One-of-Five Gordon Murray S1 LM Sold for Record $29 Million
Max Verstappen's victory wasn’t the only highlight of the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Las Vegas. On the same weekend, an extremely exclusive Gordon Murray S1 LM was for $20.63 million USD, or the equivalent of $29.1 million CAD, breaking the record for a new vehicle at auction.
Gordon Murray, in case you somehow forgot, is the engineer behind the legendary McLaren F1 who went on to launch his own company, Gordon Murray Automotive, and gave birth to the T.50. Last August in Monterey, California, the Gordon Murray Special Vehicles division introduced two special models, including the S1 LM that you see here, in order to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the McLaren F1 GTR’s triumph at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1995.
- Also: GMA T.33 is Gordon Murray’s New $2.5M GT Supercar
- Also: Gordon Murray T.50 Unveiled as McLaren F1’s Spiritual Heir
Production will be limited to five units, all of which were initially scooped up by a single customer. For reasons unknown, this customer decided to auction the first unit through RM Sotheby’s.
The winning bidder will work directly with three-time Indianapolis 500 champion and GMA executive director of product development Dario Franchitti to finalize the technical development and customize the car to their specifications.
Once again putting the driver in a central position, the S1 LM incorporates some distinctive elements from the McLaren F1 GTR, such as the five-spoke wheels, the large air intakes at the front, the four central tailpipes and the massive, high-perched rear wing.
At the heart of the S1 LM sits a purpose-built and exclusive 4.3-litre V12 engine developed with Cosworth, producing over 690 horsepower at 12,100 rpm. It is paired with a bespoke six-speed manual gearbox. While a target weight of only 957 kg (2,110 lbs) has been mentioned, we know nothing about acceleration or top speed.
Before the auction began, the S1 LM put on a show near the Las Vegas Sphere, being airlifted by helicopter onto the stage to the amazement of the crowd… and Gordon Murray himself. Will any of the other four cars also go under the hammer? Stay tuned.