The upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix won’t just be about the roar of Formula 1 engines; a high-stakes auction could see an even louder spectacle unfold. During the amfAR benefit gala on November 21, RM Sotheby’s will offer up the final Gordon Murray S1 LM for sale — Chassis #1. This isn’t just any car; it’s a testament to automotive artistry and exclusivity, making it one of the most coveted vehicles in existence.
The S1 LM stands apart as a modern reimagining of the legendary McLaren F1. Imagine everything Gordon Murray might have achieved with today’s technology and materials while crafting that iconic supercar. You get something akin to the sheer brilliance of the S1 LM – hand-finished, ultra-lightweight, and hyper-focused on driver engagement.
Limited to just five examples, each one is as rare as its legendary predecessor, the McLaren F1 LM, produced in a run of five to commemorate the 1995 Le Mans victory. But owning Chassis #1 means more than just acquiring an extraordinary machine; it’s about forging a unique partnership with Gordon Murray himself.
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Bespoke Collaboration:
The winning bidder won’t simply take delivery of a pre-built masterpiece. Instead, they’ll sit down with the visionary behind the S1 LM for a collaborative process akin to the bespoke supercar commissions of the 1990s, crafting their own personalized specification. -
A Symphony of Power:
Beneath its carbon fiber skin beats a newly developed 4.3-liter naturally aspirated GMA-Cosworth V12. This screaming powerplant pushes out over 700 horsepower and revs to an earsplitting 12,100 rpm. It’s mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, all within a target weight of just 957 kg (2,150 pounds).
Gone is the rear fan and cooling pack; they made way for this larger V12 and a unique Inconel exhaust wrapped in 18-karat gold heat shielding. This distinctive touch echoes the iconic four central exhaust tips seen on the 1995 Le Mans champion. For Murray, the S1 LM holds deep personal significance, developed during his cancer recovery. The intense focus required to bring it to life became a vital part of his journey back to health.
A Price Tag Fit for Royalty:
RM Sotheby’s anticipates that Chassis #1 will fetch around $20 million at auction. This astronomical price is driven not only by the car’s rarity but also by the sheer exclusivity offered. In fact, all five S1 LMs were initially purchased by a single individual, leaving the provenance of this final example somewhat shrouded in mystery.
With rumors swirling about the original buyer potentially reselling at least one unit, it might be one of the most daring car flips ever attempted.
For American Buyers: A Few Caveats:
While tempting for collectors across the globe, there’s a slight catch for those hoping to take home the S1 LM Stateside. It can only be legally imported under the “Show or Display” exemption. This means it’s intended primarily for exhibition rather than regular road use within the U.S. However, Gordon Murray himself will assist with the necessary paperwork for this special status. The buyer remains responsible for any import duties, tariffs, and taxes associated with bringing the car to American shores, as well as the potential costs of federalizing it for street legality if desired.
The S1 LM Chassis #1 is set to be a highlight of the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend, capturing the attention of supercar aficionados and automotive history enthusiasts alike. This auction presents an unprecedented opportunity to own not just a car but a piece of history – a testament to engineering genius meticulously handcrafted by one of the world’s most revered automotive minds.
