The very first Grand Prix car driven by racing legend Ayrton Senna is on sale for £3.3 million.
He was behind the wheel of the 1984 Toleman TG183B for his debut race at that year’s Brazilian Grand Prix.
He drove it in four rounds of the 1984 season coming 6th place in South Africa and Belgium earning Senna his first World Championship points.
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It is described as being wonderfully preserved with many authentic features.
And still has his named – spelled incorrectly – in the footwell.
The motor is powered by a period-correct Hart 415T engine mated to a rebuilt gearbox.
Ayrton Senna’s topflight record began with the car recognisable for a distinctive front wing-mounted radiator and twin rear wings.
After being retired by Toleman, the car was initially retained by the Enstone team.
It was then sold in 1992 to the United States and sympathetically restored, as reported by WhatsTheJam.
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The Toleman eventually returned to the United Kingdom ahead of being purchased by its current owner in 2017.
In 2022, Sky Sports F1 released the celebratory documentary The Story of Toleman.
Chassis TG183B-05 starred in a track test at former British Grand Prix venue Brands Hatch.
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In what is believed to have been its first run on a circuit since 1984, the car was driven by Martin Brundle.
Two years later, chassis TG183B-05 again returned to TV screens as Sky Sports F1 marked the 40th anniversary of Senna’s first Grand Prix and 30 years since he was killed at Imola.
The car was piloted by Pierre Gasly.
Wearing a specially commissioned yellow, blue, and green helmet in tribute to Senna’s iconic design, Gasly said: “I can’t remember such an incredible experience.
“Driving Senna’s first-ever F1 car exceeded all my expectations.
“It was so emotional.
“The purity of the driving is incredible.
“A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I will never forget.
“Very, very special.”
Senna was three-time Formula 1 World Champion.
He had 41 Grand Prix victories from 161 starts, a further 39 podiums, and 65 pole positions.
The Toleman’s listing says: “Testament to its preservation, TG183B-05 heads to auction in Monaco retaining many authentic features, including its original gear lever and knob while still showing Aryton on the footrest.
“It is offered in running condition, powered by a correct-type Hart 415T engine and benefitting from a rebuilt turbocharger and transmission.
“Whether the next owner wishes to return this car to competition in the historic F1 series for which it is eligible, including the blue-ribband Monaco Historic Grand Prix, perform demonstration runs, exhibit the car, or keep it as part of a private collection, chassis TG183B-05 will forever remain a key chapter in the Senna story.
“The opportunity to acquire such a significant piece of motorsport history is not to be missed.”
It is being sold by RM Sotheby’s in Monaco on 25 April with a guide price of £3.3 million.
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