The Gordon Murray Automotive brand has once again made waves in the automotive world with a record-breaking auction for its upcoming supercar, the S1 LM, fetching an astounding US$20.63 million (NZ$34m) in Las Vegas.
This isn’t just about buying a car; it’s about being part of its creation. The first chassis of the S1 LM went to someone willing to drop over 20 million dollars for the right to help design and develop this exclusive hypercar alongside Professor Murray himself. That’s more than most people will ever make in their lifetime, let alone spend on a car.
The S1 LM is no mere facsimile of past glories. It’s an evolution built on the legacy of the McLaren F1 GTR but with a modern twist: a 4.3-liter naturally aspirated V12 pumping out around 530kW, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox for those who still believe in shifting gears themselves.
But here’s where it gets interesting. With only five examples ever to be made, and now one of them sold at auction, there’s mystery surrounding the original deal that announced all slots were filled by a single buyer. This public auction suggests either deals are being revisited or the initial owner is selling off parts privately.
As for the car’s design philosophy, it adheres to Murray’s signature three-seat layout with driver-centric focus and lightweight materials inside. Expect no distractions – just pure driving pleasure, courtesy of that V12 engine which screams like a banshee, so loud you’ll need headphones in your ears while driving.
With deliveries expected in 2026, car enthusiasts have plenty to look forward to. However, it’s worth questioning whether the astronomical price tag is justified by more than just exclusivity and the thrill of being part of history in the making. Is this supercar for true collectors or simply a status symbol?
Regardless of one’s opinion on its value, the S1 LM marks another chapter in Murray’s legacy – a man who has already left an indelible mark with cars like the T.50 and his work at McLaren.
