10 Most Impressive Cars in Jay Leno’s Collections

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Jay Leno is famous for his extensive range of cars. As a passionate automotive enthusiast and former host of “The Tonight Show,” he has amassed over 100 vintage automobiles, modern supercars, and unique custom builds. Leno is known for his hands-on approach to maintaining and restoring cars, often showcasing them on his YouTube channel. Here are some of the most unique rides in his trove.

1909 Baker Electric

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The 1909 Baker Electric stands out in Jay Leno’s impressive car collection. It was marketed primarily to wealthy urbanites and featured a quiet ride, which was a significant selling point. Jay’s 1909 release is still in its pristine, original condition, which is rare for vehicles of this age. Additionally, the car features a top speed of about 20 mph and is powered by a 72-volt electrical system.

1916 Autocar

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Leno’s extensive fleet includes the 1916 Autocar, originally designed as a truck rather than a passenger car. It houses a sturdy four-cylinder engine, which was quite advanced for its era. The vehicle features solid rubber tires and a sturdy, simplistic chassis. One of its significant innovative designs is a forward-control cab, which enhances visibility and maneuverability and is a precursor to modern truck designs.

2006 Ariel Atom

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Known for its exposed exoskeleton and lack of traditional body panels, the 2006 Ariel Atom focuses purely on performance. The version collected by Jay has a supercharged 2.0-liter Honda K20 engine, producing around 300 horsepower. He often praised the car for offering an unfiltered driving experience. Due to its lightweight design, this Atom possesses a power-to-weight ratio that enables it to reach 60 mph in 2.9 seconds.

2009 Aston Martin DBS

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Aston Martin’s 2009 DBS, another of Jay’s collections, has a 6.0-liter V12 engine that generates 510 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. This model can attain 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. Moreover, the DBS has a carbon-fiber body, which reduces weight and adds to the car’s striking appearance. Leno’s version, in particular, remains in pristine condition, reflecting the meticulous care it receives.

2015 BAC Mono

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The remarkable 2015 BAC Mono is a single-seater car designed for the road and track. With an emphasis on driving purity and output, the BAC features a minimalist design, stripping away unnecessary elements to focus on the driver’s experience. The piece in Jay’s garage has a unique chassis number and produces 305 hp. Carbon fiber materials keep the weight at 1,279 pounds and provide exceptional agility.

1989 Bentley Turbo R

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Bentley’s history wouldn’t be complete without the 1989 Turbo R. As a blend of luxury and high performance, the Turbo showcased the brand’s shift towards more driver-focused vehicles. It was powered by a turbocharged 6.75-liter V8 engine, producing an impressive 328 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. “R,” which stands for “Roadholding,” advertises the car’s improved suspension.

1918 Cadillac Type 57 Victoria

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One of the unique aspects of Cadillac’s Type 56 Victoria was its V8 engine, which was then a rarity in the automotive world. The V8 provided smoother power delivery and higher output than the contemporary inline-four and inline-six engines. While many cars of that time relied on manual cranking, the Victoria used an electric starter to improve convenience and safety.

1955 Buick Roadmaster

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This Roadmaster, showcasing the iconic “Sweepspear” chrome trim and an imposing grille, has been meticulously restored and upgraded. Jay combined period-correct aesthetics with modern feature enhancements, transforming the car into a drivable work of art. Though it originally had a 322-cubic-inch Nailhead V8 engine, this version currently benefits from additional modifications that improve performance. It also has luxurious interiors, with plush seats and a dashboard.

1932 Bowtie Deuce Roadster LS7 Hot Rod

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The 1932 Bowtie Deuce Roadster LS7 Hot Rod holds a special place in the enthusiast’s repertoire. Built by Troy Ladd, it features a powerful LS7 V8 engine, delivering around 505 horsepower. It portrays the spirit of a traditional ’32 Ford hot rod and integrates modern suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components. From hand-formed body panels to carefully selected interior materials, the Bowtie showcases impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail.

1930 Bentley 27-Litre

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Among Jay’s car collection is the 1930 Bentley 27-Litre, known as the “Tank Car.” This behemoth is not your typical vintage Bentley—its immense size and unique origin say it all. Powered by a 27-liter V12 engine from a Patton tank, this Bentley wasn’t built for the road. However, Jay’s team made significant modifications to make it street-legal. Now, its engine produces 810 horsepower and 1,560 pound-feet of torque.

Written by Devin J