The world of motorsport is once again looking back at the recent past of Formula 1, and not out of nostalgia… but because of a unique opportunity. One of the most controversial cars in the championship’s history has officially gone on sale.
It is the Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition, the very same Safety Car that played a starring role during the dramatic finale of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Max Verstappen was crowned world champion after overtaking Lewis Hamilton on the final lap.
After five years sharing responsibilities with Mercedes as the championship’s Safety Car provider, Aston Martin has brought this chapter to an end… and, interestingly, one of those vehicles is now available for collectors.
The Aston Martin Leeds dealership is offering this exclusive Vantage for £599,990 (around $810,000). Beyond its power — a twin-turbo V8 producing over 500 hp — this car stands out for its history.
This very model led the field in up to 20 Grand Prix weekends between 2021 and 2023, including its role in the race that decided one of the most debated championships in recent times.
A Safety Car criticized for its speed
Despite its power, many drivers felt the Vantage was too slow to fulfill its role. Verstappen even described it as “a turtle” after the 2022 Australian GP.
In Formula 1, the Safety Car must not only neutralize the race but also maintain optimal tire and brake temperatures. This requires running at very high speeds — something this model did not always achieve.
For 2025, Aston Martin plans to replace its current version with a new Vantage producing more than 650 hp, aiming to address these criticisms.
Abu Dhabi 2021: the context that turned it into a legend
This car made no decisions… but it was at the center of the storm.
The controversy surrounding the 2021 title was not the vehicle’s fault, but rather the management of then race director Michael Masi, who chose to restart the race with just one lap remaining after the Safety Car period.
His approach — driven by the desire to finish the season under green flag conditions — changed the outcome of the championship and marked one of the most debated finales in modern motorsport history.
Masi had taken on the role following the death of Charlie Whiting in 2019, but he never achieved the same level of authority within the paddock.
A car that made history
Beyond regulatory debates, this Aston Martin Vantage Safety Car has become a collector’s item.
It is not just a luxury sports car.
It is a symbol of a season that redefined rivalries, decisions, and the direction of the championship.
And now… it could end up in someone’s garage.
