Fernando Alonso Drives Ultra-Rare, Multi-Million-Dollar Mercedes in Monaco

Fernando Alonso was spotted cruising the streets of Monaco in his ultra-rare Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR, a multi-million-dollar homologation special from the late 1990s. The two-time F1 champion's appearance in the V12-powered machine quickly circulated on social media, highlighting his renowned passion for exclusive road cars during the winter break.

Why it matters:

While drivers often retreat from the public eye during the off-season, Alonso's public display of automotive passion reinforces his status as a motorsport icon beyond the track. The CLK GTR is not just a car; it's a piece of racing history, and his ownership underscores a deep appreciation for engineering excellence. This glimpse into his personal life offers fans a humanizing look at a driver known for his fierce competitiveness.

The details:

• The Car: The Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR was built by Mercedes-AMG to compete in the 1997 FIA GT Championship, with the road-legal version created for homologation.
• Performance: Its naturally aspirated 6.9-liter V12 engine produces 622 horsepower, launching the car from 0-62 mph in just 3.8 seconds to a top speed of 199 mph.
• Rarity & Value: Only 28 road-legal versions were ever produced (20 coupés, 6 roadsters, and 2 prototypes), making Alonso's coupé one of the rarest. Valuations for the model range from $4 million to $10 million.

Looking ahead:

Alonso's Monaco drive comes as he remains under contract with Aston Martin until the end of 2026. The team is gearing up for a significant future, partnering with Honda for new power units and integrating the expertise of technical partner Adrian Newey. While he may enjoy his legendary car collection, the Spaniard's primary focus will be on steering Aston Martin back to the front of the grid in the coming seasons.