The year 2020 left a gaping hole in the hearts of music lovers worldwide with the passing of a true icon, Eddie Van Halen. For so many of us, the blistering riffs and unforgettable solos of Van Halen weren’t just background noise; they were the soundtrack to our lives, capable of getting our blood pumping with every single note. He didn’t just play the guitar; he reinvented it, famously crafting his ‘Frankenstein’ axe that blended the Gibson Les Paul sound with a Fender Stratocaster form – a true hot-rodded instrument long before the term was commonplace.
Yet, beyond the legendary stage presence and the charming smile, there was another, equally fervent passion that fueled the American icon: an insatiable love affair with automobiles. Eddie Van Halen wasn’t just a casual car admirer; he was a serious collector, a hands-on enthusiast, and someone who genuinely enjoyed shredding tires as much as he shredded on his guitar. He didn’t just acquire cool cars; he drove them, customized them, and made them an extension of his audacious personality.
As we celebrate the life of this musical maestro, it’s only fitting that we take a joyous detour into the garage that housed some of his most beloved four-wheeled companions. Forget merely admiring these machines; Eddie truly lived with them, transforming them into expressions of raw power and unadulterated cool. Let’s peel back the layers and take an enthusiastic look at some of the coolest cars that found a cherished spot in the Van Halen lineup, starting with a selection of his incredible American classics and custom builds.
1. **The Van Hauler: Custom Chevy C1500**There are custom trucks, and then there’s Eddie Van Halen’s custom Chevy C1500 pickup, affectionately known as the Van Hauler. This isn’t just a truck; it’s a rolling piece of art, a direct extension of his musical persona, famously painted to resemble one of his iconic customized guitars. It’s the kind of machine that demands attention, embodying the spirit of rock and roll in every meticulously crafted detail.
Built by the legendary Hot Rods by Boyd and designed by the equally famed Chip Foose, this C1500 was far more than just a pretty face. Style-wise, the truck’s modifications included a sleek rear rollpan, a striking billet grille, and those instantly recognizable 16-inch billet rims, all tied together with paint inspired by his legendary Frankenstein guitar. It was a visual masterpiece, a tribute to his craft, and a testament to his unique vision.
But Eddie wasn’t just about looks; performance was always paramount. Underneath that distinctive skin, the Van Hauler was even wilder. It featured an LT1 engine swap, providing a serious punch, and a Corvette independent rear suspension, ensuring it handled like no ordinary pickup. This wasn’t just a show truck; it was built to perform, reflecting Eddie’s passion for driving his vehicles hard.
Interestingly, the legend of the Van Hauler extends to two versions. The original was crafted as a prize for a magazine giveaway, finding its way to a lucky GM mechanic and die-hard Van Halen fan. The second, with a few additional modifications, was built specifically for Eddie himself. His personal truck, after falling into disrepair, was lovingly restored in 2009 by Hot Rods by Boyd alumni Duane Mayer and Bernt Karlsson, eventually being auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale in 2010. What a piece of history to own!
2. **The Pro Touring Beast: 1970 Chevrolet Nova**If there’s one car that screams ‘hot rod love affair’ in Eddie Van Halen’s collection, it has to be his completely custom 1970 Chevrolet Nova. There’s something so undeniably nostalgic about the Chevy Nova, a car that perfectly captures an era, and it’s crystal clear why this particular machine found its way into the heart and garage of a rock god. This wasn’t just any Nova; it was a pro touring-style monster, built to dominate.
This incredible Nova was painstakingly customized by Jim Bassett’s Bones Fab shop in California, a name synonymous with high-quality custom builds. Eddie’s direction saw this project transform from a simple engine swap into a full-blown performance machine, featuring comprehensive suspension upgrades, larger tires, and a fresh paint job that made it truly pop. It’s the kind of detail that highlights his hands-on involvement and discerning taste.
Under the hood, this Nova was a force to be reckoned with. The driveline boasted a powerful 454 LSX motor, churning out a staggering 650 horsepower. This raw power was expertly managed by a Tremec Magnum T-56 six-speed transmission, transferring it to a robust Currie nine-inch Ford rear end with 4.10 gears. It was built for speed, designed for adrenaline, and absolutely engineered for excitement.
But power is nothing without control. The suspension system was entirely revised, featuring an all-Ridetech setup with tubular A-arms, Shockwaves, and a Tru-Turn kit up front. The rear employed a custom triangulated four-link with shock waves and a custom sway bar, ensuring stellar handling. Finished in a custom PPG’s Custom House of Colors tang yellow orange duco, with carbon fiber bonnet and boot, this Nova looked as good as it performed. Eddie absolutely loved tearing up the California freeways in it, declaring it “all dialed-in and brutally fast!” This phenomenal machine, complete with a certificate of authenticity signed by Eddie, was eventually offered for sale, giving someone the chance to own a piece of rock and automotive history.
Car Model Information: 2007 Chevrolet Colorado LT
Caption: 1963 Chevrolet Chevy II 300 4-door sedan
Name: Chevrolet Chevy II / Nova
Manufacturer: unbulleted list
ModelYears: unbulleted list
Production: unbulleted list
Class: unbulleted list
Successor: unbulleted list
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, All articles needing additional references, Articles needing additional references from March 2025, Articles with short description
Summary: The Chevrolet Chevy II/Nova is a small automobile manufactured by Chevrolet, and produced in five generations for the 1962 through 1979, and 1985 through 1988 model years. Built on the X-body platform, the Nova was the top selling model in the Chevy II lineup through 1968. The Chevy II nameplate was dropped after 1968, with Nova becoming the nameplate for all of the 1969 through 1979 models. It was replaced by the 1980 Chevrolet Citation introduced in the spring of 1979. The Nova nameplate returned in 1985, produced through 1988 as a S-car based, NUMMI manufactured, subcompact based on the front wheel drive, Japan home-based Toyota Sprinter.
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3. **The Workhorse with Swagger: 1947 Dodge COE “Stake-Bed”**Eddie Van Halen’s automotive tastes were gloriously eclectic, stretching beyond typical hot rods and muscle cars to embrace truly unique specimens. Case in point: his absolutely ‘très cool’ 1947 Dodge cab-over-engine (COE) truck. This wasn’t just a vintage hauler; it was a meticulously customized beast, once again brought to life by the talented crew at Bones Fab, showcasing Eddie’s appreciation for distinct, purposeful vehicles.
When this magnificent truck first arrived at Bones Fab, it already had some modifications, sporting a Ford 6.9-liter diesel engine and a four-speed manual transmission. But as with all of Eddie’s rides, there was always room for improvement, always a quest for more performance and reliability. The Bones Fab team went to work, updating the entire vehicle from the ground up, starting with a comprehensive rewire using a Painless wiring harness.
For a truck of this stature, serious power was a must. The drivetrain received a significant overhaul, being updated with a newer, more potent 7.3-liter turbo diesel engine. To ensure smooth and efficient power delivery, a ZF five-speed gearbox was fitted, complemented by a Gear Vendors overdrive unit out back, making it perfect for both work and cruising down the highway with ease and ‘cruise-ability.’ This was a truck built for serious business, with a serious punch.
Crucially, the steering was also upgraded with a Lee Manufacturing steering box and ram assist unit. These enhancements were vital, transforming the truck from what was originally described as “downright scary to drive” into something “very enjoyable.” Eddie himself used this mighty machine as his “Saturday driver to Lowes and Home Depot,” proving that even rock legends appreciate a capable, powerful truck for weekend errands. This unique piece of his collection, complete with a signed certificate of authenticity, was also made available for sale, offering a rare glimpse into the practical yet powerful side of Eddie’s garage.
4. **The Suburban Legend: 1956 Chev Nomad**Eddie Van Halen’s love for Chevrolet was undeniable, a true ‘love affair with Chevy’ that saw multiple iconic models grace his garage. Among his cherished classics was a stunning 1956 Chevy Nomad, a car that perfectly encapsulated the style and spirit of the mid-fifties. While some of his builds were wild, this particular Nomad was a “tamer build” by comparison, yet still a “super-sweet example” that stood out with its original charm and subtle enhancements.
This isn’t to say it lacked desirability; far from it. The 1956 Nomad was a highly sought-after wagon, and Eddie’s version boasted desirable factory options like air conditioning and power steering, making it a comfortable and enjoyable cruiser. Under the hood, it retained a classic heart: a 265-cubic-inch Power Pack V8, delivering that quintessential American rumble and performance. It was a beautiful representation of an era, preserved and cherished by a man who appreciated automotive heritage.
His collection often showcased his deep appreciation for ‘classics,’ and the Nomad was a shining example of this. It represented a different facet of his automotive passion – one that embraced the elegance and engineering of an earlier time, rather than solely focusing on outright speed or extreme customization. It was a nod to the roots of American car culture, a perfect companion to his hot rods.
This sweet ’56 Nomad eventually changed hands at Barrett-Jackson’s 2009 Scottsdale auction, fetching an incredible $930,000. That monumental figure speaks volumes about the car’s inherent value, its pristine condition, and undoubtedly, the ‘Eddie Van Halen effect’ that elevated its desirability to legendary status. It remains a testament to his discerning taste and the enduring appeal of truly iconic American iron.
Car Model Information: 1957 Chevrolet Nomad
Caption: 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad
Name: Chevrolet Nomad
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Production: 1955–1961,1968–1972
Layout: FR layout
Categories: 1950s cars, 1960s cars, Articles with short description, CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list, Chevrolet concept vehicles
Summary: Chevrolet Nomad is a nameplate used by Chevrolet in North America from the 1950s to the 1970s, applied largely to station wagons. Three different Nomads were produced as a distinct model line, with Chevrolet subsequently using the name as a trim package.
Marketed as a halo model of the Chevrolet station wagon line for the Tri-Five series, the Nomad was repackaged as a station wagon counterpart of the Chevrolet Bel Air and Chevrolet Impala from 1958 to 1961. From 1968 to 1972, the Nomad returned as the base-trim Chevrolet Chevelle station wagon.
Making its debut on a 1954 concept car, the nameplate has again seen used by Chevrolet on multiple concept vehicles; none have reached production.
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5. **The Shoebox Brawler: 1955 Chev 210**Rounding out Eddie Van Halen’s impressive collection of classic American iron, and further solidifying his ‘thing for shoebox Chevs,’ was a formidable 1955 Chevy 210. While his 1956 Nomad might have been a ‘super-sweet example,’ this ’55 210 was arguably “a little more bad-arse,” packing a serious punch that hinted at its rock-and-roll owner’s preference for performance and attitude.
This particular ’55 Chevy wasn’t just about classic looks; it was built with a clear intent for performance. Underneath its smooth, iconic lines lay a robust 408-cubic-inch small-block engine, a powerplant capable of delivering exhilarating acceleration and a throaty exhaust note that would make any gearhead grin. This was paired with a Muncie Rock Crusher four-speed transmission, a legendary gearbox known for its durability and performance under pressure.
For anyone who appreciates the raw, visceral experience of a classic muscle car, this ’55 210 was a dream machine. It combined the timeless aesthetic of one of Chevrolet’s most iconic designs with the kind of mechanical prowess that made it a joy to drive, whether cruising on the street or unleashing its power on an open road. It truly reflected Eddie’s comprehensive love for everything automotive, from show-stopping customs to high-performance classics.
Just like many of his cherished vehicles, this powerful 1955 Chev 210 eventually found a new home, being sold at Mecum’s Houston auction in 2016. It represented another piece of Eddie Van Halen’s incredible automotive journey, a testament to his enduring passion for American muscle and the thrill of the drive. His garage was a constantly evolving testament to a man who lived life in the fast lane, both on and off the stage.
Shifting gears from the raw power of American classics, Eddie Van Halen’s garage also housed a dazzling array of modern performance machines and European exotics, showcasing his equally fervent appreciation for precision engineering and blistering track performance. This wasn’t just about vintage cool; it was about pushing boundaries, both on the stage and on the asphalt.
Car Model Information: 1957 Chevrolet 210 Base
Name: Chevrolet 210
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Caption: 1956 Chevrolet Two-Ten 4-Door Sedan
Layout: FR layout
Production: 1953–1957
Assembly: Flint Truck Assembly,Flint, Michigan
Platform: GM A platform (1936)
Predecessor: Chevrolet Deluxe
Successor: Chevrolet Biscayne
Related: Chevrolet 150,Pontiac Super Chief
Categories: 1950s cars, All articles needing additional references, Articles needing additional references from March 2024, Articles with short description, Cars discontinued in 1957
Summary: The Chevrolet 210 or Two-Ten is a midrange car from Chevrolet that was marketed from 1953 until 1957. It took its name by shortening the production series number 2100 by one digit in order to capitalize on the 1950s trend toward numerical auto names. The numerical designation “210” was also sporadically used in company literature. It replaced the Styleline DeLuxe model available in previous years. The 210 was discontinued after the 1957 model year to be replaced by the Biscayne.
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6. **Supercharged Audi R8s**While Eddie’s garage was a sanctuary for timeless American iron, he certainly wasn’t one to shy away from the exhilarating bite of modern machinery. Taking pride of place were not one, but a pair of supercharged Audi R8s – a V8 and a V10 version, no less! These weren’t just shelf queens; both were six-speed manuals, fitted with “rowdy exhausts,” and, in true Van Halen style, superchargers were enthusiastically added to unleash even more furious horsepower.
Eddie’s adventures with his Audi R8s weren’t just confined to spirited street drives. He was known to frequent California’s storied Sonoma Raceway, pushing these magnificent machines to their limits. It was on one such occasion, though ironically not in an R8, that his need for speed caught the attention of law enforcement, cementing his legend in a hilariously rock-star fashion.
Picture this: Eddie, in his wife’s Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG, was clocked doing over 90 mph. Most mere mortals would be facing a hefty fine and a stern lecture, but this was Eddie Van Halen we’re talking about. The story goes that “the patrol guy who gave me the ticket, his captain voided it,” with the captain reportedly declaring, “You don’t give Eddie Van Halen a ticket.” Only a true icon could pull off such an epic, consequence-free speeding escapade!
This anecdote isn’t just a funny story; it’s a testament to Eddie’s larger-than-life persona, even when he was off-stage and behind the wheel. His Audis, much like his guitars, were tools for high-octane performance and pure, unadulterated enjoyment. They represented the cutting edge of his collection, perfectly blending German engineering with that unmistakable Van Halen roar.
Car Model Information: 2011 Audi R8 4.2 quattro
Caption: Audi R8 V10 Plus (Type 4S)
Manufacturer: Audi
Production: June 2006 – March 2024,(45,949 Units)
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: coupé
Layout: Longitudinal engine,Mid-engine design,rear-wheel-drive
Sp: uk
ModelYears: 2007–2024
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from March 2019
Summary: The Audi R8 is a mid-engine, 2-seater sports car, which uses Audi’s trademark quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. It was introduced by the German car manufacturer Audi AG in 2006. Production ended in the first quarter of 2024.
The car is exclusively designed, developed, and manufactured by Audi AG’s private subsidiary company manufacturing high performance automotive parts, Audi Sport GmbH (formerly quattro GmbH), and is based on the Lamborghini Gallardo and presently the Huracán platform. The fundamental construction of the R8 is based on the Audi Space Frame, and uses an aluminium monocoque which is built using space frame principles. The car is built by Audi Sport GmbH in a newly renovated factory at Audi’s ‘aluminium site’ at Neckarsulm in Germany. At the time it was introduced in 2006, the R8 became the first production car with full-LED headlamps.
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Brand: Audi Model: R8
Price: $69,995 Mileage: 44,740 mi.
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7. **Porsche 911 GT3 RS**If you ever needed proof that Eddie Van Halen was a serious track enthusiast, look no further than his Porsche 911 GT3 RS. This wasn’t just a car; it was a weapon, custom-ordered directly from the Porsche factory and purchased new by the man himself. It proudly wore “5150” license plates, a direct shout-out to Van Halen’s iconic 1986 album, letting everyone know whose performance machine this was.
Eddie’s passion for driving extended well beyond casual cruising. He was a regular at race tracks, pushing his vehicles to their absolute limits. He held a deep affection for the 991-generation GT3 RS, a sentiment he openly shared with Car and Driver, saying, “It’s the first time ever I’ve been able to four-wheel-drift a Porsche. Every other Porsche I’ve ever had, I’ve spun them all. Well, every 911, anyway.” That’s the kind of frank, enthusiastic endorsement only a true driver could give!
This ultra-high-performance machine was built for both street and track, boasting a formidable 4.0-liter flat-six engine that churned out 490 horsepower and 346 ft-lb of torque. It rocketed from zero to 60 mph in a blistering 3.3 seconds and hit a top speed of 193 mph, showcasing its serious pedigree. The handling prowess was further enhanced by BBI Autosport, who fine-tuned the suspension to Eddie’s exacting standards.
The GT3 RS, a vehicle that epitomized track-focused precision, was another car that eventually found a new owner, being listed for sale at $220,000. It stands as a powerful reminder of Eddie’s meticulous taste and his hands-on approach to configuring his cars for maximum exhilaration. This was a car that didn’t just sit in a garage; it lived life in the fast lane, just like its legendary owner.
Car Model Information: 2022 Volkswagen Atlas 2.0T SE
Caption: Porsche 911 (992)
Name: Porsche 911 GT3
Manufacturer: Porsche
Production: 1999–present
Assembly: Zuffenhausen
BodyStyle: coupé
Layout: Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Class: Sports car
Predecessor: Porsche 993#Carrera RS
Related: Porsche 911 GT2
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Porsche 911 GT3 is a high-performance homologation model of the Porsche 911 sports car. It is a range of high-performance models, which began with the 1973 911 Carrera RS. The GT3 has had a successful racing career in the one-make national and regional Porsche Carrera Cup and GT3 Cup Challenge series, as well as the international Porsche Supercup supporting the FIA F1 World Championship.
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Brand: Porsche Model: 911 GT3 RS
Price: $21,999 Mileage: 44,961 mi.
Read more about: Unleashing Performance, Ensuring Protection: 12 Sports Cars Where Speed Meets Stellar Safety Ratings
8. **Ferrari 550**Before the arrival of the incredible GT3 RS, Eddie Van Halen’s chosen “track hack” was a machine synonymous with Italian passion and performance: a Ferrari 550 Maranello. While it might not have been the most obvious choice for a track weapon compared to some of Ferrari’s more hardcore offerings, it was “not a bad one, either,” reflecting Eddie’s discerning and slightly unconventional taste.
His black Ferrari 550 was clearly prepared for serious circuit duties. It received essential modifications including a rollcage for enhanced safety, race seats for optimal driver positioning, and Challenge-style rims that hinted at its track-day intentions. Given his penchant for customization and performance, it’s “fair to assume the engine and suspension weren’t standard, either,” suggesting Eddie likely tweaked the powertrain and handling to his exacting specifications.
The Ferrari 550, with its front-mounted V12 engine, offered a different driving experience than the mid-engined exotics or rear-engined Porsches in his collection. It showcased a broader appreciation for automotive engineering and the nuances of various performance philosophies. For Eddie, it wasn’t just about raw speed; it was about the experience, the sound, and the connection to the machine.
This particular “2000 Ferrari 550 race car” also entered the market, with a starting bid of $125,000. It represents another thrilling chapter in Eddie’s automotive journey, illustrating his deep dive into high-performance driving and his willingness to adapt even a grand tourer into a formidable track machine. It was a testament to his comprehensive love for everything automotive, a love that knew no bounds.
Car Model Information: 2022 Volkswagen Atlas 2.0T SE
Name: Ferrari 550
Aka: Ferrari 550 Maranello
Manufacturer: Ferrari
Production: 1996–2002
Assembly: Maranello
Designer: Pininfarina,Lorenzo Ramaciotti,Elvio D’Aprile
Class: Grand tourer
BodyStyle: berlinetta
Related: Ferrari 456
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: Ferrari F116/F133 engine,V12 engine
Transmission: Manual transmission
Powerout: 485 PS
Abbr: on
Wheelbase: 2500 mm
Length: 4550 mm
Width: 1935 mm
Height: 1277 mm
Weight: 3912 lb
Order: cite web
Sp: uk
Predecessor: Ferrari Daytona
Successor: Ferrari 575M Maranello
Categories: 2000s cars, 24 Hours of Le Mans race cars, Articles with short description, CS1 French-language sources (fr), CS1 German-language sources (de)
Summary: The Ferrari 550 Maranello (tipo F133) is a front-engine V12 2-seat grand tourer built by Ferrari from 1996 to 2002. The 550 Maranello marked Ferrari’s return to a front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout for its 2-seater 12-cylinder model, 23 years after the 365 GTB/4 Daytona had been replaced by the mid-engined Berlinetta Boxer.
In 2000, Ferrari introduced the 550 Barchetta Pininfarina, a limited production roadster version of the 550 which was limited to just 448 examples. The 550 was replaced by the upgraded 575M Maranello in 2002.
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Brand: Ferrari Model: 550 Maranello
Price: $21,999 Mileage: 44,961 mi.
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9. **Porsche 911 Turbo by RUF**Eddie Van Halen’s loyalty to Porsche was evident in multiple vehicles, and one standout was his Porsche 911 Turbo, a 993-generation model, which he bought new in 1996. This car, however, wasn’t destined to remain factory stock for long, perfectly illustrating Eddie’s relentless pursuit of perfection and performance, much like his guitar modifications.
Initially, the 993 Turbo remained in its original form for about four years, a brief respite before the tinkering began. It was then entrusted to the renowned German Porsche specialists, RUF. For any gearhead, the name RUF conjures images of unbridled performance, and they certainly delivered for Eddie.
RUF’s expert hands liberated significant extra horsepower from the already potent 911 Turbo. This power surge was achieved through a comprehensive suite of upgrades, including new turbos for increased boost, performance camshafts for optimized valve timing, a custom exhaust system for improved flow and an even more aggressive soundtrack, and a re-tuned ECU to tie all the modifications together seamlessly. The result was a truly bespoke, high-performance machine.
This RUF-enhanced 911 Turbo epitomized Eddie’s fusion of classic appreciation with modern performance tuning. It wasn’t just a car; it was a highly personal statement, a blend of legendary engineering with the unique touch of an automotive maestro. It perfectly encapsulated his desire to take an already exceptional vehicle and make it undeniably his own, pushing its capabilities to new heights.
Car Model Information: 2022 Volkswagen Atlas 2.0T SE
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, and 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 Turbo
Price: $21,999 Mileage: 44,961 mi.
Read more about: The Ultimate Nineties Rewind: 15 Coolest Cars of the Decade That Still Fuel Our Automotive Dreams
10. **Lamborghini Miura**Is there any car more fitting for a rock legend than a Lamborghini Miura? This utterly iconic, demonically crimson beast was not just a car; it was a symbol of rock-star extravagance and a deep personal connection. The Miura was a “wedding gift from his first wife Valerie Bertinelli,” making it an even more cherished and storied part of his collection.
The legend of Eddie’s Miura is forever etched into music history. He famously immortalized it in the band’s hit song “Panama,” where “it can be heard revving during the breakdown” from the 2:33 mark. This wasn’t just a subtle nod; it was the visceral, unmistakable sound of a V12 snarling its way into one of rock’s most anthemic tracks, a testament to how deeply cars were intertwined with his art.
Like all of Eddie’s beloved vehicles, his Miura “ain’t stock.” It sported wider rims, giving it an even more aggressive stance, and featured distinctive side air intakes that fed that magnificent transverse V12 engine. This wasn’t merely a pristine collector’s item; it was a driver’s car, enhanced to meet the demands of a man who loved to experience his machines.
The Miura also took a starring role in the “Panama” music video, further cementing its status as an integral part of Van Halen lore. It embodied the ultimate rock-star fantasy: raw power, breathtaking design, and a soundtrack that could make your blood pump. It was the perfect car for someone who was truly “Runnin’ with the Devil,” both on and off the stage.
Read more about: The Unseen Value: 9 Classic Cars That Demand Storage Over the Open Road for True Enthusiasts
From the custom-built American hot rods that mirrored his “Frankenstein” guitar to the precision-engineered European exotics he thrashed on the track, Eddie Van Halen’s car collection was a vibrant, roaring extension of his extraordinary personality. He didn’t just accumulate vehicles; he lived with them, drove them hard, and infused them with his unique spirit, creating a legacy that resonates not only in the annals of music but also in the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. His garage was a testament to a life lived full-throttle, a symphony of horsepower and rock and roll that continues to inspire us all.
