The S1 LM supercar has made history by selling for an astonishing $20,630,000 (approximately £16 million) at an auction in Las Vegas. The auction, conducted by Gordon Murray Special Vehicles (GMSV), took place on November 21, 2023, during a gala dinner hosted in partnership with the Las Vegas Formula One Grand Prix. This sale marks a significant milestone, establishing the S1 LM as the most expensive new car ever sold at auction, excluding charitable sales.
The dramatic unveiling of the S1 LM set an unforgettable tone for the evening. Suspended beneath a helicopter, the supercar arrived at the Wynn Las Vegas venue in a theatrical showcase that highlighted its elite status, often referred to as “The Special One.” Bidding was intense, with collectors present at the gala and remote bidders participating globally, ultimately leading to a record-breaking hammer price that will resonate throughout the luxury automotive sector.
In a statement about the sale, Professor Gordon Murray, CBE, expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm, describing the record auction result as a defining moment for both GMSV and the automotive industry. He stated, “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. To see it achieve this scale of appreciation is truly humbling.”
The Unique Journey of Ownership
The winning bidder is not just purchasing a rare supercar; they are embarking on a unique customer journey that includes exclusive ownership benefits. In addition to the S1 LM, the buyer will receive a meticulously crafted 500-page monograph detailing the car’s creation. This book features original sketches and notes from Murray’s design notebook, providing a deeper connection to the vehicle’s artistry.
The S1 LM is the first and most exclusive model produced by Gordon Murray Special Vehicles, with only five units planned. Each car is a testament to lightweight engineering and timeless design, embodying Murray’s seven principles: Driving Perfection, Lightweight, Engineering Art, A Return to Beauty, Exclusivity, and The Customer Journey.
The S1 LM was first unveiled in August 2025 during Monterey Car Week, where it was announced that all five supercars were purchased by a single individual. While the Las Vegas auction has captured significant attention, details regarding the ownership of the remaining four chassis remain undisclosed.
This historic sale not only transforms the S1 LM into a coveted collector’s item but also reinforces Gordon Murray’s legacy in the automotive industry, showcasing the intersection of art and engineering in modern supercar design.
