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Fast horses: Celebrities and Their Cars – What the Stars Drive

Image: IMAGO / Sebastian Geisler

Living vicariously through celebrities offers a glimpse into the epitome of luxury, especially when it comes to their extravagant vehicles. From sleek Teslas to opulent Porsches, each millionaire and billionaire has a distinct preference for their mode of transportation. Consider Jerry Seinfeld, with a net worth of $950 million, who has cultivated a car collection valued between $50-100 million. His garage houses an array of cars from classic Ferraris to vintage Fords, showcasing the breadth of his passion for automobiles.

Although other celebrities might not reach the heights of Seinfeld’s automotive enthusiasm, their interest in high-end vehicles is nonetheless evident. They possess the means to indulge in their automotive desires, owning cars that blend luxury, performance, and prestige. This exploration into their world of lavish cars not only reveals the unique tastes of these celebrities but also offers insights into the allure of these magnificent machines. Let’s delve into the characteristics that make these vehicles so captivating to their renowned owners, perhaps uncovering a few lessons along the way.

Anthony Hopkins – Porsche 911 Targa

Decade of Production: 2010s Current Market Value: Around $143,000*

Anthony Hopkins, renowned for instilling fear through his roles in iconic films like The Silence of the Lambs, Red Dragon, Hannibal, and Fracture, has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. His masterful depiction of the intelligent yet terrifying Hannibal Lecter in 1991 won him an Oscar for Best Actor, a prestigious award also bestowed upon his co-star Jodie Foster for her performance in the same movie.

Image: IMAGO / Newscom World / ABACAPRESS

Hopkins’ illustrious career in the film industry shows no signs of diminishing. During the early 2000s, he was frequently seen in Southern California behind the wheel of his Porsche 911 Targa, finished in an eye-catching shade of cobalt blue, underscoring his refined choice in luxury vehicles.

Jay Leno – Mercedes 300SL Gullwing Coupe

Manufacture Date: 1955 Current Estimated Worth: $1.8 Million*

Jay Leno, the famed comedian and former talk show host, is notorious for his extensive and impressive automobile collection. Frequently spotted cruising around his neighborhood in Toluca Lake, Los Angeles, Leno boasts ownership of approximately 136 cars and 90 motorcycles, all housed within a vast, securely guarded garage.

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Among his prized possessions is the 1955 Mercedes 300SL Gullwing Coupe, valued at an estimated $1.8 million. This vehicle is revered as one of the most iconic Mercedes models ever produced. Leno, taking great pride in his collection, has even dedicated a television show to it, cleverly named Jay Leno’s Garage. Despite the straightforwardness of its title, the show enjoys widespread popularity, captivating audiences with a blend of modern marvels like the 300SL and historical treasures, such as a 1927 Ford Model T, demonstrating Leno’s diverse taste in vehicles.

Tom Cruise – Bugatti Veyron

Year of Manufacture: 2006 Projected Value: $1.3 Million*

Tom Cruise is known for his affinity for exquisite cars, and during the premiere of Mission Impossible III in 2006, he made a grand entrance by arriving in a Bugatti Veyron valued at approximately 1.3 million dollars.

Image: IMAGO / PicturePerfect

With his leading roles in the Mission Impossible series, as well as other blockbuster hits like Top Gun, Jerry Maguire, and Eyes Wide Shut, Cruise has no issue affording such luxuries. A clip of Cruise struggling to open the Veyron’s passenger door for his date at the event captured the internet’s attention, though his attempt to be chivalrous was widely appreciated. Beyond the Veyron, Cruise’s interest in automobiles extends to iconic cars from his filmography. He has been known to favor vehicles like the Porsche 911, the Chevy Chevelle SS from Jack Reacher, the Ford Mustang Saleen S281 featured in Mission Impossible, and the Buick Roadmaster from Rain Man, showcasing his personal connection to the cars he’s driven on screen.

Leonardo DiCaprio – Fisker Karma

Year Manufactured: 2012 Market Value Estimate: $135,000*

Believe it or not, this vehicle is a hybrid, but it’s far from the typical Prius your mom might drive. It’s the luxurious Fisker Karma Hybrid, a creation of Henrik Fisker, who gained fame as a lead designer at BMW, contributing to projects like the Z8 Roadster. The Karma sets itself apart from other hybrids on the market, transcending the Toyota Prius and its modest $20,000 price tag with its opulence and advanced design. Fisker had ambitions to launch a brand-new EMotion model, a vehicle that would undoubtedly capture the heart of Leonardo DiCaprio, though those plans were paused as of 2020.

Image: IMAGO / MediaPunch / Pixsell

Leonardo DiCaprio, an Oscar laureate known for his environmental advocacy and efforts to combat climate change, naturally gravitates towards a hybrid like the Karma. This car distinguishes itself from other eco-friendly options by being not just environmentally conscious but also undeniably stylish, luxurious, and impressively swift. A reminder to Leo to stay vigilant for icebergs!

Drake – Mercedes-Maybach G 650

Year of Release: 2017 Current Estimated Value: $500,000*

At the moment captured in the photograph, Drake, the Canadian celebrity who transitioned from acting to a successful rap career, was the exclusive owner of a Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet in North America. This luxury SUV boasts a powerful 621-horsepower engine, features a convertible roof for rear passengers to enjoy the sky, and offers both heated and cooling cup holders for ultimate comfort. Additionally, it includes a partition to separate front and rear passengers, offering a chauffeured experience reminiscent of being driven like royalty.

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Drake, known for hits like “Hotline Bling,” is among the elite group of only 99 individuals globally who possess this lavish Mercedes model. Despite another Maybach recently being listed for sale with a price tag of $1.8 million, it’s unlikely that the rapper, who has ties with Apple Music, would opt to acquire a duplicate of his already prestigious vehicle, even if it is described as “lightly used.” This particular Mercedes Maybach G650 Landaulet became available for purchase in late January 2020, with no confirmation yet on any high-profile buyers.

Kate Upton – Mercedes-Benz SLS 6.3 AMG

Manufacture Year: 2009 Market Value: $248,000*

Kate Upton, the renowned supermodel, frequently showcases her prized Mercedes-Benz SLS 6.3 AMG, a vehicle with a staggering price tag of $248,000. Known for its incredible speed, this car can accelerate from zero to sixty in just 3.8 seconds, reaching speeds close to 200 miles per hour. Though it’s unlikely that the Sports Illustrated cover star pushes the vehicle to its limits regularly, given its high fuel consumption.

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To complement her high-performance Mercedes, Upton also owns a Tesla Model S, valued at around $110,000. Tesla’s popularity among celebrities is well-documented, with many stars adopting the brand for its environmental benefits. Kate Upton shares her preference for Tesla with Hollywood luminaries such as Ben Affleck, Cameron Diaz, Will Smith, Demi Moore, Eva Longoria, Morgan Freeman, Katy Perry, Steven Spielberg, and even Joe Rogan, highlighting the brand’s appeal among the eco-conscious elite.

Jennifer Lopez – 911 Carrera GTS Porsche

Year Manufactured: 2018 Approximate Value: $146,000*

For over a quarter of a century, Jennifer Lopez hadn’t driven a car until her fiancé, Alex Rodriguez, surprised her with a stunning 911 Carrera GTS Porsche on her 50th birthday. In a video shared by Rodriguez on social media, Jennifer’s excitement is palpable as she exclaims she’s never driven anything like it before. However, once she took the wheel, Rodriguez’s nerves were evident, humorously requesting a “double seatbelt.”

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Lopez has been in the spotlight more than ever recently, even making a striking appearance on the red carpet in the iconic green Versace dress she originally wore two decades ago. The Porsche 911 Carrera, a symbol of luxury and performance, is also a favorite among other celebrities, including Miley Cyrus, Tom Cruise, Ellen DeGeneres, and Gwen Stefani, showcasing its status in the celebrity world. Despite the hefty price tag of at least $94,000, for Rodriguez, a baseball legend and ESPN personality with a net worth of $350 million, purchasing the Carrera for Lopez was well within reach.

Odell Beckham Jr – Rolls Royce Cullinan

Year of Release: 2019 Current Estimated Value: $500,000*

NFL sensation Odell Beckham Jr. took his Rolls Royce Cullinan to the next level by customizing it with twenty-six-inch wheels featuring floating Rolls Royce caps and an exclusive Orange wrap by Dawg Pound. Collaborating with DreamWorks Motorsports in North Carolina, the gifted wide receiver transformed his luxury vehicle into a true representation of his persona and aspirations.

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The Cleveland Browns standout went a step further by commissioning a unique hood ornament: a sculpture of himself making a one-handed catch, reminiscent of his legendary play against the Dallas Cowboys. This bespoke touch elevates the vehicle’s worth to an impressive half a million dollars. Odell Beckham Jr., similar to Alex Rodriguez, is an athlete with the financial prowess to indulge in such extravagances, thanks to his soaring net worth bolstered by significant endorsements, including a groundbreaking $48 million contract with Nike over five years. This deal stands as one of the most lucrative footwear endorsements in NFL history.

Jay Z – Maybach Exelero

Year Manufactured: 2008 Market Value: Around $8 Million*

Jay-Z, a titan in the hip-hop industry, is the proud owner of one of the most exclusive luxury vehicles in the world, valued at an astonishing $8 million. This automotive masterpiece is equipped with a twin-turbo engine, delivering nearly 700 horsepower and capable of reaching speeds up to 218 miles per hour.

Image: IMAGO / ABACAPRESS / ZUMA Wire

This extraordinary vehicle was previously in the possession of rapper “Birdman,” the head of Cash Money Records, who due to financial difficulties, fell behind on payments and subsequently sold the car to Jay-Z. Birdman has faced significant financial challenges, with reports in 2019 detailing his rush to court to prevent his bank accounts from being seized amidst debts surpassing $1 million owed to former employees and creditors. Interestingly, while Jay-Z appears to have a penchant for the Maybach, he famously showcased his less sentimental side towards luxury cars in 2011. In the music video for “Otis,” alongside Kanye West, he dramatically customized another Maybach, an act that resonated with fans for its bold statement rather than its reverence for automotive luxury.

John Cena – Ford GT

Year of Manufacture: 2017 Approximate Value: $500,000*

John Cena, the famed professional wrestler turned actor, was once the proud owner of an exceptionally sleek, liquid-blue Ford GT, a vehicle limited to just 500 editions worldwide. This remarkable car boasts a capability of reaching speeds up to 216 miles per hour, powered by 647 horsepower. It features a sophisticated twin-clutch 7-speed automatic transmission and an advanced active-multimode suspension system for superior handling.

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In addition to this road-worthy masterpiece, there exists a track-only variant, the Ford GT Mk II, which Cena is unlikely to be spotted in—not for the playful reason that “you can’t see him,” but because the GT Mk II is not legal for street driving. This ultra-exclusive model is limited to a production of only 45 units, each with a price tag of $1.2 million, offering 700 horsepower and a top speed of 216MPH.

Miley Cyrus – Maserati Quattroporte

Year Released: 2014 Current Market Value: Approximately $100,000*

Miley Cyrus’s choice of luxury transport, the Maserati Quattroporte, commands attention with its elegant four-door design and a price tag of around $100,000. With a potent 500 horsepower under the hood, it’s perfectly suited for the pop sensation to make quick escapes from the ever-vigilant paparazzi in Los Angeles. However, in 2014, this exquisite vehicle, along with valuable jewelry, was stolen from Cyrus’s residence by a young duo inspired by the notorious “The Bling Ring” group. Thankfully, the authorities later recovered the Maserati, and the culprits were apprehended.

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The saga of the amateur thieves, Naomi Charles and Tyler Scott, reads like a cautionary tale rather than a criminal masterstroke. They faced multiple charges for their audacious theft, with Scott’s bail set at $150,000 and Charles’s at $100,000. If found guilty, they risked sentences of seven to nine years. Yet, for Cyrus, a former Disney star with a collection of high-end cars including a McLaren MP4 12C, this incident was but a minor setback in her lavish lifestyle.

Kanye West – Mercedes SLR

Year of Manufacture: 2011 Current Estimated Value: $1.06 Million*

Imagine soaking up the ambiance in the south of France during the Cannes Film Festival, and then witnessing Kanye West arrive in his Mercedes SLR. This car is a rarity, with only 75 units worldwide, making its appearance a significant event for car enthusiasts aware of its legendary status. The vehicle boasts a staggering acceleration, going from 0 to 60 in under 3.5 seconds, and notably lacks a windshield, necessitating protective gear for high-speed journeys.

Image: IMAGO / Newscom World / Future Image

Details about Kanye’s ownership of the car remain unclear, but he certainly made an impression that day, embodying the essence of luxury and exclusivity. The Mercedes-Benz SLR, with its high performance and scarce production, is set to become an even more coveted classic, appreciating in value over time. Kanye West, with a reported net worth of $1 billion, is more than capable of affording such an exquisite piece of automotive art.

Ralph Lauren – Mercedes-Benz SSK “Count Trossi”

Year Created: 1930 Market Value: $457,107*

This remarkable vehicle is not to be mistaken for the Batmobile; it is a 1930 Mercedes-Benz SSK “Count Trossi” owned by the renowned fashion designer Ralph Lauren. The car, a two-seater marvel, was specially commissioned by Count Carlo Felice Trossi, an Italian nobleman with a profound passion for racing.

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Count Trossi was not just an enthusiast but a pioneer in the racing world. He supported the development of the Trossi-Monaco in 1935, a unique Grand Prix racing car for its time, featuring a sixteen-cylinder, air-cooled engine and an aircraft-like body design. Despite its lack of success, it demonstrated Trossi’s willingness to explore innovative ideas. The SSK’s design was the work of Dr. Ferdinand Porsche, then a Mercedes engineer, marking his final project before establishing his own iconic automobile company. Ralph Lauren, known globally for his refined fashion sense, extends his penchant for elegance to his collection of luxury automobiles, valued at an estimated $300 million. The SSK, along with a selection of other prestigious cars from his collection, was showcased in 2011 at a museum in Paris, highlighting Lauren’s sophisticated taste in both fashion and vintage automobiles.

Khloe Kardashian – Rolls Royce Wraith

Year Created: Unknown Market Value: $330,000*

The Kardashian-Jenner clan is renowned for numerous reasons, including their extraordinary array of high-end automobiles. They’re not just fond of cruising through Los Angeles in their opulent rides; they also seem to relish being captured by cameras alongside them.

Quelle: IMAGO / Landmark Media/ IMAGO / Cover-Images

Khloe Kardashian, as revealed through her Instagram posts, holds a particular fondness for her Rolls Royce Wraith, a car that frequently appears both in her social media snapshots and in shots taken by the paparazzi. This vehicle stands out as a symbol of elegance and sophistication, making it an ideal match for the lifestyle of a socialite. Additionally, it’s equipped with tinted windows, providing Khloe with a bit of privacy from the ever-present paparazzi lenses.

Tom Brady – Aston Martin Vanquish S Volante Tom Brady Signature Edition

Year Created: 2017 Market Value: $360,000 *

The celebrated six-time Super Bowl victor, Tom Brady, is frequently spotted behind the wheel of Aston Martin vehicles, a brand with which he’s closely associated as a brand ambassador. In a unique collaboration with Aston Martin in 2017, Brady contributed to the design of a special edition car named after him. Interestingly, he chose not to retain a model for himself despite the limited production of only 12 units.

Quelle: IMAGO / Sebastian Geisler/ IMAGO / USA TODAY Network

This exclusive quantity was deliberately chosen to pay homage to Brady’s jersey number with the New England Patriots, #12. The special edition cars boast several unique features inspired by Brady, including his signature on the door sills and a distinctive “Ultramarine Black” paint. In a playful reference to past controversies, it’s assured that the tire pressure meets industry standards. Widely regarded by ESPN analysts and Patriots enthusiasts as the greatest quarterback to ever play the game, Brady’s legacy with the Patriots is monumental. However, marking a new chapter in his career, he signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for a $60 million contract over two years on March 20, 2020, leaving spectators anticipating the future direction of his storied career.

Jerry Seinfeld – Porsche 550 RS

Year Created: 1955 Market Value: $5,335,000 *

In 1955, Porsche rolled out a masterpiece, a car so iconic that it became synonymous with speed and precision. Jerry Seinfeld, famed for his love of classic automobiles, cherished one such gem until he decided to part ways with it for a staggering sum exceeding $5 million. His passion for vintage cars culminated in the creation of the hit Netflix series “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee,” where he shares the wheel with fellow celebrities, cruising in his prized possessions.

Quelle: IMAGO / Imagebroker/IMAGO / UPI Photo

Among Seinfeld’s impressive collection, one standout was Porsche’s inaugural race car, hailed as “the Giant Killer” for its remarkable prowess against bulkier, more potent rivals. With fewer than 100 ever manufactured, these cars are rare treasures, though tragically, around twenty have vanished or met their demise under mysterious circumstances. Notably, one met its tragic fate when James Dean perished in a harrowing crash. While Jerry Seinfeld may not flaunt his wealth like some of his peers, his passion for automotive artistry knows no bounds. With a net worth nearing $1 billion, Seinfeld’s devotion to Porsches is unrivaled, boasting a staggering collection of over eighty of these automotive marvels.

Kylie Jenner – Rolls Royce Phantom

Production Year: 2019 Estimated Value: $450,000*

Kylie Jenner, the richest Kardashian family member, boasts an impressive collection of luxury cars, including her latest acquisition, a Rolls-Royce Phantom. This high-end vehicle comes with premium features, including vertically opening doors that add an extra touch of elegance. A standout feature is the “feeling of flight,” achieved through a unique ceiling lighting system reminiscent of a star-filled sky, similar to a planetarium.

Quelle: IMAGO / Pond5 Images / IMAGO / Bestimage

This combination of sophisticated design and cutting-edge technology underlines Jenner’s taste for the finer things in life, making her Rolls-Royce Phantom not just a means of transportation, but a statement of opulence and style.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson – Hennessey VelociRaptor V8

Production Year: 2019 Estimated Value: $349,000*

Can you sense the power brewing beneath the seemingly unassuming exterior of this pickup truck, courtesy of the Rock? Indeed, he’s unleashed a Coyote V8 engine with a staggering output of over 750 horsepower. Engineered by Hennessey Performance, this truck accelerates from zero to sixty in just 4.1 seconds. This powerhouse on wheels is designed for far more than just packing gear for a camping adventure; it’s a testament to extreme performance and capability.

Quelle: IMAGO / ZUMA Press / IMAGO / UPI Photo

Priced at $154,995, the Velociraptor by Hennessey Performance (HPE) epitomizes automotive excellence, transforming vehicles into behemoths of power. HPE’s prowess shines in its creation, the Exorcist—a supercharged Chevy Camaro modified to astonishing extents. While HPE specializes in enhancing Dodge Challengers, Chargers, and Camaros, its expertise also extends to luxury vehicles, including Bentleys.

Greta Thunberg – Nissan Leaf

Production Year: 2020 Estimated Value: $35,800*

Greta Thunberg, a Swedish environmental activist, has captured global attention for her efforts to highlight the urgent issue of climate change. Rising to prominence at just 15 years old in 2018, she has quickly become a pivotal figure in the youth climate movement.

Quelle: IMAGO / USA TODAY Network/IMAGO / Bestimage

Thunberg’s passionate advocacy has led her to speak at numerous prestigious platforms, including the United Nations Climate Action Summit, where she delivered impactful messages on the need for immediate action to combat climate change. Her dedication and eloquent speeches have inspired a generation to rally for the environment, making her an influential and respected voice in the fight against global warming.

Pierce Brosnan – BMW i8 Plug-in Super Car

Production Year: 2016 Estimated Value: $164,300*

It seems almost fitting for Pierce Brosnan, known for his iconic role as James Bond, to be seen behind the wheel of a luxury BMW. In “Tomorrow Never Dies,” he was seen driving a silver BMW 750IL, embodying the suave and sophisticated persona of Bond. However, Brosnan’s choice of vehicle today, the BMW i8 Super Car—a plug-in hybrid—may not be involved in any cinematic high-speed chases, but it perfectly suits leisurely drives along the Pacific Coast Highway near his Malibu residence.

Quelle: IMAGO / YAY Images / IMAGO / Everett Collection

This shift to a more environmentally friendly supercar reflects a blend of luxury and eco-consciousness, aligning with Brosnan’s off-screen persona.The British actor likely favored the i8 for its sleek design and impressive performance, accelerating from zero to sixty in 4.4 seconds with a 7.1 kWh battery for up to 23 miles of engine-free travel. BMW’s flagship hybrid, reminiscent of “The Jetsons,” yet far more stylish, symbolizes a leap towards eco-friendly luxury vehicles with its futuristic and exotic design.

Lady Gaga – Audi R8

Production Year: 2012 Estimated Value: $165,000

The Audi R8 stands as the quintessential car for celebrities, and Lady Gaga appears to fully embrace its rapid capabilities, easily outpacing the paparazzi. While not typically known for a passion for cars, the pop icon and “A Star is Born” actress has certainly indulged with this choice, treating herself to a blend of speed and luxury.

Quelle: IMAGO / Pond5 Images/IMAGO / APress

The Audi R8, boasting 438 horsepower and available in eye-catching colors like “Sepang Blue” and “Samoa Orange,” was chosen by Interscope star Lady Gaga in the elegant “Phantom Black.” A tasteful selection, indeed. Not alone in her preference, the British Royal family has also shown a fondness for Audis. Described by Car and Driver as a “lowkey” supercar, the R8 has impressed since its debut in 2006 with its supercar-like specifications, including a thrilling top speed of 199MPH, marking its status among celebrities and car enthusiasts alike.