Rare Opportunity: McLaren F1 GTR Auctioning Off One of Only Two in Existence

At BMWBLOG, we have a profound appreciation for the McLaren F1, an iconic engineering marvel with deep ties to BMW. Beyond just being a classic automobile, the F1’s association with BMW service centers further solidifies its status as a “classic BMW.”

While the McLaren F1’s legacy extends beyond the BMW realm, we relish the chance to spotlight this legendary vehicle. Today, we delve into the story of a truly unique McLaren F1 – Chassis #10R. As the first of the experimental/prototype cars and one of the few retained by McLaren for promotional purposes, 10R stands out in the F1 GTR lineup. Originally a GTR short-tail model, it gained additional allure when it entered the private collection of Nick Mason, the renowned drummer of Pink Floyd.

Exploring the Legacy of McLaren F1 GTR Chassis 10R

Departing McLaren’s UK facility in December 1995 as the inaugural 1996 F1 GTR, Chassis 10R was adorned with distinctive red and yellow “96 GTR” graphics. Despite being McLaren’s own vehicle, 10R saw considerable track action, participating in Le Mans testing and Circuit de la Sarthe pre-qualifying in 1996. Subsequently, Lanzante Limited converted 10R into a road-going version, making it one of the first 16 McLaren F1 GTRs to undergo this transformation.

While its competitive days concluded, 10R’s track adventures persisted. In 2009, an unnamed journalist inadvertently parked the car in a wheat field, necessitating a meticulous restoration by Lanzante. Following repairs, the car partook in various showcases, such as Goodwood in 2012 and a 750-kilometer road rally in 2015 alongside five other F1 GTRs. However, a mishap at Goodwood in 2017 led to a return to Lanzante for repairs. In 2024, the car found a new owner after departing Nick Mason’s collection in a private sale.

The Value of McLaren F1 GTR Chassis 10R

Dubbed the Pop-Art F1, XP LM, and more, Chassis 10R embodies a rich history that reflects its estimated value of over $35 million at RM Sotheby’s auction. Given its heritage and BMW service connections, this valuation is not surprising. With a previous BMW-serviced F1 selling for $25 million, 10R is poised to surpass expectations. The auction is set for Saturday, August 15th in Monterey, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of automotive history. For additional images and auction details, visit RM’s auction page.

Experience the 1997 McLaren F1 GTR via RM Sothebys and delve deeper into this exact car’s review on Autocar for a comprehensive insight.