Exploring James May Car Collection – If you’re a car enthusiast or a fan of the iconic BBC car show Top Gear, the name James May probably rings a bell.
Affectionately known as “Captain Slow” by his co-presenters Richard Hammond and Jeremy Clarkson, James May has become a household name in the automotive world.
Beyond his entertaining on-screen persona, May is a true aficionado of fast cars, and his car collection is nothing short of extraordinary.
What is James May’s Net Worth?
James May, the British journalist and television presenter, holds a net worth of $40 million.
His wealth is attributed to his extensive career in television, notably as a presenter on the popular series “Top Gear” alongside Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond.
May’s association with “Top Gear” spans from 1999 and a significant run from 2003 to 2015.
In addition to “Top Gear,” James May has been involved in various other TV projects, showcasing his versatility.
Some of these include hosting series such as “James May’s Top Toys” (2005), “Oz and James’s Big Wine Adventure” (2006–2007), “James May’s Big Ideas” (2008), and “James May’s Toy Stories” (2009–2014).
Apart from his television endeavors, May contributed as a columnist for the motoring section of “The Daily Telegraph” and has authored over 15 books, covering topics ranging from motors to cooking.
Notably, in 2016, James May took on the role of hosting the Amazon television series “The Grand Tour” and assumed a directorial position for the production company W.
Chump & Sons. Over the years, May’s contributions to the world of television have earned him recognition, including a Royal Television Society Award nomination for Best Presenter in 2007 and an International Motor Film Award for Best Journalism Film for “Motown Funk” in 2019.
His diverse career and success in multiple ventures have solidified James May’s status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry with a substantial net worth of $40 million.
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5 List of James May Car Collection Worth Millions
James May, famous for his witty commentary and unique approach to reviewing vehicles, has an impressive car collection that reflects his deep love for the automotive world.
When it comes to speed, May’s collection boasts some of the fastest cars among the Top Gear trio.
But what makes his collection truly fascinating is not just the speed but the diversity it encompasses.
From classic to modern, James May’s car collection is a testament to his evolving taste and appreciation for the advancements in automotive technology.
One can find a captivating blend of classic beauties and cutting-edge machines, showcasing May’s passion for the ever-changing landscape of the automotive industry.
Among the gems in James May’s collection, there’s one that stands out as the crown jewel – the most expensive car in his possession.
While we won’t spoil the surprise, rest assured that it’s a breathtaking piece of automotive engineering that perfectly complements the eclectic mix found in his garage.
Speaking of garages, James May’s car haven is a sight to behold. A carefully curated space that houses his prized possessions, the garage is a reflection of May’s meticulous nature and keen eye for detail.
Every car has its own place, and each corner tells the story of a man deeply passionate about the world of automobiles.
Whether you’re a gearhead or just curious about the fascinating world of celebrity car collections, exploring James May’s car haven is a journey worth taking.
From the fastest cars to the most expensive, his collection is a captivating blend of speed, style, and sophistication.
1. 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale: The Crown Jewel
Undoubtedly the pinnacle of James May’s car collection, the 2015 Ferrari 458 Speciale stands out not only for its breathtaking speed but also for its hefty price tag.
Acquired at a cost of approximately $291,774, just shy of the $300,000 mark, May’s Ferrari is a visual spectacle finished in the rare Rosso Dino color.
With golden wheels and distinctive Gray and Blue stripes, the 458 Speciale is a testament to May’s attention to detail.
May humorously notes that the stripes alone cost as much as a new Dacia Sandero. The car’s performance matches its aesthetics, boasting an upgraded engine that propels it from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.0 seconds, with a top speed of 202 mph.
Limited to 3,000 units, the 458 Speciale features enhancements over the standard Italia model, including a vented bonnet, forged wheels, and a larger rear spoiler.
2. 2019 Tesla Model S 100D: Embracing the Future
In a nod to the changing landscape of the automotive industry, James May added the 2019 Tesla Model S 100D to his collection.
Priced at £71,700 or $81,190, May’s Tesla represents his commitment to environmentally friendly options.
Impressively, the Model S 100D features a dual-motor setup, providing exceptional range, performance, and handling.
While May expressed reservations about the car’s aesthetics and the large central screen in a video, he acknowledged the inevitable shift toward electric motors in the automotive landscape.
With an EPA estimated range of 335 miles, a 0-62 mph time of 4.3 seconds, and a top speed of 155 mph, the Tesla Model S 100D is a blend of sustainability and performance.
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3. 2021 Toyota Mirai: Hydrogen-Powered Elegance
James May’s forward-thinking approach is further evidenced by his ownership of the 2021 Toyota Mirai, a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle.
Costing him £64,995 or $66,000, the all-black Mirai was unveiled on the DRIVETRIBE YouTube channel.
May had a previous stint with a 2015 Mirai but had to part with it due to the scarcity of hydrogen filling stations in the UK. Comparing it with his Tesla Model S in a video, May highlighted the ‘firm’ feel of the Mirai.
With a claimed top speed of 108 mph and a 0-62 mph sprint time of 9 seconds, the Mirai represents Toyota’s commitment to innovative, eco-friendly transportation with a total driving range of 400 miles.
4. 2018 Alpine A110: French Elegance
Adding a touch of French finesse to his collection, James May acquired the 2018 Alpine A110 for £50,805 or $67,820 in the United States.
Finished in a striking blue exterior, May affectionately refers to it as a “downsized supercar.” The Alpine A110 impressed May to the extent that he declared it his “car of the year.”
With a 0-62 mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph, the A110 showcases Alpine’s dedication to performance and style.
Interestingly, the car was never sold in the North American market due to the absence of certain safety features.
5. 2014 BMW i3: The Everyday Electric
Rounding off his collection is the 2014 BMW i3, the most budget-friendly car in James May’s possession.
Purchased for £35,000, with an additional £5,000 covered by the government as an incentive for buying an electric car, May’s i3 serves as his daily driver.
Featured on The Grand Tour, the BMW i3 replaced May’s Fiat Panda in 2014. With a 22 kWh battery pack providing an EPA-estimated driving range of 81 miles, the i3 is a practical and environmentally conscious addition to May’s diverse car collection.
In conclusion, James May’s car collection is a reflection of his multifaceted automotive interests, ranging from high-performance supercars to eco-friendly electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Each car in his ensemble tells a unique story, blending style, speed, and a keen eye for the future of automotive technology.
As we navigate through the diverse fleet in James May’s garage, it’s clear that his love for cars extends beyond the screen, making his collection a fascinating journey through the evolving landscape of the automotive world.
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FAQs
What was James May’s first car?
James May’s first car was a 1978 Fiat 124 Sport Spider, purchased second-hand in the early 1980s.
The Fiat 124 Sport Spider was a two-seater convertible sports car produced by the Italian automaker Fiat from 1966 to 1982.
It featured a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 118 horsepower and a five-speed manual transmission.
May has fondly spoken about his first car and even featured it on an episode of his show “James May’s Cars of the People.”
What car did James May drive in the Grand Tour Scandi Flick?
In the Grand Tour Scandi Flick special, James May drove a rare 1984 Lancia Beta Coupé Zagato.
This limited-production model, a variant of Lancia’s compact executive car produced from 1972 to 1984, is distinguished by its unique aesthetics and dynamic performance.
With only 3,000 units ever manufactured, the Zagato edition features a 2.0-liter inline-four engine generating 120 horsepower, coupled with a five-speed manual gearbox.
What is James May’s most expensive car?
James May’s most expensive car is the limited-edition Ferrari 458 Speciale Aperta. This specific Ferrari is a convertible version of the 458 Speciale, introduced in 2014.
It boasts a naturally aspirated 4.5-liter V8 engine that produces 597 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.0 seconds.
The Ferrari 458 Speciale Aperta was produced in limited numbers, with only 499 units made, making it one of the most desirable modern Ferraris in James May’s impressive car collection.
