RM Sotheby’s sets historic record with first Gordon Murray S1 LM selling for 20.63 million dollars
RM Sotheby’s has sold the first Gordon Murray S1 LM commission for 20.63 million dollars setting a new record for the most expensive new car ever sold at auction excluding charitable sales. The sale took place in Las Vegas during the Formula 1 Heineken Las Vegas Grand Prix Weekend and surpassed the previous benchmark held by the Bugatti Chiron Profilée. The result highlights the significance of the car’s heritage its rarity and its direct connection to McLaren F1 creator Gordon Murray.
“The sky-high” reveal that stunned Las Vegas
In an unprecedented moment for the auction world the S1 LM was flown over the Las Vegas skyline suspended beneath a helicopter while bidding was underway. The dramatic presentation intensified competition among bidders and captured global attention.
Shelby Myers Head of Private Sales at RM Sotheby’s emphasized that the S1 LM stands apart from any modern collectible as a fully bespoke creation produced without manufacturing constraints. Only five examples will ever be built and the first allocation offers a full collaborative process with Murray and development driver Dario Franchitti a factor that further elevates the car’s value.
Unmatched engine power for an unparalleled driving experience
The S1 LM is powered by a 4.3 liter Cosworth V12 producing 700 horsepower at 12,100 rpm paired with a six speed manual transmission. With a target dry weight of 957 kilograms it embodies Murray’s philosophy of absolute lightweight engineering and mechanical purity. The carbon fiber bodywork and the Inconel exhaust wrapped in 18 karat gold draw a direct line to the engineering principles of the McLaren F1.
The project was developed during a challenging personal period for Murray who has said that it reminded him why he builds cars. This emotional element combined with the car’s technical brilliance and extreme rarity played a decisive role in the outcome of the sale.
The result links the legacy of the McLaren F1 with the future of Gordon Murray’s vision and marks an important milestone in the market for modern ultra exclusive performance cars.
