Jay Leno is known for his stand-up comedy and late-night television career, but among automotive enthusiasts, his name conjures images of an unparalleled car collection. Spanning decades of dedicated curation and passion, his “Big Dog Garage” at the Burbank (Bob Hope) Airport in California is not merely a storage facility; it is a living museum, a testament to automotive history, and a playground for a true petrolhead. His extensive fleet of over 181 cars and 160 motorcycles is constantly evolving, with Leno himself a frequent buyer and seller, ensuring the collection remains vibrant and reflective of the industry’s rich tapestry.
Leno’s appreciation for these mechanical marvels runs deep, so much so that he has personally invested over $51 million of his approximate $450 million net worth into acquiring these automotive treasures. This commitment extends to his unyielding dedication to maintaining and restoring his vehicles. An unwavering team of expert coachbuilders labors ceaselessly within his renowned garage, not solely to preserve his fleet but also to painstakingly restore vintage gems to their former splendor, ensuring their legacy for generations to come.
This extraordinary assembly boasts some of the rarest and most historically significant vehicles on the planet, each with its own compelling narrative. While many are original or impeccably restored factory-built examples, a few are complete one-off custom creations, blending unexpected components and embodying a unique vision. For a discerning audience, an exploration of Leno’s collection offers more than just a glimpse into luxury; it provides a comprehensive journey through the evolution of motorized travel, highlighting craftsmanship, historical importance, and cultural significance. We delve into ten of the most valuable vehicles that define automotive history, beginning with a selection of undisputed masterpieces.
1. **1955 Mercedes 300SL**Among the pantheon of automotive icons, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Coupe stands as a monument to innovation, engineering prowess, and timeless design. Its distinctive gullwing doors, a necessity born from its advanced tubular space frame chassis, quickly became its most recognizable feature, cementing its place in design history. This car was not just beautiful; it was a technological marvel that broke conventions, making it a highly coveted piece for any serious collector, especially one with Jay Leno’s discerning eye.
Leno’s ownership of this particular 1955 Mercedes 300SL is a testament to its enduring appeal, valued today at an impressive $8 million. The vehicle looks modern even by today’s standards, a testament to the foresight of its original designers. It’s no wonder that more recent Mercedes models, such as the SLS AMG, have incorporated gullwing doors as a respectful homage to the car that once commanded the throne of the industry and captivated imaginations worldwide.
Beyond its striking aesthetics, the 300SL was a formidable performer. Originally conceived as a race car, its road-going version retained much of its competitive spirit, boasting a direct-injected 3.0-liter straight-six engine revolutionary for its time. Jay Leno, with his hands-on approach, has taken his dedication a step further, rebuilding the engine and refreshing its vibrant red color, ensuring it remains as impressive and pristine as the day it rolled off the assembly line. Possessing such a vehicle is not just about owning a car; it’s about holding a tangible piece of automotive heritage, a benchmark against which all future sports cars would be measured.
Read more about: Twelve Icons: How These Cars Forged the Golden Age of 1950s Automotive Design and Performance
2. **1931 Bugatti Type 51**Jay Leno’s profound admiration for French vehicles, particularly the creations of Ettore Bugatti, is a recurring theme in his automotive discussions. His collection proudly features several Bugattis, each a testament to the brand’s pioneering spirit and engineering artistry. Among these, the 1931 Type 51 stands out as a genuine Grand Prix race car, embodying the competitive spirit and refined mechanics that defined early 20th-century motorsport.
Valued at $3 million, the Type 51 is built upon the same chassis as Leno’s Type 37A, but distinguishes itself with a more powerful 8-cylinder supercharged engine. This machine was designed for speed and dominance on the track. According to Hemmings, this remarkable vehicle is propelled by a 138 cubic inch straight-8 engine capable of producing up to 180 horsepower. This figure, phenomenal for its era, showcased Bugatti’s relentless pursuit of performance and thoughtful engineering, likely reducing stress on the engine for longevity.
Type 51 cars are exceedingly rare, making original examples in good condition highly sought after by collectors worldwide. Leno’s Type 51, though not explicitly mentioned as fully restored in his videos, appears to be in like-new condition. While some purists argue that an unrestored car might command a higher premium, the impeccable condition and historical significance of Leno’s example ensure its status as a multi-million-dollar machine, offering a tangible connection to the golden age of Grand Prix racing and the genius of Ettore Bugatti.
Car Model Information: 2023 Buick Envision Preferred
Name: Bugatti Type 51
Manufacturer: Bugatti
Production: 1931–1935
Chassis: Steel
Class: Grand Prix motor racing,Formula Libre
Predecessor: Bugatti Type 35
Successor: Bugatti Type 59
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Weight: cvt
BodyStyle: Underslung type
Engine: DOHC,straight-8
Transmission: Manual transmission
Designer: Ettore Bugatti,Jean Bugatti
Categories: 24 Hours of Le Mans race cars, Articles with hAudio microformats, Articles with short description, Bugatti automobiles, Commons category link is on Wikidata
Summary: The Bugatti Type 51 series succeeded the famous Type 35 as Bugatti’s premier racing car for the 1930s. The main distinction is that it uses a twin cam engine. Unlike the dominant Type 35s of the prior decade, the Type 51 (and later Type 53, Type 54, and Type 59) were unable to compete with the government-supported German and Italian offerings.
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Brand: Bugatti Model: Type 51
Price: $20,221 Mileage: 46,554 mi.
Read more about: The Duke’s Ride: An In-Depth Look at John Wayne’s Beloved Pontiac Station Wagons and Iconic Automotive Collection
3. **1967 Lamborghini Miura**The year 1967 marked a pivotal moment in high-end auto manufacturing with the release of the Lamborghini Miura. This car was not just another luxurious sports machine; it was a groundbreaking marvel that redefined automotive design and engineering. The Sant’Agata company created and built the Miura as the very first mid-engined sports car ever made for the consumer market, effectively setting a new standard for every supercar that would follow. This innovation alone secured its place in the annals of automotive legend.
Beyond its revolutionary engineering, the Miura was an undisputed masterpiece of design, penned by the famed Bertone designer Marcello Gandini. Its sleek, flowing lines and aggressive stance ensured that it would turn heads wherever it was driven, instantly becoming an icon of style and performance. This iconic status has not only made it a highly coveted vehicle but also an incredibly valuable one, a testament to its enduring aesthetic and mechanical brilliance.
Leno’s particular 1967 Miura, valued at $2.5 million, is one of the earliest examples of this legendary model and comes with a peculiar, fascinating pedigree. Its original owner was none other than the famous Rat Pack crooner, Dean Martin. According to Car Buzz, Leno acquired the car with a non-running engine, a result of abuse that caused a seized engine at the hands of Martin’s son. Since its acquisition, the engine has been meticulously repaired, yet the car otherwise remains all original and in excellent condition, a testament to Leno’s dedication. The added provenance of ownership by not just Jay Leno, but also Dean Martin, could potentially add further to its already substantial value.
Read more about: Beyond the Neon Glow: Revisiting 14 Unforgettable ’80s Sports Cars That Defined a Decade of Driving Passion
4. **1932 Duesenberg SJ Murphy-Convertible**Jay Leno’s garage is a veritable shrine to the automotive past, and his enthusiasm for Duesenberg vehicles is abundantly clear, as he owns several examples from this revered marque. The Duesenberg company, tragically, succumbed to the economic perils of the Great Depression, meaning the total number of cars built was relatively low. These were not mass-produced vehicles; they were luxury cars, exclusively catering to the wealthiest clientele, solidifying their status among the most valuable American vehicles ever crafted due to their scarcity and unparalleled refinement.
Leno’s convertible Duesenberg is a Model SJ, an even more exclusive and powerful variant than his Model J, distinguished by the addition of a supercharger. In the 1930s, Duesenbergs were at the absolute zenith of power output for their time, challenging the finest European machines. According to Motor Authority, the Model SJ is propelled by a colossal 420-cubic-inch inline-8 engine, featuring twin cams that pushed out an astounding 265 horsepower. This was a phenomenal rating for the period, positioning the SJ as one of the most potent cars money could buy.
Reflecting the custom-coachbuilding traditions of the era, Jay’s particular SJ convertible was bodied by Walter J. Murphy Coachbuilders, a distinguished name in automotive artistry. The bespoke nature of these coach-built cars means that each Duesenberg is often a unique creation, which naturally complicates precise valuation estimates. However, recent sales of similar vehicles unequivocally place this magnificent machine easily within the $2 million range. It is more than just a car; it is a rolling sculpture, a powerhouse of its time, and a rare survivor of an era where automotive luxury and performance reached an almost mythical peak.
Car Model Information: 2023 Buick Envision Preferred
Name: Sfn
Caption: 1930 Duesenberg J Murphy Torpedo Convertible
Manufacturer: Duesenberg
Aka: Duesenberg J,Duesenberg SJ (supercharged),Duesenberg SSJ (short-wheelbase supercharged)
Production: 1928–1937,481 produced (445 Model J, 36 Model SJ)
Assembly: Indianapolis,Indiana,United States
Designer: Gordon Buehrig
Class: Full-size car,Luxury vehicle
BodyStyle: Coachbuilt to owner’s preference
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout#Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: 420 cuin
Abbr: on
Disp: Sfn
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: {{convert,142.5,in,mm,1,abbr=on,disp=flip
Predecessor: Duesenberg Model A
Sp: us
Categories: 1930s cars, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from December 2013, Articles with unsourced statements from June 2012
Summary: The Duesenberg Model J is a luxury automobile made by Duesenberg exclusively in 1928 and offered for ten subsequent years. Intended to compete with the most luxurious and powerful cars in the world, it was introduced in 1928, the year before the stock market crash that led to the Great Depression. Duesenberg Motors Company went bankrupt in 1937.
Get more information about: Duesenberg Model J
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Brand: Duesenberg Model: SJ Murphy-Convertible
Price: $20,221 Mileage: 46,554 mi.
5. **Duesenberg Model J (1931 Model J Town Car)**The name Duesenberg itself evokes a bygone era of unparalleled American luxury, power, and prestige. These cars, produced primarily in the 1920s and 1930s, are some of the most collectible American automobiles, renowned for their exceptional quality and formidable power. They were the preferred conveyances of the era’s wealthiest and most famous individuals, who, for their substantial investment, received an automobile that was truly a cut above the rest, a rolling testament to their stature and discerning taste.
Jay Leno’s garage is home to several exemplary Duesenbergs, each a jewel in his crown of automotive treasures. Among these is a magnificent 1931 Model J Town Car, a model that Classic Cars tells us is the most well-known of all Duesenbergs. These majestic machines were outfitted with massive 7.0-liter straight-8 engines, meticulously produced by Lycoming from Duesenberg’s original designs. This engine was not merely powerful; it was engineered for smoothness and reliability, befitting a vehicle of such aristocratic standing.
During that period, it was a common practice for car manufacturers to produce the chassis and powertrain, with the final bodywork entrusted to independent coachbuilders. This tradition meant that many Model Js are unique, each carrying the distinctive artistic touch of its coachbuilder. Leno’s Model J is specifically a Town Car, a designation that signifies a large, luxurious vehicle designed to be driven by a chauffeur. The passenger compartment is distinctly separated from the driver, much like a modern limousine, offering utmost privacy and refinement to its occupants. Given its pristine condition, distinct coachwork, and Jay Leno’s ownership, it is safe to assert that his 1931 Model J Town Car could easily fetch at least $2 million, standing as a magnificent embodiment of pre-war American automotive opulence.
Car Model Information: 2019 Cadillac Escalade Platinum
Name: Sfn
Caption: 1930 Duesenberg J Murphy Torpedo Convertible
Manufacturer: Duesenberg
Aka: Duesenberg J,Duesenberg SJ (supercharged),Duesenberg SSJ (short-wheelbase supercharged)
Production: 1928–1937,481 produced (445 Model J, 36 Model SJ)
Assembly: Indianapolis,Indiana,United States
Designer: Gordon Buehrig
Class: Full-size car,Luxury vehicle
BodyStyle: Coachbuilt to owner’s preference
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout#Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: 420 cuin
Abbr: on
Disp: Sfn
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: {{convert,142.5,in,mm,1,abbr=on,disp=flip
Predecessor: Duesenberg Model A
Sp: us
Categories: 1930s cars, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from December 2013, Articles with unsourced statements from June 2012
Summary: The Duesenberg Model J is a luxury automobile made by Duesenberg exclusively in 1928 and offered for ten subsequent years. Intended to compete with the most luxurious and powerful cars in the world, it was introduced in 1928, the year before the stock market crash that led to the Great Depression. Duesenberg Motors Company went bankrupt in 1937.
Get more information about: Duesenberg Model J
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Brand: Duesenberg Model: Model J
Price: $37,811 Mileage: 84,091 mi.
6. **1934 Duesenberg Walker Coup**Stepping into an even more rarefied realm, we encounter the magnificent 1934 Duesenberg Walker Coup, a vehicle that transcends mere transportation to become a monumental piece of art and engineering. Valued at an astonishing $20 million, this Duesenberg is not just rare; it is a singular creation, a true 1-of-1 masterpiece that commands reverence. Its presence in Jay Leno’s garage is a testament to his unparalleled appreciation for automotive history’s most exclusive and groundbreaking machines.
The unique heart of this Duesenberg lies in its distinctive engine. It boasts an inline 8-cylinder configuration, meticulously fed by carburetors, a powertrain that speaks volumes about the bespoke craftsmanship and technical ambition defining automotive luxury in its era. Such an engine was a marvel, delivering smooth, powerful performance tailored to the discerning tastes of the ultra-wealthy. This level of customized engineering was standard for Duesenberg, but the Walker Coup elevated it to an art form.
What truly sets this particular Duesenberg apart further is its groundbreaking aerodynamic design. It stands as the only aerodynamic Walker Coup in the entire world, a testament to forward-thinking design principles applied to an already elite marque. This avant-garde styling was revolutionary for the 1930s, challenging conventional automotive aesthetics and pointing towards a future where form and function would merge in fluid, wind-cheating shapes. It represents a bold departure from the more upright, formal designs of its contemporaries.
This car was not a factory production for the masses; it was a custom-made marvel commissioned for the owner of a famous pharmaceutical company back in its day. This bespoke origin story ensures its distinctiveness and unparalleled provenance, making it a unique narrative within the broader Duesenberg lineage. The fusion of its singular design, custom engineering, and illustrious first owner creates an aura of exclusivity that few other vehicles can match.
Jay Leno’s acquisition of such a vehicle underscores his exceptional eye for automotive history and future value. To possess a car that is truly one-of-a-kind, embodying both engineering innovation and bespoke artistry, is to hold a tangible piece of unrepeatable heritage. This Duesenberg Walker Coup is not merely an asset; it is an appreciating artifact, destined to climb even higher in value as its historical significance and singular nature become ever more pronounced in the annals of collector cars, forever solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Leno’s unparalleled collection.
Car Model Information: 2023 Buick Envision Preferred
Categories: All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All articles lacking reliable references, All articles with dead external links, Articles lacking reliable references from November 2016, Articles with dead external links from January 2025
Summary: This is a list of the most expensive cars sold in public auto auctions through the traditional bidding process. The record is held by a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut coupe sold in 2022 for €135 million to a private collector.
On June 1, 2018, it was announced that a 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO had sold for $70 million at a private auction, at the time a world record.
The 1904 Rolls-Royce 10 hp Two-Seater is currently listed on the Guinness World Records as the most expensive veteran car to be sold, at the price of US$7,254,290 (equivalent to $11,001,000 in 2024), on a Bonhams auction held at Olympia in London on December 3, 2007.
This list only consists of those sold for at least $4 million in auction sales during a traditional bidding process, inclusive of the mandatory buyers premium and does not include private, unsuccessful (failing to reach its reserve price, incomplete) and out-of-auction sales.
Get more information about: List of most expensive cars sold at auction
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Brand: Duesenberg Model: Walker Coup
Price: $20,221 Mileage: 46,554 mi.
Read more about: Jay Leno’s Garage: Beyond the Hangar Doors – A Deep Dive into Automotive History and Unrivaled Passion
7. **1994 McLaren F1**Transitioning from the opulent elegance of the past to the brutal efficiency of modern performance, we arrive at Jay Leno’s 1994 McLaren F1, a car that needs little introduction to any serious automotive enthusiast. With an estimated value of $12 million, this McLaren is a titan among supercars, representing a pinnacle of engineering and design that few vehicles have ever matched. Its presence in Leno’s collection is a clear indicator of its extreme desirability and formidable rarity, being one of only 107 F1s ever produced globally.
The McLaren F1 was a machine built to shatter conventions and expectations, a philosophy brilliantly executed in its performance metrics. It famously set the world record for the highest speed ever achieved by a production car at the time, screaming to an incredible 240 mph. This astounding feat solidified its legend, cementing its status as a technological tour de force that redefined what was possible for road-legal vehicles. Even today, its performance figures remain deeply impressive, a testament to its timeless engineering.
At the heart of this record-breaker lies a potent 6.1-liter W12 engine, meticulously crafted to unleash a breathtaking 630 horsepower. This power output was simply mind-boggling for its era, positioning the F1 at the absolute apex of automotive engineering. Beyond sheer power, the F1 was celebrated for its driver-centric design, innovative use of materials, and a purity of driving experience that eschewed electronic aids in favor of raw, unadulterated connection between man and machine.
Leno’s particular 1994 McLaren F1 carries its own unique historical footnote: it was the very first McLaren F1 imported into the United States. This significant detail adds another layer to its already rich provenance, elevating its collector status even further among enthusiasts and historians alike. This specific car initiated McLaren’s presence on American shores, making it a historical bridgehead for the brand’s global expansion and influence in the supercar market.
Furthermore, Jay Leno’s unwavering dedication to his vehicles is evident in the meticulous care bestowed upon this iconic machine. It has recently undergone a complete restoration, returning it to pristine, like-new condition, ensuring that every facet of its original glory is perfectly preserved. It stands as a vibrant testament to McLaren’s innovative spirit and a cornerstone of high-performance automotive history, showcasing a blend of speed, luxury, and engineering brilliance that continues to inspire awe.
Read more about: The Ultimate Nineties Rewind: 15 Coolest Cars of the Decade That Still Fuel Our Automotive Dreams
8. **2009 Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita**Jay Leno’s discerning taste for automotive diversity is brilliantly showcased by his inclusion of the 2009 Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita, a hypercar that epitomizes extreme performance and breathtaking exclusivity. Valued at a staggering $4.8 million, this Swedish marvel is an absolute monster on the road, designed to push the boundaries of speed and luxury in equal measure. Its ability to rocket from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.9 seconds is a stark declaration of its unparalleled power and advanced engineering, placing it firmly in the elite tier of modern automotive achievement.
The Trevita’s visual impact is as dramatic as its performance, thanks to its unique “diamond weave” carbon fiber body. This innovative material technology, where the carbon fibers are coated with a diamond finish, not only contributes to the car’s astonishing lightweight nature but also gives it a dazzling, jewel-like shimmer under sunlight. This distinctive aesthetic sets it apart from virtually every other supercar on the planet, making it an unmistakable presence wherever it appears.
This aesthetic and engineering brilliance is matched only by its scarcity. Indeed, the 2009 Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita is one of the most exclusive automobiles ever conceived, with only two of these extraordinary machines ever made for global distribution. Leno therefore possesses a genuine gem of the automotive industry, an incredibly rare piece that underscores his collection’s unparalleled depth and his commitment to acquiring vehicles of singular importance.
Under its exquisite exterior lies a twin-supercharged 4.8-liter V8 engine, an absolute powerhouse that generates approximately 1000 horsepower and an immense 700 pound-feet of torque. This prodigious output is channeled through sophisticated engineering, allowing for an incredibly responsive and brutally fast driving experience. One can only imagine the shocking, visceral acceleration this vehicle must provide, offering an experience that borders on the surreal and deeply satisfying for any true petrolhead.
The Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita stands as a modern testament to a manufacturer’s relentless pursuit of perfection, blending groundbreaking material science with engineering mastery and extreme performance. Its inclusion in Jay Leno’s legendary garage highlights his appreciation for cars that not only represent significant historical milestones but also those that push the envelope of contemporary automotive design and capability, ensuring his collection remains vibrant and forward-looking.
Car Model Information: 2023 Buick Envision Preferred
Name: Koenigsegg CCX
Manufacturer: Koenigsegg
Production: 2006–2010,29 produced
ModelYears: 2006–2010
Assembly: Ängelholm
Predecessor: Koenigsegg CCR
Successor: Koenigsegg Agera
Doors: Dihedral Synchro-Helix
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: targa top
Layout: Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Platform: Koenigsegg CC
Engine: supercharger,V8 engine
Powerout: 806 hp
Abbr: on
Transmission: manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2660 mm
Length: 4293 mm
Width: 1996 mm
Height: 1120 mm
Weight: 1456 kg
Designer: Christian von Koenigsegg,David Crafoord,{{ill,Sven-Harry Åkesson,sv
Categories: Articles with hAudio microformats, Articles with short description, CS1 Swedish-language sources (sv), Cars discontinued in 2010, Cars introduced in 2006
Summary: The Koenigsegg CCX is a mid-engine sports car manufactured by Swedish automotive manufacturer Koenigsegg Automotive AB. The project began with the aim of making a global car, designed and engineered to comply with global safety and environment regulations, particularly to enter the United States car market. To sell cars in the US, many alterations were made to the design of the CCR; the previously used Ford Modular engine was replaced by an in-house developed Koenigsegg engine designed to run on 91 octane fuel, readily available in the United States, and to meet Californian emission standards.
The name CCX is an abbreviation for Competition Coupé X, the X commemorating the 10th anniversary (X being the Roman numeral for ten) of the completion and test drive of the first CC prototype in 1996.
Get more information about: Koenigsegg CCX
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Brand: Koenigsegg Model: CCXR Trevita
Price: $20,221 Mileage: 46,554 mi.
Read more about: Jay Leno’s Garage: Beyond the Hangar Doors – A Deep Dive into Automotive History and Unrivaled Passion
9. **1928 Bentley Speed 6**Venturing back to an earlier era of automotive excellence, Jay Leno’s collection proudly features the 1928 Bentley Speed 6, a vehicle that, in its time, represented the pinnacle of sports car production and engineering. Valued between $3 million and $4 million, this automotive masterpiece predates many vehicles commonly considered “classics,” offering a profound glimpse into the foundational years of high-performance motoring. Its historical significance is further amplified by its formidable racing pedigree and undeniable impact on the world of motorsport.
The Bentley Speed 6 carved its legend on the most challenging circuits of its time, notably conquering the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans race in France not once, but twice. This unparalleled success on the international stage cemented its reputation for robustness, speed, and exceptional reliability, demonstrating Bentley’s prowess in an era where endurance racing pushed man and machine to their absolute limits. Such victories were not merely about speed; they were about engineering integrity and unwavering endurance.
Leno’s particular example, resplendent in a dark green livery, evokes the quintessential British racing aesthetic, often referred to as “British Racing Green.” This color has become synonymous with the nation’s storied motorsport heritage, adding another layer of traditional charm to this already iconic machine. The car’s imposing yet elegant form perfectly captures the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, a time of both profound luxury and thrilling competition.
Beneath its elegant, purposeful exterior lies a specific and powerful engine configuration: a massive 6.5-liter inline six-cylinder unit equipped with twin spark ignition. This sophisticated setup was cutting-edge for the late 1920s, providing the formidable power and smooth operation necessary for both racing glory and luxurious touring. It was an engine designed for sustained high performance, offering a driving experience that was both thrilling and remarkably refined for its era.
Owning such a car is to possess a direct link to the golden age of motorsport, a period when automotive innovation was often born directly on the race track and refined for the road. The 1928 Bentley Speed 6 is more than just a valuable antique; it is a rolling testament to an era of daring engineering, heroic racing, and uncompromising luxury, making it a cherished highlight in Jay Leno’s diverse and historically rich collection.
Car Model Information: 2019 Cadillac Escalade Platinum
CarName: Bentley Speed 8
Caption: Goodwood Festival of Speed
Category: LMGTP
Team: flagicon,Bentley
Drivers: flagicon,Guy Smith (racing driver)
Chassis: Carbon fiber
FrontSuspension: Independent suspension,Double wishbone suspension
RearSuspension: Independent suspension,Double wishbone suspension
EngineName: Audi/Bentley 90° twin-turbocharged V8 racing engine
Capacity: 4.0 litre
Configuration: V8 engine
EnginePosition: mid-engine,longitudinal engine
GearboxName: Bentley
Gears: 6-speed
Type: Megaline,Pneumatic actuator
Tyres: Dunlop Tyres
Debut: 2001 24 Hours of Le Mans
FirstWin: 2001 24 Hours of Le Mans
LastWin: 2003 24 Hours of Le Mans
LastEvent: 2003 24 Hours of Le Mans
Races: 4
Wins: 1 (4 Class Wins)
ConsChamp: None
DriversChamp: None
Poles: 1
FastestLaps: 2
Designer: Peter Elleray
Categories: 24 Hours of Le Mans race cars, All articles needing additional references, Articles needing additional references from January 2019, Articles with short description, Bentley racing cars
Summary: The Bentley Speed 8 (developed from the Bentley EXP Speed 8) is a Grand Touring Prototype race car that was designed by Bentley. It has a strong resemblance to and shares some technology with the Audi R8C, which had raced only once before Audi dropped the project to focus on the later dominant Audi R8. The EXP Speed 8 marked Bentley’s return to racing after a 73-year absence.
Get more information about: Bentley Speed 8
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Brand: Bentley Model: Speed 6
Price: $37,811 Mileage: 84,091 mi.
Read more about: Twelve Icons: How These Cars Forged the Golden Age of 1950s Automotive Design and Performance
10. **1939 Lagonda V12**Concluding our curated journey through some of Jay Leno’s most valuable automotive treasures, we arrive at the magnificent 1939 Lagonda V12, a car that speaks to a particular chapter in the history of British luxury and sporting endeavors. Though valued at approximately $2.56 million, this specific vehicle in Leno’s collection carries a unique distinction: it is a replica. However, this fact in no way diminishes its presence or the profound story it tells, representing a meticulously crafted homage to a car regrettably lost to time.
In the pre-war era, luxurious British marques like Lagonda were celebrated for crafting some of the sportiest and most refined cars available. Their V12 engines were marvels of engineering, designed to deliver power and prestige in equal measure, positioning them among the most coveted automobiles of their time. These machines embodied the height of automotive sophistication, blending performance with an undeniable sense of occasion and grandeur.
While the original 1939 Lagonda V12s are incredibly rare, having been tragically lost to the ravages of history and time, their legacy endures through meticulously crafted recreations such as Leno’s. These replicas are not merely copies; they are painstaking efforts to resurrect the beauty, engineering principles, and spirit of the originals. They represent a dedication to historical accuracy and a passion for preserving the essence of these magnificent, vanished machines.
Seeing these replicas, particularly in a beautiful red hue like the one found in Jay Leno’s garage, is breathtaking enough on its own. They embody the spirit and grandeur of the originals, allowing enthusiasts and historians alike to appreciate the exquisite design, advanced mechanics, and the sheer ambition of their creators. The attention to detail in such a recreation speaks volumes about the original vehicle’s impact and the enduring desire to keep its memory alive.
This Lagonda V12, though a replica, serves as a poignant reminder of automotive artistry from a bygone era, carefully preserved and celebrated within Leno’s extraordinary collection. Its presence highlights how even vehicles that are no longer physically original can still hold immense historical and cultural value, ensuring that the essence of its legacy continues to inspire and inform future generations of automotive enthusiasts about a truly special, yet elusive, piece of motoring history.
Read more about: Million-Dollar Motors: An In-Depth Look at the World’s Most Coveted Classic Cars for Enthusiasts
This comprehensive journey through a select portion of Jay Leno’s legendary car collection reveals more than just an assembly of valuable machinery; it showcases a profound dedication to automotive heritage and innovation. Each vehicle, whether a record-breaking supercar pushing the boundaries of modern engineering or a meticulously recreated historical masterpiece lost to time, stands as a vibrant testament to human ingenuity and enduring passion. Leno’s “Big Dog Garage” is truly a living archive, a place where the compelling stories of these magnificent machines are not only preserved but actively celebrated, offering enthusiasts an unparalleled, in-depth glimpse into the very soul and evolution of automotive history.
