Honda Auctions Last Ayrton Senna F1 V10 Engine from 1990 Season

Honda is set to auction the historic V10 engine that Ayrton Senna last raced during the 1990 Formula 1 season. Unlike typical engines from that era, which were dismantled and discarded after races, this specific engine, serial number V805, was preserved due to timing and circumstances. It powered Senna's McLaren MP4/5B during notable events, including the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka and the Australian Grand Prix in Adelaide—marking the final competition for Senna with Honda's V10 machinery. Initially, Honda's standard protocol involved returning engines to their facilities for analysis and then disposal. However, V805 remained stored in Honda's warehouse until its rediscovery last year. This 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V10 produced over 680 horsepower at 12,800 rpm and played a crucial role in securing Senna's second world title. The engine's racing history is significant, notably for its involvement in pivotal moments like the Suzuka collision with Alain Prost and the Adelaide race where a gear issue prevented victory. As the last V10 engine used by Senna, it symbolizes the end of an era in F1. Honda's presentation of this engine is a visual masterpiece: each component is m...