Jay Leno isn’t just a household name in comedy and television; he’s also an automotive icon whose passion for cars has led to a car collection revered around the world. His ‘Big Dog Garage’ in Burbank, California, a sprawling 140,000-square-foot space, is more than just a garage; it serves as a museum where each vehicle—from vintage steam-powered giants to cutting-edge jet cars—tells a captivating story that embodies Leno’s deep knowledge and emotional ties to automotive evolution.
This isn’t a collection amassed purely for investment; it’s an empire built out of sheer, unadulterated love for automobiles. Managed by a dedicated full-time team of mechanics and restorers, every single vehicle is maintained in pristine, running condition, a testament to Leno’s commitment to functionality over mere display. The diversity is astonishing, encompassing vintage classics from the early 1900s, formidable race cars, imaginative concept vehicles, custom-built masterpieces, motorcycles spanning various eras, and even groundbreaking electric and steam-powered machines. It’s an automotive symphony that harmonizes the past, present, and even hints at the future of mobility.
While many collections boast impressive vehicles, Leno’s stands apart due to his active engagement and a philosophy prioritizing enthusiasm and access over exclusivity. His well-known aversion to the “VIP hoops” and alleged allocation systems of certain marques, such as Ferrari, underscores his commitment to the pure joy of motoring. As he famously stated regarding McLaren, “I gave McLaren the money, and McLaren gave him the car.” This ethos ensures his garage remains a vibrant, living testament to the engineering marvels and design philosophies that have shaped our automotive world. Join us now as we delve into some of the most iconic cars gracing the hallowed halls of Jay Leno’s incomparable collection.
1. **McLaren F1 (1994)**: The undisputed crown jewel within Jay Leno’s breathtaking assembly is none other than the 1994 McLaren F1, a machine that transcended the very definition of a supercar upon its debut and continues to command awe. This isn’t just a car; it’s a revolutionary statement, a testament to engineering brilliance and uncompromising performance. With only 106 examples ever produced, its scarcity only amplifies its mythical status, placing it in an echelon far beyond most automotive creations. Leno’s F1, reportedly the first McLaren imported to the US and recently fully restored, embodies a piece of motoring history both rare and incredibly significant.
At the heart of this automotive marvel lies a formidable 6.1-liter BMW V12 engine, meticulously crafted and ingeniously housed within an engine bay lined with gold foil – a detail speaking volumes about the no-expense-spared philosophy behind its creation and its exceptional ability to dissipate heat. This powerhouse propels the F1 to an astonishing top speed of 240 mph, a figure profoundly impressive even by today’s hypercar standards. The driving experience is further uniquely defined by its central driving position, flanked by two passenger seats, a layout immediately communicating its focus on the driver and its roots in Formula 1-inspired design.
The McLaren F1’s value is as breathtaking as its speed, ranging from $14 to $17 million, with recent estimates soaring beyond $20 million. This staggering figure highlights not only its rarity and advanced technology but also its legacy as a groundbreaking vehicle that represents a pinnacle in automotive history, evidenced by the fact that McLaren’s policy limits the number of F1s held at their headquarters to just three due to insurance restrictions, emphasizing its extraordinary status in Leno’s collection that goes beyond mere ownership—this car is a symbol of innovation that inspires future generations.
2. **1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing**: Beyond the modern marvels, Leno’s collection holds timeless icons, none more captivating than the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. This vehicle is immediately recognizable by its eponymous upward-opening doors, a design feature as revolutionary in the mid-1950s as it is enduringly stylish today. It’s a car seamlessly blending race-bred performance with unparalleled elegance, securing its place as one of the most collectible and aesthetically pleasing automobiles ever created. Leno’s particular example is celebrated for its pristine condition, a testament to his dedication to preserving automotive heritage in its most authentic form.
Underneath its sleek, aerodynamic silhouette, the 300SL Gullwing houses a robust 3.0-liter inline-6 engine, which, for its era, delivered remarkable power and reliability. This engineering marvel enabled the car to achieve a top speed of 160 mph, making it one of the fastest production cars of its time. Its advanced direct fuel injection system was another groundbreaking feature, contributing to its superior performance and efficiency. The vehicle’s racing pedigree is undeniable, directly derived from Mercedes-Benz’s successful sports car racing program, a heritage that imbues every curve and line with a sense of purposeful speed.
The 300SL Gullwing’s appeal transcends its technical specifications; it’s a breathtaking work of art that has become a symbol of timeless automotive design. Valued at around $1.5 million or more, it is celebrated not just for its scarcity but for its legendary stature, representing the best of post-war German engineering—a car that beautifully combines luxury with high performance, delivering an exhilarating driving experience that remains unmatched by vehicles of any era.
Car Model Information: 2025 Honda Civic Sport
Name: Mercedes-Benz 300 SL
Caption: 300 SL roadster and gullwinged coupé
Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz
Production: Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR#Uhlenhaut Coupé
Assembly: Stuttgart
Designer: Friedrich Geiger
Class: Sports car,Grand tourer
BodyStyle: coupé,Roadster (automobile)
Platform: Coupé W198 I, Roadster W198 II
Related: Mercedes-Benz 190 SL
Layout: FR layout
Engine: 2996 cc
Abbr: off
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2400 mm
Length: 4520 mm
Width: 1790 mm
Height: 1300 mm
Weight: 1500 kg
Predecessor: Mercedes-Benz W194
Successor: Mercedes-Benz W113
Doors: Gull-wing door
Categories: 1960s cars, 24 Hours of Le Mans race cars, All Wikipedia articles needing clarification, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with vague or ambiguous time
Summary: The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (chassis code W 198) is a two-seat sports car that was produced by Mercedes-Benz from 1954 to 1957 as a gullwinged coupé and from 1957 to 1963 as a roadster. The 300 SL traces its origins to the company’s 1952 racing car, the W194, and was equipped with a mechanical direct fuel-injection system that increased the power output of its three-liter overhead camshaft straight-six engine.
The 300 SL was capable of reaching 260 km/h (162 mph), earning it a reputation as a sports car racing champion and making it the fastest production car of its time. The car’s iconic gullwing doors and innovative lightweight tubular-frame construction were groundbreaking.
The designation “SL” is an abbreviation of the German term super-leicht, meaning “super-light”, a reference to the car’s racing-bred lightweight construction. The 300 SL was introduced to the American market at the suggestion of Max Hoffman, Mercedes-Benz’s United States importer at the time, who recognized the potential demand for a high-performance sports car among American buyers. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL remains a highly sought-after classic car and is celebrated for its performance, design, and technological advancements.
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Brand: Mercedes-Benz Model: 300SL Gullwing
Price: $26,923 Mileage: 1,460 mi.
3. **Duesenberg Model X (1927)**: Venturing further back into the opulent annals of automotive history, Jay Leno’s collection proudly showcases the exceptionally rare 1927 Duesenberg Model X. This pre-war American luxury car is a truly magnificent specimen, representing an era of unparalleled grandeur and bespoke craftsmanship in the United States. Duesenberg itself was synonymous with ultimate luxury and engineering prowess, creating vehicles the envy of the world’s elite. The Model X holds a particularly special place as one of the scant few survivors from its limited production run, making Leno’s ownership a significant curatorial achievement.
The Model X, powered by a substantial 265 cubic inch straight-8 engine, was a technological marvel for its time, designed to deliver smooth, powerful performance befitting its luxury status. While its reported top speed of 85 mph might seem modest by today’s standards, it was an impressive feat for a vehicle of its size and complexity in the 1920s, offering effortless cruising and a commanding presence on any road. The sheer scale and intricate detailing of the Duesenberg epitomized an age when automobiles were often hand-built works of art, reflecting the discerning tastes and extravagant lifestyles of their owners.
The Duesenberg Model X, with an estimated value surpassing $2 million, is a testament to its monumental historical importance and extreme rarity. These cars were not merely transportation; they embodied wealth, power, and exquisite taste of their time. Leno’s careful preservation of this Model X provides a window into a glamorous era of American automotive excellence, where elegance and audacity merged to produce some of the world’s most coveted machines, creating a rolling work of art that epitomizes the height of pre-Depression luxury.
Car Model Information: 2025 Honda Civic Sport
Name: Duesenberg Straight 8
Caption: touring car
Manufacturer: Duesenberg
Aka: Duesenberg Straight Eight
Production: 1921–1926
Assembly: Indianapolis,Indiana,United States
Designer: Fred Duesenberg
Class: Luxury car
BodyStyle: by arrangement with coachbuilder
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Related: Duesenberg Model X
Engine: 260 cuin
Abbr: on at 1500 rpm
Disp: flip
Transmission: 3 speed manual
Wheelbase: 134 in
Successor: Duesenberg Model X
Sp: us
Configuration: straight-eight engine
Displacement: 260 cuin
Bore: 2.875 in
Stroke: 5.0 in
Block: cast iron, 3 bearings
Head: cast iron, detachable
Valvetrain: Overhead camshaft
Compression: 5:1
Fuelsystem: [object Object]
Management: Delco coil and points, distributor mounted at end of starter/generator unit
Fueltype: Gasoline
Oilsystem: Wet sump, full pressure lubrication
Coolingsystem: water cooled
Power: 88 bhp
Torque: 170 lbft
Categories: All articles with dead external links, Articles with dead external links from February 2024, Articles with permanently dead external links, Articles with short description, Cars discontinued in 1926
Summary: The Duesenberg Model A was the first automobile in series production to have hydraulic brakes and the first automobile in series production in the United States with a straight-eight engine. Officially known as the Duesenberg Straight Eight, the Model A was first shown in late 1920 in New York City. Production was delayed by substantial changes to the design of the car, including a change in the engine valvetrain from horizontal overhead valves to an overhead camshaft; also during this time, the company had moved its headquarters and factory from New Jersey to Indiana. The Model A was manufactured in Indianapolis, Indiana, from 1921 to 1925 by the Duesenberg Automobiles and Motors Company and from 1925 to 1926 at the same factory by the restructured Duesenberg Motor Company. The successors to the company began referring to the car as the Model A when the Model J was introduced.
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Brand: Duesenberg Model: Model X
Price: $26,923 Mileage: 1,460 mi.
4. **Bugatti Type 57 Atlantic SC (Replica)**: While Jay Leno’s collection is replete with originals, his appreciation for automotive art extends to meticulously crafted tributes, exemplified by his Bugatti Type 57 Atlantic SC replica. The original Type 57 Atlantic is considered by many the most beautiful and valuable car in the world, a truly priceless masterpiece. Recognizing the impossibility and immense risk of regularly enjoying an authentic example, Leno commissioned a painstakingly detailed replica, allowing him to revel in the iconic design and engineering spirit without imperiling an irreplaceable piece of history. This decision highlights his genuine love for the car’s aesthetics and heritage.
The replica faithfully captures the essence of the original Type 57 Atlantic SC, known for its distinctive riveted dorsal seam, aerodynamic bodywork, and avant-garde styling decades ahead of its time. Powered by a 3.3-liter supercharged straight-8 engine, the replica aims to emulate the performance characteristics that made the original so revered, offering a reported top speed of 120 mph. This car is a testament to the fact that passion often outweighs pure provenance in the world of collecting, particularly when the original is so exceedingly rare that only a handful were ever made and only a few survive.
Valued at over $1 million, even as a replica, this Bugatti Type 57 Atlantic SC underscores the extraordinary lengths to which dedicated collectors will go to experience automotive legends. It’s a prime example of how craftsmanship and attention to detail can recreate the magic of an original, offering a driving experience that is both thrilling and deeply respectful of its heritage. For Leno, this car is not just a stand-in; it’s a celebration of Bugatti’s unparalleled artistry and visionary design, allowing a wider appreciation for a design that would otherwise remain confined to the most exclusive museums and private vaults.
Car Model Information: 2025 Honda Civic Sport
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 57 Atlantic SC
Price: $26,923 Mileage: 1,460 mi.
5. **Lamborghini Miura S (1969)**: No comprehensive exploration of a world-class car collection would be complete without acknowledging the vehicle widely credited with kickstarting the supercar era: the Lamborghini Miura. Jay Leno’s 1969 Miura S, resplendent in a dazzling orange hue, is a stunning embodiment of this pivotal machine and undoubtedly one of the most visually arresting vehicles within his entire garage. The Miura, with its groundbreaking mid-engine layout and breathtaking Bertone styling, redefined what a high-performance sports car could be, blending exotic looks with a thrilling driving dynamic that captivated the automotive world.
Beneath the elegant exterior of the Miura lies a revolutionary 3.9-liter V12 engine, a true marvel of Italian engineering that delivers a thrilling symphony of power. This innovative engine layout not only enhances the car’s weight distribution but also significantly improves its handling dynamics. Reaching a top speed of 171 mph, it solidifies its legacy as a performance icon, with the Miura S variant further enhancing its desirability by combining increased power with luxurious touches, making it a must-have for any automotive aficionado.
With an estimated value exceeding $2 million, Leno’s Miura S is more than just a car; it is a profound piece of cultural and automotive history. It represents the audacious vision of Ferruccio Lamborghini and the creative genius of Marcello Gandini, whose design forever cemented the Miura’s place in the pantheon of automotive legends. Its presence in Leno’s collection speaks to his appreciation for cars that not only push the boundaries of performance but also possess an undeniable artistic flair, embodying the spirit of passion and innovation that defines the very best of the automotive world.
Car Model Information: 2025 Honda Civic Sport
Name: Lamborghini Miura
Caption: 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV
Manufacturer: Lamborghini
Production: 1966–1973
Assembly: Sant’Agata Bolognese
Successor: Lamborghini Countach
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: coupé
Layout: Transverse engine,rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: cvt,Lamborghini V12,V12 engine
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2500 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 4360 mm
Width: 1760 mm
Height: 1055 mm
Weight: 1292 kg
Designer: Marcello Gandini
Sp: us
Categories: 1970s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles needing additional references, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles needing additional references from February 2024
Summary: The Lamborghini Miura is a sports car produced by Italian automaker Lamborghini between 1966 and 1973. The car was the first high-performance production road car with a rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, which has since become the standard for performance-oriented sports cars. When released, it was the fastest production car in the world.
The Miura was originally conceived by Lamborghini’s engineering team, which designed the car in its spare time against the wishes of company founder Ferruccio Lamborghini, who preferred powerful yet sedate grand touring cars over the race car-derived machines produced by local rival Ferrari. However, when the development mule was revealed to Ferruccio, he gave approval for its development to continue.
The Miura’s rolling chassis was presented at the 1965 Turin Auto Show, and the prototype P400 debuted at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show. It received stellar receptions from showgoers and the motoring press alike, each impressed by Marcello Gandini’s sleek styling and the car’s revolutionary mid-engine design.
Lamborghini’s flagship, the Miura received periodic updates and remained in production until 1973. A year later the Countach entered the company’s lineup, amid tumultuous financial times for the company.
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Brand: Lamborghini Model: Miura S
Price: $26,923 Mileage: 1,460 mi.
6. **1963 Chrysler Turbine Car**:As we delve deeper into Jay Leno’s unparalleled collection, we encounter vehicles that challenge conventional notions of automotive engineering. The 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car stands as a monumental testament to bold experimentation and a daring vision that once captivated the American automotive landscape. One of only nine survivors from a groundbreaking, experimental fleet, this vehicle represents Chrysler’s audacious foray into an entirely different propulsion system during the vibrant, innovative era of the 1960s.
As we delve deeper into Jay Leno’s unparalleled collection, we encounter vehicles that challenge conventional notions of automotive engineering. The 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car stands as a monumental testament to bold experimentation and a daring vision that once captivated the American automotive landscape. One of only nine survivors from a groundbreaking, experimental fleet, this vehicle represents Chrysler’s audacious foray into an entirely different propulsion system during the vibrant, innovative era of the 1960s.
What truly sets this machine apart is its revolutionary jet turbine engine, a powerplant unlike anything mass-produced before or since for civilian use. This remarkable engine could run on virtually any combustible liquid, from peanut oil to tequila, showcasing a versatility and futuristic outlook that was profoundly ahead of its time. The smooth, almost silent operation of the turbine engine offered a glimpse into a potential future where the rumble of pistons was replaced by a continuous, effortless hum.
The performance figures for the 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car, while perhaps not reaching hypercar speeds, were nonetheless impressive for its era and unique engineering. With a reported top speed of 120 mph, it offered exhilarating performance alongside its novel mechanics. Its estimated value exceeding $500,000 reflects not just its rarity, but its profound historical significance as a functioning piece of radical automotive technology that challenged the very definition of a car.
Leno’s deep appreciation for automotive history, particularly for vehicles that pushed technological boundaries, makes the Chrysler Turbine Car a natural fit within his garage. It embodies his passion for understanding the evolution of the automobile, showcasing how manufacturers bravely explored new frontiers in pursuit of what was then considered the ultimate driving experience. It remains a fascinating engineering curiosity and a priceless artifact of America’s ambitious mid-century industrial spirit.
Car Model Information: 2023 Subaru Forester Limited
Name: Chrysler Turbine Car
Assembly: Detroit,United States
Caption: Walter P. Chrysler Museum
Manufacturer: Chrysler Corporation
Production: 1963–1964,55 produced
Class: Concept car
BodyStyle: coupé
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: Chrysler turbine engines
Width: 72.9 in
Abbr: on
Height: 53.5 in
Wheelbase: 110 in
Length: 201.6 in
Weight: convert
Designer: Elwood Engel
Transmission: TorqueFlite
Categories: Articles with Internet Archive links, Articles with short description, Cars powered by gas turbines, Chrysler concept vehicles, Chrysler vehicles
Summary: The Chrysler Turbine Car is an experimental two-door hardtop coupe powered by a turbine engine and was manufactured by Chrysler from 1963 to 1964. Italian design studio Carrozzeria Ghia constructed the bodywork, and Chrysler completed the final assembly in Detroit. A total of 55 cars were manufactured: five prototypes and a limited run of fifty cars for a public user program. All have a signature metallic paint named “turbine bronze”, roughly the color of root beer. The car was styled by Elwood Engel and Chrysler studios. They featured power brakes, power steering, and a TorqueFlite transmission.
The Chrysler turbine engine program that produced the Turbine Car began during the late 1930s and created prototypes that completed long-distance trips in the 1950s and early 1960s. The A-831 engines that powered the Ghia-designed Turbine Car could operate on many fuels, required less maintenance, and lasted longer than conventional piston engines. However, they were much more expensive to produce.
After testing, Chrysler conducted a user program from October 1963 to January 1966 that involved 203 drivers in 133 cities in the United States cumulatively driving more than one million miles (1.6 million km). The program helped the company determine problems with the cars, notably with their complicated starting procedure, relatively unimpressive acceleration, and sub-par fuel economy and noise. The experience also revealed the advantages of the turbine engines, including their remarkable durability, smooth operation, and relatively modest maintenance requirements.
After the user program ended in 1966, Chrysler reclaimed the cars and destroyed all but nine; Chrysler kept two cars, six are displayed at museums in the United States, and one is in comedian Jay Leno’s private collection. Chrysler’s turbine engine program ended in 1979, mainly due to the failure of the engines to meet government emissions regulations, relatively poor fuel economy, and as a condition of receiving a government loan in 1979.
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Brand: Chrysler Model: Turbine Car
Price: $32,025 Mileage: 17,380 mi.
7. **EcoJet Concept Car**:Stepping from historical experimentation into visionary concepts, Jay Leno’s EcoJet Concept Car is a singular creation that marries cutting-edge design with a profound commitment to sustainable power. This custom-built marvel is not merely a car but a statement, co-designed by Leno himself in collaboration with the engineering giants at General Motors. It represents a bold reimagining of performance, blending high-octane excitement with an environmentally conscious ethos.
Stepping from historical experimentation into visionary concepts, Jay Leno’s EcoJet Concept Car is a singular creation that marries cutting-edge design with a profound commitment to sustainable power. This custom-built marvel is not merely a car but a statement, co-designed by Leno himself in collaboration with the engineering giants at General Motors. It represents a bold reimagining of performance, blending high-octane excitement with an environmentally conscious ethos.
At its core, the EcoJet is powered by a Honeywell turbine engine, demonstrating a continuity with the experimental spirit seen in vehicles like the Chrysler Turbine Car, yet brought firmly into the 21st century. What makes this particular turbine engine truly innovative is its ability to run on biodiesel, making it a pioneer in the realm of high-performance green technology. It achieves an estimated top speed of 160 mph, proving that exhilarating performance need not come at the expense of environmental responsibility.
As a truly one-off creation, the EcoJet Concept Car holds a ‘priceless’ valuation, emphasizing its unique status and the profound vision it embodies. It transcends the traditional metrics of automotive worth, standing as a physical manifestation of a dream. Its existence in Leno’s collection speaks volumes about his desire to explore not just the past, but also the potential future of mobility, advocating for innovation that is both powerful and responsible.
The sleek, aerodynamic lines of the EcoJet are a testament to the seamless integration of form and function, delivering a design that is both futuristic and deeply functional. It’s a compelling example of how a passionate enthusiast can collaborate with industry leaders to bring a groundbreaking concept to life, showcasing a vehicle that is as visually striking as it is technologically advanced. It is a beacon of what is possible when ingenuity and environmental awareness converge.
Car Model Information: 2025 Honda Civic Sport
Categories: Concept cars, Mid-engined vehicles, Sports cars
Summary: The EcoJet is a concept car designed to run on biodiesel fuel, using a Honeywell LTS101 based gas turbine instead of a reciprocating engine. The engine is normally used in helicopters and provides 650 horsepower and 583 ft-lb of torque. Drive is to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transaxle adapted from a C5 Corvette. An automatic transmission had to be used, because the turbine requires a constant load and operating a clutch with a manual gearbox would cause the turbine to overspeed.
This concept car was the result of a collaboration between Jay Leno and General Motors, Honeywell, Alcoa and BASF. Unlike other concept cars, it was meant to be driven on the road in a regular fashion, as well as for show purposes.
It is a two-seater car of a coupé design with a hydroformed aluminum chassis and carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer bodywork. The car contains two separate fuel tanks; one contains the main biodiesel fuel, soybean oil, and the other contains a conventional clean-burning jet engine fuel, Jet A (kerosene). The kerosene is used to start the turbine easily at the beginning of a trip and also to run the engine at the end of a trip to clean it, since biodiesel fuel tends to gum up the fuel system if not cleared. The exhaust gas temperature is 1000 degrees Fahrenheit in normal operation and 1800 Fahrenheit at full power. Exhaust is directed upward from two ports on the rear deck. In essence, the car runs on refined cooking oil, thus producing the same kind of smell created by cooking French fries.
The car has an Azentek in-dash car computer running Microsoft Windows Vista, with two LCD screens on the dashboard — one for the aircraft-style digital gauges and another for the multimedia and navigation controls — as well as the standard PC functions, such as word processing and Web access through a WiMAX system. Two other smaller LCD screens are placed on the dashboard to provide rear views, as the car has no rear-view mirrors and uses cameras instead. The functions are controlled by Touchscreen or by Speech recognition software, using an array of microphones. The car was assembled by the Big Dog crew, mechanics employed by Jay Leno to help him maintain his large collection of cars.
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Brand: General Motors Model: EcoJet Concept Car
Price: $26,923 Mileage: 1,460 mi.
8. **Jaguar XKSS (Replica of Steve McQueen’s)**:In a collection recognized for its authenticity, Leno also appreciates the exquisite craftsmanship of tributes, particularly when originals are irreplaceable. His Jaguar XKSS replica pays homage to one of the most celebrated vehicles in motoring history and its legendary owner, Steve McQueen, capturing the spirit of the original XKSS, which was a street-legal version of the D-Type racer, a rare and charismatic creation born from the world of competition.
In a collection celebrated for its authenticity, Jay Leno also acknowledges the power of a meticulously crafted tribute, especially when the original is an irreplaceable icon. His Jaguar XKSS replica stands as a magnificent homage to one of motoring’s most legendary machines and one of its most iconic owners, Steve McQueen. The original XKSS was a street-legal variant of Jaguar’s victorious D-Type racer, a rare beast born from competition and imbued with an unparalleled charisma.
The allure of the XKSS is deeply intertwined with its racing heritage and its glamorous association with the ‘King of Cool.’ Only 16 examples of the original were ever built before a factory fire tragically halted production, making the surviving cars extraordinarily precious. Leno’s decision to commission a faithful replica speaks to his immense respect for the vehicle’s design and legacy, allowing him to experience its magic without imperiling a multi-million-dollar original.
Underneath its curvaceous, race-bred bodywork, the replica houses a potent 3.4-liter inline-6 engine, designed to emulate the thrilling performance characteristics that made the original so revered. With a top speed of 150 mph, it delivers a driving experience that is visceral and engaging, capturing the essence of a bygone era of sports car purity. This isn’t merely a copy; it’s a meticulously engineered resurrection that honors its muse in every detail.
Valued at over $1.2 million, even as a replica, this Jaguar XKSS underscores the profound lengths to which dedicated collectors will go to safeguard and celebrate automotive legends. It represents a living, breathing connection to a golden age of racing and cinematic cool, a testament to the timeless appeal of automotive artistry and the profound impact of figures like Steve McQueen on car culture.
9. **Ford GT (2005)**:Turning our attention to a symbol of modern American engineering, Jay Leno’s 2005 Ford GT stands as an embodiment of performance and a cherished piece of contemporary automotive heritage. This car carries the legacy of the legendary Ford GT40s that dominated the Le Mans races in the 1960s, infusing each line and curve with historical significance and power, making it a remarkable tribute to a golden era of motorsport.
Shifting focus to a powerful symbol of modern American engineering, Jay Leno’s 2005 Ford GT stands proudly as both a performance beast and a revered piece of contemporary American automotive heritage. This car is a direct descendant and a spiritual successor to the legendary Ford GT40s that famously dominated at Le Mans in the 1960s, a legacy that imbues every curve and line with purpose and power.
At the heart of this formidable machine is a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 engine, a powerhouse of American ingenuity designed to deliver breathtaking acceleration and a thrilling exhaust note. This robust engine propels the Ford GT to an astonishing top speed of 205 mph, placing it firmly in the upper echelons of modern supercars. It’s a testament to Ford’s capability to produce world-class performance vehicles that rival the best from Europe.
The design of the 2005 Ford GT is a masterful blend of retro inspiration and contemporary execution, faithfully echoing the iconic lines of its ancestor while incorporating modern aerodynamic and technological advancements. Its purposeful stance and unmistakable profile ensure it commands attention on any road or track, a true embodiment of raw American power and sophisticated design.
Valued at over $400,000, Leno’s Ford GT exemplifies his appreciation for vehicles that not only deliver exceptional performance but also carry significant cultural and historical weight. It stands as a shining example of American engineering prowess, a car that celebrates a rich racing past while firmly asserting its place as a modern classic in its own right, offering an exhilarating and deeply resonant driving experience.
Car Model Information: 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT
Caption: Ford GT40
Name: Ford GT
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Class: Sports car
Production: 2004–2006,2016–2022
BodyStyle: coupé
Layout: Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Ford GT40
ModelYears: 2005–2006,2017–2022
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with dead external links from September 2017
Summary: The Ford GT is a mid-engine two-seater sports car manufactured and marketed by American automobile manufacturer Ford for the 2005 model year in conjunction with the company’s 2003 centenary. The second generation Ford GT became available for the 2017 model year.
The GT recalls Ford’s historically significant GT40, a consecutive four-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans (1966–1969), including a 1-2-3 finish in 1966.
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Brand: Ford Model: GT
Price: $33,399 Mileage: 23,579 mi.
As we wrap up our tour of Jay Leno’s most cherished automotive treasures, we discover the 1925 Doble E-20 Steam Car, an exceptional outlier that highlights an innovative yet often overlooked chapter of automotive history. This captivating vehicle transports us to a time when steam power wasn’t just a fantasy but a bold venture into luxury and engineering sophistication, showcasing a remarkable era of ingenuity.
Concluding our exploration of Jay Leno’s top automotive treasures, we encounter a vehicle that is a true outlier, yet profoundly significant: the 1925 Doble E-20 Steam Car. This fascinating machine plunges us deep into an almost forgotten, yet incredibly innovative, chapter of automotive history. It showcases a period when steam power was not just viable, but for some, represented the pinnacle of luxury and engineering sophistication.
The Doble E-20 was a marvel of its time, far exceeding the performance and refinement of many internal combustion engine vehicles of the era. Its rapid start-up times, silent operation, and impressive power output distinguished it from its noisy, temperamental gasoline-powered counterparts. It embodied a vision of motoring that prioritized smooth, effortless acceleration and an almost ethereal driving experience, making it “way ahead of its time.”
Jay Leno is a fervent advocate for steam cars, dedicating considerable effort to maintaining and celebrating several examples within his collection. The 1925 Doble E-20, with its estimated top speed of 75 mph, demonstrates that steam could deliver robust performance, even if its ultimate place in automotive history was eventually superseded by gasoline. Leno’s commitment highlights his broad, inclusive perspective on automotive evolution.
With an estimated value exceeding $200,000, this Doble E-20 is more than just a rare car; it is a meticulously preserved piece of industrial art and a working testament to alternative propulsion technologies. Its presence in Leno’s garage underscores the incredible diversity and historical depth of his collection, reflecting his profound appreciation for every facet of automotive ingenuity, from the earliest experimental marvels to the most cutting-edge hypercars.
**Final Thoughts: An Enduring Legacy of Steel and Spirit**
Jay Leno’s collection represents far more than just a gathering of luxury cars; it is a carefully curated museum that celebrates the evolution of automobiles, reflecting a vibrant tapestry of passion, history, and technological bravery. Each vehicle, from the futuristic Chrysler Turbine to the serene Doble Steam Car, and the powerful Ford GT, narrates a unique story within the grand narrative of transportation, encapsulating the aspirations, challenges, and victories of engineers and designers over the years.
Leno’s unwavering dedication to restoration and preservation, coupled with his encyclopedic technical knowledge, imbues his collection with an almost living quality. Every car is not only maintained in pristine, drivable condition but also cherished for the story it tells and the innovation it represents. This dynamic approach ensures that his ‘Big Dog Garage’ remains a living, breathing chronicle, celebrating the past, present, and even hinting at the future of the automobile industry.
For car enthusiasts and the curious alike, Jay Leno’s garage embodies the ultimate dream—where engineering excellence, artistic creativity, and human ingenuity converge. This remarkable space offers a unique insight into the very essence of motoring, and Leno’s generosity in sharing this captivating world, whether through his show or public engagements, allows everyone to partake in his passion, inspiring the next generation to appreciate the intricate beauty and enduring legacy of the automobile. He truly serves as a guardian of automotive heritage, ensuring that these incredible machines continue to spark joy and admiration for years to come.
