√2023 Formula One car listed for sale – with a catch

The one-of-one replica Formula One race car is already attracting big-dollar bids. But don’t expect to be able to drive it.

A full-size, current Formula One car has come onto the market – with a catch.

The “official” 2023 Williams FW45 replica appears to be made with real carbon-fibre and features highly-detailed mechanical parts. Crucially, it does not include an engine.

F1 Authentics is auctioning the one-of-one showpiece online. Top bid sits at £104,000 (about AU$200,000) with two weeks remaining.

A private tour of the Williams Formula One factory and historic ROFGO collection – which features classic race cars finished in the same Gulf Oil livery – will also be offered to the buyer.

The replica vehicle is finished in the blue and orange colour scheme – inspired by sponsor Gulf Oil – used at last month’s Singapore and Japanese Grands Prix and set to be revived for the upcoming race in Qatar.

“[It] celebrates the boldness of those determined to make their mark, keep progressing and pushing boundaries,” the near-meaningless online sales blurb declares.

“It embodies more than just being brave, heroic, or fearless. It represents an unwavering commitment to never giving up and always approaching challenges with confidence.”

In addition to presumably-exorbitant shipping costs, the small print reveals an “admin fee” of 5 per cent will be bolted on top of the successful bid. Delivery between April and June next year is promised.

The F1 Authentics website suggests more Formula One car replicas are planned.

In 2016 the 1954 Mercedes W196R driven by Juan Manuel Fangio became the most expensive Formula One car ever sold, fetching £19.6 million ($AU37 million) at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.