A Honda NSX personally allocated to three-time Formula 1 World Champion Ayrton Senna is heading to auction, offering collectors a rare chance to own a car directly linked to one of motorsport's greatest legends.
Key Highlights
- Ayrton Senna's Honda NSX is one of only three examples specifically allocated to the Brazilian F1 legend.
- Chassis T000233 features Formula Red paint, a black roof and a 271bhp three-litre V6 engine.
- Senna's feedback during testing at Suzuka Circuit helped prompt Honda to strengthen the NSX's chassis by 50 percent.
- The NSX will headline the lineup at RM Sotheby's The London Auction 2026, alongside several other high-profile supercars.
The Legend's Own Ride Goes Under the Hammer
Chassis T000233, finished in Formula Red with its distinctive black roof, was one of only three NSX models specifically allocated to Ayrton Senna. The car was imported by Honda Automobil de Portugal and stored in Lisbon, where it was delivered to Senna whenever he arrived in the country.
Under the hood sits a three-litre six-cylinder engine producing 271bhp, allowing the NSX to accelerate from 0-60mph in 5.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 165mph. Beyond those figures, however, its biggest appeal is its direct connection to the three-time Formula 1 World Champion.
Senna's Engineering Touch: Refining a Masterpiece
The NSX's significance goes beyond its connection to Senna as an owner. As Honda sought to challenge established supercar manufacturers such as Ferrari and Porsche, the company enlisted its star driver to help refine the groundbreaking model.
During a test drive at Japan's iconic Suzuka Circuit, Senna reportedly assessed the original chassis as "a little fragile." His feedback prompted Honda engineers to increase the chassis stiffness by 50 percent, while his input also contributed to refinements in the suspension tuning.
A Journey Through Time: From Portugal to the UK and Beyond
The NSX's history continued long after Senna's tragic death at the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. The car remained in Portugal for several years before heading to the UK, where it was acquired by new owner Robert McKagan.
It later travelled back to Japan in 2024 under subsequent ownership before being re-imported to the UK. The car also appeared in the 1992 documentary Racing Is in My Blood, adding another chapter to its connection with automotive and F1 history.
Beyond the NSX: Other Auction Gems
The RM Sotheby's The London Auction 2026 lineup offers plenty more for collectors, with Senna's NSX joined by several notable supercars.
Among them are a 2004 Porsche Carrera GT, 2023 Aston Martin Valkyrie Coupe, 1988 Ferrari F40 and 1994 Lamborghini Diablo SE30, alongside other automotive masterpieces.
