Ralph Lauren. The name itself conjures images of timeless elegance, aspirational luxury, and an unwavering commitment to quintessential American style. For nearly 60 years, he has meticulously designed a world that transcends fleeting trends, offering an authentic vision of a better life. Yet, beyond the sartorial empire of Polo Ralph Lauren, there lies another realm where his discerning eye for beauty, craftsmanship, and heritage finds its ultimate expression: his extraordinary, multi-million dollar car collection.
This isn’t merely a garage overflowing with expensive vehicles; it is a curated anthology of the finest automotive art, a testament to Lauren’s philosophy that ‘Cars are the greatest art forms of the 20th century.’ His collection reflects a designer’s profound appreciation for symmetry, pure lines, and engineering brilliance. Each automobile is not just a mode of transport but a sculptural masterpiece, chosen for its enduring appeal, design integrity, and performance heritage. Lauren doesn’t just collect cars; he preserves and celebrates the greatest achievements in automotive history, treating each piece as part of a living museum.
His passion, cultivated since the late 1970s, has resulted in a fleet of over 70 vehicles, many of which represent the absolute peak of automotive engineering and luxury. Valued between $600 million and $700 million USD, this assemblage anchors some of the world’s rarest automobiles. Today, we embark on an exclusive tour, unveiling the first five legendary machines that define the unparalleled prestige and artistic vision behind Ralph Lauren’s automotive masterpiece collection, where value is measured not just by price, but by design and the stories they tell.
1. **The 1938 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic: Automotive’s ‘Mona Lisa’**To begin our exploration into Ralph Lauren’s automotive sanctuary, we must first bow before the legendary 1938 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic. Often heralded as the ‘Mona Lisa of cars,’ this vehicle stands as the anchor of his extraordinary assemblage, not merely for its astronomical value—estimated at over $100 million—but for its profound historical and artistic significance. It is a car that transcends mere mechanics, entering the rarefied air of sculpture and pure design.
Crafted by the visionary Jean Bugatti, the Type 57SC Atlantic is instantly recognizable by its distinctive aluminium teardrop-shaped body, decorated with riveted fins. These riveted seams, far from being purely aesthetic, were a necessity of its construction, adding to its unique and avant-garde character. In an era when most vehicles were rudimentary in comparison, this Bugatti was capable of reaching an astonishing 123 mph, a speed that was truly astronomical in its day and cemented its reputation as what many consider to be the first true supercar.
Its rarity is almost unparalleled: only four units were ever built between 1934 and 1938, and a mere two of those original Atlantics are known to survive today. Ralph Lauren is the proud owner of one of these mythical machines. His dedication to preservation is evident in the thorough restoration the car underwent in the 1990s by Paul Russell, ensuring its historical significance and breathtaking beauty remain perfectly intact for generations to admire. This car is not just a jewel in his collection; it is a profound statement about the enduring power of design and innovation.
Car Model Information: 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE R-Line Black
Name: Bugatti Type 57
Caption: 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Atalante
Manufacturer: Bugatti
Assembly: Molsheim
Production: 1934–1940,710 produced
Designer: Jean Bugatti
Class: Grand tourer
Engine: DOHC,Straight-8
Predecessor: Bugatti Type 49
Successor: Bugatti Type 101
Categories: 24 Hours of Le Mans race cars, Articles with short description, Bugatti automobiles, CS1 Romanian-language sources (ro), Cars introduced in 1934
Summary: The Bugatti Type 57 and later variants (including the famous Atlantic and Atalante) was a grand tourer built from 1934 through 1940. It was an entirely new design created by Jean Bugatti, son of founder Ettore. A total of 710 Type 57s were produced.
Type 57s used a straight-8 twin-cam engine of 3.3 L (3257 cc/198 in³) displacement. Bore and stroke were 72 mm by 100 mm based on that of the Type 49 but heavily modified by Jean Bugatti, unlike the single cam engines of the Type 49 and earlier models. The engines of the Type 50, 51 used bevel gears at the front of the engine to transmit power from the crankshaft, whereas the Type 57 used a train of spur gears at the rear of the engine, with fiber gear wheels on the camshafts to achieve more silence in operation.
There were two basic variants of the Type 57 car:
The original Type 57
The lowered Type 57S/SC
The Type 57 chassis and engine was revived in 1951 as the Bugatti Type 101. A rediscovered Type 57 was sold for 3.4 million euros at auction on 7 February 2009 at a motor show in Paris.
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Brand: Bugatti Model: Type 57SC Atlantic
Price: $27,995 Mileage: 9,546 mi.
2. **The 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO: The Unrivaled Crown Jewel of Maranello**When any seasoned collector is asked to name the most coveted car in the world, the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO will, without hesitation, likely top their list. Within Ralph Lauren’s unparalleled collection, this vehicle holds a revered status as the crown jewel of Ferrari’s racing heritage and perhaps the most valuable automobile ever sold. It embodies the essence of speed, beauty, and exclusivity that define automotive legends.
This magnificent machine, powered by a ferocious 3.0L V12 engine delivering 300 horsepower, was engineered for one purpose: to dominate racetracks worldwide. And dominate it did, securing countless victories and etching its name into the annals of motorsports history. Its aggressive yet elegant design, a harmonious blend of aerodynamics and Italian flair, remains iconic decades later, inspiring awe in enthusiasts and designers alike.
Its legendary status is further cemented by its extreme rarity; only 36 units of the Ferrari 250 GTO were produced between 1962 and 1964. Today, these cars command staggering prices in private sales, sometimes reaching upwards of $70 million, with some reports indicating figures as high as $80 million, making them truly invaluable. Ralph Lauren’s ownership of chassis #3987GT, renowned for its performance at Le Mans, underscores his commitment to acquiring vehicles that are not merely expensive but possess profound historical narratives and an unmatched blend of performance and timeless beauty.
Car Model Information: 2022 RAM 1500 TRX
Name: Ferrari 250 GTO
Caption: 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO (chassis 4153GT)
Manufacturer: Ferrari
Production: 1962–1964,(36 produced)
Designer: Giotto Bizzarrini,Scaglietti
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: berlinetta
Related: Ferrari 330#330 LMB,Ferrari P#250 LM
Layout: FR layout
Engine: 2,953 cc,Ferrari Colombo engine#250,Overhead camshaft#Single Overhead camshatf,Weber carburetor,Compression ratio
Powerout: 300 PS
Abbr: on
Order: flip @ 5500 rpm
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2400 mm
Length: 4325 mm
Width: 1600 mm
Height: 1210 mm
Weight: convert
Predecessor: Ferrari 250 GT SWB
Successor: Ferrari 250 LM,Ferrari 288 GTO
Categories: All articles lacking reliable references, All articles needing additional references, All articles with bare URLs for citations, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles lacking reliable references from March 2022
Summary: The Ferrari 250 GTO is a grand tourer produced by Ferrari from 1962 to 1964 for homologation into the FIA’s Group 3 Grand Touring Car category. It was powered by Ferrari’s Tipo 168/62 Colombo V12 engine. The “250” in its name denotes the displacement in cubic centimeters of each of its cylinders; “GTO” stands for Gran Turismo Omologato, Italian for “Grand Touring Homologated”.
Just 36 of the 250 GTOs were manufactured between 1962 and 1964. This includes 33 cars with 1962–63 bodywork (Series I) and three with 1964 (Series II) bodywork similar to the Ferrari 250 LM. Four of the older 1962–1963 (Series I) cars were updated in 1964 with Series II bodies.
When new, the 250 GTO cost $18,000 in the United States, with buyers personally approved by Enzo Ferrari and his dealer for North America, Luigi Chinetti. This model has since become highly desired by automobile collectors and sales have repeatedly set price records. The current record for world’s most expensive Ferrari was set in June 2018 when a 1963 250 GTO (chassis 4153GT) was sold in a private sale for $70 million.
In 2004, Sports Car International placed the 250 GTO eighth on their list of Top Sports Cars of the 1960s, and nominated it the top sports car of all time. Similarly, Motor Trend Classic placed the 250 GTO first on a list of the “Greatest Ferraris of All Time”. Popular Mechanics named it the “Hottest Car of All Time”.
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Brand: Ferrari Model: 250 GTO
Price: $75,887 Mileage: 27,561 mi.
Read more about: Ralph Lauren’s Billion-Dollar Garage: A Master Curator’s Collection of Priceless Automotive Art on Wheels
3. **The 1930 Mercedes-Benz SSK ‘Count Trossi’: A Film Noir Icon on Wheels**Venturing deeper into the classical elegance of Ralph Lauren’s collection, we encounter the truly dramatic 1930 Mercedes-Benz SSK ‘Count Trossi.’ This car possesses an aesthetic so commanding, with its elongated hood and sweeping black fenders, that it appears to have rolled straight out of a classic film noir, embodying the mystique of a cinematic villain’s ride. It is a singular statement of automotive design, unlike any other.
Designed for the esteemed Italian aristocrat and racing driver Count Carlo Felice Trossi, this Mercedes-Benz is an extremely rare specimen, being one of fewer than 40 SSK models ever built. What makes Lauren’s example even more exceptional is its status as a true one-off version, personally styled for Count Trossi himself. Underneath its imposing form resides a supercharged 7.1-liter inline-six engine, a signature of Mercedes-Benz’s early powerhouses, propelling it to a top speed of 120 mph – an incredible feat for its era.
Ralph Lauren’s meticulous approach to his collection is once again highlighted by the fact that he ensured this car went through a full restoration in the 1990s. This dedication has preserved its striking appearance and mechanical integrity. The ‘Count Trossi’ SSK stands as a magnificent fusion of raw power and elegant design, a significant piece of automotive history that continues to captivate with its dramatic presence and unique story. Its estimated value today exceeds $12 million, reflecting its rarity and historical cachet.
4. **The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing: Soaring Doors, Enduring Legacy**Few automobiles in history are as instantly recognizable or as universally beloved as the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing. Its iconic trademark upward-opening doors, a direct result of its innovative tubular space frame chassis, have made it an enduring symbol of mid-century automotive genius and a defining feature in Ralph Lauren’s collection. This car is not just a vehicle; it is a masterpiece of engineering and design that continues to inspire.
Beyond its architectural doors, the Gullwing’s racing heritage is deeply ingrained in its very being. Equipped with a potent 3.0L inline-six engine, it was capable of reaching a remarkable top speed of 160 mph, making it one of the fastest production cars of its time. Its sleek, aerodynamic design and groundbreaking performance quickly earned it a formidable reputation on the world’s race circuits, embedding it firmly in automotive folklore.
In Ralph Lauren’s hands, the 300 SL Gullwing is more than just a prized possession; it is one of the most photographed cars in his collection, a testament to its visual magnetism and timeless appeal. Its blend of cutting-edge engineering, unique aesthetic, and sporting prowess has ensured its place as a significant piece of automotive history. With prices today ranging between $1.5 million and $2.5 million, the 300 SL Gullwing stands as a shining example of how true beauty and performance, much like great fashion, never go out of style.
Car Model Information: 2022 RAM 1500 TRX
Name: Mercedes-Benz W189
Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz
Aka: Mercedes-Benz 300d,Adenauer
Production: 1957–1962 , W189 Saloon: 3,077, W189 Cabriolet D: 65
Class: Full-size,luxury car
BodyStyle: Saloon (car)
Platform: Mercedes-Benz W189
Related: Mercedes-Benz W188,Mercedes-Benz 300 SL
Layout: FR layout
Engine: Mercedes-Benz M186 engine#M189,Straight-6
Transmission: 4-speed manual , 3-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 3150 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 5190 mm
Width: 1860 mm
Height: 1620 mm
Weight: 1950 kg
Predecessor: Mercedes-Benz W186
Successor: Mercedes-Benz W112,Mercedes-Benz 600
Categories: All articles with specifically marked weasel-worded phrases, Articles with short description, Articles with specifically marked weasel-worded phrases from August 2025, CS1: long volume value, CS1 German-language sources (de)
Summary: See Mercedes-Benz S-Class for a complete overview of all S-Class models.
The Mercedes-Benz W189 model 300 was a four-door luxury tourer produced by Mercedes-Benz between 1957 and 1962. It was the company’s flagship model at the time, equivalent to the modern S-Class and Maybach.
Marketed as the Type 300d, it was equal in features and price but superior in performance to the rival Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud. Favored by statesmen and business leaders, it offered options such as a glass partition, VHF mobile telephone, and dictation machine.
All but hand-built as the company flagship, the 300d is often colloquially referred to as the Adenauer, after Konrad Adenauer, the first Chancellor of Germany (then West Germany) who employed six custom cabriolet, hardtop saloon, and landaulet versions of the W189 and its precursor W186 series during his tenure. Among the custom features in these “parade cars” were writing desks, sirens, curtains, dividing partitions, sunroofs, and half-roof “landaulet” configurations.
Technologically advanced, the fuel injected 3.0 L inline-6 300d was regarded as a “driver’s” car, sharing numerous design innovations and mechanical components with the iconic Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing”, including engine, suspension, and chassis. It was succeeded by the W100 Mercedes-Benz 600 Großer Mercedes with first-ever V8 engine from Mercedes-Benz in 1963.
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Brand: Mercedes-Benz Model: 300 SL Gullwing
Price: $75,887 Mileage: 27,561 mi.
Read more about: Beyond the Chrome: A MotorTrend Deep Dive into Vintage Cars That Command Millions Today
5. **The 1996 McLaren F1 LM: The Ultimate Race-Bred Hypercar**From the vintage elegance of a bygone era, we now accelerate into the realm of modern legend with Ralph Lauren’s 1996 McLaren F1 LM. This is not merely a high-performance machine; it is a race-bred version of the already iconic McLaren F1, pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible in automotive engineering. Its exclusivity is almost mythical, as only five units were ever painstakingly created.
Developed to celebrate the McLaren F1 GTR’s victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the F1 LM is an unadulterated track monster, yet still road-legal. It boasts a formidable 6.1L V12 engine, propelling it from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.9 seconds and achieving a breathtaking top speed of 225 mph. These figures, even decades later, place it firmly among the pantheon of the fastest and most capable vehicles ever conceived, a testament to its unparalleled performance heritage.
This McLaren F1 LM is unequivocally one of Lauren’s most valuable supercars, with an estimated worth exceeding $25 million. While the standard McLaren F1 itself commands values around $10 million, the LM version’s extreme rarity and enhanced track focus elevate its status dramatically. Its inclusion in Lauren’s collection perfectly illustrates his discerning taste for vehicles that represent the absolute pinnacle of their respective eras, blending groundbreaking technology with an undeniable sense of automotive occasion.
Continuing our journey through Ralph Lauren’s unparalleled collection, we now explore the remaining five jewels that exemplify his exquisite taste and profound appreciation for automotive artistry. From the sculptural forms that dominated endurance racing to revolutionary engineering marvels, and finally, to the breathtaking performance of modern hypercars, each vehicle is a chapter in the grand narrative of automotive excellence. These machines are not just vehicles; they are monuments to speed, design, and the relentless pursuit of perfection, meticulously curated by a man who understands that true luxury lies in timeless style and unwavering craftsmanship.
Car Model Information: 2022 RAM 1500 TRX
Name: McLaren F1
Caption: McLaren F1 chassis #063, built in 1997
Manufacturer: McLaren Automotive
Production: 1992–1998
Assembly: Woking,Surrey,England
Designer: Gordon Murray,Peter Stevens (car designer),Paul Rosche
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: coupé
Powerout: 461 kW
Abbr: on kerb
Doors: Butterfly doors
Related: unbulleted list
Layout: Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: 6064 cc
Order: BMW S70/2,V12 engine
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2718 mm
Length: 4287 mm
Width: 1820 mm
Height: 1140 mm
Weight: 1140 kg
Successor: unbulleted list
Sp: uk
Predecessor: McLaren M6A
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from May 2018, Articles with unsourced statements from October 2018
Summary: The McLaren F1 is a sports car that was the first type approved road-going sportscar manufactured by British Formula One team McLaren. It was the last road-legal, series-produced sportscar to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans race outright, as well as being recognised as the world’s fastest ‘production car’ when launched. The original concept, by leading technical designer Gordon Murray, convinced then head of McLaren Ron Dennis, to support McLaren leaping into manufacturing road-going sportscars. Car designer Peter Stevens was hired to do the car’s exterior and interior styling.
To manufacture the F1, McLaren Cars (now McLaren Automotive) was set up; and BMW was contracted to develop and make BMW S70/2 V12 engines, specifically and exclusively limited for use in the F1. The car had numerous proprietary designs and technologies. As one of the first sportscars with a fully carbon-fibre monocoque body and chassis structure, it is both lighter and more streamlined than many later competitors, despite the F1 having seats for three adults. An unconventional seating layout, with the driver’s seat front and centre, and two passenger seats (on the driver’s left and right), gives the driver improved visibility. Murray conceived the F1 as an exercise in creating ‘the ultimate road-going sportscar’, in the spirit of Bruce McLaren’s original plans for the M6 GT.
Production began in 1992 and ended in 1998; in all, 106 cars were manufactured, with some variations in the design. Although not originally designed as a race car, modified racing versions of the car won several races, including the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans.
On 31 March 1998, the XP5 prototype with a modified rev limiter set the Guinness World Record for the world’s fastest production car, reaching 240.1 mph (386.4 km/h), surpassing the Jaguar XJ220’s 217.1 mph (349.4 km/h) record from 1992 achieved with an increased rev limit and catalytic converters removed.
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Brand: McLaren Model: F1 LM
Price: $75,887 Mileage: 27,561 mi.
6. **The 1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa: Sculptural Prowess on the Racetrack**Venturing further into the heart of Ralph Lauren’s illustrious garage, we encounter the magnificent 1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa. This is another legendary race car that stands as a testament to Ferrari’s golden era of motorsport, captivating not only with its formidable track record but also with its truly sculptural design. Its distinctive pontoon fenders and dramatic proportions make it an icon of automotive artistry, a true embodiment of form following function at its most beautiful.
The 250 Testa Rossa was engineered to dominate the grueling endurance races of the late 1950s, and it did so with unparalleled success. Powering this masterpiece is a potent 3.0L V12 engine, delivering a formidable 300 horsepower, capable of propelling it to a top speed of around 155 mph. This combination of raw power and aerodynamic efficiency allowed it to secure numerous victories, etching its name into the annals of motorsports history and cementing its status as an undisputed champion.
Ralph Lauren’s acquisition of such a vehicle underscores his discerning eye for cars that are not merely fast, but possess a profound heritage and an aesthetic that transcends time. The 250 Testa Rossa, with an auction price historically around $40 million, is more than just a car; it is a moving sculpture, a vibrant piece of history that speaks to the passion and ingenuity of a bygone era. Its inclusion in his collection highlights the timeless appeal of automotive excellence.
Car Model Information: 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE R-Line Black
Name: Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa
Caption: Ralph Lauren
Manufacturer: Ferrari
Aka: Ferrari 250 TR,Ferrari Testa Rossa
Production: 1957–1961
Assembly: Maranello
Designer: Pinin Farina,Medardo Fantuzzi,Scaglietti,Carlo Chiti,Giotto Bizzarrini
BodyStyle: Roadster (automobile)
Layout: Mid-engine design#FMR layout – Front Mid-engine / Rear-wheel drive
Related: Ferrari 250,Ferrari Monza#500 TR,Ferrari Monza#500 TRC
Engine: Ferrari Colombo engine,V12 engine
Transmission: manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2350 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 3959 mm
Width: 1523 mm
Weight: 800 kg (dry)
Predecessor: Ferrari Monza#500 TR
Successor: Ferrari P#250 P
Sp: us
Categories: 24 Hours of Le Mans race cars, Articles with short description, Commons category link is on Wikidata, Ferrari vehicles, Le Mans winning cars
Summary: The Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa, or 250 TR, is a sports racing car built by Ferrari from 1957 to 1961. It was introduced at the end of the 1957 racing season in response to rule changes that enforced a maximum engine displacement of 3 litres for the 24 Hours of Le Mans and World Sports Car Championship races. The 250 TR was closely related to earlier Ferrari sports cars, sharing many key components with other 250 models and the 500 TR.
The 250 TR achieved many racing successes, with variations winning 10 World Sports Car Championship races including the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1958, 1960, and 1961, the 12 Hours of Sebring in 1958, 1959 and 1961, the Targa Florio in 1958, the 1000 Km Buenos Aires in 1958 and 1960 and the Pescara 4 Hours in 1961. These results led to World Sports Car Championship constructor’s titles for Ferrari in 1958, 1960 and 1961.
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Brand: Ferrari Model: 250 Testa Rossa
Price: $27,995 Mileage: 9,546 mi.
7. **The 1954 Ferrari 375 Plus: The Victorious Maranello Giant**Next in our esteemed lineup is the incredibly rare 1954 Ferrari 375 Plus, a vehicle that commands respect not just for its scarcity, but for its triumphant racing pedigree. This particular Ferrari is one of only five ever produced, making it an exceptionally coveted artifact for any serious collector. Its presence in the Lauren collection speaks volumes about his commitment to acquiring vehicles that embody significant historical moments in motorsport.
The 375 Plus earned its legendary status through outright victories at some of the world’s most demanding races, including the prestigious Le Mans, the perilous Carrera Panamericana, and the fast-paced Silverstone circuit. Under its sleek bodywork lies a formidable Lampredi V12 engine, which was capable of producing an impressive 325 horsepower. This powerhouse demonstrated Ferrari’s engineering excellence at its zenith, propelling the car to speeds that few could match in its era.
The historical and financial value of the 1954 Ferrari 375 Plus is immense, with a similar model famously selling for $18.3 million in 2014. For Ralph Lauren, this car is not just an investment; it is a cherished piece of racing heritage, a tangible link to a time when Ferrari reigned supreme on the international racing stage. It stands as a vibrant testament to the brand’s enduring legacy of speed, passion, and unparalleled engineering prowess.
Car Model Information: 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE R-Line Black
Name: Ferrari 375 Plus
Caption: Ralph Lauren
Manufacturer: Ferrari
Production: 1954,8 made (one was converted from 375 MM)
Designer: Pinin Farina
BodyStyle: Roadster (automobile),Cabriolet
Layout: Mid-engine design#FMR layout – Front Mid-engine / Rear-wheel drive
Engine: Ferrari Lampredi engine,V12 engine
Powerout: 330 PS
Transmission: Manual transmission,5-speed manual
Wheelbase: 2600 mm
Abbr: on (dry)
Weight: 1030 kg
Predecessor: Ferrari 375 MM
Successor: Ferrari 410 S
Categories: 24 Hours of Le Mans race cars, Articles with short description, Carrera Panamericana, Commons category link is on Wikidata, Ferrari vehicles
Summary: The Ferrari 375 Plus is a sports racing car produced by Ferrari in 1954. The model competed internationally, winning many major races, including 24 Hours of Le Mans, Carrera Panamericana, 1000km of Buenos Aires, Agadir GP and Silverstone.
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Brand: Ferrari Model: 375 Plus
Price: $27,995 Mileage: 9,546 mi.
8. **The 1955 Jaguar XKD: Le Mans Domination Personified**Our journey through Ralph Lauren’s exquisite collection continues with the iconic 1955 Jaguar XKD, a car that needs little introduction to anyone familiar with the storied history of endurance racing. This formidable machine is a true Le Mans legend, a testament to British racing engineering at its finest, embodying a perfect blend of aerodynamic efficiency, robust power, and groundbreaking innovation.
The Jaguar XKD earned its unparalleled reputation in 1957, achieving a feat that remains etched in motorsport history: securing five of the top six positions at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This remarkable performance showcased its exceptional reliability, speed, and advanced design. Powering this victorious beast was a 3,442-cc DOHC inline-six engine, which delivered a robust 250 bhp, complemented by advanced features such as pioneering four-wheel disc brakes – a revolutionary safety and performance enhancement for its time.
Lauren’s discerning eye for vehicles that combine both aesthetic brilliance and a dominant performance heritage is perfectly exemplified by the XKD’s inclusion. Its sleek, aerodynamic form was not merely beautiful but ruthlessly efficient, designed specifically to cut through the air on the Mulsanne Straight. The 1955 Jaguar XKD is more than just a race car; it is a symbol of a golden age of British motorsport, meticulously preserved and celebrated within his unparalleled collection.
9. **The 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder: The Revolutionary Mid-Engine Marvel**As we delve deeper into the narrative of automotive innovation within Ralph Lauren’s collection, we encounter the revolutionary 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder. This lightweight, agile, and incredibly potent machine is a legend in its own right, revered for its pioneering mid-engine design that redefined sports car dynamics and set a new benchmark for performance on the track.
The rarity of the 550 Spyder is undeniable, with only 90 units ever built, contributing significantly to its mythical status among collectors. This mid-engine marvel made an immediate and indelible impact by winning its very first race at Nürburgring, signalling the arrival of a new force in motorsports. Its design was focused on minimalist efficiency and exceptional handling, characteristics that quickly made it a formidable competitor against larger, more powerful rivals.
At the heart of the 550 Spyder lies its distinctive aluminum inline-four “Fuhrmann Engine,” a masterpiece of German engineering that produced remarkable power for its size. This allowed the car to reach an impressive top speed of 140 mph, which was nothing short of lightning-fast for a car of its compact dimensions and era. Ralph Lauren’s ownership of this particular Porsche highlights his appreciation for vehicles that pushed the boundaries of automotive technology and left an enduring legacy of innovation.
10. **Modern Hypercars: The ‘Holy Trinity’ and Contemporary Performance Art**While Ralph Lauren’s collection is rightly celebrated for its deep reverence for vintage classics, his discerning taste extends unequivocally to the apex of modern automotive engineering: the hypercar. This segment of his garage showcases a curated selection of contemporary performance machines that represent the absolute pinnacle of speed, technology, and luxury, demonstrating that his philosophy of collecting automotive art transcends mere vintage appeal.
Among his prized modern possessions are members of what is famously known as the ‘Holy Trinity’ of hypercars – the McLaren P1, Porsche 918 Spyder, and Ferrari LaFerrari. Lauren is the fortunate owner of two McLaren P1s and two Porsche 918 Spyders, alongside his Ferrari LaFerrari. These three vehicles were the first to be officially defined as hypercars, pushing the boundaries with their advanced hybrid powertrains, groundbreaking aerodynamics, and breathtaking performance, embodying the very best of 21st-century automotive innovation.
His collection also boasts other contemporary titans, including a Bugatti Veyron and a Veyron Supersport, machines renowned for their sheer raw power and unadulterated speed, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury and performance. Furthermore, a classic supercar like the Ferrari F40, with its fierce track-focused performance, bridges the gap between vintage and modern hypercars, showcasing Lauren’s appreciation for consistent excellence across eras. This carefully selected fleet of modern marvels perfectly illustrates his discerning taste for vehicles that represent the absolute pinnacle of their respective eras, blending groundbreaking technology with an undeniable sense of automotive occasion. It reflects his understanding that true automotive art transcends time, embracing both the heritage of the past and the innovation of the present.
The journey through Ralph Lauren’s extraordinary automotive collection is truly an exploration into a world where passion, precision, and unparalleled artistry converge. Each vehicle, whether a century-old classic or a cutting-edge hypercar, has been chosen with an unerring eye for design, historical significance, and engineering brilliance. It is a collection that doesn’t just display wealth, but rather a profound understanding and celebration of automotive history’s finest moments. Much like the timeless fashion he designs, these cars are enduring symbols of beauty and performance, proving that true style, in every form, is indeed everlasting.
