Steve McQueen, affectionately known as the ‘King of Cool’, was not only a legendary actor but also a passionate car aficionado whose love for automobiles was profound and multifaceted. His collection was a testament to a lifelong romance with cars, featuring an eclectic mix that mirrors his adventurous spirit and racing enthusiasm, cementing his impact on automotive history. In this slideshow, we will journey through the top five priciest cars that belonged to McQueen, showcasing not just their value but their place in the pantheon of car culture and cinema.
1. **1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4: The Bullitt Beauty**: Leading our list is the stunning 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4, a remarkable vehicle that McQueen personally ordered while filming ‘Bullitt’, which makes it a true cinematic treasure. This beautiful car was delivered straight to the set, symbolizing the fusion of film and automobile excellence. With elegant lines crafted by Pininfarina and a robust all-aluminum Colombo V12 engine that delivers 300 horsepower, this car could sprint from zero to sixty in just 5.5 seconds, achieving a remarkable top speed of nearly 159 mph. Its auction sale for an astounding $10,175,000 in 2014 cements its status as a highlight of automotive history.
2. **1963 Ferrari 250 GT/L Lusso Berlinetta: The Iconic Classic**: The 1963 Ferrari 250 GT/L Lusso Berlinetta follows closely as another stunning jewel in McQueen’s automotive crown. Renowned for its exquisite design, only 350 of these beauties were ever produced, making it a collector’s dream. McQueen’s version came from the Otto Zipper showroom in Santa Monica, embodying both style and rarity. With its impressive 3-liter V12 engine and three Weber carburetors, it generates 240 horsepower and accelerates to sixty mph in just eight seconds. After enjoying it for four years, McQueen sold it to pursue another Ferrari, and it fetched $2,310,000 at auction in 2011, highlighting its enduring historical significance.
3. **1968 Ford Mustang GT390: The King of Cool’s Movie Star**: The exhilarating chase scenes in ‘Bullitt’ immortalized the 1968 Ford Mustang GT390, a car as legendary as McQueen himself. This striking Highland Green vehicle was not just a mode of transport; it became a cultural icon. After filming wrapped, the car spent years away from the spotlight until it re-emerged, selling for an impressive $3.74 million at auction in 2020. The Mustang GT390 serves as a powerful reminder of McQueen’s deep connection to American car culture, blending the worlds of cinema and speed in a way that continues to captivate fans today.
4. **1976 Porsche 911 (930) Turbo: The Special Order Speedster**: Among his beloved performance cars, McQueen had a special fondness for the 1976 Porsche 911 (930) Turbo, famously recognized as his final custom-order Porsche. This vehicle, finished in a distinctive Slate Grey, is significant as it predates the incorporation of intercoolers into the 930 model. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds from its sale benefited The Boys’ Republic reform school, showcasing McQueen’s commitment to philanthropy. This turbocharged beauty, which sold for $1.95 million in 2015, encapsulates the essence of McQueen’s passion for speed and social responsibility.
5. **1970 Porsche 911S ex-Le Mans: The Racing Legend**: Highlighting McQueen’s illustrious racing career, the 1970 Porsche 911S played a pivotal role in the film ‘Le Mans’, where McQueen himself took the wheel. This significant piece of automotive history was sold in 2011 for $1.375 million, making it not just a car but a monument to McQueen’s legacy in motorsports. The 911S remains a coveted item among collectors, symbolizing the intertwining of McQueen’s cinematic journey with his love for racing.
Steve McQueen’s automotive collection exemplifies the intersection of cinema, culture, and the love of speed. Each car tells a story, reflecting his passion and influence in the automotive world. From the exhilarating Ferrari 275 GTB/4 to the nostalgic Ford Mustang GT390, these vehicles are not just expensive; they are symbols of his remarkable life and enduring legacy that continue to spark joy and admiration among car enthusiasts around the globe. The legacy of the ‘King of Cool’ goes beyond his films, as his cars serve as the ultimate testament to his style, taste, and undying love for the automobile.
As we transition into exploring more of McQueen’s automotive treasures, get ready to be captivated by additional luxurious vehicles that embody his passion for performance and style.
6. **1953 Siata 208S Spyder: The Italian Sensation**: The 1953 Siata 208S Spyder is a classic Italian sports car that McQueen owned early in his automotive journey. This sleek roadster became a symbol of post-war Italian engineering, powered by a 2.0-liter V8 engine that delivered spirited performance. With its lightweight design and agile handling, it was a favorite for racing enthusiasts. McQueen’s love for this car was evident as he stripped off its original badges to replace them with Ferrari ones, showcasing his admiration for the iconic brand. The Siata has since become a rare collector’s item, with McQueen’s influence adding to its allure, making it a standout piece in automotive history.
7. **1967 Con-Ferr Meyers Manx: The Beach Cruiser**: The 1967 Con-Ferr Meyers Manx is not just a car; it’s a piece of film history. This dune buggy was famously driven by McQueen in the film “The Thomas Crown Affair.” Designed for both style and function, it featured a lightweight fiberglass body and was powered by a Volkswagen engine, allowing it to tackle the sandy beaches with ease. McQueen’s personal touch in customizing it for the film made it even more special. Its playful design and adventurous spirit resonate with McQueen’s own zest for life, making it a beloved addition to his eclectic collection.
8. **1967 Solar Plastics Engineering ‘Baja Boot 1’: The Off-Road Warrior**: The ‘Baja Boot 1’ is a remarkable off-road vehicle that demonstrates McQueen’s adventurous side. Built to conquer the rugged terrains of the Baja 1000 race, it was designed by a collaboration of automotive engineers who understood the need for speed and durability. McQueen acquired this vehicle to support his passion for off-road racing, and it was often seen in competitions throughout the 1970s. The ‘Baja Boot 1’ not only showcases his love for adrenaline-fueled pursuits but also represents the spirit of innovation in motorsport, making it a significant piece of McQueen lore.
9. **1953 Hudson Hornet Sedan: The Classic Performer**: Among the many treasures in McQueen’s collection was the 1953 Hudson Hornet Sedan, a quintessential American classic that perfectly blended elegance with performance. This four-door sedan was an emblem of the post-war era, famously recognized for its racing prowess and sleek aesthetic. McQueen treasured this vehicle, integrating it into his collection in 1977, which resonated with his appreciation for vintage cars. Under McQueen’s stewardship, the Hornet’s engine was meticulously rebuilt, enhancing its legacy and ensuring it stood out among his prized automobiles.
10. **1958 GMC Series 101-8 Pick-up: The Practical Choice**: While McQueen is often associated with high-performance machines, the 1958 GMC Series 101-8 pick-up highlighted his appreciation for practicality and ruggedness. This dependable truck was ideal for transporting items across his properties, proving that McQueen found value in both luxury and utility. With its robust build and powerful engine, it became a trusty companion and one of his cherished vehicles. The inclusion of a classic pick-up in his collection adds depth to McQueen’s automotive story, illustrating his multifaceted relationship with cars—embracing both the extraordinary and the everyday.
As we wrap up our journey through Steve McQueen’s extraordinary automobile collection, it’s evident that each vehicle tells a unique story, reflecting his passion for speed, style, and cinematic history. From the thrilling Siata 208S Spyder to the unforgettable Ford Mustang GT390, McQueen’s cars transcend their mechanical nature, standing as historical artifacts that embody his influence on car culture. The legacy of the ‘King of Cool’ continues to inspire car enthusiasts and collectors, reminding us that the love for automobiles goes beyond mere possession—it represents a lifestyle filled with adventure, excitement, and unforgettable memories.
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