The Overshadowed Supercar of a Billionaire Could Be the Most Priceless McLaren Yet | Carscoops

      Larry Ellison owned this McLaren F1 for ten years but drove it for less than 2,600 miles.

      6 hours ago

      by Brad Anderson

      The Magnesium Silver McLaren F1 is one of only seven that were officially imported to the United States.

      Unlike many other F1s, this one has had its fuel bladders replaced with aluminum tanks.

      Upgrades include these aluminum tanks, a new air conditioning system, a sports exhaust, and new tires.

      What you are looking at could soon be the most valuable McLaren F1 to ever be auctioned. With remarkably low mileage and a history linked to a prominent figure from Silicon Valley, it might sell for over $23 million when it goes up for auction next month. Its estimated value highlights just how sought-after this British supercar has become among collectors.

      This specific vehicle is painted in Magnesium Silver and was initially delivered to Oracle founder Larry Ellison in August 1997. As one of only seven that were officially brought into the U.S., it spent over a decade with Ellison while accumulating less than 2,600 miles.

      The F1 later changed hands twice, first to a collector in San Francisco, and then to its current owner following a 2010 auction, remaining in the Bay Area since. Its odometer currently shows under 6,500 miles (10,460 km).

      Well-Preserved and Lightly Upgraded

      Around 2012, the car returned to McLaren in the UK for servicing, during which it was equipped with new radiators and an improved air conditioning system. It also has the special aluminum fuel tanks and a sports exhaust while still including the original owner’s manuals, luggage set, travel suitcase, car cover, service modem/laptop, and torque wrench.

      A Pristine F1

      RM Sotheby’s

      RM Sotheby’s is managing the sale and indicates that in October 2023, it was sent to McLaren Philadelphia, where the transmission was rebuilt, new tires were added, and new spark plugs were installed. Minor repairs were conducted on the gold foil in the engine bay. Most recently, the windshield was swapped for an original one from McLaren Special Operations.

      Considering how well the car has been cared for over the years, it’s no surprise that it appears almost brand new. The exterior is immaculate, as is the interior, which retains all the original materials and parts. However, since the car is being sold through RM Sotheby’s Sealed auction program, its final sale price may remain unknown.

      Regardless, if you have tens of millions to spend or simply want to admire Ellison’s old F1 like the rest of us, you can find the listing here and imagine yourself bidding from the deck of your yacht.

      RM Sotheby’s