Among the world’s most valuable and iconic collector cars, one machine stands out for combining two legendary worlds: rock music and motorsport. This is the McLaren F1 GTR chassis 10R owned by Nick Mason, the legendary drummer of Pink Floyd.
More than just a million-dollar collector car, this McLaren carries a unique racing history and represents one of the most remarkable chapters in McLaren’s motorsport legacy.
The McLaren F1 GTR “Pop Art” Chassis 10R
Nick Mason’s car is a 1996 McLaren F1 GTR with chassis number 10R. It was one of only two Short-Tail XP prototypes built by McLaren and became the first customer-specification F1 GTR developed for the 1996 racing season.
The car’s most recognizable feature is its striking red and yellow “Pop Art” livery, making it one of the most famous McLaren F1 GTRs ever produced.
Because of its unique appearance, the car earned the nickname “The Pop Art F1”, becoming a favorite among motorsport fans and collectors around the world.
From McLaren Development Car to Nick Mason’s Collection
Before becoming part of Nick Mason’s private collection, chassis 10R served an important role in McLaren’s racing development program.
The car was used as a factory development and testing vehicle during preparations for the 1996 racing season, including evaluation work for endurance competition.
After completing its factory duties, McLaren sold the car to Nick Mason in 1999. The company later modified it to make the race car suitable for road use, allowing Mason to enjoy one of the greatest GT racing machines ever built.
Powered by BMW’s Legendary V12 Engine
The McLaren F1 GTR was powered by the legendary BMW S70/2 6.1-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, the same powerplant that helped make the original McLaren F1 famous.
Specifications:
- Engine: BMW S70/2 V12
- Displacement: 6.1 liters
- Power output: Around 600 hp
- Transmission: 6-speed manual gearbox
- Chassis: Carbon fiber monocoque
- Drive system: Rear-wheel drive
- Weight: Approximately 1,000 kg
The combination of a lightweight carbon-fiber structure and a high-revving V12 engine gave the F1 GTR incredible performance and a unique driving experience.
A Racing Legend With Le Mans Heritage
The McLaren F1 GTR became famous after its incredible performance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans 1995, where a McLaren F1 GTR won the race overall against purpose-built prototypes.
That victory cemented the F1 GTR’s reputation as one of the greatest GT race cars in history.
Although Nick Mason’s chassis 10R was not the 1995 Le Mans winner, it remains historically significant because of its factory development background and its connection to McLaren’s racing evolution.
Nick Mason: A Collector Who Drives His Cars
Unlike many collectors who keep rare cars hidden away, Nick Mason is known for actively enjoying his collection.
The Pink Floyd drummer has regularly brought his historic cars to events such as the Goodwood Festival of Speed, allowing fans to see and hear these machines in action.
His collection also includes other legendary cars such as the Ferrari 250 GTO, Ferrari F40, Ferrari 512 S, Bugatti Type 35, and Jaguar D-Type.
A $35 Million Automotive Masterpiece
With its rarity, racing heritage, and famous ownership history, the McLaren F1 GTR chassis 10R is considered one of the most valuable McLaren F1s in existence.
Its estimated value has reached more than $35 million, placing it among the most desirable collector cars in the world.
The Perfect Combination of Music and Motorsport
Nick Mason’s McLaren F1 GTR is more than just a racing car. It represents creativity, engineering excellence, and passion — qualities shared by both Pink Floyd’s music and McLaren’s approach to motorsport.
A masterpiece from the golden era of racing, the “Pop Art” McLaren F1 GTR remains a symbol of British innovation and one of the greatest collector cars ever created.
