The Iconic Cars in the Ralph Lauren Car

Fashion and luxury are synonymous with the name Ralph Lauren. But beyond the realm of couture and fragrance, Ralph Lauren harbors a deep passion for the rarest and most exquisite automobiles ever built. The Ralph Lauren Car Collection is a celebration of automotive art—an unparalleled blend of history, design, power, and elegance.

Unlike many collectors who amass cars solely for investment, Ralph Lauren curates his collection as one would curate a gallery—selecting only vehicles that speak to performance, beauty, and heritage. This blog explores the incredible Ralph Lauren Car Collection, including specifications, history, pricing, and what makes it one of the most prestigious private automotive collections in the world.

1. Introduction: The Intersection of Fashion and Motoring

While Ralph Lauren is renowned for defining American fashion, his love for cars runs just as deep. His collection reflects a designer’s eye—one that appreciates symmetry, lines, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal. The Ralph Lauren Car Collection is not just about horsepower or exclusivity; it’s about vehicles that transcend utility and enter the realm of art.

2. History Behind the Ralph Lauren Car Collection

Ralph Lauren began collecting cars in the late 1970s, slowly but methodically building what is now considered one of the most exclusive car collections on the planet. His tastes evolved from American muscle to the pinnacle of European design. Today, the Ralph Lauren Car Collection includes more than 70 models ranging from the 1930s to modern supercars, with many representing the absolute peak of automotive engineering and luxury.

Lauren’s philosophy: “Cars are the greatest art forms of the 20th century.”

3. Signature Themes and Design Philosophy

The cars in the Ralph Lauren Car Collection all share key themes:

• Timelessness: Every model is chosen for its enduring appeal.

• Design Integrity: Whether it’s a Bugatti Type 57SC or a Ferrari 250 GTO, these cars exhibit pure lines and harmony.

• Performance Heritage: Many of his cars were race winners at Le Mans, Mille Miglia, or Monaco.

Lauren often modifies and maintains his vehicles not to resell, but to keep them in pristine, drivable condition. Each car is considered part of a living museum.

4. Iconic Cars in the Ralph Lauren Car Collection

Below are some of the most legendary models in the Ralph Lauren Car Collection, complete with performance specs and historical context.

1. 1938 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic

Often called the Mona Lisa of cars, this car is one of only two surviving original Atlantics. It’s estimated to be worth over $100 million.

• Engine: 3.3L inline-8

• Top Speed: 123 mph

• Special Note: Jean Bugatti’s most iconic design, featuring riveted seams and a teardrop shape.

2. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO

This is the crown jewel of Ferrari’s racing heritage and one of the most valuable cars ever sold.

• Engine: 3.0L V12

• Top Speed: 174 mph

• Auction Price: Up to $70 million

• Remark: Ralph Lauren owns the chassis #3987GT, known for its performance at Le Mans.

3. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing

Famed for its gullwing doors and aerodynamic design.

• Engine: 3.0L inline-6

• Top Speed: 160 mph

• Price Today: $1.5M – $2.5M

• Note: One of the most photographed cars in his collection.

4. 1996 McLaren F1 LM

Only five were made. It’s a race-bred version of the iconic McLaren F1.

• Engine: 6.1L V12

• 0–60 mph: 3.9 seconds

• Top Speed: 225 mph

• Estimated Value: Over $25 million

5. 1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

Another legendary race car with a sculptural design.

• Engine: 3.0L V12

• Horsepower: 300 HP

• Auction Price: Around $40 million

• Highlight: Dominated endurance races in the late ’50s.

6. 1930 Mercedes-Benz SSK “Count Trossi”

This car’s dramatic black fenders and elongated hood make it look like a villain’s car from a film noir.

• Engine: 7.1L supercharged inline-6

• Top Speed: 120 mph

• Design By: Count Carlo Felice Trossi

• Estimated Value: $12 million+

5. Specification & Price Table

Here’s a quick comparison table highlighting the best of the Ralph Lauren Car Collection:

6. The Role of the Collection in Automotive Exhibitions

In 2011, a selection from the Ralph Lauren Car Collection was showcased in Paris at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. The exhibition, “The Art of the Automobile,” marked the first time many of these cars were seen by the public. These vehicles have also graced the lawn at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and Villa d’Este.

Lauren treats his collection like wearable fashion—each piece must be perfectly presented and meticulously maintained. He works with Paul Russell and Company to restore and maintain these priceless automobiles.

7. Why It Matters: Influence and Inspiration

The Ralph Lauren Car Collection has influenced more than just the automotive world. It’s impacted:

• Fashion Design: Some of Ralph Lauren’s collections borrow lines and textures from his cars.

• Branding: The collection reinforces Ralph Lauren as a symbol of timeless, refined taste.

• Car Culture: Younger generations are discovering vintage cars through Lauren’s story.

His collection serves as a blueprint for passion-driven collecting—where value is measured by design and story, not just price.

8. Final Thoughts

The Ralph Lauren Car Collection is more than a garage full of expensive vehicles—it’s a curated anthology of the finest automotive art. Each car tells a story, not just of mechanical brilliance but of cultural relevance, design evolution, and emotional connection.

In an era of mass production and fleeting trends, Ralph Lauren reminds us that beauty and performance are timeless. His car collection is not just admired by auto enthusiasts, but also revered by designers, artists, and historians alike.

If there is one takeaway from exploring the Ralph Lauren Car Collection, it’s this: Great cars, like great fashion, never go out of style.