Ayrton Senna's 1986 Lotus 98T Formula 1 Car Heads To Auction
The iconic John Player Special-liveried racer is expected to fetch up to $12 million USD.
Summary
- RM Sotheby’s is preparing to auction the legendary 1986 Lotus 98T driven by Ayrton Senna during his formative Formula One years
- The historic racing chassis boasts an impeccable provenance, securing two Grand Prix victories and five pole positions during the 1986 season
- Bidding for the fully operational track weapon opens in March via a sealed online auction
Automotive collectors and motorsport enthusiasts are gearing up for a monumental offering as Ayrton Senna’s 1986 Lotus 98T heads to auction. Handled exclusively by RM Sotheby’s, the legendary Formula 1 car represents a defining era of the sport and is expected to command a staggering hammer price between $9.5 million and $12 million USD.
Constructed for the 1986 Formula One World Championship, Chassis 98T-3 was piloted by the Brazilian racing icon during eight Grands Prix. Behind the wheel of this specific car, Senna secured five pole positions, three podium finishes, and two major victories at the Spanish and United States Grands Prix. The vehicle is instantly recognizable by its striking black and gold John Player Special livery, standing as the final Formula One model to wear the historic colorway.
Under the aerodynamic bodywork, the Lotus 98T is powered by a fire-breathing Renault 1.5-liter turbocharged V6 engine. Widely regarded as one of the most powerful machines of the mid-1980s turbo era, the motor pushes roughly 900 horsepower in race trim and edges toward an astonishing 1,200 horsepower in its aggressive qualifying setup. Following an intricate restoration by Lanzante, the historic track weapon retains its original engine and remains completely operational for the track.
The 1986 Lotus 98T driven by Ayrton Senna will be offered via an RM Sotheby’s sealed online auction, with bidding open from March 4 through March 11, 2026.
