The auction of the S1 LM supercar, produced by Gordon Murray Special Vehicles, achieved a staggering sale price of $20,630,000 on November 21, 2023, in Las Vegas. This remarkable transaction marks a new record as the most expensive new car ever sold at auction, excluding charitable sales. The occasion took place during the amfAR charity’s Gala Dinner, aligned with the Las Vegas Formula One Grand Prix.
The evening began with a striking entrance, as the S1 LM was lowered into the venue, Wynn Las Vegas, suspended from a helicopter. This dramatic display underscored the car’s exclusivity and significance, setting an unforgettable tone for the event. The auction attracted intense competition, with collectors both present and participating remotely, ultimately culminating in the record-breaking sale.
The winning bidder not only acquires a unique supercar but also embarks on a journey described by Gordon Murray Special Vehicles as “an experience unlike any other.” Ownership includes access to a bespoke 500-page monograph detailing the creation of the S1 LM, featuring original sketches and notes from the design notebook of Professor Gordon Murray, CBE, a name synonymous with automotive excellence.
Professor Murray expressed his pride in the auction result, 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. To see it achieve this scale of appreciation is truly humbling.”
Unveiling a Masterpiece
The S1 LM, a nod to Murray’s renowned McLaren F1 LM, is the first in a limited series of five cars, each exemplifying lightweight engineering and timeless design. Each model reflects Murray’s seven guiding principles: Driving Perfection, Lightweight, Engineering Art, A Return to Beauty, Exclusivity, and The Customer Journey.
Unveiled during Monterey Car Week in August 2025, all five S1 LMs were reportedly acquired by a single individual. The recent auction in Las Vegas not only highlights the car’s desirability but also raises questions about the undisclosed ownership of the remaining four chassis.
As the luxury automotive market continues to evolve, the record-setting sale of the S1 LM stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of high-performance vehicles and the artistry behind their design. The auction results are likely to resonate throughout the industry, setting new standards for collectible automobiles.
