Virtual Dealership Tour

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 – April 03, 2020

Ferrari of Houston Virtual Dealership Tour

Ferrari of Houston is one of the great Ferrari dealerships in America. It is not a great dealership because of the size or design of the buildings but because of the service it provides, the technical expertise it applies to every problem, the knowledge and professionalism of the staff, and the standards of operations it follows. It is never easy to be at the top of the class, but Ferrari of Houston has been there since it's beginning, in 1975 when Giuseppe Risi received the authorization-direct from Enzo Ferrari-to start a factory authorized Ferrari sales and service facility in Houston. As one of the first appointments in the new network, Giuseppe Risi was expected to represent the Ferrari brand in an exemplary fashion at all times. And so he did. Building the dealership and the client base up over 35 years into one of the premier operations in the business. One of the reasons why Enzo Ferrari appointed Giuseppe Risi as the Ferrari dealer in Houston was Risi's background and experience in racing and his passion for Ferrari and the Ferrari brand. Ferrari of Houston was built on and around a belief in racing because racing is the DNA of Ferrari. The technical excellence and capabilities required to prepare a race car to run the 24 Hours of Le Mans are directly related to the preparation and service of Ferrari road cars for clients. Phone: (888)690-2155Website: symbolcarsinc.comAddress:6100 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77057 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 31, 2020

Maserati of Fort Lauderdale Virtual Dealership Tour

Maserati of Fort Lauderdale is passionately dedicated to ensuring that its South Florida-based customers experience only the highest level of customer care, satisfaction and on-time delivery. Our team of executives, sales professionals, finance staff and auto technicians/ restoration experts makes sure that you feel that “experience” throughout your ownership of this extraordinary vehicle. Maserati of Fort Lauderdale invites customers for a tailor-made experience because it is the world’s most famous sports car brands. The current line-up which includes the GranTuismo, Ghibli and Quattroporte is well-defined, carefully positioned and closely reflects the desires of Maserati clients! Phone: 888-928-7002 Website: maseratifl.comAddress:5730 N Federal HWY Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 31, 2020

JJ Rods Virtual Dealership Tour

If you'd like to see one of the hot rods, muscle cars or classics we have for sale, check out the pictures and information we have posted online. If you want to see the car in person, just give us a call or come out to see the classic and hot rod cars we have for sale. Maybe you'll find just the classic car you've been looking for, right here online. Our inventory changes frequently so keep checking our site for new additions. We specialize in classics, street rods, and muscle cars! Phone: (866)277-6064 Website: jjrods.comAddress:35 Liberty Ave. Newark, OH 43055 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 30, 2020

Ferrari of Fort Lauderdale Dealership Tour

Ferrari of Fort Lauderdale is an factory-authorized dealer who treats the needs of each individual customer with exceptional service. We know that you have high expectations, and as a car dealer we enjoy the challenge of meeting and exceeding those standards each and every time. Allow us to demonstrate our commitment to excellence!Our experienced sales staff is eager to share its knowledge and enthusiasm with you. Come view or test drive our line up of new and pre-owned Ferrari vehicles such as the California, FF, 458 Spider, 458 Italia, F12 Berlinetta and other exotics available in Fort Lauderdale, FL. We encourage you to browse our online inventory and visit us to experience our wide selection of luxury cars from other exotic auto brands. You can also request more information about any vehicle using our online form or by calling (954) 607-7928. If you don't see a particular vehicle, click on CarFinder and complete the form or call us and we will help you find your next new or used car. Phone: 888-928-7002 Website: experienceautogroup.comAddress:5750 North Federal Highway Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 30, 2020

The Vault Virtual Dealership Tour

Owner JD Pass: As asset management consultant and auctioneer, JD Pass has been involved in the acquisition, marketing and transfer of serious assets for his entire career, Having achieved over $5billion dollars in asset conversions and counting, he is among the industry's elite. He possesses extensive multi-market experience and in-depth knowledge of market trends and cash values of Oilfield and Energy Equipment and holdings-Modular and Manufactured Housing Assets, Serious Collector Car and Exotic Automotive Portfolios-Heavy Construction and Mining Equipment Estate and Personal Property Liquidation-Recreational and Transportation Fleets- Aircraft and Marine Vessels- Livestock and more. His far reaching industry connections and relationship networks allow him to bring a true and clear and quick market vision to the task at hand. JD Pass additionally is a seasoned event producer and lifelong rodeo competitor, he is also responsible for the production of televised national sporting events. A Worldwide Business Development Director, JD oversees all commercial development of several Auction Events, including vendor and sponsor relations and ongoing event extensions. Phone: 601-780-4032 Website: thevaultms.comAddress:390 Commerce Park Dr Jackson, MS 39213 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 30, 2020

Aston Martin Orlando Virtual Dealership Tour

Aston Martin Orlando in Florida has a strong and committed sales staff with many years of experience satisfying our customers' needs. Feel free to browse our select Aston Martin inventory online, set up a test drive with a sales associate, or inquire about financing!As an Aston Martin and Lotus dealer serving the Orlando area, offering new & used vehicles to all of our neighbors in Tampa, Miami, Jacksonville, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Coral Gables, Lakeland and Ocala, we know customer satisfaction is crucial to our success. We look forward to serving your automotive needs and we hope that we can help you with your next new or pre-owned Aston Martin or Lotus purchase. Aston Martin Orlando has helped customers from Gainesville, Daytona Beach, Naples, St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Palm Bay with their Aston Martin and Lotus needs, and we look forward to serving you as well. Phone: 888-928-7718Website: astonmartinorlando.comAddress:4249 Millenia Blvd Orlando, FL 32839 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 26, 2020

Marshall Goldman Motor Sales Virtual Dealership Tour

You are about to discover what thousands of automobile enthusiasts and satisfied clients already enjoy. Marshall Goldman Motor Sales has been in business for more than 33 years and has collectively well over 300+ years of combined knowledge from a highly experienced staff. Our professional skills offer you the finest in luxury and exotic low mileage automobiles.Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, Mercedes Benz, Bentley, Rolls Royce and Aston Martin are just a sample of our 100+ vehicle inventory that is second to none in size and quality. You can view this extensive inventory of incredible automobiles that is displayed in our 25000 sq ft indoor showroom that is considered by many to be a city block long! We welcome anyone to come in and browse our beautiful showroom and we also offer courtesy valet pick up and drop off at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. We offer very competitive financing rates and terms and we can assist in arranging shipment of your new vehicle to any destination. We look forward to serving you. Buy from the best!!! Phone: 866-979-2353 Website: marshallgoldman.com Address:24661 Miles Rd Warrensville Heights, OH 44128 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 26, 2020

Excell Auto Group Virtual Dealership Tour

Purchasing a new or used car online can be a challenging experience. Here at Excell Auto we believe that buying a car should be simple, fun and pleasurable. Excell Auto is a family owned business for selling exotic, luxury and expensive cars. We have been in the car business for over 40 years. We treat our customer as the main asset of our business. Our goal is to give every customer a satisfactory experience. Excell services covers local and out of state area. Feel free to contact us for more information. Phone: 855-560-0927 Website: excellauto.comAddress:1001 Clint Moore Road - Suite 101 Boca Raton, FL 33487 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 26, 2020

Post Oak Motor Cars Virtual Dealership Tour

A New Experience Awaits You at Post Oak Motor Cars, a Tilman Fertitta company and home to Houston's only authorized Bentley dealership, Texas' only Bugatti and Karma dealership and the Gulf Coast largest authorized Rolls-Royce dealership. We are located in the prestigious Uptown/Galleria area of Houston. We know that our clients live their lives with style, power and purpose, so we are here to create a unique automotive experience unrivaled by any other luxury retailer. As a Tilman Fertitta company, our showroom is part of the all-new Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston, the city’s first elite destination for elegant accommodations and high-rise living, masterfully blended with extensive meeting space, designer retail, fine dining at Mastro’s Restaurant and sophisticated amenities all in one tower. Phone: 713-352-7477 Website: postoakmotors.comAddress:1530 West Loop South Houston, TX 77027 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – March 26, 2020

Ferrari of Tampa Bay Virtual Dealership Tour

Welcome to our latest family endeavor, Ferrari of Tampa Bay, and invite you to enter the Scuderia that Triarsi built. Our 28,000 square foot ultra-modern showroom and engine works was built to fulfill a lifelong dream; to market, to maintain, and to exalt the vehicles of the Cavallino Rampante. This state-of-the-art environment was designed to exhibit the spirit and bravissimo of every race car that comes from Modena and Maranello and is truly a masterwork of function and design. Phone: 888-842-4794 Website: ferraritampabay.comAddress:2420 Tampa Road Palm Harbor, FL 34683 View Inventory

Virtual Dealership Tour

duPont REGISTRY News

duPont REGISTRY Group

Support

Subscribe