Jay Leno is not just a comedian and TV host — he’s an automotive legend. Known for his deep love for anything on wheels, the Jay Leno car collection is often cited as one of the most impressive private car collections in the world. Housing over 180 cars and 160 motorcycles, his garage in Burbank, California, is a shrine to automotive history, innovation, and passion.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 cars in the Jay Leno car collection, covering rare classics, high-performance beasts, and custom-built masterpieces — along with pricing and specifications for each. For car enthusiasts, collectors, and curious readers, this guide is your exclusive peek into Jay’s prized automotive gems.
Table of Contents
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Introduction to Jay Leno’s Passion
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Overview of the Jay Leno Car Collection
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Top 10 Cars in the Jay Leno Car Collection
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Specification Table with Estimated Prices
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Why the Collection is So Iconic
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Final Thoughts
Introduction to Jay Leno’s Passion for Cars
Long before Jay Leno became a household name through “The Tonight Show,” he was tinkering with engines. A true gearhead, Jay built his car empire not as an investment portfolio, but out of sheer love for automobiles. The Jay Leno car collection reflects his encyclopedic knowledge and emotional connection to automotive history.
From steam-powered cars to jet-powered prototypes, his garage isn’t just about horsepower; it’s about the story behind each machine.
Overview of the Jay Leno Car Collection
The Jay Leno car collection is stored in a 140,000-square-foot garage known as the “Big Dog Garage.” Managed by a full-time team of mechanics and restorers, every vehicle in the collection is maintained in running condition. The collection includes:
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Vintage classics from the 1900s
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Race cars
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Concept and custom cars
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Motorcycles from various eras
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Electric and steam vehicles
Jay’s YouTube show, Jay Leno’s Garage, offers an in-depth look at these cars and often features guest appearances by celebrities and auto industry legends.
Top 10 Cars in the Jay Leno Car Collection
Here are the 10 most iconic cars in the Jay Leno car collection, each one a masterpiece in its own right.
1. McLaren F1 (1994)
Arguably the crown jewel of the Jay Leno car collection, the McLaren F1 is a rare, revolutionary supercar. With only 106 ever made, it boasts a gold-lined engine bay and a central driving position.
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Top Speed: 240 mph
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Engine: 6.1L BMW V12
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Value: $20 million+
2. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing
Known for its iconic doors and timeless design, the 300SL Gullwing is one of the most collectible cars on Earth. Jay’s version is in pristine condition.
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Top Speed: 160 mph
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Engine: 3.0L inline-6
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Value: $1.5 million+
3. Duesenberg Model X (1927)
A rare pre-war American luxury car. Jay owns one of the few Model X Duesenbergs still in existence.
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Top Speed: 85 mph
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Engine: 265 cu in straight-8
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Value: $2 million+
4. Bugatti Type 57 Atlantic SC (Replica)
The original is priceless, but Jay had a painstakingly detailed replica built to enjoy the looks without risking the original’s safety.
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Top Speed: 120 mph
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Engine: 3.3L supercharged straight-8
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Value: $1 million+
5. Lamborghini Miura S (1969)
The Miura is the original supercar, and Jay’s version is painted in a dazzling orange. It’s one of the most visually stunning vehicles in the Jay Leno car collection.
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Top Speed: 171 mph
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Engine: 3.9L V12
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Value: $2 million+
6. 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car
One of only nine survivors, this car runs on a jet turbine engine. It’s an example of Chrysler’s bold experimentation during the 1960s.
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Top Speed: 120 mph
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Engine: Turbine-powered
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Value: $500,000+
7. EcoJet Concept Car
This custom-built concept car was co-designed by Jay and GM. It runs on biodiesel and features a Honeywell turbine engine.
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Top Speed: Estimated 160 mph
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Engine: Jet turbine engine
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Value: Priceless (one-off)
8. Jaguar XKSS (Replica of Steve McQueen’s)
The XKSS is a street-legal version of Jaguar’s D-Type racer. Jay’s version is a tribute to Steve McQueen’s car, made with incredible attention to detail.
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Top Speed: 150 mph
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Engine: 3.4L inline-6
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Value: $1.2 million+
9. Ford GT (2005)
Jay’s Ford GT is not only a performance beast but also a piece of modern American automotive heritage.
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Top Speed: 205 mph
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Engine: 5.4L Supercharged V8
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Value: $400,000+
10. 1925 Doble E-20 Steam Car
A true outlier in the collection, this steam-powered vehicle was way ahead of its time. Jay is a big proponent of steam cars and maintains several.
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Top Speed: 75 mph
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Engine: Steam
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Value: $200,000+
Specification Table: Top 10 Cars in Jay Leno Car Collection
| Car Name | Engine | Top Speed | Estimated Value (USD) |
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| McLaren F1 (1994) | 6.1L V12 | 240 mph | $20 million+ |
| Mercedes 300SL Gullwing (1955) | 3.0L Inline-6 | 160 mph | $1.5 million+ |
| Duesenberg Model X (1927) | 265 cu in Straight-8 | 85 mph | $2 million+ |
| Bugatti Type 57 Atlantic SC | 3.3L Supercharged Inline-8 | 120 mph | $1 million (replica) |
| Lamborghini Miura S (1969) | 3.9L V12 | 171 mph | $2 million+ |
| Chrysler Turbine (1963) | Turbine Engine | 120 mph | $500,000+ |
| EcoJet Concept Car | Jet Turbine Engine | 160 mph est. | Priceless |
| Jaguar XKSS (Replica) | 3.4L Inline-6 | 150 mph | $1.2 million+ |
| Ford GT (2005) | 5.4L Supercharged V8 | 205 mph | $400,000+ |
| Doble Steam Car (1925) | Steam Engine | 75 mph | $200,000+ |
Why the Jay Leno Car Collection Is So Iconic
The Jay Leno car collection is more than just a group of expensive cars — it’s a curated museum of automotive evolution. Jay’s passion for restoration and preservation, combined with his technical knowledge, makes his collection unique.
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Diversity: From steam to electric to jet-powered.
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Originality: Many vehicles are factory-original or custom-built.
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Functionality: Every car is drivable, not just for display.
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Storytelling: Jay knows the history behind every nut and bolt.
His collection reflects the past, present, and even the future of the automobile industry.
Final Thoughts
The Jay Leno car collection is not just about wealth—it’s about history, technology, and passion. Each vehicle in his garage has a unique story that adds to its mystique. Whether it’s the priceless McLaren F1 or the steampunk Doble Steam Car, the collection represents decades of dedication to the automobile.
For auto enthusiasts, Jay’s collection is a dream garage — and thanks to his show and public engagement, it’s a dream we can all enjoy. If you ever wondered what it means to truly love cars, just take one look at the Jay Leno car collection, and you’ll understand.
