Rowan Atkinson, better known for his iconic role as Mr. Bean, has a fascinating side to his life that many might not be aware of: an extraordinary and vast car collection that rivals some of the most impressive automotive collections in the world.

 

It’s not just about owning fancy cars; this collection is a testament to Atkinson’s deep passion for automobiles, performance vehicles, and classic designs. In fact, his collection is so massive that he had a mansion specially built to store his cars, with a price tag of an astonishing $20 to $25 million. While many people think of Atkinson solely as a comedic genius, his love for cars and driving is equally impressive.

Rowan Atkinson 'Mr Bean's Car Collection 2024 - YouTube

Atkinson, who is not just a collector but also a skilled professional racer, has a truck-driving license and enjoys being behind the wheel of a variety of cars, from vintage classics to modern-day performance marvels. His famous Mini Cooper, immortalized by his character Mr. Bean, is a piece of automotive history, and it has even found its way to the BMW Classic Museum for display. But this car is just one of many gems in his enviable collection.

At number eight in his lineup is the 1964 Ford Falcon Sprint, a car that stands out for both its historical significance and its racing pedigree. With a turquoise exterior and a 164-horsepower engine, this model is one of only 4,278 units produced.

 

The Falcon Sprint made headlines in 2014 when Atkinson crashed it during the Goodwood Revival’s Shelby Cup race. Despite the crash, the car’s legacy remains intact. The Sprint model is a road-legal classic, and it was sold at auction in 2021 for an impressive $77,000. This car is a perfect example of Atkinson’s love for rare, performance-focused automobiles.

Another prized possession in Atkinson’s collection is the 1993 Mercedes-Benz 500E, a silver beauty that blends luxury with performance. Powered by a 5-liter V8 engine, this car boasts 326 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.5 seconds, a remarkable feat in the early 1990s.

Inside Rowan Atkinson’s Multi Million Dollar Car Collection

Atkinson’s connection with this car is particularly interesting, as he first sold it in 1994 but later repurchased it in 2017. However, after enjoying it for another year, he auctioned it again, showing that he’s always on the lookout for new additions or simply doesn’t hesitate to part ways with cars that no longer spark his interest.

At number six, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT is a car that has remained a favorite in Atkinson’s collection, particularly for its striking appearance and distinctive gold-wing doors. This stunning red car is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine, producing 583 horsepower.

 

Its performance, elegance, and unique doors make it one of the more memorable cars in his lineup. But even with all its grandeur, it can be tricky for a tall man like Atkinson to exit the vehicle due to the low-opening gull-wing doors.

Atkinson’s Honda NSX, a car that has been part of his daily collection for many years, is another intriguing aspect of his diverse lineup. The NSX, known for its Japanese engineering and exotic appeal, features a powerful engine that allows it to reach a top speed of 168 mph. Despite being a Honda, this car holds a place of honor in Atkinson’s collection, showing his appreciation for vehicles that offer both thrilling performance and everyday usability.

One of the most luxurious and exclusive cars in Atkinson’s collection is the 2011 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead. This magnificent vehicle, which Atkinson reportedly purchased for $500,000, features a stunning oceanic blue color with color-coordinated wheels and is powered by an experimental 9.0-liter V16 engine.

 

This car is especially memorable for its association with the movie Johnny English Reborn, where Atkinson’s character drove it. Atkinson even worked with Rolls-Royce to install a custom engine specifically for the film, demonstrating his hands-on involvement with his cars.

Next on the list is the BMW 328 Roadster, a true legend in the world of classic cars. Known for its success in the Mille Miglia, a historic race for classic cars, this roadster is priced at an impressive $621,000. With its lightweight aluminum body and steel ladder frame, the BMW 328 Roadster is not just a collector’s item but a piece of history that continues to turn heads at car shows around the world.

Atkinson’s love for more practical yet equally impressive cars is evident in his Land Rover Defender Heritage edition. This particular version, one of only 400 ever produced, boasts a rugged exterior with a turbocharged diesel engine that delivers a respectable 120 horsepower.

 

While not as fast as some of his other cars, the Land Rover is a perfect example of Atkinson’s appreciation for vehicles that offer versatility, durability, and a sense of adventure.

But the crown jewel of Rowan Atkinson’s car collection has to be the McLaren F1. This legendary hypercar holds a special place in Atkinson’s heart, and it’s a true beast of engineering, boasting 618 horsepower and a top speed of 231 mph. The McLaren F1, a car that Atkinson drove for over 41,000 miles, has a unique and somewhat bittersweet history.

 

Despite its thrilling performance and stunning looks, the car was involved in two crashes during Atkinson’s ownership, including a particularly costly crash in 2011 that resulted in repairs totaling $1.4 million. After these incidents, Atkinson decided to sell the car in 2015 for an eye-watering $12 million, making a significant profit. Atkinson’s decision to sell the McLaren F1 was not solely due to the accidents, though. The car, which had transformed from a millionaire’s toy to a billionaire’s status symbol, attracted too much attention for someone as private as Atkinson, prompting him to let it go.

Despite his immense wealth and a collection of cars that many can only dream of, Atkinson has openly stated that he has no interest in owning a Porsche.

 

In his own words, he finds that Porsche cars are wonderful but not a perfect fit for him. This is a testament to Atkinson’s discerning taste and his philosophy of collecting cars that resonate with him on a personal level, rather than simply purchasing for status or brand recognition.

Rowan Atkinson’s car collection is a reflection of his multifaceted personality and his passion for fine automobiles. Each car tells a unique story, from the historic classics to the modern-day performance machines.

 

What stands out most about Atkinson’s approach to collecting is his genuine love for driving and the joy these cars bring him, rather than using them as mere status symbols. It’s clear that for Atkinson, these cars are more than just investments—they are an extension of his personality and his love for the art of driving.