Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsRowan Atkinson was driving his McLaren F1 in the 2011 crash, according to contemporaneous reports. He was not driving as Mr. Bean: that is the fictional character Atkinson played. Reports also describe an earlier 1999 collision involving the same car.
What car did Rowan Atkinson crash twice?
It was a McLaren F1 owned by Atkinson, the actor known for playing Mr. Bean. The reports describe two separate incidents: a collision with a Rover Metro in 1999 and a much more damaging crash in 2011.
The 1999 collision
The Guardian described the earlier incident as a low-speed shunt that damaged the McLaren’s bonnet. Top Gear reported that Atkinson had collided with a Rover Metro soon after buying the car. The Guardian’s 2011 report and Top Gear’s report recount the earlier collision.
The 2011 crash
Top Gear reported that the McLaren hit a lamppost and caught fire, and that Atkinson got out unaided. The account identifies him as the driver. Top Gear’s 5 August 2011 report covered the crash.
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- Authentic Formula 1 Styling – Realistic race-inspired design and proportions
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- Collector-Scale Model – 1:24 scale ideal for shelves, desks, and displays. Includes Acrylic Box with Decorative Sleeve
- Authentic Race Car and Driver's Helmet Details for #4 Lando Norris
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Was Mr. Bean driving?
No. The person behind the wheel was Rowan Atkinson. “Mr. Bean” is the name of his fictional character, not a separate driver or an identity used in the crash reports. The Guardian’s 2011 account also identifies Atkinson in connection with the incident.
What was the reported repair cost?
In 2013, Top Gear reported that McLaren Special Operations estimated repairs to the 2011 damage at £910,000. That is a figure reported by the publication at the time—not a current repair quote or a primary invoice. Top Gear also said the car was repaired and Atkinson returned to driving it. Top Gear’s 2013 report includes the estimate and Atkinson’s comments about using the car rather than keeping it hidden as an investment.
Rank #2
- McLaren Die-Cast Formula Vehicle in 1/43 scale
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Did Atkinson keep the McLaren F1?
No. ITV reported in 2015 that Atkinson sold the car after the two crashes. That is a historical sale report; it does not establish who owns the F1 now. ITV’s 2015 report covered the sale.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Was it really the “greatest analog supercar”?
“Greatest analog supercar” is a subjective description, not an objective ranking established by the crash reports. A similar phrase—“last, and the greatest, ‘analog’ supercar ever built”—was attributed to Gordon Murray in a 2019 Autoweek story, but it referred to the separate Gordon Murray Automotive T.50, not Atkinson’s McLaren F1. Autoweek’s T.50 story makes that distinction important: the phrase should not be presented as a verified description of the F1.
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- McLaren Die-Cast Formula Vehicle in 1/24 scale
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- MCLAREN F1 TEAM CAR TOY – LEGO Speed Champions McLaren F1 Team MCL38 Race Car vehicle set for boys and girls ages 10 and up to build, display and race
- 1 DRIVER MINIFIGURE – The vehicle kit includes a driver minifigure wearing a McLaren outfit and a winged helmet for kids to place inside the cockpit and role-play thrilling race action
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