A few months ago, a LaFerrari prototype went under the hammer, fetching an impressive US$1,215,000 — and now, another is up for grabs through an RM Sotheby’s auction.

Before LaFerrari became the defining hypercar of its generation, it began life as a collection of experimental ideas — and one very special prototype. Built in early 2012, the car known internally as M6 was the first test mule for Ferrari’s top-secret “F150” project, the machine that would ultimately evolve into LaFerrari.

At first glance, M6 could pass for a slightly modified 458 Italia, but beneath its aluminium skin lay the beating heart of something far more ambitious. Engineers fitted it with a 6.3-litre V12 (Type F140EB), adapted the 458’s chassis to accommodate new suspension geometry, and used it to trial key systems ranging from braking and steering to an early version of LaFerrari’s electronic stability programme. Between 2012 and 2013, M6 spent months pounding around Fiorano as Ferrari’s development team chased the perfect balance between power, weight, and control.

As an engineering tool, it was never designed for the public road. Even so, M6 has survived in remarkable condition, complete with its original test switches, stickers, and detachable prototype panels. It also comes with Ferrari’s official Attestato per vetture Serie speciale “Yellow Binder,” meticulously documenting its life as a development mule.

Following a factory refresh and repaint, the prototype was sold to its first private owner in 2016. Although not homologated for road use or public race circuits, it remains fully functional and can be driven on private land. With bidding closing on 23 October, it’s well worth taking a look on RM Sotheby’s website before the hammer falls.