The Briton produced a series of blistering laps on a track where he has won five times in nine races.

As a result of his latest performance, he is just three poles behind all-time holder Michael Schumacher.

After the session, Hamilton was presented with one of Senna’s old helmets, a gift from the late Brazilian’s family for equalling his record.

“Wow,” he said, dropping his driving gloves in amazement. “I’m shaking. Ayrton, I know for many of you was your favourite driver and he was for me. He inspired me to be where I am today so to receive this is the greatest honour.”

Hamilton, who is 25 points behind Vettel in the championship after finishing seventh in Monaco, was clearly elated following the session, in which he showed a superiority that was completely unexpected.

Ferrari and Mercedes have been closely matched all weekend but Hamilton was in a league of his own once the top 10 shootout started.