Exploring Elon Musk Car Collection – Elon Musk, the name synonymous with innovation and daring ventures, has soared to the top of the billionaire pyramid, clinching the title of the wealthiest man on the planet.
With a staggering net worth of 225.2 billion USD, Musk has left luminaries like Bernard Arnault, Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg trailing in his financial wake.
While many recognize him as the mastermind behind Tesla, the world’s premier electric vehicle company, it’s essential to remember that Musk’s ascent to the summit of the rich list didn’t happen overnight.
Before Tesla became a household name, Elon Musk had already made his mark in the tech and business world with endeavors like PayPal, SpaceX, and Zip2.
He’s a seasoned entrepreneur, a brilliant engineer, and a relentless innovator who has consistently reinvested in his dreams and taken monumental risks to achieve the pinnacle of success.
But here’s the fascinating twist – when it comes to cars, Elon Musk’s taste isn’t confined to the electric realm.
You might think that, as the head of the world’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, Musk’s car collection would exclusively consist of cutting-edge EVs.
However, his garage paints a different picture, one that’s a true blend of the analog, classic, and modern.
So, let’s dive into the world of Elon Musk’s car collection and discover what this visionary entrepreneur drives today.
11 List of the Elon Musk Car Collection: A Glimpse into the World’s Richest Man’s Garage
How many cars does Elon Musk own? Elon Musk’s car collection isn’t what you might expect from the CEO of a renowned electric vehicle giant.
While he has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of electric mobility, his personal garage offers a more diverse array of automobiles. Let’s take a closer look at the vehicles he’s chosen to grace his collection.
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1. Audi Q7: Family and Luxury
In 2010, Musk made a practical choice by adding the Audi Q7 SUV to his collection. This move was prompted by the growth of his family, demanding a spacious and luxurious vehicle.
The Audi Q7 fits the bill with a 3.0-liter supercharged engine churning out 333 horsepower. It offers a seamless blend of performance, high-tech features, a plush interior, and a sporty appearance.
However, despite the Audi Q7 being highly regarded, Musk was notably dissatisfied. He even referred to it as “particularly horrendous.”
This dissatisfaction served as a driving force for Musk to create something better, leading to the development of the Tesla Model X with its distinctive falcon-wing doors.
These doors offer remarkable accessibility, allowing passengers to easily reach the rear seats even in cramped parking spaces.
Musk’s quest for excellence and convenience was the catalyst for innovation in the electric vehicle industry.
2. BMW M5: A Beast Transformed
The 2006 BMW M5 stands as a testament to Musk’s fascination with high-performance vehicles. This four-seater family car received a transformative touch from Hamann, a BMW tuning specialist.
Hamann’s expertise pushed the M5’s 5.0-liter V10 engine to produce a staggering 603 horsepower and break free from its speed limiters, reaching a top speed of 199 miles per hour.
While it may have been categorized as a family car, the M5’s capabilities transcended the ordinary, making it a remarkable piece of engineering.
Some speculate that this beast of a car might have served as an inspiration for Musk’s “Ludicrous” driving mode featured in the Tesla Model S.
3. BMW 320i: From Humble Beginnings
Elon Musk’s car collection reflects his journey from humble beginnings. His first car, a 1978 BMW 320i, was a symbol of his modest start.
This vehicle wasn’t an extravagant purchase, but rather a pragmatic choice. Musk bought a used model for a mere $1,400 and even worked on it himself.
Back in the day, BMW was far from a status symbol as it is today, making the 320i an accessible option for many.
This iconic car was part of the inaugural generation of the celebrated BMW 3 Series, which made its debut at Munich’s Olympic Stadium in 1975.
The BMW 320i boasted a respectable top speed of 112 mph and accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in slightly over ten seconds.
Musk relied on this car for several years until a rather unusual incident occurred. His intern at Zip2 had the wheels fall off the 320i while driving it, leading to the car’s retirement from Musk’s collection.
4. Ford Model T: A Touch of Nostalgia
One of the most intriguing additions to Elon Musk’s car collection is a 1920 Ford Model T, an iconic piece of automotive history.
This vintage gem takes us back to a time when the concept of personal mobility was being revolutionized.
The Ford Model T, affectionately known as “Tin Lizzie,” is a testament to Henry Ford’s vision of making cars accessible to the general public through mass production.
Musk’s possession of this classic beauty might seem unexpected, given his futuristic endeavors in space travel and electric vehicles.
However, it’s a testament to his appreciation for the bygone era and the profound impact the Model T had on personal mobility during its time.
In many ways, Musk’s ownership of this vintage relic pays homage to the roots of the automotive industry.
5. Jaguar E-Type Roadster: A Dream and Its Hiccups
The 1967 Jaguar E-Type Roadster is another jewel in Elon Musk’s car collection. This iconic British sports car is renowned for its lightweight design, power, and stability during high-speed racing.
Musk’s affinity for the E-Type dates back to his teenage years when he first laid eyes on this striking vehicle.
At the age of 17, he made a resolution to acquire one for himself, a testament to his ambition and unwavering determination.
However, Musk’s experience with this classic car didn’t unfold as smoothly as he had envisioned.
On the very day he drove it out of the showroom, the E-Type broke down, leading to a frustrating experience that left him comparing it to a troublesome relationship.
Musk humorously quipped that the Jaguar was like a terrible girlfriend, creating drama and difficulties at every turn.
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6. Lotus Esprit “Wet Nellie”: A Bond-Inspired Marvel
The 1976 Lotus Esprit S1, famously known as “Wet Nellie,” occupies a special place in Elon Musk’s car collection.
This iconic car played a pivotal role in the James Bond movie “The Spy Who Loved Me.” For those who grew up captivated by Bond’s cinematic adventures, the idea of owning a car that could transform into a submarine was nothing short of extraordinary.
Musk shared this fascination, and when the opportunity arose in 2013, he didn’t hesitate to acquire the “Wet Nellie” at an auction, securing it for nearly a million dollars.
However, there was a catch—unlike its cinematic counterpart, this Lotus Esprit couldn’t actually transform into a submarine.
But knowing Musk’s penchant for innovation, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him bring the concept to life and turn the “Wet Nellie” into the submersible marvel it was meant to be.
7. McLaren F1: Chasing Speed and Innovation
The 1997 McLaren F1 is a legendary classic supercar, boasting breathtaking speed and unparalleled performance.
It’s no surprise that Elon Musk, a man known for his penchant for speed and innovation, would have a classic supercar like this in his collection.
Musk’s specific McLaren F1, bearing the number 067, was one of only seven of its kind in the United States at the time.
This exclusivity meant that acquiring it came with a hefty price tag. The McLaren F1 had an astonishing top speed of 240 mph, a testament to its engineering prowess.
However, Musk, never one to settle for the status quo, sought to push the boundaries further.
Inspired by his desire to create an electric car that could outperform the McLaren F1, Musk embarked on a mission to redefine personal mobility.
Notably, Musk’s confidence in his driving skills was so unwavering that he opted not to purchase insurance for the McLaren F1.
This confidence, however, was tested when he eventually experienced a crash that left the vehicle significantly damaged. In 2007, Musk decided to part ways with the McLaren F1, opting to sell it at a profit.
His decision was influenced by a desire to escape the constant attention that owning a high-performance gas guzzler attracted.
8. Porsche 911 Turbo: A Bridge to Electric Dreams
The 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo is a pinnacle of sports car engineering, a vehicle with a rich motorsport heritage.
Even someone as deeply rooted in technology as Elon Musk couldn’t resist the allure of this striking sports car.
However, the massive fuel-hungry engine of the Porsche 911 Turbo prompted Musk to ponder transformation.
He envisioned converting this iconic sports car into an electric vehicle, a vision he discussed with engineer JB Straubel, whom he met in 2003.
Straubel was already immersed in electric vehicle technology and, along with Alan Cocconi, had successfully created a prototype e-car known as the T-Zero.
Musk’s idea of electrifying his Porsche 911 Turbo wasn’t met with enthusiasm by Cocconi, who introduced Musk to a group of innovative individuals working on an electric car startup. This introduction would prove pivotal, as it aligned with Musk’s aspirations.
He soon became a major investor in the company that would become Tesla, setting the stage for the electric vehicle revolution that would follow.
9. Tesla Roadster: A Journey to the Stars
Elon Musk’s car collection is incomplete without a mention of the iconic 2008 Tesla Roadster, a vehicle that not only marked the debut of Tesla but also embarked on a journey that transcended Earth’s boundaries.
The Tesla Roadster was a groundbreaking electric vehicle built on a Lotus Elise chassis, powered by lithium-ion batteries.
It boasted an impressive range of 227 miles and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds.
Elon Musk was the very first owner of this innovative EV, using it for his daily commutes.
However, instead of selling it in the conventional manner, Musk decided to give the Roadster a grand, interstellar send-off.
On February 6, 2018, he placed the Tesla Roadster on board his SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket and launched it into space.
This whimsical yet iconic gesture captured the imagination of people around the world. A website, whereisroadster.com, was even created to track the progress of this “Starman” and his celestial journey.
10. Tesla Model S: The Pinnacle of Electric Luxury
It’s no secret that Elon Musk has a profound connection to Tesla, the electric vehicle company he co-founded.
Among the many vehicles in his car collection, one stands out as both a personal favorite and a symbol of his commitment to electric mobility—the 2019 Tesla Model S.
Known for its luxury, space, and remarkable range, the Model S is a testament to Tesla’s unwavering pursuit of excellence.
With an impressive range of up to 405 miles on a single charge and a jaw-dropping 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 2.4 seconds, the Model S exemplifies the pinnacle of electric performance.
Musk’s influence on this vehicle is also evident in the Ludicrous mode, an innovation inspired by the Hamann-tuned BMW M5.
This mode effectively turbocharges the Model S, elevating its power and making it one of the fastest EVs on the market.
Not one to rest on his laurels, Musk sought even greater performance and introduced the Plaid version of the Model S, pushing the boundaries of speed and innovation.
The Model S isn’t just about performance; it also offers high-tech features, advanced infotainment screens, semi-autonomous driving capabilities, and an array of safety features, including automatic emergency braking.
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11. Tesla Cybertruck: A Bold Vision of the Future
Elon Musk is known for pushing the envelope of what’s possible, and the 2020 Tesla Cybertruck is a testament to his unbridled ambition.
This electric pickup truck is like no other, with a design that defies convention and expectations.
Musk’s creation is marked by its futuristic aesthetic, including a body made from ultra-hard 30x cold-rolled stainless steel, making it nearly indestructible.
The Cybertruck seats six people and boasts an astounding 500-mile range on a single charge, setting a new standard for electric vehicles in the truck category.
It’s equipped with all-wheel drive and has a remarkable towing capacity of 14,000 pounds, making it an ideal choice for those with heavy hauling needs. However, the Cybertruck’s introduction was not without controversy.
At its launch event, a demonstration of the truck’s armored glass didn’t go as planned, with the glass shattering upon impact.
Musk’s disappointment was palpable, but it didn’t deter him from pursuing this audacious vehicle, which is set to redefine the electric truck segment.
Like many of Tesla’s vehicles, the Cybertruck offers multiple variants, each with different engine capacities.
The acceleration times for the three variants range from 2.9 seconds to 6.5 seconds for 0-60 mph, and the respective top speeds range from 110 mph to 130 mph.
