Get ready— something truly special is crossing the auction block soon. RM Sotheby’s has consigned a 1994 McLaren F1 to its Abu Dhabi sale — and this isn’t just any F1. The catalog describes it as “one of the most celebrated supercars of the modern era,” and by some measures, that’s not overstatement.
Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this example extraordinary — and why it has the collector world buzzing.
A Legend on Wheels
The McLaren F1 is already the stuff of automotive legend. Launched in the early 1990s, it embodied Gordon Murray’s vision of a no-compromise, road-going supercar that borrows from Formula 1 technology. Over time, it has become the benchmark: lightweight carbon-fiber construction, a central driving position flanked by two passenger seats, and a naturally aspirated V12 engine that pushed boundaries for its era and beyond.
But not all F1s are created equal — and that’s where this particular lot stands out.
What Makes This One Special
Here are some of the standout traits worth noting from the RM Sotheby’s listing:
- Chassis Number / Rarity
This car is Chassis No. SA9AB5AC4R1048014 and is listed as the 14th road-specification F1 produced.
It’s also been modified: it was rebuilt in 2007 by McLaren in Woking, repainted into its current livery, and fitted with a High-Downforce Kit plus an LM-specification interior. - Provenance & Build History
Delivered new to the Brunei Royal Family with a Titanium Yellow over black finish, it later made its way to the U.K. and then the U.S., with service and refurbishment in McLaren’s own facilities.
The total cost just for refurbishment — including changing to LM-style components, new materials, and substantial mechanical work — is estimated to have exceeded $500,000. - Performance & Specification
Under its skin, it carries the DNA of McLaren’s race efforts. The listing emphasizes the car can deploy derestricted top speed of 391 km/h (in line with its pedigree as a high-performance F1).
Despite its race-capable upgrades, it still retains traits that make it a “road car” at heart — gold heat shielding in the engine bay, the iconic three-seat cockpit, and exquisite interior materials. - Accompanying Assets
The lot comes with original items like a Facom tool chest and its two-piece luggage set (tailored to the car). - Current Status
The car is currently in Abu Dhabi — and the listing notes that it’s entered the UAE under a temporary import bond. This means the buyer must either export the car or pay the local import duties / VAT to keep it in the country. - Valuation
The listing valuation is “Value In Excess Of $21,000,000 USD.”
Why Collectors Will Be Watching
This car isn’t just rare — it’s significant. Here are a few reasons why it should draw intense interest:
- Hybrid of road and race pedigree
The F1 platform famously won at Le Mans in GTR guise, and the LM specification (High-Downforce upgrades, race-derived parts) bridges the gap between road legality and track aggression. - Factory-performed modifications
Because the upgrades and rework were done by McLaren itself (or its official operations), this car gains legitimacy that aftermarket conversions often lack. - Strong provenance, careful maintenance
The documented lineage, service history, and the fact that McLaren Special Operations has been involved in its upkeep all strengthen confidence. - Astronomical attention / values
Previous McLaren F1 auctions have broken records. For example, an LM-spec F1 went for $19.8 million USD at Monterey in 2019.
What to Keep an Eye On
- Auction final price vs. estimate
The RM Sotheby’s listing states “Value in Excess of $21,000,000 USD” as a floor indicator. Whether it breaks that or goes far beyond will be thrilling to watch. - Import / tax / logistics issues
Because it’s already in the UAE under a temporary bond, handling customs & duties will be a factor. - Condition & “as-offered” fidelity
Even modest wear, servicing needs, or originality details may sway bidders at these levels. - Collector trends
Will this sale further cement the F1’s place among the most desirable modern-era supercars? Or will it reset the ceiling for ultra-high-end automotive auctions?
This 1994 McLaren F1 — rebuilt to LM specification, boasting high-downforce components, and steeped in elite provenance — is shaping up to be one of the marquee offerings of its auction cycle. For serious collectors, enthusiasts, and historians alike, it’s not just another car on the block. It’s a statement, a legend resurrected, and (likely) a multimillion-dollar attention magnet.
If you like, I can help you track live auction updates, provide comparisons with past F1 sales, or craft social media teasers for this lot. Do you want me to set that up?
Link to auction: https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/ad25/lots/r0004-1994-mclaren-f1/
