You could own Ayrton Senna’s legendary 1991 McLaren MP4/6

A Legend for Sale: Ayrton Senna’s 1991 McLaren MP4/6

One of the most significant machines in Formula 1 history is currently up for grabs. The McLaren MP4/6, driven by the legendary Ayrton Senna during his championship-winning 1991 season, is being auctioned online by RM Sotheby’s.

This car isn't just a piece of memorabilia; it marks the end of an era. It was the final Formula 1 car equipped with a V12 engine and a manual gearbox to ever win a World Championship.

The Last "Analogue" Champion

Designed under the direction of Neil Oatley, the MP4/6 is often considered the last true "analogue" F1 car before the digital age took over.

• Engine: A naturally aspirated 3.5-liter Honda V12.

• Power: A massive 735 hp.

• Transmission: A classic six-speed manual stick shift.

A Witness to History: The Brazilian Grand Prix

This specific chassis, MP4/6/1, is steeped in history. It was the first car built for the 1991 season and was famously used by Senna to secure one of his most emotional victories: the 1991 Brazilian Grand Prix.

During the race in Sao Paulo, the car’s transmission began to fail, eventually losing all gears except sixth. Battling rain and mechanical failure, Senna drove a masterclass in defensive driving, nursing the car home in sixth gear to finish ahead of Riccardo Patrese.

That season, Senna claimed seven race victories and his third (and final) World Drivers' Championship.

Provenance and Price

Following its retirement from racing, this chassis resided in McLaren’s private collection for 30 years before being sold in 2020. Before being handed over to its new owner, the car will undergo final preparations by McLaren specialist Lanzante.

The Cost of History Owning a legend comes with a steep price tag. RM Sotheby’s has estimated the car’s value between £9 million and £11.5 million.

Bidding for this historic vehicle is scheduled to close on Thursday, December 11, 2025.