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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 Jordan Aquistapace – February 23, 2021

Hodinkee x TAG Heuer Release The Limited Edition Carrera ...

Shortly after announcing the acquisition of Crown and Caliber, Hodinkee continues its run of good news with the unveiling of its newest collaboration with TAG Heuer. The Limited Edition Hodinkee x TAG Heuer Carrera ‘Dato’ is best described as a modern take on a 1960s chronograph. The stainless-steel 39mm glass box case features an elegantly designed black dial paired with a contrasting white sub-dial and date disk. The transparent backcase allows for a closer look at the Caliber Heuer 02 automatic movement, which holds an 80-hour power reserve and 100-meter water resistance. Also included on the backcase are engravings numbering each of the 250 examples produced, celebrating TAG Heuer’s 160th anniversary. A large-scale black alligator leather strap finishes the elegant style of the 1960s inspired piece by Hondinkee x TAG Heuer. The TAG Heuer Carrera ‘Dato’ Limited Edition for Hodinkee is sure to be a collector’s piece for any watch enthusiast. For more Watch news, Check out Aston Martin Names Girard-Perregaux As Official Watch Partner

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 04, 2021

Porsche x TAG Heuer Begin New Partnership With A Special ...

Throughout motorsport history, both Porsche and TAG Heuer have embedded their successful brands as iconic names in the industry. The dynamic duo is proud to announce a strategic partnership. The first step is an unveiling of the TAG Heuer Carrera Porsche Chronograph, a luxury hand-made timepiece sporting both racing icons. The 44mm stainless-steel chronograph features a black bezel reading Porsche in a vibrant red color. The HEUER02 automatic movement drives the watch, providing an 80-hour power reserve. A transparent back case is engraved to signify the new relationship using Porsche and TAG Heuer logos. The new timepiece is just a small look into what Porsche and TAG Heuer have planned for the new year with talks of entering other areas such as Formula E and the PGA. The TAG Heuer Carrera Porsche Chronograph is currently available by clicking the link below. For more Watch news, Check out New Trafford Watch Co. S.O.E Roadster Collection Inspired By Historic Le Mans Race Shop Porsche x TAG Heuer

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 14, 2020

Phillips "Racing Pulse" Watch Auction Sells $27 Million A...

Recently, we covered a few select special timepieces that were headed to the Phillips Auction in New York City as part of the Racing Pulse collection. The exquisite pieces featured in the auction included a Paul Newman owned Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 (Sold $5,475,000), a TAG Heuer Monaco, worn by Steve McQueen in the Le Mans movie (Sold $2,208,000), and a five-timepiece collection by Sylvester Stallone (Sold $3,100,000). The auction also sold countless other high-end luxury timepieces, totaling sales to $27,584,570. The story of the event is the TAG Heuer worn by Steve McQueen, as it is now holds the World Record for most expensive TAG sold at auction. Although hard to part ways with these top-notch examples, the new owners will enjoy their collector’s pieces until they sell again. Click the link below to see all of the watches sold at the Phillips Racing Pulse Auction. Phillips Racing Pulse Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 30, 2020

TAG Heuer Partners With Bamford Watch Co. On A New Aquaracer

TAG Heuer recently teamed up with Bamford Watch Co. to create a one-of-a-kind limited-edition timepiece. The TAG Heuer x Bamford Aquaracer features a lightweight titanium 43mm case, driven by a Caliber 5 Automatic movement. The watch presented in sandblasted titanium finish gives off a sleek dark appearance. The Super-LumiNova dial includes a set of unique orange and white hands, as well as the Bamford Watch Co. logo, stamped at the six o'clock location. The commemorative piece is stamped 1 out of 1500 and features an inscribed character of a vintage diver. This example by TAG Heuer x Bamford is priced at $3,800 and sure to be a collector's piece for any watch enthusiast. Shop the newest release from TAG Heuer and Bamford Watch Co. by clicking the link below. Shop Now TAG Heuer

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 19, 2020

TAG Heuer Celebrates Jack Heuer's Birthday With A Limited...

TAG Heuer is celebrating the birthday of Jack Heuer with a limited-edition gold Carrera chronograph. He has been a staple to the company as a true visionary since his start in 1958, and continuing as an appointed Honorary Chairman of the family business. The Carrera was chosen to be the platform as it is Jack’s favorite model, as well as the first timepiece that he created entirely in 1963. The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Jack Heuer Birthday Gold Limited Edition watch is presented in a 42mm 18K red gold case covered by a domed sapphire crystal. The dial includes a sophisticated silver flange paired with 18K red gold indexes and time hands to incorporate the precious metal throughout the timepiece. The black alligator band features Jack Heuer’s signature printed in gold on the inside. The watch will be limited to 188 pieces and will be available in March 2021. Shop the new TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Jack Heuer Birthday Limited Edition watch by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Edward Jones – November 16, 2020

TAG Heuer Upgrades Their Connected Smart Watch With New F...

TAG Heuer's Connected watch is getting some new styling options just in time for the Holiday season. First up are the new strap options that join the polished steel and colorful rubber straps that are already available. These new options include the green and brown nubuck and rubber straps that are both sporty and stylish. These are perfect options for those looking for something between the stainless steel bracelet and rubber straps. On top of these new straps, TAG Heuer has also announced the new Synopsis watch face. This new face allows the wearer to set six different options to show on the face, giving them the ability to create a watch face that's perfectly customized to their everyday needs. This includes the ability to show the date, miles ran/cycled/walk, next event, power reserve, a second time zone and more. This face is also available in eight different colors. TAG Heuer has also announced a reskin for the Classic watch face that's designed after the Tag Heuer Carrera collection and chronograph complications. For more information, be sure to click the button below to visit TAGHeuer.com. Visit TAGHeuer.com

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 29, 2020

Paul Newman Rolex Daytona And Steve McQueen TAG Heuer Mon...

Watches hold historic significance throughout time, whether it’s a highly collectible reference released by the manufacturer or an example owned by someone special. Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo will be auctioning the Racing Pulse, two magnificent timepieces owned by Paul Newman and Steve McQueen. The Rolex featured in Racing Pulse is a Paul Newman personal Reference 6263 “Big Red” Cosmograph Daytona. This Daytona is one of the world’s most important Rolex watches. As it was the watch, he wore the most in a two-decade span. It was a 25th anniversary present from Joanne Woodward that features an engraving on the caseback that reads “Drive Slowly, Joanne” The watch is currently being cosigned by Clea Newman. She received the Rolex before the passing of her father. A timepiece with such significance behind it will surely be a highlighted item during the auction. The TAG Heuer Monaco presented as part of Racing Pulse was personally owned by Steve McQueen and featured in his iconic racing film, Le Mans. This example is the last of two known Monaco watches owned and gifted by Steve McQueen to be offered publicly, making this an incredibly rare collectors’ piece. The watch consigned by Haig Alltounian, McQueen’s mechanic, received it as a gift during the filming of Le Mans. An engraving that reads “To Haig Le Mans 1970” was put on the caseback of the Reference 1133 Monaco by Steve McQueen. This TAG Heuer Monaco is an incredible example of automotive and cinema excellence.

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 23, 2020

TAG Heuer Releases Ayrton Senna Special Edition Formula 1...

Ayrton Senna is considered one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers all, displaying his talents by pushing the limits of speed as well as making consistent podium appearances. TAG Heuer is celebrating the motor racing legend and his lasting impact on the sport by releasing a tribute model. The TAG Heuer Formula 1 Senna Special Edition watch features a 44mm steel case driven by an automatic caliber 16 movement. The chronograph dial includes three sub-dial counters as well as the Senna “S” located at the 6 o’clock position. TAG Heuer redesigned the tachymeter to display “Senna” and 400 km/h, instead of the traditional 240 km/h, paying homage to Ayrton Senna’s pursuit to become the fastest of all time. The case back is engraved signifying the Senna Special Edition with a helmet portrayed as well. The newest addition from TAG Heuer is present in Black and Senna Yellow, with a bracelet and leather strap version available. Shop the Tag Heuer Formula 1 Senna Special Edition Chronograph by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 16, 2020

The New TAG Heuer Carrera Sport Collection Celebrates 160...

TAG Heuer is celebrating the 160th anniversary of operating as an industry leader in luxury watch manufacturing. A special edition Carrera collection commemorates the milestone. The TAG Heuer Carrera 160th Anniversary is a sports chronograph with a 44mm stainless steel case. A Calibre Heuer 02 Automatic movement drives the watch with an 80-hour power reserve and 100-meter water resistance. The new release incorporates a thinner mechanism, which results in more comfortable wear for the customer. The case back is transparent, allowing for a closer look at the inner workings of the Carrera. A design showcasing the 160 years of the avant-garde is etched into the case back along with the numeric signifying the limited-edition piece. The special edition Carrera with be available in a blue and black option with red accents, both of which will be limited to 1860 examples. Shop the TAG Heuer Carrera Sports Chronograph 160th Anniversary watch by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Edward Jones – October 12, 2020

New 2020 TAG Heuer Monaco Now Has Stunning Stainless Stee...

The TAG Heuer Monaco is back again, but this year it comes with a new and stylish bracelet. For the 2020 model of the Monaco, TAG Heuer is giving their customer options that this classic watch most definitely deserves. There are essentially three new models for the 2020 release of the Monaco. First up is one with a black dial that has a sunray-brushed design. This dial can either come with the new stainless-steel bracelet or a black leather strap. The second dial design has a blue sunray-brushed dial, similar to that of the original 1969 Monaco models. Only the stainless steel bracelet is available for the blue dial Monaco. When designed the stainless steel bracelet for the new Monaco watches, TAG Heuer's designer did it in a way that gave them new flair while honoring the Monaco watches of the 1970s. Personally, I love the addition as these watches look downright gorgeous when paired with the stainless steel bracelet. For more information or to buy your new TAG Heuer Monaco, click the button below. Expect a price tag of $6,750 for a Monaco with the stainless steel bracelet and $6,350 with a leather strap. Shop Now

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