand the best from your daily driver, here is the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan in detail. From leather to infotainment, the new E-Class blazes a trail of technology and sophistication for all to follow. Click the button below to learn more from our dealers and stay with us for all your Mercedes-Benz news. Browse Mercedes-Benz E-Class For Sale

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