How To Own A Piece Of F1 History: Lewis Hamilton And Jenson Button’s McLarens Head To Auction

Broad Arrow, part of Hagerty and fast becoming a major player in collector car auctions, is preparing something very special. At the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Auction, taking place 24–25 May 2025 on the shores of Lake Como, they’ll present two McLaren MP4-12Cs once owned by F1 World Champions Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button.

It’s a rare chance to own supercars with world-class pedigree. These aren’t just McLarens with impeccable specs. They’re cars commissioned, configured, and driven by two of the most successful British racing drivers of all time.

McLaren MP4-12C: A Milestone in British Supercar Engineering

Launched in 2011, the McLaren MP4-12C marked the brand’s return to road car production since the legendary F1 of the ’90s. Designed under the guidance of Frank Stephenson, it wasn’t just fast. It redefined everyday usability in a supercar. With a 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 delivering 592bhp, it could hit 60mph in around 3 seconds, while remaining surprisingly civilised around town.

Key to its development were McLaren’s two star drivers at the time – Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button. Both contributed feedback during testing, from cockpit ergonomics to paddle-shift adjustments, shaping how the MP4-12C felt to drive.

Hamilton’s MP4-12C: Volcano Red with Monaco Provenance

Hamilton’s personal car, finished in striking Volcano Red, is the more travelled of the two. Initially registered in Switzerland in March 2012, it later moved with him to Monaco. The car even featured in a Swizz Beatz music video during a trip to Cannes.

This MP4-12C is loaded with desirable options:

• Stealth Pack
• Carbon fibre detailing including front spoiler, diffuser, and mirror casings
• Satin Dark Grey five-spoke wheels
• Swipe door opening system (a rare feature phased out in later models)
• Privacy tints added by Hamilton himself

Inside, you’ll find Harissa Red leather and Black Alcantara – a bold pairing befitting a seven-time F1 champion. The car’s chassis number is SBM11AAB4CW000132, and it’s covered just 8,500km.

Expected to fetch €175,000 – €225,000 (£149,427 – £192,108), Hamilton’s MP4-12C isn’t just an exquisite example – it’s a collector’s dream with historic significance.

Button’s MP4-12C: A More Subtle, Yet Equally Stunning Machine

While Button had access to the first MP4-12C production car, it went back to Woking for further R&D. Instead, he personally configured a second one – this time to his taste.

Finished in Elite Pearl White with a two-tone Harissa Red and Black leather interior, his MP4-12C feels sophisticated and understated. Like Hamilton’s car, it features carbon fibre trim, but with a few subtle touches that reflect Button’s cool, collected personality.

Delivered via McLaren Monaco, it eventually made its way to a UK-based private collection, where it has remained since 2012. It’s been maintained by authorised McLaren dealers and currently shows less than 12,000km.

Its chassis number is SBM11AAB4CW000764, and unlike Hamilton’s, it’s right-hand drive. Offered without reserve, the estimate is €125,000 – €150,000 (£106,699 – £128,039).

Why These Two Cars Stand Out in a Crowded Supercar Market

While over 3,000 MP4-12Cs were produced, few – if any – can match these two in terms of provenance. Designed by drivers who helped shape modern Formula One, both cars carry the fingerprints of the sport’s elite.

Their direct links to McLaren’s racing DNA only add to the appeal. Hamilton and Button didn’t just own these cars – they helped develop them. That makes these cars part of both motoring history and motorsport lore.

Add to that the low production numbers, individual specifications, and meticulous maintenance, and you’ve got two highly desirable assets for any serious collector.

About Broad Arrow’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Auction

This will be Broad Arrow’s first appearance at the prestigious Villa d’Este, an event renowned for its world-class setting and rare car entries. Partnering with the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este – one of the most elegant classic car shows on the calendar – signals Broad Arrow’s growing influence in Europe.

For collectors, the venue itself adds another layer of glamour. A successful bid at Villa d’Este carries more than just a price tag – it carries prestige.

Conclusion: Two McLarens. Two Legends. One Rare Opportunity.

Owning a supercar once driven by an F1 World Champion is already special. But owning a car that was shaped by their feedback, customised to their taste, and part of their personal history? That’s next level.

Whether you lean towards Hamilton’s extroverted Volcano Red coupe or prefer the refined Pearl White style of Button’s example, these MP4-12Cs offer more than performance – they offer a story worth driving.

Which one would you choose? Would you keep it in your collection or drive it regularly? Drop your thoughts in the comments – we’d love to hear from you.

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