Steve McQueen, often hailed as the “King of Cool,” was more than just a Hollywood icon. His love for speed, style, and performance extended far beyond the screen. A passionate car and motorcycle enthusiast, McQueen amassed an impressive collection of vehicles during his lifetime. Each car he owned carried its own story, often reflecting his personal tastes – fast, powerful, and always iconic.
Let’s dive into some of the most notable cars Steve McQueen owned and what made each one special.
1. 1956 Jaguar XKSS – The “Green Rat”
Arguably the crown jewel of McQueen’s collection, the 1956 Jaguar XKSS was one of only 16 ever made. McQueen affectionately referred to it as the “Green Rat,” a nod to its stunning British Racing Green paint and its aggressive, race-bred persona. Originally designed as a road-going version of the D-Type, this sleek machine boasted a 3.4-litre straight-six engine, capable of producing around 250 bhp – plenty of power for its lightweight frame.
McQueen loved this car so much that he repurchased it years after selling it, realising that no other vehicle could quite match its blend of style and speed. The XKSS remains one of the rarest and most desirable collector cars in the world today, and McQueen’s ownership only adds to its allure.
2. 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 – Italian Elegance at Its Finest
McQueen’s affinity for Ferraris is well-documented, and his 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 stands as a testament to that. This stunning Italian sports car was powered by a 3.3-litre V12 engine that delivered 300 horsepower, allowing it to reach speeds over 160 mph. Its long bonnet, low-slung profile, and elegant lines made it a visual masterpiece.
McQueen’s 275 GTB/4 was famously repainted in a deep shade of red after he acquired it, giving it an even more dramatic presence. Whether cruising through the streets of Hollywood or tearing down California’s coastal highways, McQueen behind the wheel of this Ferrari was the epitome of cool.
3. 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso – A Perfect Blend of Power and Luxury
Another Ferrari that found a place in McQueen’s garage was the 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso. This model is often regarded as one of the most beautiful Ferraris ever built, blending performance with luxury. It was powered by a 3.0-litre V12 engine, producing 240 horsepower and offering a top speed of 150 mph.
The Lusso, meaning “luxury” in Italian, was McQueen’s daily driver for several years. With its leather interior and refined finishes, it was as comfortable as it was fast. This car exemplified McQueen’s desire to enjoy both the thrill of driving and the finer things in life.
4. 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 – The “Bullitt” Car
Perhaps the most famous car ever associated with Steve McQueen is the 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390, the star of the unforgettable car chase scene in the film Bullitt. Painted in Highland Green, the Mustang roared through the streets of San Francisco, forever cementing itself as one of the greatest movie cars of all time.
The 390 cubic-inch V8 under the bonnet made this Mustang a proper muscle car, capable of some serious speed and performance. McQueen’s driving in Bullitt was largely done by him, adding to the legend of both the car and the man. The original Mustang from the film sold at auction in 2020 for a record-breaking $3.4 million, highlighting its iconic status.
5. 1958 Porsche 356 1600 Super Speedster – A Masterclass in Simplicity
The 1958 Porsche 356 1600 Super Speedster represents McQueen’s appreciation for lightweight, agile cars. Unlike the powerful muscle cars he also adored, this Porsche was all about finesse and balance. It featured a 1.6-litre flat-four engine producing around 75 horsepower, but its light weight allowed it to perform remarkably well on winding roads.
McQueen was often photographed in this car, and it embodied the less-is-more philosophy that was synonymous with Porsche’s early roadsters. The Speedster remains one of Porsche’s most iconic models, and McQueen’s ownership only adds to its mystique.
6. 1970 Porsche 911S – The Le Mans Connection
McQueen’s connection to Porsche didn’t end with the Speedster. He also owned a 1970 Porsche 911S, which played a key role in the opening scenes of his famous racing film Le Mans. With a 2.2-litre flat-six engine producing 180 horsepower, the 911S was both fast and nimble – perfect for the demanding roads of the French countryside.
McQueen’s personal Porsche 911S, painted in Slate Grey, became synonymous with his love for both speed and precision. Today, it’s considered one of the most desirable early 911 models.
7. 1957 Jaguar D-Type – Racing Royalty
The Jaguar D-Type was a racing legend, and McQueen’s decision to include one in his collection speaks volumes about his appreciation for motorsport heritage. The D-Type was designed with aerodynamics in mind, featuring a distinctive fin behind the driver’s seat and a lightweight aluminium body.
With a 3.4-litre straight-six engine, the D-Type dominated Le Mans in the 1950s, winning the 24-hour race three times. McQueen’s D-Type was more than just a collector’s item; it was a symbol of his respect for racing history.
8. 1958 GMC Pickup – A Classic Workhorse
Not all of McQueen’s vehicles were glamorous sports cars or race-bred machines. His 1958 GMC Pickup, though simple in comparison, was no less iconic. McQueen was known for appreciating classic American trucks, and this rugged workhorse was a perfect example of that.
With its utilitarian charm and vintage aesthetic, the GMC Pickup reflected McQueen’s down-to-earth side. He often used it for trips to his ranch, embracing the raw functionality and nostalgic feel of this classic truck.
9. 1971 Husqvarna 400 Cross – The King of Two Wheels
Steve McQueen wasn’t just a car enthusiast; he was equally passionate about motorcycles. One of the most famous bikes in his collection was the 1971 Husqvarna 400 Cross. This off-road motorcycle was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated, showing McQueen mid-jump, capturing his love for adrenaline-fueled thrills.
Known for its lightweight design and powerful engine, the Husqvarna was McQueen’s bike of choice for off-road racing and dirt track adventures. His connection to this bike helped solidify its place in motorcycling history.
10. Porsche 917 – The Le Mans Legend
Although Steve McQueen didn’t personally own the Porsche 917, it deserves a mention due to its role in Le Mans. The 917, with its flat-12 engine, was one of the most dominant race cars of its era, winning Le Mans in 1970 and 1971.
McQueen’s admiration for the 917 was clear, and its appearance in his film solidified the car’s legendary status in motorsport. The movie helped bring attention to endurance racing, and the 917 became synonymous with the Le Mans spirit.
11. Ferrari 512S – Another Le Mans Star
The Ferrari 512S was another car that McQueen drove in Le Mans. Like the Porsche 917, it was a thoroughbred race car, powered by a 5.0-litre V12 engine. While McQueen didn’t personally own this Ferrari, it played a key role in his cinematic celebration of motorsport.
12. 1969 Chevrolet Camaro SS – American Muscle, McQueen Style
Last but not least, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro SS was yet another example of McQueen’s love for American muscle. With its 396 cubic-inch V8 engine and aggressive styling, the Camaro SS was all about raw power. McQueen appreciated the balance of performance and design in this classic, and it fit right in with his collection of high-octane machines.
McQueen’s Lasting Automotive Legacy
Wow. What a wonderful collection of cars. Steve McQueen’s collection was about his deep appreciation for speed, style, and history. From rare Jaguars to iconic Porsches and muscle cars, McQueen’s garage was a reflection of his personality: bold, daring, and timeless.
What car in Steve McQueen’s collection fascinates you the most? Would you have chosen a different set of wheels if you had the chance? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
