Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, is experiencing a mixed season in 2025 with Ferrari after his high-profile move from Mercedes. While he has shown glimpses of his exceptional talent, he has struggled with consistency on the track.
Off the racing circuit, Hamilton is known for his strong commitment to environmental and social causes. This dedication led him to part ways with his prized possession, a customized Pagani Zonda 760 LH, which he sold for a significant profit only to see it destroyed by its new owner.
The unique supercar, tailored to Hamilton’s specifications in 2014, boasted a powerful 7.3-liter V12 engine producing 760 horsepower. It sported a distinct purple design with carbon fiber accents and a rare six-speed manual transmission, a personal touch from Hamilton that distinguished it as the first Zonda 760 with manual transmission.
Despite its magnificent features, including its hefty price tag of £1.6 million, Hamilton was not entirely satisfied with the car, criticizing its handling as “terrible.”
Driven by his increasing environmental awareness, Hamilton made a tough decision in 2021 to reduce his carbon footprint. He disclosed during the 2020 Tuscan Grand Prix that he no longer drove his high-performance cars, opting instead for his electric Mercedes EQC.
The gas-guzzling Zonda clashed with Hamilton’s eco-friendly philosophy, prompting him to sell it. The sale reaped a remarkable £8.5 million, earning Hamilton a substantial profit of £6.9 million.
Unfortunately, the Zonda met a tragic fate in 2023 when its new owner lost control in a tunnel in Wales, crashing the car into a wall. Despite the extensive damage to the vehicle, the driver escaped unhurt, and no other vehicles were involved in the incident.
Following the crash, the Zonda underwent extensive restoration and was spotted leaving the Pagani factory for a test run in September. The car was restored to its original glory, maintaining its signature purple color and carbon fiber center while making modifications like removing the LED daytime running lights.
As one of only five Zonda 760s ever manufactured, the car stands as a testament to Pagani’s craftsmanship and Hamilton’s astute decision-making. Although Hamilton has yet to achieve a podium finish for Ferrari this season, he has secured fourth-place finishes at various races.
Currently placed sixth in the Drivers’ Championship, Hamilton trails the leader by over 150 points. His upcoming challenge is the Hungarian Grand Prix, a race he has historically dominated, winning a record eight times, with his last victory in 2020.
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