Imagine owning a piece of Formula 1 history—a car that not only marked the debut of a future champion but also secured the final victory for a racing legend. But here's where it gets exciting: Sotheby’s is auctioning off Kimi Räikkönen’s McLaren MP4-17 from his rookie season, and it’s the very car that delivered David Coulthard’s last Grand Prix win. The best part? It’s being sold without reserve, meaning the highest bidder takes it home, no matter the price. This isn’t just any F1 car—it’s a time capsule from the 2002 and 2003 seasons, driven by two of the sport’s most iconic figures. And this is the part most people miss: this chassis, the MP4-17A-06, was designed by the legendary Adrian Newey, featuring cutting-edge innovations like sculpted lower front wishbones and a powerful 3.0-litre Mercedes-Benz V10 engine. It’s a machine that dominated tracks, securing six podiums, including Coulthard’s triumphant 2003 Australian Grand Prix win. But here’s the controversial bit: while some see this as a priceless relic, others argue its value pales in comparison to the $60 million 1955 Mercedes W196 driven by Juan Manuel Fangio. So, is this McLaren a steal or just another collector’s item? Let’s debate in the comments. Either way, owning this car means holding a piece of F1’s golden era—a story that spans Räikkönen’s rise and Coulthard’s farewell. Will you be the one to bring it home? And here’s the kicker: Earlier this year, Michael Schumacher’s F2001 fetched $18.5 million, and Bernie Ecclestone’s 69-car collection sold for a staggering $650 million. So, where does this McLaren fit in the grand scheme of F1 auctions? That’s for you to decide. Ready to place your bid? The auction is live, and history is up for grabs.
