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Record-breaking, low-mileage McLaren F1 returns to auction block

Words: Elliott Hughes | Photos: Sotheby's

On May 15-17, 2024, one of the most unique and lowest-mileage McLaren F1s in existence will cross the block in a Sotheby’s Sealed online auction in New York.

This remarkable example, which boasts just 410km on its odometer, is also the only car of the 106 built between 1992 and 1998 that was finished in Creighton Brown over Light Tan and Brazilian Brown interior, making it a truly unique opportunity for collectors.

Chassis 029 last changed hands in 2021 when it crossed the block in Gooding and Company’s 2021 Pebble Beach sale for $20.4m

Chassis 029 last changed hands in 2021 when it crossed the block in Gooding and Company’s 2021 Pebble Beach sale for $20.4m

Consequently, chassis 029 is expected to sell for in excess of $20m, which is the value Hagerty places for an F1 in ‘Good’ condition. Further adding to the 1995 example’s desirability is the fact it is being offered with all of its original accessories, including the FACOM tool chest, a titanium tool kit, a custom luggage set, a special TAG Heuer timepiece and a copy of the Driving Ambition book that accompanied each new F1. 

Chassis 029 last changed hands in 2021 when it crossed the block in Gooding and Company’s 2021 Pebble Beach sale for $20.4m. Originally estimated at $15m, the sale broke the all-time auction record for the model at the time. Back then, it had only been driven 387km, so its mileage total has barely increased in the years since.

Chassis 029 was the 29th F1 built and was originally delivered to Japan, where it spent years under the ownership of a Japanese collector before being passed on to the owner who consigned the car for sale at Pebble Beach in 2021.

“Often dubbed as ‘the modern-day Ferrari 250 GTO,’ very few assets have experienced the value appreciation seen in the McLaren F1, drawing comparisons to timeless artwork showcased in the world’s most renowned museums,” said RM Sotheby’s head of private sales Shelby Myers. “It’s not just a vehicle; it’s a masterpiece.”

You can find our updated Top 50 auction car rankings after the sale has completed on May 17 here.

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