The 1994 McLaren F1 remains the definitive supercar benchmark. Chassis 014, valued above $21 million, embodies rarity, provenance, and engineering brilliance.
Origins and Royal Provenance
Out of just 64 road-specification McLaren F1s, this is the 14th completed. Delivered new to the Brunei Royal Family, it originally wore Titanium Yellow over black leather and Alcantara.
Global Journey
After its time in Brunei, the car moved to the United Kingdom. Purchased via former McLaren Cars director David Clark, it later crossed to the United States, where it was maintained by BMW of North America.
Rebuild at Woking
In 2007, chassis 014 returned to McLaren headquarters for a complete rebuild. The car was repainted in Ibis White and fitted with the coveted High-Downforce Kit, including fixed rear spoiler, GTR-style bumper, and LM-specification louvres.
Interior Transformation
The cabin was converted to LM specification, featuring a race-style driver’s seat, exposed carbon fibre, and revised air-conditioning. The refurbishment exceeded $500,000 and was presented at the McLaren Technology Centre.
Signatures of Champions
Before its repaint, the door sill carried Michael Schumacher’s autograph dated March 1996. Later, Lewis Hamilton added his signature during his rookie Formula 1 season, linking the car to two seven-time world champions.
Later Ownership
Enjoyed across America, the car accumulated mileage up to 12,000. In 2018, McLaren Philadelphia performed a major engine-out service, replacing the fuel cell and completing $50,000 in maintenance.
Power and Performance
At its core lies the 6,064-cc BMW V-12 engine producing 627 horsepower. Combined with lightweight carbon fibre construction, the F1 achieved a record 391 km/h top speed, still unmatched by any naturally aspirated road car.
Technical Ingenuity
Highlights include the central driving position, gold foil-lined engine bay, and bespoke Kenwood audio system. These details underscore Gordon Murray’s vision of a road car infused with Formula 1 technology.
Summary
Chassis 014 blends royal provenance, championship signatures, and McLaren’s engineering mastery. With its Ibis White livery, LM interior, and High-Downforce Kit, it stands as one of the most significant McLaren F1s ever offered.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
