More than 30 years after its debut, the McLaren F1 continues to break barriers, but this time it is not about speed. A pristine 1997 model is about to hit the auction block at RM Sotheby’s during Monterey Car Week, and it is expected to fetch over 23 million dollars. With a history tied to Oracle's founder and an incredibly low mileage, this car is about to steal the spotlight as one of the most expensive McLaren F1s ever sold.
This historic McLaren will go under the hammer next month at Monterey Car Week in California, the very state where it has spent its entire life. RM Sotheby’s is handling the sale, and with estimates exceeding 23 million dollars, all eyes will be on this F1 as it looks to set a new record for the most expensive McLaren ever sold.
If the hammer falls anywhere near the expected value, this 1997 McLaren F1 will go down in history not just as a hypercar legend, but as a king of the collector world.
This particular 1997 McLaren F1, chassis number 062, was originally sold to Larry Ellison, the founder of Oracle. Since then, it has had only two more owners and has remained incredibly well preserved with under 10,500 kilometers on the odometer. The car’s ownership history alone adds significant value, as collectors seek examples with rich stories and limited usage.
The vehicle’s original ownership and careful transfers between only a few hands make it a standout among the 64 road-going F1s ever produced. Its exclusivity, rarity, and celebrity association set it apart in today’s collector market.
Finished in Magnesium Silver over black leather with gray accents on the central driving seat, this McLaren looks every bit the icon it is. What makes it more impressive is the fact that Larry Ellison only drove it for about 4,200 kilometers before selling it in 2005. The next owner added less than 1,600 kilometers before selling it in 2010 to the current caretaker.
With under 10,500 kilometers in total, this car ranks among the lowest mileage McLaren F1s in existence. Its California-based history from day one adds another layer of desirable provenance.
Unlike many standard F1s, this chassis 062 comes with performance upgrades and rare additions from McLaren Special Operations. It features a custom sports exhaust (the original is included too), upgraded air conditioning, improved radiators, and a lightweight aluminum fuel tank. These factory-sanctioned tweaks make it even more desirable to collectors who value originality blended with technical enhancement.
Every component reflects obsessive attention to detail. Even the gold foil insulation that surrounds the legendary 6.1 liter BMW V12 engine has been carefully restored.
In October 2023, this F1 received a full mechanical refresh. The transmission was completely rebuilt, spark plugs were replaced, and new tires were fitted to the original magnesium wheels. The windshield was replaced with a factory-spec unit, and a new battery was installed to keep everything running like new.
This recent maintenance means the next owner can enjoy the car immediately without needing to worry about aging components or deferred work. It is a rare blend of showroom condition and mechanical readiness.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.
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