Lewis Hamilton's F1 Car Sets Auction Record

 

A historic moment unfolded in Las Vegas during the weekend as the world's top drivers participated in the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix. Simultaneously, just a short distance away at the Sotheby's auction, another milestone was etched into history as Lewis Hamilton's iconic Mercedes race car, a seven-time champion, fetched USD$18.8 million (AU$29 million), establishing a new record in the realm of automotive auctions.

Notably, the final sale price of the Mercedes W04 exceeded the initial auction estimates set by RM Sotheby's, ranging between USD$10 million and USD$15 million. This remarkable surpassing of expectations underscores the significance of the iconic vehicle and the prominence of its acclaimed driver. Explore the reasons behind this achievement below.

The vehicle in question was the Mercedes-AMG Petronas W04, Lewis Hamilton's inaugural car for his new team. This sleek V8 machine, adorned in silver and teal, served as Hamilton's steadfast companion in 14 out of 19 events during the 2013 season. Its defining moment occurred at the Hungarian Grand Prix that same year, where Hamilton secured a resounding victory for the team. Described as a "seminal piece in the story of the winningest Formula One driver of all time, 103 races and counting."

Unveiled in February 2013 at the Jerez track in southern Spain, the W04 was the last Formula One car with a V-8 engine before the transition to the hybrid V-6 setup in 2014. Powered by a 2.4-liter V-8 revving up to 18,000 rpm, producing 750 horsepower, and an additional 80 horses available through its kinetic energy recovery system (KERS). The engine was paired with a seven-speed semi-automatic transmission co-developed with Xtrac.

What set it apart was the front-to-rear inter-connected suspension (FRIC), significantly enhancing its grip. It also featured the last high nose among Mercedes-AMG F1 cars. According to the Mercedes-AMG team, the W04 represented the most substantial performance improvement the team had achieved up to that point. Notably, its full original engine and transmission are included in the sale, indicating its capability to tackle the track once more.

The Vegas auction offered more than just Hamilton's car, with other noteworthy lots including Ralph Lauren's 1984 Lamborghini Countach 5000 S (sold for $830,000 USD) and Michael Schumacher's 2003 Ferrari race suit ($102,000 USD). Collectors also had their eyes on lots like the 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG Coupe (sold for $720,000 USD) and the 2022 Ferrari 812 Competizione (sold for $1,765,000 USD).

Adding to the allure, a Tom Brady Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2023 Final Game Worn & Signed Jersey was also up for grabs (sold for $1,391,000 USD), creating a true treasure trove for the affluent clientele.

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