[Lewis Hamilton’s Role in McLaren Road Car Development]

Lewis Hamilton, one of the most successful Formula 1 drivers in history, started his career with McLaren and played a significant role in refining their road cars. In 2007, he joined the Woking-based team and won his first F1 race with that same year.

[The Development of the MP4-12C Supercar]

The following season, Hamilton claimed his first world title by a mere point. However, his time at McLaren wasn’t just about racing and simulator work. He also assisted ‘s road car division, particularly in the development of the MP4-12C supercar.

The MP4-12C marked McLaren‘s return to building supercars since the 1990s. Developed from the mid-2000s, this car aimed to bring Formula 1 engineering to the road, featuring carbon fiber and a bespoke dual-clutch gearbox for swift shifts.

Given that McLaren consulted with its F1 drivers on the finished product, it was natural for Hamilton to offer feedback. He reportedly suggested modifications to the steering input and shifters, requesting a slimmer wheel and adjustments to the paddle shifters used for gear changes. These suggestions were incorporated into the production models sold by .

In return for his consultancy work, Hamilton was gifted one of the first MP4-12Cs off the production line. This vibrant red car, symbolizing his dream of racing in red, came equipped with a roaring 592hp, twin-turbocharged V8 engine at the rear. It remained in his collection for several years, accumulating nearly 5,000 miles over its 12 years on the road.

[The Auction of Lewis Hamilton’s MP4-12C]

Now, this unique piece of F1 history is looking for a new home. You or your wealthiest friend could be its next owner! Hamilton’s old car will be auctioned by Broad Arrow during its Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este auction next month. The car is expected to sell for as much as £190,000 at the sale in Italy.

During the same auction, another MP4-12C, previously owned by Hamilton’s McLaren team-mate Jenson Button, will also be up for grabs. Finished in white, this car is projected to sell for around £125,000.