The 2019 Monterey Car Week in California, USA not only astounded participants with a plethora of supercars from around the globe, but it also established multiple new world records. At the RM Sotheby’s auction on Friday, a remarkable event took place as the most expensive McLaren in history, known as the McLaren F1 LM-Specification, made its appearance.
With an astonishing price of $19,805,000, this exceptionally rare supercar surpassed the organizers’ estimation of $21-23 million and set a new record. The high price is undoubtedly well deserved, as this F1 belongs to McLaren’s most exclusive category ever built.
What sets the LM-Specification apart is its exclusivity, limited to only 2 versions. These versions were created to mimic the pure racing F1 LM, a series initially developed to commemorate the legendary F1 GTR’s victory at Le Mans.
In comparison to the standard F1, the LM-Specification models feature additional body kits that improve downforce, including front wheel arch vents and large rear wings. Furthermore, these cars break free from the limitations of the BMW V12 6.1L engine, boasting a total output of 680 horsepower and a maximum engine speed of 8,500 rpm.
Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of the F1 LM-Specification car that was auctioned this time. Originally, it was a regular F1 with a Midnight Blue Peark exterior and a black interior. However, the second owner requested McLaren to modify it to LM specifications in 1999. The car received a new metallic gray color and a cream leather interior.
The previous owner of this car, the New Zealand collector Andrew Bagnall, cherished it for the past 12 years. The car’s mileage currently stands at a mere 21,488 km.
Reference: The Drive