Ayrton Senna, his legendary McLaren MP4/6 Heads to Auction

On the occasion of the upcoming Brazilian Grand Prix, one of the most iconic artifacts in motorsport history is set to go under the hammer. It’s the McLaren MP4/6 driven by Ayrton Senna during the 1991 Formula 1 season. The auction will be held by the renowned house RM Sotheby’s, and expectations are sky-high for what is bound to be a record-breaking sale.

This legendary machine marked an era of dominance for both Senna and the english team. The MP4/6 clinched the 1991 World Championship, securing both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ titles thanks to an impressive tally of eight wins out of sixteen races. A remarkable 50% success rate.

Mclaren MP4/6, V12 engine and 6 speed manual gearbox

Unveiled just days before the season opener, the MP4/6 was powered by the brand-new Honda V12 engine, replacing the V10 used in the previous two years. It still featured a six-speed manual gearbox.

This was a more traditional choice compared to Ferrari and Williams, who had already adopted semi-automatic transmissions.

Aerodynamically, McLaren chose a more conservative path. Unlike competitors such as the Benetton B191 or the Tyrrell 020, the MP4/6 did not feature a raised nose, maintaining a classic yet highly efficient design.

The chassis MP4/6-1, now for sale at RM Sotheby’s is considered one of McLaren’s most revered creations, forever tied to one of the greatest drives by one of the greatest of all time. It is astonishing that such an almost mythical car was ever allowed to leave the McLaren factory. Yet it did, having been acquired by its current consignor in 2020.

Ayrton Senna and the 1991 Interlagos Win

Before the sale, chassis MP4/6-1 was fully recommissioned to race-ready condition by the english Heritage. Later entrusted to marque specialist Paul Lanzante Ltd for a fluid change, service, and static start-up. It will return once more to Lanzante Ltd (McLaren Petersfield) for final inspection and startup before being handed over to its new owner.

The car will be offered with an official McLaren Certificate of Authenticity and all the necessary starting equipment. This includes an external starter, water tower, remote dash, fuel primer, and engine pre-heater.

A true piece of Formula 1 history, this McLaren MP4/6 is not merely a racing car. it’s a symbol of perfection, courage, and the eternal legacy of Ayrton Senna.

Link to access the sale on RM Sotheby’s here: https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/as25/lots/r0001-1991-mclaren-mp46/