The S1 LM supercar, developed by Gordon Murray Special Vehicles, achieved a staggering sale price of $20,630,000 at an auction held in Las Vegas on November 21, 2023. This record-breaking sale marks the most expensive new car ever sold at auction, excluding charitable sales, solidifying its status in the luxury automotive market.
The auction took place during the amfAR charity’s Gala Dinner, which coincided with the Las Vegas Formula One Grand Prix. The dramatic entrance of the S1 LM, arriving suspended beneath a helicopter, set a theatrical tone for the evening. This display underscored the vehicle’s exclusivity as the final chassis from a limited production run of just five units.
Bidding for the supercar was intense, with collectors both present at the gala and participating remotely. The final hammer price not only reflects the car’s rarity but also resonates throughout the luxury and automotive sectors, indicating a significant appreciation for high-end engineering.
Unmatched Ownership Experience
The winning bidder is set to embark on an extraordinary ownership journey, which includes a unique 500-page monograph detailing the S1 LM’s creation. This comprehensive book features original sketches and insights from Gordon Murray himself, enhancing the value of the ownership experience.
Professor Gordon Murray, CBE, expressed his pride in the auction 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.”
With its name evoking memories of the iconic McLaren F1 LM, the S1 LM stands as the first creation from Gordon Murray Special Vehicles. Each of the five planned supercars embodies a blend of lightweight engineering and timeless design principles. Elements of the car reflect Murray’s seven guiding principles: Driving Perfection, Lightweight, Engineering Art, A Return to Beauty, Exclusivity, and The Customer Journey.
Future of Luxury Automotive
Unveiled in August 2025 during Monterey Car Week, the S1 LM quickly captured the attention of enthusiasts and collectors alike. All five supercars were purchased by a single individual, although details regarding the ownership of the remaining four chassis remain undisclosed.
The record-setting sale of the S1 LM indicates not only the financial value of luxury vehicles but also their cultural significance. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the S1 LM serves as a testament to the artistry and engineering excellence that defines high-performance supercars.
