The Vector M12 is one of the most unusual supercars to emerge from America during the 1990s. With its futuristic wedge-shaped styling and Lamborghini-sourced mechanical components, it represented an ambitious attempt to challenge Europe’s established exotic car manufacturers.
Unfortunately, the M12’s production run was short-lived, and the ambitious project never achieved the success its creators had envisioned. Today, these exceptionally rare machines offer a fascinating glimpse into a largely forgotten chapter of American supercar history.
Now, one of the most distinctive examples ever built is preparing to cross the auction block. Known as the American Anthem, this 1996 Vector M12 features a striking patriotic paint scheme that makes it virtually impossible to overlook.
Even more remarkably, this particular car carries VIN 001, making it the first M12 produced. It will be offered by Barrett-Jackson at its January 2027 Scottsdale auction without a reserve price, meaning the highest bid will take it home.
A One-Off American Supercar
The American Anthem was created as a factory show car, with designer Michael Santoro personally hand-painting its red, white, and blue Stars and Stripes livery. It debuted at the 1996 Detroit Auto Show before making an appearance on pit lane at the 24 Hours of Daytona later that year.
The car was subsequently displayed at the Petersen Automotive Museum, adding another chapter to its unusual history. Santoro also recently carried out a cosmetic restoration of the exterior, nearly three decades after completing the original artwork.
Only 14 customer M12s were produced between 1995 and 1999, making this model exceptionally rare. The American Anthem stands apart as the only official factory M12 hand-painted by Santoro.
Lamborghini V12 Power Beneath The Bodywork
Despite its American identity, the Vector M12 borrowed heavily from Lamborghini engineering. Its construction was based around a lengthened Diablo chassis, while a mid-mounted 5.7-liter quad-cam V12 delivered 492 horsepower.
Power reaches the rear wheels through a ZF five-speed manual transmission featuring a gated shifter. Other mechanical highlights include independent coilover suspension, power rack-and-pinion steering, and Brembo disc brakes.
The carbon-fiber-reinforced fiberglass body features pop-up headlights, scissor doors, unusual split side windows with power-operated lower sections, dramatic side intakes, and a rear spoiler. Staggered 18-inch three-spoke wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tires complete its unmistakably 1990s appearance.
Inside, blue leather bucket seats with white piping complement blue suede dashboard trim and matching carpeting. There’s also air conditioning, a CD stereo, and a speedometer reading up to 220 mph (354 km/h).
Just 1,054 Miles And No Reserve
According to Barrett-Jackson, the American Anthem has covered only 1,054 miles (1,696 km) over approximately three decades. The auction listing notes that its title reads mileage exempt, so the displayed figure should be treated accordingly.
The car will cross the block at Barrett-Jackson’s January 2027 Scottsdale auction, held at WestWorld of Scottsdale in Arizona, with no reserve and no publicly stated price estimate. Given its rarity, historical significance, and extraordinary appearance, the bidding should make for an interesting spectacle.
With its one-off paintwork, Lamborghini V12, and VIN 001 designation, the American Anthem has plenty to attract serious collectors. Its upcoming no-reserve sale should also provide a rare indication of what one of America’s most unconventional supercars is worth today.