The McLaren P1 hypercar transformed McLaren Automotive from a fledgling company into a serious competitor to Ferrari and Porsche. Following the P1, McLaren enjoyed a successful run, introducing the 675LT and the 720S, both of which have set the standard for supercars.
Now, McLaren is introducing a true successor to the P1: the W1. This new model signifies a legacy that connects back to both the P1 and the legendary F1. It certainly has big shoes to fill.
At first glance, the W1 might not appear drastically different from the P1. While Ferrari has reduced the number of cylinders and increased the number of driven wheels in the new LaFerrari-succeeding F80, the W1 continues to use a hybrid twin-turbo V8 engine with power directed solely to the rear wheels.
However, the W1 features a new 4.0-liter V8 that offers more engine capacity and more cylinders compared to the Italian competitor, and its front wheels remain unaffected. Additionally, it boasts 75 horsepower more than the Ferrari.
So, is McLaren’s decision to build upon the P1 formula sound, or should they have taken a different approach? Top Gear explores the W1 in detail at McLaren HQ. Let’s hear from Top Gear Magazine’s Head of Car Testing, Ollie Marriage, for his insights.
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