A F1 car that was driven by an ex-world champion is up for sale for a staggering price.
This 2006 McLaren-Mercedes-Benz is chassis number MP4/21-2 and was driven during eight Grand Prix.
The racecar helped world champion Kimi Raikkonen land various top F1 prizes, and now is going under the hammer with Abu Dhabi Auction.
It was designed for the 2006 Formula One season by McLaren‘s chief engineer Adrian Newey.
According to Mercedes-Benz vice-president Norbert Haug, the car was the car was a designing challenge.
At the time Mr Haug said: “The aim was to further reduce drag and maintain or even increase downforce – which with the given limitations reminded the technicians that it is possible to achieve the impossible.
“As a result of this complex task it was important to invest sufficient time before the final definitions were made.”
The vehicle, which is a successor to the 2005 model, has a tighter packaging in the rear and lower nose.
Manufacturers fitted the car with the same moulds as the real race-used cars and features a number of FIA approved race parts.
The exterior is made of carbon fibre and aluminium honeycomb composite – with front and side impact structures.
The front suspension has a damper system operated by a bell crank and a double wishbone arrangement.
The motor boasts a capacity of 2,400cc and a V8 cylinder engine with double overhead camshaft valves.
And it can reach a maximum speed of over 200mph – boosted by Michelin tyres.
The Formula 1 car has scored World Championship points six times – with champion Kemi Raikkonen behind the wheel.
Raikkonen drove the car during the Australian GP in Albert Park, Australia – where he scooped second place.
And he scored top prizes during the European GP in Germany, Spain and Italy.
It has also suffered memorable accidents – including the one in Malaysan GP in Kuala Lumpur.
While racing in Monte Carlo, the vehicle’s engine suffered an overheating off-beat incident.
The car still preserves its authentic F1 feel despite being subject to a full restoration.
Motors auctioneers at Bonhams Cars said: “This car has not been run since its restoration by McLaren.
“The car was subject to an extensive restoration by the McLaren Formula 1 team prior to passing into the hands of our vendor.
“It is complete with the necessary equipment required to run the car such as laptop, pre-heater and engine starter.”
The MP4 is expected to go down between $2.5 to $3.5 million (£2 to £2.8m).
It comes as another iconic sports car which was owned and specially modified by a F1 cult hero is up for grabs.
The 1998 Nissan Skyline up for auction was previously owned and upgraded by Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert.
