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 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 15, 2020

Lamborghini North Los Angeles Virtual Dealership Tour

It could be our varied and accommodating selection of new Lamborghini models, including the much-loved Lamborghini Aventador and Huracan Spyder. Perhaps it's our equally vast range of high-quality, Lamborghini North Los Angeles-approved used cars. It may also very well be the Lamborghini financing offers available to customers who shop with Lamborghini North Los Angeles. With these auto loan and car lease options, shoppers feel at ease, worry-free, and extra satisfied with their purchase. Lamborghini North Los Angeles isn't only a place for those in the market for a new Lamborghini car. We're also the go-to spot for those already behind the wheel. Customers find our car service and maintenance center, also located in Calabasas, California, both convenient and competent. It doesn't stop there-- Lamborghini North Los Angeles also host an array of services to personalize or enhance your Lamborghini driving experience. Just ask our onsite auto parts and accessories department what we mean. Still not clear about why so many trust Lamborghini North Los Angeles for all of their Lamborghini needs? Visit our dealership at 24050 Ventura Blvd Calabasas, California and find out for yourself! Phone: (866)-476-5720Website:lamborghinila.comAddress:24050 Ventura Blvd. Calabasas, CA 91302 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 15, 2020

Ferrari of Washington Virtual Dealership Tour

Welcome to our Ferrari official dealership. At Ferrari of Washington, we have devoted ourselves to providing our clients with the best experience possible. We believe the cars we offer should always be highest quality. We understand that you rely on our website for accurate information, and it is our pledge to deliver you current, relevant, correct, abundant content. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. Our staff will be glad to provide you with all the information you need in a timely fashion. We look forward to doing business with you! If you're in the area, stop in, coffee is on us. Phone: (855)482-2900Website:washington.ferraridealers.comAddress:45235 Towlern Place Sterling , VA 20166 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 15, 2020

Alfa Romeo Maserati of Santa Monica Virtual Dealership Tour

Welcome to Alfa Romeo Maserati of Santa Monica, a fast and convenient way to research and find a vehicle that is right for you. Whether you are looking for a new or pre-owned Alfa Romeo or Maserati car or SUV you will find it here. We have helped many customers from Beverly Hills, Bel-Air, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, and Marina Del Rey find the Alfa Romeo or Maserati of their dreams! We know that prospective customers are extremely well educated when researching their next vehicle. Alfa Romeo Maserati of Santa Monica has made it easy to get all the available vehicle information so you can spend less time researching and more time enjoying your purchase. Check out our new specials and pre-owned specials for additional savings on your next vehicle. As a premier California Alfa Romeo and Maserati dealer, we have a huge selection of new and pre-owned vehicles from which to choose. Alfa Romeo Maserati of Santa Monica online and offline customers enjoy special vehicle offers every day. We offer Alfa Romeo and Maserati service & parts, an online inventory, and outstanding financing options, making Alfa Romeo Maserati of Santa Monica the preferred dealer for Beverly Hills, Bel-Air, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Los Angels, and Marina Del Rey Alfa Romeo and Maserati buyers. Ready to set up a test drive? Visit our Santa Monica Alfa Romeo and Maserati dealership today! Phone: (866)231-6333Website:smautoco.comAddress:1820 Santa Monica Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90404 View Inventory

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By Edward Jones – April 13, 2020

Ferrari Los Angeles Virtual Dealership Tour

Stretching from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the Mattioli Automotive Group is North America’s premier Ferrari dealership group. In addition to its unique network of factory-authorized Ferrari dealers, the Mattioli Automotive Group also includes the first Ferrari Factory-authorized Body Shop on the West Coast, the Championship racing team – Scuderia Corsa, Collezione By MAG, a specialized department for advising, sourcing and representing the finest Ferraris and Bacchelli & Villa, one of the world’s most prestigious and renowned restoration shops. Phone: (888)-699-9351Website:ferrarilosangeles.comAddress:7051 Hayvenhurst Ave. Van Nuys, CA 91406 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 13, 2020

McLaren Boston Virtual Dealership Tour

At McLaren, our commitment to excellence and innovation underpins everything we do: from the performance of the Formula One™ team on race day, to the ownership experience we offer with our new road cars, the 650S and 650S Spider, or All New 570S Coupe. McLaren Boston is proud to have joined the McLaren team as your retailer. Our aim is to deliver what McLaren Automotive’s engineers planned from the outset; a new sports car that is a pleasure to own as well as drive. We welcome you to spend a little time with us and we’ll explain how we plan to meet that aim, and how our approach to ownership is as innovative as the car we’re proud to promote. Please contact us today. Phone: (855)777-1607Website:mclarenboston.comAddress:22 Pond St. Norwell, MA 02061 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 10, 2020

Ferrari Silicon Valley Virtual Dealership Tour

As the only Factory Authorized dealership in the Peninsula and South Bay, Ferrari Silicon Valley is committed to delivering exceptional service aimed at the full satisfaction of the customer. Thanks to our unique sales team structure, our dedicated staff work together to offer clients unparalleled personal service. We provide new and pre-owned Ferraris to the Peninsula, Bay Area and Northern California’s affluent communities of Atherton, Hillsborough, Los Altos Hills, Palo Alto, Menlo Park & Mountain View, San Jose and San Francisco counties, to name few. We welcome you to visit our showroom and Experience the Passion. Phone: 877-636-9377Website:ferrarisiliconvalley.comAddress:2750 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 10, 2020

McLaren Charlotte Virtual Dealership Tour

At McLaren, our commitment to excellence and innovation underpins everything we do: from the performance of the Formula One™ team on race day to the ownership experience we offer Sportscars & Supercars. McLaren Charlotte is proud to have joined the McLaren team as your retailer. Our aim is to deliver what McLaren Automotive’s engineers planned from the outset; a new sports car that is a pleasure to own and thrilling to drive. McLaren Charlotte is honored to be a part of the McLaren team. Our goal is to provide our discerning customers with a personalized buying experience, where we exceed expectations and offer only the highest level of customer service. We are passionate about McLaren and inspired by the drive. We welcome you to browse our online inventory, learn a little more about McLaren, set up a test drive or contact us at any time for more information. Stop in to see us, Call us at 704-370-9999, or use the contact form on this site to reach us via email. Phone: 704-370-9999Website: charlottemclaren.comAddress:6010 Kenley Ln Charlotte, NC 28217 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 10, 2020

Scottsdale Ferrari Virtual Dealership Tour

Welcome to Scottsdale Ferrari. As a proud member of Penske Automotive Group, we are dedicated to serving all of your automotive needs and providing the best customer experience possible. Scottsdale Ferrari is one of Arizona's premier factory-authorized Ferrari dealerships. From our location in the heart of Scottsdale, just minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor airport, we are proud to offer our customers all the latest new Ferrari vehicles—plus a number of used Ferraris and Certified Pre-Owned Ferraris as well. In addition to our Ferrari inventory, we also have one of the largest selections of quality used exotic and premium-luxury automobiles in the Phoenix-metro area. We are happy to help arrange financing and transportation for your next purchase. Phone: 480-418-6699Website: scottsdaleferrari.comAddress:18118 N. Scottsdale Rd Phoenix, AZ 85056 View Inventory

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