One of seven McLaren F1s exported new to the United States through Ameritech, chassis no. 062 has enjoyed just three private owners, including Oracle software CEO Larry Ellison who bought it new in 1997.
In the early ’90s, the McLaren F1 quietly reshaped what the world expected from a supercar, with its motorsport-derived design, central driving position, and a price tag north of $1 million. Owners like Rowan Atkinson and Elon Musk bought them new, recognizing a rare opportunity even then. What started as an ambitious, high-priced build has since evolved into one of the most sought-after collector cars on the planet, with some examples now selling for well over $20 million. RM Sotheby’s is proud to consider itself an expert curator of McLaren F1 sales, having sold a 1994 McLaren F1 LM (chassis 018) at its Monterey auction in August 2019 for $19.8 million. Lightning is striking twice for RM Sotheby’s as it gears up to showcase this 1997 McLaren F1 as part of its 2025 Monterey auction.
Even among 106 McLaren F1s, chassis 062 stands out for its story. Delivered new in 1997 to Larry Ellison, it’s one of just seven F1s imported to the U.S. through Ameritech and one of very few that managed to stay road legal in California without going through the full federalization process. From day one, it’s lived in the San Francisco Bay Area, where each of its three owners, Ellison included, have kept it well-preserved and lightly driven. With just under 6,500 miles on the odometer, it’s one of the lower-mileage F1s around. That mileage is backed by a thorough service history and documentation dating back to its original invoice.
The F1 received thoughtful updates over the years through McLaren Special Operations. Things like improved air conditioning, upgraded radiators, an aluminum fuel tank, and a sports exhaust system have made it more livable without losing its originality. It even has its original magnesium wheels, with a spare set in matte black included. The car also recently went through a major round of service at McLaren Philadelphia, including a transmission rebuild, fresh tires, and attention to the gold foil heat shielding in the engine bay. All work was done by certified F1 technicians, and the car’s condition was recently documented in a detailed inspection report.
What makes 062 especially interesting is how consistent its history has been. It hasn’t bounced around the globe or seen drastic changes; it’s stayed in California its entire life. Unlike many F1s that were repainted or retrimmed at some point, this one still wears its original Magnesium Silver finish and black interior. It also comes with just about everything it left the factory with, books, tools, luggage, and even the McLaren-branded detailing kit. For a car that’s been called the best driver’s car of all time, 062 is about as complete and consistent as it gets. And while most people will focus on the $23 million+ valuation, what really sets this one apart is the quiet, well-documented life it’s lived.
Source: RM Sotheby’s/Zach Brehl