The McLaren F1 GTR, one of the most iconic supercars ever made, once had its shift knob stolen from under the noses of its custodians at BMW Group Classic USA. The incident, confirmed by the department’s head, Tom Plucinsky, serves as a reminder that even multi-million-dollar automotive history isn’t immune to petty theft.
Why Does BMW Own This McLaren?
The connection between the British supercar and the German automaker might seem strange, but it’s rooted in engineering. The F1 is powered by a BMW-built S70 V12 engine. BMW Motorsport also ran examples of the F1 in racing during the 1990s, including chassis 17R, which finished eighth at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This racing history led to BMW acquiring the car as part of its USA Classics Collection.
The Shift Knob Incident: A $900 Lesson Learned
The theft occurred “several years ago” at a car show, according to Plucinsky. While the replacement cost around $900 a decade ago, the incident prompted BMW to increase security around the car. The F1 GTR, now displayed at events like Amelia Island Concours and Pebble Beach, is occasionally driven on race tracks – as it should be, given its heritage.
The High Cost of Keeping a Legend Running
Maintaining the F1 GTR isn’t cheap. Every ten years, the car undergoes a major service that includes engine inspection, gearbox rebuilds, and a thorough overhaul of every component. Replacing brake pads alone sets BMW back around $50,000, making the stolen shift knob seem like a minor expense.
This incident underscores the value of automotive history, but also the simple fact that even priceless objects can fall victim to theft.
While the idea of someone slapping a McLaren shift knob onto a beat-up BMW might be amusing, the theft represents a loss of a small piece of automotive legacy. Fortunately, BMW keeps the car accessible for public viewing and occasional track runs, ensuring this masterpiece isn’t hidden away indefinitely. The doors are now likely locked tighter, though, just in case.
