A historic piece of Formula 1 history is set to hit the auction block. RM Sotheby’s has been tasked with selling the F1 race car that Lewis Hamilton drove to secure his first victory for Mercedes-Benz AMG at the 2013 Hungarian Grand Prix.
This win holds great significance as it marked the beginning of Hamilton’s remarkable journey, culminating in his unprecedented six world championship titles. Prior to his move to Mercedes, Hamilton claimed his initial title in 2008 while racing for McLaren.
The car up for auction is identified by its chassis number, F1W04-04, and was driven by Hamilton in 14 out of the 19 races of the 2013 F1 season. Although he only emerged victorious at the Hungarian round, Hamilton demonstrated his skill and potential, ultimately paving the way for his future successes. Meanwhile, Sebastian Vettel, driving for Red Bull Racing, secured the championship title that season.
RM Sotheby’s has estimated the selling price for this iconic vehicle to be between $10 million and $15 million. This valuation comes as no surprise, given that historically significant Mercedes F1 cars rarely become available for sale. Most of them remain in the possession of Mercedes, Toto Wolff (CEO or co-owner of the Mercedes F1 team), or the car’s driver. Notably, this particular car still retains its power unit and transmission, a rarity among sold F1 cars, according to an RM Sotheby’s spokesperson.
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Furthermore, the 2013 season marked the end of the V-8 engine era in F1, with the subsequent season introducing the current V-6 format. The car up for auction features a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter V-8 engine paired with a KERS-style hybrid system.
Interested buyers will have the opportunity to bid on this historic vehicle during the RM Sotheby’s auction, scheduled for November 17. The auction will take place at the Wynn Las Vegas hotel, coinciding with the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Remarkably, the auction will occur just one day before Hamilton himself races down the iconic Las Vegas Strip in his current Mercedes F1 car.
It is worth noting that this is not the first time an F1 car driven by Hamilton has gone up for auction. In 2021, a McLaren F1 car from the 2010 season, piloted by both Hamilton and his teammate Jenson Button, fetched a staggering $6.45 million.
The opportunity to own one of the cars that propelled Lewis Hamilton to greatness is truly a unique one. With its significant historical value and the talented driver who maneuvered it to victory, this Mercedes F1 car holds immense appeal for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
As fans eagerly await the auction, the sale of this iconic vehicle will likely provide a glimpse into the soaring prices and demand for Formula 1 memorabilia. Whether in the hands of a passionate collector or displayed in a museum, this piece of Formula 1 history is sure to leave an indelible mark on the world of motorsport.
