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 – June 03, 2020

Cleveland Motorsports Virtual Dealership Tour

Cleveland Motorsports – A Rafih Auto Company in North Olmsted, OH, is proud and ready to serve the greater North Olmsted area. Since opening our doors, we at Cleveland Motorsports have promised to serve our clients in the best way possible: by offering honesty through sales, efficiency through service, and knowledge through our certified team members. We want you to ensure you receive the best financing options when in the market for a new or used sedan, coupe, or SUV. Our monthly buy and lease specials can provide you with a vehicle that fits your budget, and we will be glad to hand you the keys. Our service and parts departments work in tandem to keep your vehicle in top shape. With our online service scheduling and the Rafih Auto Group App, making an appointment has never been easier for the client on the go. We also offer Express Service where we get you in and out of service in under an hour. You’re always welcome to our comfortable waiting area with complimentary food and drinks, even if you just want to stop in and say “hi” to our team. We offer a full selection of service areas including: -New Vehicle Sales-Pre-Owned Vehicle Sales-Car Loans and Financing-Certified Service Department-Full Selection of Parts and Accessories Customer satisfaction is our highest priority, and our staff is committed to achieving this goal in every aspect of our business. Phone: 866-730-2759Website:clevelandmotorsports.comAddress:28300 Lorain Rd. North Olmsted, OH 44070 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – May 15, 2020

O'Gara San Diego Virtual Dealership Tour

O'Gara Coach, established in 1976, has served Southern California for more than 43 years, with locations in Beverly Hills, San Diego, and Westlake Village. O'Gara Coach is a factory-authorized dealer for Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Automobili Pininfarina, Bentley, Bugatti, Genesis, Koenigsegg, Lamborghini, McLaren, Maserati, Rimac and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. Through unparalleled performance, O'Gara Coach has become respected as one of the largest and most prestigious dealer groups in the entire world. Check out our current new inventory, as well as our pre-owned models, and come visit our San Diego location.We personally tailor each client's experience to match the luxury and refinement that they have come to expect from the brands we carry. Attend our world-class events, push the limits of your vehicle at our private racetrack, develop relationships with our professional luxury consultants and become a member of the O'Gara World. Phone: (888)713-1533Website:ogaracoachsandiego.comAddress:7440 La Jolla Blvd La Jolla, California View Lamborghini Inventory View Rolls-Royce Inventory View Bentley Inventory View McLaren Inventory

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By Edward Jones – May 13, 2020

Aston Martin Beverly Hills Virtual Dealership Tour

Welcome to Aston Martin Beverly Hills, consistently the Number One Aston Martin dealer in North America for new and pre-owned sales, service, parts and customer service. Proudly serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and Southern California. We have the best selection of models, specifications and color combinations. Each one hand picked and prepared to the highest standards. We are proud to be 2017 and 2018 recipients of the coveted ‘Aston Martin Wings Award’, an accolade only offered the finest dealers in the World. Our knowledgeable and friendly team have a combined Aston Martin experience of over 50 years with the brand. Services Offered: New and Pre-Owned SalesService, Parts, Accessories, Bodyshop RepairsVehicle ConsignmentVehicle location service to seek and acquire special models and rare specifications / color combinations. This includes collector cars such as DB4, DB5 and DB6 and limited editions such as Aston Martin ZagatosTrack Events and driver coaching available Whether you know exactly what Aston Martin you are looking for, or are exploring Aston Martin for the first time, we would relish the opportunity to work with you. Phone: (855)291-9819Website:beverlyhills.astonmartindealers.comAddress:125 S Robertson Blvd Beverly Hills, CA 90211 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – May 12, 2020

Fusion Luxury Motors Virtual Dealership Tour

Fusion Motor Company is the premier builder and independent dealer of unforgettable vehicles with a goal to provide our clients with innovative products and the expertise needed to actualize their unique dreams. We employ advanced manufacturing technologies in our 72,000 SF facility, managing every aspect of your project, with pride in Los Angeles, California. It is through our extensive in-house capabilities and with our passionate skilled team that we are able to deliver on this goal. The key to realizing this vision is simply, hard work. Phone: 818-773-8181Website:fusionmotorco.comAddress:20837 Nordhoff Street Chatsworth, CA 91311 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – May 12, 2020

Ferrari Maserati of San Diego Virtual Dealership Tour

We appreciate you taking the time today to visit Ferrari & Maserati of San Diego. At Ferrari & Maserati of San Diego, we have devoted ourselves to helping and serving our customers to the best of our ability. We believe the Ferrari's we offer are the highest quality and ideal for your life needs. We understand that you rely on our web site for accurate information, and it is our pledge to deliver you relevant, correct, and abundant content. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. Our staff is happy to answer any and all inquiries in a timely fashion. We look forward to helping you find your next Ferrari, Maserati, or any other prestigious vehicle you may desire! Phone: (877)425-6316Website:fmsandiego.comAddress:4611 Mercury Street San Diego, CA 92111 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 21, 2020

iLusso Virtual Dealership Tour

iLusso is not your typical dealership. We are not just about selling cars, we are selling lifestyles - the exclusive, hyper-lifestyle that matches the level of our vehicles has made ilusso a globally recognized leader within the automotive world. We are a family-owned dealership that has delivered an unparalleled level of customer service for luxury car shoppers from Orange County, California to around the world for over 20 years. If you don't see what you are looking for, click on CarFinder, fill out the form, and we will let you know when vehicles arrive that match your search! Or if you would rather discuss your options with our friendly sales staff, click on Directions for interactive driving directions and other contact information. We look forward to serving you! Phone: (888)949-7646Website:ilusso.comAddress:2115 Harbor Blvd Costa Mesa, CA 92627 View Inventory

By Edward Jones – April 21, 2020

Toy Barn Virtual Dealership Tour

Welcome to The Toy Barn, we are glad you are here! The Toy Barn, located in Dublin, Ohio, extends over 11 acres, 5 unique buildings and has 8 showrooms. We shop around the country and only purchase the best of the best. From classic muscle cars to late year, low mile, practically new vehicles, we strive to keep over 300 of the cleanest, most sought out vehicles on the pre-owned market. That is what makes us a leader for pre-owned cars in Columbus, Ohio. The Toy Barn employs strong and dedicated sales managers with many years of experience satisfying our customers' needs. The Toy Barn team is relentlessly committed to offering the best selection of Magnificent Previously Owned Automobiles while providing each customer with an exceptional experience. Feel free to browse our inventory online, request more information about vehicles, set up a test drive or inquire about financing. If you don't see what you are looking for, click on CarFinder, fill out the form, and we will let you know when vehicles arrive that match your search! Or if you would rather discuss your options with our friendly sales staff, click on Directions for interactive driving directions and other contact information. We look forward to serving you! At the Toy Barn, we offer coast to coast service for our out of state customers. Buying a car online has never been easier. From filling out paperwork and shipping it to customers to sharing pictures, videos, and vehicle history information, the Toy Barn knows how to take care of our customers across the country. Contact one of our Sales Managers today. We have a feeling you'll love seeing your new car delivered at your doorstep. Phone: (888)-323-6132Website:toybarncars.comAddress:5100 Post Road, Dublin, OH 43017 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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