Piloting a McLaren MP4/6 with a broken gearbox at the high-stakes Brazil Grand Prix of 1991, Ayrton Senna not only scored the gold of Formula 1 but also ensured his car a place in the Hall of Fame as one of the most impressive racing machines ever created. It is now heading to an RM Sotheby’s auction with an estimated selling price between 12–15 million USD.
That fateful race marked Senna’s eighth attempt to ascertain dominance on his own country’s Interlagos Circuit. He had attempted to become the champion of his domestic track for seven times, but without success. It was only when the race was nearing its end that Senna finally managed to pull ahead – only to discover that his gearbox broke down.
With just 10 laps remaining before the finish, the driver considered using the rain that recently began to his advantage. Senna’s piloting skills on wet tarmac were formidable, and if he could keep driving with the broken shift mechanism, he might just be able to win. The problem was, the box was stuck in the highest, sixth gear, and Senna ended up having to stay in that gear until the finish line. He snatched a narrow victory from Riccardo Patrese, coming not even three seconds ahead of him.
That impressive racecar is now up for grabs in the United States in what the seller describes as fully repaired and track-ready condition. It packs its standard 3.5-liter V12 that sends 750 PS (740 hp / 552 kW) to the wheels through a now-functional transmission. Up to the year 2020, it had stayed in the McLaren private collection, receiving a full restoration along the way and regular maintenance from Lanzante.
The seller points out that, once the auction is concluded, the car will be sent to Lanzante for another last-minute checkup, just to make sure it runs fine. It is being sold along with all the necessary racing equipment and a McLaren Certificate of Authenticity, so there should be no issues.
