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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

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By Edward Jones – October 19, 2020

McLaren Orlando Virtual Dealership Tour

We are honored to be a member of McLaren Automotive and proudly serve the Orlando and Central Florida communities. Our car-loving team of trained and experienced professionals strive to uphold the McLaren goals of excellence and innovation, from sales to service and beyond. Whether you live in a beautiful home on the coast, enjoy the views of a pristine golf course from your luxurious living room, or find yourself cruising and strolling along Park Ave – we have the McLaren that will fulfill your dreams. McLaren has much more to offer than just speed and thrill; McLaren in Orlando means there is a new bar for luxury customer care and exceptional cars. We strive to provide our clients with nothing short of breathtaking performance and unparalleled experiences – from the vehicles we sell to the services we provide, and the events we curate. McLaren Orlando is exclusively McLaren, offering exclusive McLarens. Phone: (888)-489-3788Website:https://www.mclarencf.com/Address:701 Columbia Blvd Unit A Titusville, FL 32780 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 22, 2020

Driving Emotions Virtual Dealership Tour

Welcome to Driving Emotions. Specializing in high-end luxury and exotic automobiles including Aston-Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Rolls-Royce and more. Driving Emotions is dedicated to providing only the finest exotic and luxury automobiles to the enthusiast with discriminating taste. We offer the advantage of browsing for a hi-line vehicle from your home or office and the capability to purchase in total confidence. Driving Emotions is a father and son, family-owned business that is operated with integrity and is dedicated to exceptional customer service and long term relationships with all of our clients. We have earned a trusted and well valued reputation by offering only the highest quality product available on the market. Driving Emotions will surpass your expectations, making this a uniquely gratifying experience that you will want to revisit. Whether you are looking at an exotic automobile or one of our exclusive tuner RENNtech, Kleemann, or Carlsson vehicles, you are sure to find something at our facility that will exceed your expectations and unleash YOUR DRIVING EMOTIONS! We look forward to earning your business! Phone: 866-998-0460Website:drivingemotions.comAddress:848 12th Street Lake Park, FL 33403 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 21, 2020

Fort Lauderdale Collection South Virtual Dealership Tour

We are privileged when a client decides to allow us to play a role in the choice of that "perfect" Luxury car or exotic sports car. Sometimes, the client is a well-known friend, at other times a first-time visitor who is just browsing through our select luxury cars and exotic sports cars. As they select their vehicle, they often give us a cherished gift in return: they tell us "a friend recommended me." Our friends know, that when it comes to purchasing a luxury car or an exotic car online, they can always count on us. All of our vehicles are carefully selected, thoroughly inspected and properly serviced so that you may buy with confidence. Phone: 866-998-0460Website:fortlauderdale-south.ebizautos.comAddress:1301 E Sunrise Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 16, 2020

Gulf Coast Motorworks Virtual Dealership Tour

Welcome to Gulf Coast Motorworks, your one stop shop to purchase the car of your dreams! All of us here are real car enthusiasts here to serve real car enthusiasts. You will find everything here from vintage muscle cars to modern exotics, and we have a specialist for each and every one to answer your questions. Unlike our competitors, we own our entire inventory. Paired with our first class team, that has over a century in combined experience in the automotive industry. We are able to hand pick only the finest and most desirable vehicles that meet our higher standards for cosmetic condition, mechanical condition, and vehicle history. This translates into peace of mind for our clients. What matters to us most at Gulf Coast Motorworks is that our customers have a positive experience. From start to finish with the initial purchase, to financing, servicing, and transportation, Gulf Coast Motorworks takes the negative aspects out of purchasing and maintaining your dream car so that your experience is one of total satisfaction. In our opinion cars are not simply a way to get from point A to point B, they are for driving enjoyment. They can open up an exhilarating new world of friendship with likeminded people from all over the world.We invite you to start your experience and come view our showcase of the best new and pre-owned dream cars the world has to offer. Gulf Coast Motorworks’ service department is open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm. Our sales department is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 6pm and Saturday from 10am to 3pm. If you can’t make it to our showroom our sales team is more than happy to assist you by phone or email with a seamless sight unseen buying experience. Phone: (888)690-9441Website:gulfcoastmotorworks.comAddress:28701 Trails Edge Blvd. Bonita Springs, FL 34134 View Inventory

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By Edward Jones – April 15, 2020

Ferrari Maserati of Central Florida Virtual Dealership Tour

Your Central and Northern Florida Factory authorized Ferrari & Maserati dealer. Located conveniently in the heart of Orlando, our expansive showroom houses the latest Ferrari's and Maserati's, including the new Ferrari California and Maserati Convertible, as well as a premier selection of pre-owned luxury sports cars. Please feel free to call us with any questions you may have 888-286-4238. Hours of Operation:Monday - Friday 9 - 7 PMSaturday 9 - 5 PMSunday 11 - 4 PM Phone: 888-286-4238Website:ferraricf.comAddress:525 South Lake Destiny Drive Orlando, FL 32810 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 10, 2020

Isringhausen Imports Virtual Dealership Tour

For over 38 years, Isringhausen Imports has been synonymous with premium vehicles and unparalleled service. Fueled by passion for some of the finest automobiles in the world, we are proud to be a franchised Porsche, BMW and Mercedes Benz dealer. The “Isringhausen-Way” of doing business has become both a locally and nationally recognized as extremely rare, and is only achieved through the hard work and dedication of all our employees, many of whom have worked here for 10 and 20 years. This consistent and long lasting commitment to excellence truly sets us apart. We believe that your purchasing experience should coincide with the caliber of vehicle you are acquiring. The experience should be both exciting and completely stress free. Specializing in sales nationwide, we guarantee the quality of our vehicles whether you are here in the dealership or taking delivery 1,000 miles away. Let us show YOU the Isringhausen Difference. Phone: 877-362-9720Website: isringhausen.comAddress:229 E. Jefferson Springfield, IL 62701 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 09, 2020

Dimmitt Automotive Group Virtual Dealership Tour

Welcome to Dimmitt Automotive Group Have you been looking for a dealership group with a standout reputation for providing clientele with astounding customer service and a superior selection of high-end luxury cars and performance vehicles? Dimmitt Automotive Group has been part of the Tampa Bay community for over 90 years, and to this day we continue to win over luxury auto shoppers in Tampa, Westchase, Lakewood Ranch, and beyond. Bringing our core values of character, cooperation, and commitment along with a dedication to service, excellence, and innovation to all four Dimmitt Automotive Group locations, we continue to impress drivers all along the Gulf. Stop into one of our dealerships today and check out our outstanding selection of Cadillac, Jaguar, Land Rover, Aston Martin, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, and McLaren luxury sedans, coupes, convertibles, and SUVs. At Dimmitt Automotive Group, we’ve taken a holistic approach to auto sales to ensure that our clients receive a superior auto repair shop experience every step of the way. This includes a simple leasing and financing process, easy access to auto insurance through Dimmitt Insurance, and a series of top-of-the-line service departments staffed by a proven team of certified technicians. On top of all that, we have a collision center to handle all your auto body repair needs, and we work with Aspire Autosports to provide our clients with outstanding custom performance and cosmetic work on their vehicles. Allow the team at Dimmitt Automotive Group to impress you with our premium luxury lineup and proven commitment to precision and service. Make your way to any of our dealerships Monday through Saturday, or get in touch with questions or to set up a test drive. Phone: (888)538-8468Website: dimmitt.comAddress:3333 Gandy Blvd. Pinellas Park, FL 33781 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 03, 2020

HGreg Lux Virtual Dealership Tour

Buying a luxury vehicle is a course of indulgence and pleasure, and we breathe life into your shopping experience with our exceptional service, and exclusive inventory. We’ve simplified the entire process, so that you can easily find the vehicle you’ve always dreamt of, and enjoy every minute of it, as well! There is no need to aimlessly search the market, when the best is already housed in our beautiful luxury store in Pompano, FL. After being in the automobile industry for over two decades, we’ve become renowned around North America for our commitment to quality, our deluxe service, and our highly trained personnel that always knows what our clients need. Trust our experts at HGregLux, to exceed your expectations and ensure your absolute satisfaction! HGregLux is becoming the largest and fastest growing dealership in the nation. Our mission is simple; acquire more, deliver better, and redefine what it means to own and drive luxury. With 40% of our transactions occurring online, we are on the road to simplify every process, and innovate along the way. That means, sit back, relax, and allow us to find your dream car, and deliver it straight to you! Phone: (888)676-8895Website: hgreglux.comAddress:2500 West Sample Road Pompano Beach , FL 33073 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 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

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