The auction of the S1 LM supercar (Chassis #1) by Gordon Murray Special Vehicles achieved a staggering price of $20,630,000 (approximately £16 million) in Las Vegas on November 21, 2023. This sale marks a historic moment as the most expensive new car ever sold at auction, excluding charitable sales. The supercar, known for its driver-centric design, is the final model in an ultra-exclusive production run of just five vehicles, setting a new benchmark in the luxury automotive market.
The S1 LM was unveiled in an extravagant fashion, descending from a helicopter to the amfAR charity’s Gala Dinner at the Wynn Las Vegas, coinciding with the Las Vegas Formula One Grand Prix. The dramatic entry added to the evening’s allure, captivating attendees with its theatrical presentation. Bidding for the supercar was intense, with collectors both present and participating remotely, ultimately leading to the record-breaking hammer price.
The Experience of Ownership
The winning bidder will embark on a unique customer journey that goes beyond mere ownership. Along with the rare supercar, they will receive a bespoke 500-page monograph detailing the S1 LM’s creation, featuring original sketches and insights from the design notebook of Professor Gordon Murray, CBE. Murray expressed his pride in the auction’s outcome, stating, “This world record auction result is a defining moment for our entire team and for the automotive world. The S1 LM represents everything I have learned in six decades of design – a pure expression of driving perfection, engineering art, and a true return to beauty.”
A Masterpiece of Engineering
The S1 LM, reminiscent of the legendary McLaren F1 LM, stands as the first creation from Gordon Murray Special Vehicles. Each of the five supercars is a testament to lightweight engineering and classic design. According to GMSV, every aspect of the S1 LM reflects Murray’s seven principles: Driving Perfection, Lightweight, Engineering Art, A Return to Beauty, Exclusivity, and The Customer Journey.
The unveiling of the S1 LM took place in August 2025 during Monterey Car Week, where it was announced that all five models were acquired by a single collector. Apart from the notable auction in Las Vegas, details regarding the ownership of the remaining four chassis have yet to be made public.
This remarkable sale not only highlights the demand for luxury supercars but also reinforces the cultural significance of automotive artistry in today’s market. The S1 LM’s record price is expected to resonate with collectors and enthusiasts alike, potentially influencing future auction values in the luxury vehicle sector.
