A truly unique piece of motorsport history, a Toleman TG184-2 Formula One car driven by Ayrton Senna in his debut F1 season, is up for auction by Silverstone Auctions in May.

This particular car has become the stuff of legends and is perhaps best known for Senna's remarkable second place drive in the rain-soaked 1984 Monaco GP, arguably the race which first demonstrated his extraordinary talents to the world.

"We are thrilled to bring this iconic race car to auction as it's undoubtedly one of the most important lots we've ever offered under the hammer," said Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions. "Senna mania is reaching fever pitch and rightly so as he's considered by many as the greatest F1 driver we've ever seen. It goes without saying that this will be one of the star attractions at the sale as it's a very rare chance to own a much sought after piece of motorsport and Ayrton Senna history."

Indeed, the Toleman, which Senna also raced to third in the British and 7th in the Canadian Grands Prix, has been in private ownership for the past 16 years.

At Silverstone Auctions first sale of the year, a helmet and race suit used by Senna fetched £74,750 and £35,650, respectively, both considerably more than their pre-sale estimates.

And while the race car is undoubtedly one of the key lots at the forthcoming Spring Sale to be held at Silverstone, it will be joined by an impressive range of other race cars, modern sports cars, motorcycles and automobilia.

"Excitement is building for the auction which promises to be a must attend sale for any serious collector or motorsport enthusiast. Apart from the Senna F1 car, another notable early entry is a stunning 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7, estimated at between £190,000 to £210,000. If these are examples of what's to follow, then it promises to be quite an event," added Whale.

For more information, visit the Silverstone Auctions website.