When you hear the name Bill Gates, you probably think of Microsoft, billions of dollars, and groundbreaking philanthropy. But what about cars? It turns out the tech titan has a fascinating, surprisingly diverse car collection that tells a story far beyond mere wealth. Forget flashy displays of opulence; Gates’ garage is a testament to his unique blend of passions: a deep appreciation for automotive engineering, a soft spot for classic Porsches, and a forward-thinking commitment to sustainable technology.
This isn’t your average billionaire’s fleet. While he could afford any vehicle on the planet, Gates’ choices reveal a meticulous eye for innovation, a pragmatic approach to daily life, and even a touch of youthful rebel. His collection balances high-performance machines with eco-conscious electric vehicles, all while holding a few delightful surprises that showcase his down-to-earth side. We’re about to take a joyride through the most intriguing vehicles Bill Gates has ever owned, uncovering the stories, the specs, and the unexpected twists behind each one.
Get ready to discover why Bill Gates isn’t just a tech genius, but also a bona fide car enthusiast whose automotive journey has literally changed laws and inspired conversations. From a legendary supercar that sparked a legal battle lasting over a decade, to his first electric car that caused a stir with another tech billionaire, and even his early days of collecting speeding tickets, his garage is anything but boring. Let’s peel back the layers and explore the first half of this incredible collection that truly stands out.
1. The Porsche 959: A Legal Legend and Automotive Marvel
If Bill Gates’ car collection has a crown jewel, it’s undoubtedly the Porsche 959. This isn’t just a rare car; it’s a legend, and the story behind Gates acquiring and driving it in the U.S. is as epic as its performance. Only 337 units of this advanced sports car were ever made between 1986 and 1993, immediately cementing its status as an exclusive and highly sought-after machine. Gates, known for his deep interest in technology and innovation, saw the 959 as a pinnacle of engineering, reflecting his professional ethos.
This Porsche 959 was a technological marvel, designed to be the world’s fastest production car in the 1980s. Under its sleek hood lay a 2.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine, pumping out a staggering 450 horsepower. It boasted a top speed of 197 miles per hour, making it an absolute beast on the road. Beyond sheer power, it featured revolutionary all-wheel drive, adjustable suspension, and cutting-edge aerodynamics, all of which were far ahead of their time. Back then, it came with a hefty price tag of $250,000, which translates to nearly $700,000 today.
However, owning this dream car in the U.S. presented a unique challenge. Gates, along with Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen and comedian Jerry Seinfeld, ordered one, only to find it wasn’t street-legal in America due to stringent safety and emissions laws. His beloved Porsche was stuck in customs for an agonizing 13 years, a testament to how difficult it was to import such advanced non-compliant vehicles. But Gates is not one to back down from a challenge, especially when it comes to his passions.
This led Gates and his legal team to embark on a prolonged campaign, lobbying intensely for a new law. Their perseverance eventually paid off with the creation of the “Show or Display” amendment in 1999. This landmark legislation allowed vehicles of historical or technological significance, produced in limited numbers (under 500 units), to be imported into the U.S. without meeting standard federal safety regulations. Thanks to Gates’ tireless efforts, his 959, a “Komfort” model, finally hit U.S. roads, paving the way for other collectors to legally enjoy similar exotic vehicles.
The Porsche 959 isn’t just a car in Gates’ collection; it’s a symbol of his determination and an influential piece of automotive history. It showcased that even billionaires would fight for what they believe in, profoundly impacting supercar design with its advanced tech and all-wheel drive systems. Still valued around $1.7 million today, it remains a powerful reminder of Gates’ blend of innovation, persistence, and genuine love for groundbreaking engineering.
Read more about: Inside Bill Gates’ Garage: Unveiling the Tech Titan’s Private Car Collection for 2025
2. **The 1979 Porsche 911 Turbo (930): His First Love and a Brush with the Law**Before the legendary 959, there was another Porsche that captured Bill Gates’ heart and ignited his lifelong passion for the brand: a 1979 Porsche 911 Turbo, often referred to by its chassis code, 930. This wasn’t just any car; it was one of his first major luxury purchases, acquired when Microsoft was still in its burgeoning stages. In an interview, Gates reportedly said that after founding Microsoft, his second dream was to buy a Porsche 911, and he made that dream a reality in 1979.
Before the legendary 959, there was another Porsche that captured Bill Gates’ heart and ignited his lifelong passion for the brand: a 1979 Porsche 911 Turbo, often referred to by its chassis code, 930. This wasn’t just any car; it was one of his first major luxury purchases, acquired when Microsoft was still in its burgeoning stages. In an interview, Gates reportedly said that after founding Microsoft, his second dream was to buy a Porsche 911, and he made that dream a reality in 1979.
This Porsche 911 Turbo was an icon of its era, known for its thrilling performance and distinctive “whale-tail” rear spoiler. It housed a 3-liter turbocharged flat-six engine that delivered 265 to 291 lb-ft of torque, producing 265 horsepower, making it a powerful and exciting ride. With a four-speed manual transmission and a wheelbase of 89.4 inches, it was renowned for being a blast around corners. Its stylish interior, complete with leather sports seats and a nicely padded cabin, added to its allure for wealthy car enthusiasts of the 1980s.
The early days of Gates’ ownership of this Porsche are as legendary as the car itself. He was known to drive it to the Microsoft office every day, often indulging in its high-speed capabilities. This led to a memorable incident where Gates, young and perhaps a bit too enthusiastic, racked up three speeding tickets in a single day. The consequences were swift: he ended up spending a night in jail, only to be bailed out by his co-founder, Paul Allen. This anecdote perfectly captures a glimpse of a different, more audacious Bill Gates, fueling his early obsession with Porsches and high-performance driving.
While Gates no longer owns this specific car, having sold it in the 1990s (it was later restored and auctioned for $80,000 in 2012), its significance in his automotive journey is undeniable. The 1979 Porsche 911 Turbo wasn’t just a car; it was the catalyst for his enduring love affair with the Porsche brand, setting the stage for the many iconic models that would eventually grace his garage. It serves as a fascinating look back at the start of his remarkable car collection, rooted in a blend of youthful ambition and a need for speed.
Car Model Information: 2018 Acura MDX 3.5L w/Technology Package
Name: Porsche 911
Caption: The 1 millionth 911 produced on display at Volkswagen Group Forum, Berlin
Designer: Ferdinand Alexander Porsche
Manufacturer: Porsche
Production: September 1964 – present
Assembly: Stuttgart,Baden-Württemberg
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Related: unbulleted list
Layout: Rear-engine design,rear-wheel drive
Predecessor: Porsche 356
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2+2 coupés, 2000s cars
Summary: The Porsche 911 model series (pronounced Nine Eleven or in German: Neunelf) is a family of German two-door, high performance rear-engine sports cars, introduced in September 1964 by Porsche AG of Stuttgart, Germany. Now in its eighth generation, all 911s have a rear-mounted flat-six engine, and usually 2+2 seating, except for special 2-seater variants. Originally, 911s had air-cooled engines, and torsion bar suspension, but the 911 has been continuously enhanced, and evolved across generations. Though the 911 core concept has remained largely unchanged, water-cooled engines were introduced with the 996 series in 1998, and front and rear suspension have been replaced by Porsche-specific MacPherson suspension up front, and independent multi-link rear suspension.
The 911 has been raced extensively by private and factory teams, in a variety of classes. It is among the most successful competition cars. In the mid-1970s, the naturally aspirated 911 Carrera RSR won world championship races including Targa Florio and the 24 Hours of Daytona. The 911-derived 935 turbo also won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1979. Porsche won the World Championship for Makes in 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979 with 911-derived models.
In a 1999 poll to determine the Car of the Century, the 911 ranked fifth — one of two in the top five that had remained continuously in production (the original Beetle remained in production until 2003). The one millionth example was manufactured in May 2017 and is in the company’s permanent collection.
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Price: $18,885 Mileage: 131,273 mi.
3. The Porsche Taycan: Embracing the Electric Revolution with a Twis
Fast forward to 2020, and Bill Gates once again made headlines with a Porsche, but this time, it was an electric one: the Porsche Taycan. This acquisition marked a significant shift, signaling Gates’ dedication to environmentally friendly transportation and his role as a climate change fighter. His choice was particularly intriguing given his well-documented history with internal combustion Porsches, showcasing a seamless blend of his brand loyalty with his forward-thinking advocacy for sustainable technology.
The Porsche Taycan itself is a marvel of modern engineering, an all-electric sports car designed for both sleek aesthetics and high performance. It’s available in various versions, including the Turbo and Turbo S, both powered by a 93.4 kWh lithium-ion battery and dual electric motors. The Turbo S model, for instance, can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 2.4 seconds, boasts a top speed of 161 mph, and offers a healthy range of 305–360 miles. Gates himself has praised it, calling it “very, very cool” in an interview, highlighting his appreciation for its advanced features and performance.
However, Gates’ decision to choose a Porsche Taycan over a Tesla, another prominent electric vehicle, sparked a notable stir with Tesla CEO Elon Musk. According to reports, there was some tension due to Gates betting against Tesla’s stock, and Musk himself reportedly found his discussions with Gates “underwhelming.” This created a fascinating, albeit public, billionaire feud. Gates, while acknowledging Tesla’s pioneering role in pushing the auto industry towards EVs, apparently preferred the unique style and “sound” of the Taycan, even as an electric vehicle, showing his deep-rooted brand preference.
The Porsche Taycan represents more than just a car in Gates’ collection; it embodies his active role in promoting sustainable solutions and the future of transportation. It aligns perfectly with his broader efforts through philanthropy and investment to address climate change and promote innovative technologies that protect the planet. By choosing the Taycan, Gates showcases that luxury, high-performance driving, and environmental responsibility can indeed go hand-in-hand, supporting the shift to sustainable transport without sacrificing style or exhilaration.
Car Model Information: 2023 Porsche Taycan
Name: Porsche Taycan
ModelCode: Type 9J1
Manufacturer: Porsche
Production: 2019–present
Assembly: Stuttgart
Designer: Emiel Burki
Class: Executive car
BodyStyle: Sedan (automobile),shooting brake
Platform: Volkswagen Group MSB platform#J1 Platform Models
Engine: Synchronous motor#Permanent-magnet
Layout: Rear-motor, rear-wheel-drive
Transmission: 1-speed direct-drive (front 8.05:1),2-speed automatic (rear; 16:1 and 8.05:1)
Battery: lithium-ion battery,lithium-ion battery
ElectricRange: cvt
Charging: Direct current,Direct current,Alternating current,Alternating current
Length: Convert
Wheelbase: Convert
Width: Convert
Height: Convert
Weight: Convert
Related: Audi e-tron GT
Sp: uk
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from January 2025
Summary: The Porsche Taycan is a battery electric luxury sports sedan and shooting brake car produced by German automobile manufacturer Porsche. The concept version of the Taycan named the Porsche Mission E, debuted at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. Four years later, the production Taycan was revealed at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show. As Porsche’s first series production electric car, it is sold in several variants at different performance levels, and may spawn further derivatives in future models. It is built on the J1 electric car platform shared with the similarly shaped Audi e-tron GT.
The name “Taycan” (/taɪ-kan/) is a reference to the steed on the coat of arms of the city of Stuttgart, found on the Porsche crest. In Turkish, tay means colt or young horse, and can means lively. The “Turbo” name used in the higher trims, being electrically powered, does not mean to have turbochargers, but to have “increased power”.
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4. The Tesla Model X: His Surprise Daily Driver
While the Porsche Taycan grabbed headlines as Gates’ first electric car, a truly surprising entry into his personal fleet, and indeed his reported daily driver, is the Tesla Model X. This choice raised more than a few eyebrows, given the well-known tensions and differing views between Bill Gates and Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Despite the personal friction, Gates’ ownership of a Model X speaks volumes about his commitment to practicality, family needs, and, most importantly, his unwavering belief in sustainable technologies, regardless of the brand.
It’s not explicitly laid out by Gates himself, but it’s widely imagined that the Model X’s status as a family car was a major draw. With comfortable seating for up to seven adults, it’s an ideal vehicle for the dad-of-three, combining luxury with genuine utility. This large electric SUV offers the most storage space in its class and is described as the fastest SUV on the highway, making it a powerhouse for both daily errands and spirited drives. Gates has even been seen showing off the car in video interviews, taking sci-fi author Neal Stephenson for a drive around Seattle.
The Tesla Model X is lauded for its impressive range, cutting-edge technology, and distinctive falcon-wing doors. Its Plaid model boasts an astounding 0–60 mph time of 2.1 seconds, making it one of the quickest vehicles on the road, electric or otherwise. It offers a substantial range of up to 348 miles and a top speed of 163 mph, proving that eco-friendly transportation doesn’t mean compromising on performance. These specs highlight why Gates, despite his preference for Porsche’s style, clearly appreciates the raw power and innovation Tesla brings to the EV market.
Gates’ choice to own a Tesla, even amidst his public disagreements with Musk, underscores his consistent advocacy for innovation and sustainability, key themes in his post-Microsoft endeavors, including the Gates Foundation’s focus on climate change and clean energy solutions. The presence of a Tesla in his garage demonstrates that he’s not just talking the talk; he’s literally driving the future. It’s a testament to his practical side, his family-oriented lifestyle, and his overarching commitment to a greener world, showcasing that sometimes, the best choice for the planet (and personal convenience) transcends personal rivalries.
Car Model Information: 2018 Acura MDX 3.5L w/Technology Package
Name: Tesla Model X
Manufacturer: Tesla, Inc.
Production: 2015–present
Assembly: unbulleted list
Designer: Franz von Holzhausen
Class: Crossover (automobile)
BodyStyle: 5-door SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Doors: unbulleted list
Related: Tesla Model S
Motor: unbulleted list
Title: Discontinued
Transmission: unbulleted list
Battery: unbulleted list
ElectricRange: FTP-75
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: unbulleted list
Sp: us
Categories: 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles lacking reliable references
Summary: The Tesla Model X is a battery electric mid-size luxury crossover SUV built by Tesla, Inc. since 2015. Developed from the full-sized sedan platform of the Tesla Model S, the vehicle uses distinctive falcon wing doors for rear passenger access.
The Model X has an EPA size class as an SUV, and shares around 30 percent of its content with the Model S, half of the originally planned 60 percent, and weighs about 10 percent more. Both the Model X and Model S are produced at the Tesla Factory in Fremont, California. The prototype was unveiled at Tesla’s design studios in Hawthorne, California, on February 9, 2012. First deliveries of the Model X began in September 2015. After one full year on the market, in 2016, the Model X ranked seventh among the world’s best-selling plug-in cars. A refresh of the Tesla Model X was introduced in 2021, offering a new “Plaid” performance model, along with a revised interior, powertrain, and suspension.Another update of the Model X was introduced in June 2025 with a new front bumper camera, new wheel designs, increased third-row space, dynamic ambient lighting, and adaptive headlights. The updates are similar to the Model S, which was updated at the same time.
As of July 2025, the Model X is available as a Long-Range version with an estimated EPA range of 352 miles (566 km) and a high performance “Plaid” version with an estimated EPA range of 335 miles (539 km).
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Read more about: Buckle Up (Slowly!): Meet the 12 Vehicles Piloted by the Most Annoyingly Cautious Drivers on the Road
5. **The Porsche 911 Carrera: A Symbol of Timeless Appeal and Personal Journey
Among Bill Gates’ impressive collection, the Porsche 911 Carrera stands out not just for its iconic status, but also for its profound connection to his personal and professional journey. This particular model encapsulates the blend of luxury, speed, and engineering precision that Gates has consistently appreciated throughout his life. It’s a testament to timeless design and relentless performance, solidifying his enduring loyalty to the Porsche brand in yet another exquisite form.
The Porsche 911 Carrera is universally celebrated for its sleek, unmistakable design and its powerful, precision-engineered engine. Its exceptional handling characteristics make it a joy to drive, offering a visceral connection to the road that few other sports cars can match. Gates’ ownership of such a vehicle reflects his admiration for innovative design and technological excellence, values that deeply resonate with his professional ethos as a co-founder of Microsoft and a visionary in the tech industry. It’s a car that represents both form and function at their peak.
Beyond its technical prowess and aesthetic appeal, the 911 Carrera holds a deeper, more personal significance for Gates. It’s often said that his choice of the Porsche 911 Carrera is not merely about the driving experience, but also about a personal connection, as it was one of the early symbols of success during his formative years at Microsoft. This car isn’t just a high-performance machine; it’s a nostalgic reminder of his achievements, serving as a tangible link to his past triumphs and the early days of building a global empire.
Therefore, the Porsche 911 Carrera in Bill Gates’ garage is more than just another luxury car. It’s an expression of his sustained appreciation for cutting-edge innovation, a nod to classic automotive craftsmanship, and a powerful symbol of his incredible journey from a burgeoning tech entrepreneur to a global icon. It perfectly embodies how his passions—for technology, excellence, and a touch of personal nostalgia—converge in his carefully curated car collection, proving that some classics are simply irresistible and forever relevant.
Car Model Information: 2018 Acura MDX 3.5L w/Technology Package
Name: Porsche 911
Caption: The 1 millionth 911 produced on display at Volkswagen Group Forum, Berlin
Designer: Ferdinand Alexander Porsche
Manufacturer: Porsche
Production: September 1964 – present
Assembly: Stuttgart,Baden-Württemberg
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Related: unbulleted list
Layout: Rear-engine design,rear-wheel drive
Predecessor: Porsche 356
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2+2 coupés, 2000s cars
Summary: The Porsche 911 model series (pronounced Nine Eleven or in German: Neunelf) is a family of German two-door, high performance rear-engine sports cars, introduced in September 1964 by Porsche AG of Stuttgart, Germany. Now in its eighth generation, all 911s have a rear-mounted flat-six engine, and usually 2+2 seating, except for special 2-seater variants. Originally, 911s had air-cooled engines, and torsion bar suspension, but the 911 has been continuously enhanced, and evolved across generations. Though the 911 core concept has remained largely unchanged, water-cooled engines were introduced with the 996 series in 1998, and front and rear suspension have been replaced by Porsche-specific MacPherson suspension up front, and independent multi-link rear suspension.
The 911 has been raced extensively by private and factory teams, in a variety of classes. It is among the most successful competition cars. In the mid-1970s, the naturally aspirated 911 Carrera RSR won world championship races including Targa Florio and the 24 Hours of Daytona. The 911-derived 935 turbo also won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1979. Porsche won the World Championship for Makes in 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979 with 911-derived models.
In a 1999 poll to determine the Car of the Century, the 911 ranked fifth — one of two in the top five that had remained continuously in production (the original Beetle remained in production until 2003). The one millionth example was manufactured in May 2017 and is in the company’s permanent collection.
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Brand: Porsche Model: 911 Carrera
Price: $18,885 Mileage: 131,273 mi.
Read more about: Inside Bill Gates’ Garage: Unveiling the Tech Titan’s Private Car Collection for 2025
6. **The Mercedes S-Class: Understated Luxury and Advanced Engineering
Moving beyond his beloved Porsches and cutting-edge EVs, Bill Gates’ garage also hosts a magnificent Mercedes S-Class. This isn’t just any luxury car; it’s a testament to his consistent preference for comfort, advanced technology, and impeccable German engineering. For someone like Gates, who has built an empire on innovation, the S-Class perfectly embodies a blend of discreet elegance and state-of-the-art features, making it a fitting choice for both personal and professional journeys.
The Mercedes S-Class is universally celebrated for its plush, comfortable interior, which often sets the benchmark for luxury sedans worldwide. It’s packed with the company’s latest innovations, from its refined powertrain technologies to its sophisticated safety systems and groundbreaking infotainment. Whether it’s the power headrests or the advanced digital assistant, every detail is meticulously crafted to offer a superior experience. It’s no wonder this model is considered one of the best-selling luxury sedans, appealing to those who demand excellence without unnecessary flash.
Gates has been spotted in models like a 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class, which, even then, would have boasted a powerful V12 engine capable of a top speed of 155 mph. With an estimated value of around $110,000, it’s a significant investment that speaks volumes about his appreciation for quality and precision. The S-Class allows Gates to travel in supreme comfort and safety, reflecting the subtle yet sophisticated aura he maintains, seamlessly blending his affinity for innovation with a discerning taste for luxury.
Read more about: The Digital Drive: Unpacking the Revolutionary Screens and AI Tech Defining Luxury Sedans in 2025
7. The Ferrari 348: A Rare Italian Stallion with Historical Significance
While Porsches clearly hold a special place in Bill Gates’ heart, his collection also boasts a stunning Ferrari 348, signaling his appreciation for classic Italian design and exclusive automotive history. This particular model isn’t just another sports car; it’s a rare gem that marks a significant chapter in Ferrari’s storied past, making it a truly unique addition to his impressive fleet.
During its limited production run between 1989 and 1995, only about 8,000 units of the Ferrari 348 were produced, cementing its status as an exclusive and highly sought-after vehicle. What makes it even more special is its distinction as the last V8 sports car developed under the direct supervision of Ferrari’s legendary founder, Enzo Ferrari, before his passing. Gates, known for his keen eye for groundbreaking innovation, reportedly became an admirer and purchased one in its iconic red hue.
Under the hood, the Ferrari 348 packed a formidable V8 engine, delivering up to 316 horsepower depending on the specific model. This powerhouse enabled the quickest versions to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in a thrilling 5.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 280 km/h (approximately 174 mph). Gates’ ownership of such a vehicle underscores his deep appreciation for high-performance machines that offer both a visceral driving experience and a tangible connection to automotive heritage. It’s a true collector’s item that beautifully complements his diverse collection.
Car Model Information: 1990 Ferrari 348 TS
Name: Ferrari 348
Caption: Ferrari 348 Spider
Manufacturer: Ferrari
Production: 1989–1995,8,844 produced
Assembly: Maranello
Designer: Leonardo Fioravanti (engineer)
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: Berlinetta,targa top,convertible
Layout: Longitudinal engine,Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: Ferrari Dino engine#3.4,V8 engine
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2450 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 4230 mm
Width: 1894 mm
Height: 1170 mm
Weight: 3300 lb
Order: flip
Predecessor: Ferrari 328
Successor: Ferrari F355
Sp: uk
Categories: 1990s cars, All articles needing additional references, All articles that are excessively detailed, All articles with style issues, Articles needing additional references from July 2020
Summary: The Ferrari 348 (Type F119) is a mid-engined, V8-powered, two-seat sports car produced by Italian automaker Ferrari, replacing the 328 in 1989 and remaining in production until 1995, when it was replaced by the F355. It was the final V8 model developed under the direction of Enzo Ferrari before his death, commissioned to production posthumously.
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Price: $82,900 Mileage: 35,450 mi.
8. The Ford Focus: Bill Gates’ Unexpectedly Humble Daily Driver
In a collection filled with high-performance Porsches, luxurious Mercedes, and rare Ferraris, one car stands out for its sheer practicality and unexpected humility: the Ford Focus. This isn’t a supercar or an executive sedan; it’s a straightforward, reliable compact car that Bill Gates reportedly used as his daily driver during his final days at Microsoft. It’s a delightful glimpse into his down-to-earth side, proving that even billionaires appreciate the simple things.
The Ford Focus hatchback owned by Gates was a third-generation version, initially introduced at the 2010 North American International Auto Show. It came equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, delivering dependable performance for everyday commuting. Earlier, he was even noted to have driven a 2008 Ford Focus Coupe, a simple and efficient car with 140 horsepower, achieving around 33 mpg on the highway.
Why would one of the world’s richest individuals opt for a car valued around $15,000 when he could have virtually anything? The answer lies in its simplicity, reliability, and its ability to blend seamlessly into traffic. The Ford Focus allowed Gates to maintain a low profile, emphasizing his pragmatic approach to life and his desire to avoid unnecessary flash. It perfectly illustrates that for Gates, a car isn’t always about status; sometimes, it’s simply about getting from point A to point B efficiently and without fanfare.
Car Model Information: 2017 Ford Focus ST Base
Name: Ford Focus
Caption: 2018 Ford Focus ST-Line X
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: 1998–2025
Class: Small family car
BodyStyle: hatchback
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive
Predecessor: Ford Escort (Europe)
ModelYears: 2000–2018 (North America)
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All articles with specifically marked weasel-worded phrases, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Ford Focus is a compact car (C-segment in Europe) manufactured by the Ford Motor Company from 1998 until 2025. It was created under Alexander Trotman’s Ford 2000 plan, which aimed to globalize model development and sell one compact vehicle worldwide. The original Focus was primarily designed by Ford of Europe’s German and British teams. Production of the fourth generation Focus began in 2018 in Germany and China. In 2025, Ford announced that the Focus will no longer be built, in line with an announcement made in 2022.
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Brand: Ford Model: Focus
Price: $15,985 Mileage: 97,277 mi.
9. The BMW 7 Series: A Blend of Security and Driving Dynamics
Adding another layer of German engineering and luxury to his collection, Bill Gates has been seen driving a BMW 7 Series. This choice highlights his appreciation for vehicles that seamlessly combine high-tech equipment, a comfortable interior, and engaging driving dynamics. The 7 Series offers a premium experience where one can truly sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey, or take the wheel for an exhilarating drive.
More specifically, Gates reportedly owned a 2009 BMW 760Li, which wasn’t just a luxury sedan; it was a bulletproof beast. This particular model featured a potent V12 engine, churning out an impressive 535 horsepower, enabling it to reach a top speed of 155 mph. Beyond its raw power, the 760Li was engineered for the utmost security, incorporating features like steel armor, bulletproof tires, and even a sealed ventilation system, reflecting a practical consideration for his safety and privacy.
Priced around $158,000, this high-tech security vehicle proves that Gates’ collection isn’t solely about thrill; it’s also about protection and peace of mind. The BMW 7 Series in his garage perfectly encapsulates his thoughtful approach to car ownership, blending the excitement of high performance with the essential need for security, all wrapped in a package of sophisticated German luxury. It’s a powerful statement on how he balances his diverse interests.
Car Model Information: 2018 Acura MDX 3.5L w/Technology Package
Name: BMW 7 Series
Caption: BMW 7 Series (G11)
Manufacturer: BMW
Production: 1977–present
Class: Full-size car,luxury car
BodyStyle: sedan (car)
Predecessor: BMW New Six
Categories: All articles with dead external links, Articles with dead external links from July 2021, Articles with short description, BMW vehicle series, CS1 Chinese-language sources (zh)
Summary: The BMW 7 Series is a full-size luxury sedan manufactured and marketed by the German automaker BMW since 1977. It is the successor to the BMW E3 “New Six” sedan and is now in its seventh generation.
The 7 Series is BMW’s flagship car and is only available in a sedan bodystyle (including long wheelbase and limousine models). It traditionally introduces technologies and exterior design themes before other models in BMW’s lineup.
The first generation of the 7 Series was powered by straight-6 petrol engines, and following generations have been powered by inline-4, straight-6, V8 and V12 engines with both natural aspiration and turbocharging. Since 1995, diesel engines have been optional in the 7 Series.
Unlike the BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series sedans, BMW does not offer a full M model, but once offered an M performance variant, the BMW M760 with its 6.6L V12 (at the time the most powerful BMW ever made, not to be confused with BMW 760 6.6 V12 which does not offer the same performance). The Alpina B7 served as the high-performance variant of the 7 Series.
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Price: $18,885 Mileage: 131,273 mi.
Read more about: Don’t Get Stranded: 14 Used Cars That Will Absolutely Drain Your Wallet After 100,000 Miles
10. The Mercedes 500SL: Classic Convertible Elegance and Innovation
Rounding out Bill Gates’ impressively varied car collection is the Mercedes 500SL, a classic two-seater convertible that embodies timeless elegance and a surprising degree of innovation for its era. This particular Mercedes model showcases his refined taste for open-top driving pleasure combined with the robust engineering and luxurious touches synonymous with the German brand, offering a different flavor than his other high-performance and practical vehicles.
The Mercedes 500SL was a marvel of its time, particularly a 1993 model which could produce 322 horsepower. This was an exceptionally impressive figure for a luxury convertible back then, allowing for spirited drives and effortless cruising. Beyond its potent engine, the car featured pioneering interior technology that was quite advanced for its day, including power headrests and integrated seatbelts, enhancing both comfort and safety for its occupants.
Gates’ ownership of such a vehicle underlines his broad appreciation for automotive craftsmanship and technological foresight across different segments of the luxury market. The 500SL isn’t just a car; it’s a statement about enjoying the finer things in life, delivered with Mercedes-Benz’s renowned reliability and style. It gracefully blends classic aesthetics with forward-thinking features, perfectly fitting into a collection that consistently bridges the gap between heritage and innovation.
There you have it – a joyride through the incredibly diverse and often surprising car collection of Bill Gates! From the iconic Porsches that defined his early success and even changed laws, to his trailblazing electric vehicles that signal his commitment to a greener future, and then to the understated luxury sedans and even a humble everyday commuter, Gates’ garage tells a fascinating story. Each vehicle isn’t just a mode of transport; it’s a reflection of his multifaceted personality – a tech visionary, a passionate enthusiast, a climate change advocate, and a man who, at heart, appreciates both cutting-edge innovation and the simple joy of driving. It’s a collection that proves you can be one of the world’s richest individuals and still have a fleet that’s both extraordinary and genuinely relatable. His cars truly offer a unique window into the mind of a legend.
