by Auction Record
The Gordon Murray S1 LM set a new record, becoming the most expensive new car ever sold at auction. The impressive sum of $20.63 million was achieved in Las Vegas during the Formula 1 weekend, proving that even in a market filled with exclusive offerings, rarity remains the highest value.
This sale makes one wonder if Murray regretted his decision to limit production to just five cars.
Previous Success
When the S1 LM was first unveiled at Monterey Car Week in August, Gordon Murray Automotive confirmed that all five cars had already been purchased by a single buyer.
The identity of this collector remains unknown, as does the reason why they decided to part with one of these ultra-rare cars. However, it is clear that the appearance of this car at the RM Sotheby’s auction generated real excitement among buyers, ultimately resulting in a record-selling price that guarantees the S1 LM a place in history.
Theatrical Start to the Auction
The show began even before the auction started. The display model S1 LM was delivered by helicopter, which descended directly onto the auction venue with the kind of spectacle only a car of this class can afford.
In addition to acquiring the hypercar created by one of the most revered engineers in the automotive industry, the auction winner will now have the opportunity to collaborate directly with Gordon Murray to customize every detail of their S1 LM. Furthermore, they will be able to participate in test drives with Dario Franchitti during the car’s final testing phase.
Successor to the McLaren F1
While the Gordon Murray T.50 model was positioned as a modern incarnation of the McLaren F1, the S1 looks even more impressive and much closer to the design of the original F1, but with modern accents.
Technical Specifications
Like the T.50, the S1 LM is equipped with a naturally aspirated 4.3-liter Cosworth V12 engine developed specifically for this model. It produces over 700 horsepower, revs up to 12,100 rpm, and is paired with a six-speed manual transmission that drives the rear wheels. Gordon Murray plans to achieve a weight of just 2,150 pounds (957 kg).
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This auction result not only confirms Gordon Murray’s status as a living automotive legend but also demonstrates the growing value of limited series in an era when electric vehicles are beginning to dominate the automotive industry. The sale of the S1 LM for such a sum may encourage other manufacturers to create similar exclusive projects aimed at true enthusiasts and collectors.
