The 1971 film “Le Mans” had it all. Racing cars, engine noises, action, Steve McQueen, and a bit of a plot weaved together from a love story and footage from the 1970 24 Hours of Le Mans. The film didn’t do well in theaters, but it’s a petrolhead favorite these days, and thanks to the film there are numerous movie buffs who also like classic Porsches and Tag Heuer watches, both famously used by Steve McQueen onscreen.
But now the ultimate Le Mans memorabilia is coming up for sale: the racing suit and helmet worn by McQueen in the film. It’s not the first time they have been auctioned, and the earlier sale will likely not be the last time they will command top dollar, as the previous occasion saw the hammer go down at $ 984,000. In comparison, the current estimate is a rather humble $ 400,000-500,000, so it will be interesting to see if the no-reserve props will top the previous price.
The helmet and the overalls will be auctioned by RM Auctions on Dec. 6 in New York.
