David Coulthard's F1 car up for charity auction

Formula 1 cars are routinely sold after their competition lifespan is up, but they usually go to members of the race teams themselves, collectors or museums, not to the wider audience of enthusiasts. This open charity auction should provide a chance for anyone - with a stout pocketbook - to get a slice of history and help a good cause at the same time.

Race fans are unlikely to have such a fantastic justification for an extravagant purchase any time soon. Wings for Life Spinal Cord Research Foundation is searching to find a cure for paralysis and other spinal injuries. The organization was founded by Heinz Kinigadner in an effort to help his wheelchair bound brother and son.

Unfortunately the sale of Coulthard's F1 car is for a rolling chassis only, as the engine is not included in the sale - understandable given the proprietary technology within. Described as a replica, the car can be had in either the Red Bull Racing colors or the "Faces for Charity" livery sported at the 2007 GP of England. Still, with a current bid of just €100,200, the chance to own such a recent F1 car is itself worth the price.

Other motorsports items up for sale to support the charity include Nani Roma's personal Rally Dakar clothing, Vitantonio Liuzzi's F1 race suit and a Moto GP helmet from Nicky Hayden. You can find the whole slate of Wings for Life auctions and a video describing the foundation here.