Look at Steve McQueen’s Top 10 Expensive Cars: A Legacy of Luxury

Steve McQueen, often hailed as the ‘King of Cool’, was not just an iconic actor but also an avid automobile enthusiast. His passion for cars went beyond mere ownership; it was a lifelong affair marked by a remarkable collection of vehicles that diversified his legacy. Together with his love for racing, McQueen’s car collection reflects a unique blend of performance, elegance, and history. In this slideshow, we’ll explore the top five most expensive cars owned by McQueen, showcasing the vehicles that not only defined his stature in the automotive world but also left an indelible mark on car culture.

1. **1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4: The Bullitt Beauty**: Topping our list is the 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4, a masterpiece that McQueen ordered new while filming ‘Bullitt’. This stunning vehicle was delivered right to the set, an emblematic piece of cinematic history. With its sleek lines designed by Pininfarina and built by Scaglietti, the 275 GTB/4 carries an all-aluminum Colombo V12 engine that churns out 300 horsepower. It could go from zero to sixty in just 5.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of nearly 159 mph. Sold at a Sotheby’s auction in 2014 for a whopping $10,175,000, this Ferrari is forever etched in the annals of automotive excellence.

2. **1963 Ferrari 250 GT/L Lusso Berlinetta: The Iconic Classic**: Next in line is the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT/L Lusso Berlinetta, another jewel in McQueen’s collection. Known for its breathtaking design, only 350 of these were produced, making it a rare gem. McQueen acquired his brown beauty from Otto Zipper showroom in Santa Monica. The 3-liter V12 engine, paired with three Weber carburetors, produces 240 horsepower, propelling this classic to sixty mph in eight seconds. After owning it for four years, McQueen sold the Lusso to indulge in another Ferrari. This car was auctioned in 2011 for $2,310,000, a testament to its historical value.

3. **1968 Ford Mustang GT390: The King of Cool’s Movie Star**: Who could forget the exhilarating chase scenes in ‘Bullitt’? The 1968 Ford Mustang GT390 driven by McQueen is as iconic as the actor himself. This Highland Green beauty was not just a car; it was a cultural phenomenon. Purchased after filming, it spent years hidden from the limelight until it resurfaced, fetching an incredible $3.74 million at auction in 2020. The Mustang GT390 is a reminder of McQueen’s connection to American car culture, blending cinema with speed in an unforgettable way.

4. **1976 Porsche 911 (930) Turbo: The Special Order Speedster**: McQueen’s love for performance cars also included the 1976 Porsche 911 (930) Turbo, noted as his last special-order Porsche. Sporting a unique Slate Grey color, this vehicle held significant historical context as he ordered it before the 930 production included intercoolers. With a portion of the sale proceeds going to The Boys’ Republic reform school, the car symbolized McQueen’s commitment to giving back. This turbocharged marvel sold for $1.95 million in 2015, capturing the spirit of McQueen’s passion in every rev.

5. **1970 Porsche 911S ex-Le Mans: The Racing Legend**: Finally, we spotlight the 1970 Porsche 911S, which has strong ties to McQueen’s racing career. This car was prominently featured in the film ‘Le Mans’, where McQueen himself drove it. Sold in 2011 for $1.375 million, the 911S was delivered new to McQueen on set, making it a significant piece of cinematic history. The 911S remains a cherished collector’s item, embodying the essence of McQueen’s legacy in motorsport.

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 delve deeper into the next set of McQueen’s prized possessions, prepare to be enthralled by more automotive treasures that highlight the blend of luxury and performance that McQueen cherished.

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 McQueen’s collection was the 1953 Hudson Hornet Sedan, an American classic that blended style with performance. This four-door vehicle was a symbol of the post-war era, famous for its racing pedigree and sleek design. McQueen cherished this car, which he added to his fleet in 1977, and it complemented his love for vintage automobiles. The Hornet’s engine was rebuilt during McQueen’s ownership, enhancing its legacy and making it a standout among his prized possessions.

10. **1958 GMC Series 101-8 Pick-up: The Practical Choice**: While McQueen was known for his high-performance sports cars, the 1958 GMC Series 101-8 pick-up showcased his practicality. This rugged truck was perfect for transporting items between his properties, proving that McQueen appreciated both luxury and utility. Its powerful engine and robust build made it a reliable workhorse, and it became one of his cherished vehicles. The uniqueness of owning a classic pickup adds depth to McQueen’s collection, illustrating that he had a multifaceted approach to automobiles—embracing both the extravagant and the everyday.

As we conclude our exploration of Steve McQueen’s remarkable collection of automotive treasures, it’s clear that each vehicle reflects a chapter of his life, driving passion, and influence on car culture. From the exhilarating Siata 208S Spyder to the iconic Ford Mustang GT390, McQueen’s cars are more than just machines; they are artifacts of history that tell stories of speed, style, and cinema. The legacy of the ‘King of Cool’ lives on through these vehicles, inspiring generations of car enthusiasts and collectors alike to appreciate the artistry and engineering behind every ride. McQueen’s passion for cars continues to resonate, reminding us that the love for automobiles transcends mere ownership—it embodies a lifestyle filled with adventure, excitement, and unforgettable moments.

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