They say money cannot buy happiness, but it can certainly open the door to some extraordinary machines. For George Harrison, cars were never just expensive possessions sitting in a garage; they were expressions of personality, creativity, and engineering appreciation. The Quiet Beatle had a deep fascination with automobiles that went far beyond celebrity ownership. His passion began when he was only 12 years old, after his father took him to the 1955 British Grand Prix, where the power and precision of the Mercedes-Benz racing team left a lasting impression on him.
As his musical career with The Beatles transformed him from a Liverpool teenager into a worldwide icon, his automotive interests evolved alongside his success. The cars he purchased reflected his changing tastes, from simple everyday vehicles to rare luxury models and high-performance machines. Every addition to his collection carried a story, representing different moments in his life and revealing his appreciation for craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless design.
George Harrison’s garage became a fascinating reflection of his journey. It showcased everything from his early days before fame to the extraordinary lifestyle that came with global success. Unlike collectors who simply chased the most expensive cars, Harrison chose vehicles with character and individuality. His collection was a perfect combination of elegance, performance, and personal expression, making it as memorable and unique as the music he created.
1. Ford Anglia 105E
Every great car collection starts with a simple beginning, and for George Harrison, this beginning was a second-hand Ford Anglia 105E. After getting his driving license in 1962, the future Beatle legend bought this small British car, which became his first car and a cherished symbol of his youth. The Ford Anglia 105E, with its reverse-sloping rear window, was nothing special in terms of power and sportiness, but it had its unique charm.
Key Highlights of Ford Anglia 105E:
- Harrison’s first-ever car
- Ford Anglia 105E was purchased after getting a driving license
- The car symbolized the freedom of youth
- Its reverse-sloping rear window made it unique
- Ford Anglia 105E was the beginning of the Beatles’ car collection
The first car in George Harrison’s collection was a humble Ford Anglia 105E, which he bought in 1962. This was the period of his youth and the start of his music career, and the Ford Anglia 105E symbolized his freedom and independence. In terms of features, not much can be said about this car, apart from its reverse-sloping rear window. It was nothing special in terms of sportiness, power, or any other characteristic that would define the future cars of the Beatles’ collection.
However, this small car played a significant role in the life of George Harrison, as he later described in one of his interviews. After buying Ford Anglia 105E, he went to the Warrington Ford agency with his future bandmate Ringo Starr to collect the car. The two young men had a race on their way back to Liverpool, and George Harrison later learned that Ringo had crashed his Ford Zephyr Zodiac while trying to keep up with him, while his Ford Anglia 105E was intact.
2. Jaguar E-Type (Series 1)
In 1964, George Harrison’s life changed dramatically, and so did his taste in cars. In the year of his 21st birthday, his manager Brian Epstein gifted him a Jaguar E-Type sports car, which became one of the most prominent symbols of the 1960s. With its long bonnet and racing spirit, the Jaguar E-Type embodied the image of a young and successful rock star, George Harrison. The car was more than just a machine for him, as he later explained in one of his interviews.
Key Highlights of Jaguar E-Type (Series 1):
- Gifted for Harrison’s 21st birthday
- Iconic British sports car design
- Featured custom dashboard record player
- Combined music and car passions
- Reflected Harrison’s creative personality
Harrison could not imagine his life without music and cars, and the Jaguar E-Type symbolized the perfect combination of these two joys of his life. The Series 1 model was unique with its custom-made dashboard record player. In addition, this car was one of the most popular British sports cars of that time, and it became one of the most prominent symbols of George Harrison’s life.
Harrison’s love for the Jaguar E-Type was not limited to the car’s beauty and power. The future Beatle legend had a unique sense of humor and often surprised his fans with unexpected statements. For example, when a young fan asked him to give advice on how to wash the car, he responded by describing the detailed procedure. This story demonstrates that George Harrison was not accustomed to his fame and wealth and still saw the Jaguar E-Type as his beloved toy.
3. Aston Martin DB5
The Aston Martin DB5 represented the new era in the car collection of George Harrison. In 1964, the future Beatle legend became a partner in the Goldfinger film, which made the Aston Martin DB5 one of the most prominent cars in the world. Harrison bought the car of his dreams, Platinum Silver color with a Black Connolly leather interior, and invited his wife and children to the car dealer to show them the car.
Key Highlights of Aston Martin DB5:
- First major luxury automobile
- Inspired by James Bond fame
- Platinum Silver exterior finish
- Black leather interior specification
- Personalized beyond movie image
Aston Martin DB5 was delivered to the Harrison’s house at the beginning of 1965 and became another symbol of the Beatles’ era. This car represented the perfect balance between beauty and power and became the ultimate desire of every young man of that time. While the James Bond films made the Aston Martin DB5 a household name, George Harrison personalized his car and took his love for cars to a new level.
Despite the popularity of the Aston Martin DB5 and the impressive characteristics of this car, George Harrison was not blind to the unique beauty of his previous cars. In particular, he later regretted his decision to purchase the Aston Martin DB5 because it was too similar to the James Bond’s car. In 1965, he changed the color of his car from silver to white and surprised the world by taking the James Bond’s car to the film Goldfinger. It seems that George Harrison loved challenges, and changing the color of his car and personalized modifications were not enough for him.
4. Austin Mini Cooper S
Among the numerous cars owned by George Harrison, the psychedelic Austin Mini Cooper S is one of the most memorable. In 1965, the Beatles’ manager Brian Epstein bought each of the Beatles a Mini Cooper S. Harrison took this small car to the coach-builder Harold Radford and asked him to make some unique modifications to it.
Key Highlights of Austin Mini Cooper S:
- Gifted during Beatles success era
- Customized by Harold Radford
- Featured unique full-length sunroof
- Painted with psychedelic artwork
- Appeared in Magical Mystery Tour
The Austin Mini Cooper S was not only a toy for George Harrison but also an expression of his art. Harrison was fascinated by the unique design of this car and asked the coach-builder Harold Radford to modify it. In particular, he wanted the car to have a full-length sunroof, which made it even more remarkable. In 1967, Harrison went further and decided to make the car a real masterpiece. He ordered to paint the car in the colors of the Tantra Art and turned it into a real psychedelic masterpiece.
This small car became a real symbol of the Beatles’ era and was featured in the Magical Mystery Tour film. In addition, the Austin Mini Cooper S played a significant role in the Beatles’ history as it was a gift from George Harrison to Eric Clapton. The two friends remained friends for many years, and Eric Clapton returned the car to George Harrison many years later.
5. Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3
During the same period, George Harrison expanded his Mercedes-Benz collection with the impressive 300 SEL 6.3, a vehicle that represented a different side of his automotive taste. Unlike typical luxury sedans, this model blended limousine-style comfort with sports car-like performance. Beneath its elegant exterior was a powerful V8 engine that delivered remarkable speed while providing passengers with a refined and luxurious driving experience.
Key Highlights of Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3:
- Powerful V8 engine performance
- Luxury limousine-style comfort
- Balanced speed and refinement
- Discreet yet sophisticated design
- Effortless high-performance driving experience
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 reflected Harrison’s appreciation for vehicles that offered both power and comfort. Instead of focusing only on aggressive performance, the car delivered smooth and effortless acceleration while maintaining a premium interior and elegant character. It represented a different type of excitement compared with the sports cars in his collection, showing his interest in automobiles that combined advanced engineering with everyday usability.
However, the 300 SEL 6.3 also became connected with a challenging chapter in Harrison’s personal life. In 1972, he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a lamppost while traveling at high speed. Although Harrison escaped with only minor injuries, his wife Pattie Boyd suffered more serious harm, including broken ribs and a concussion. The accident highlighted the immense power of the Mercedes and showed that even a refined luxury car could become dangerous when its performance capabilities were pushed beyond limits.
6. Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine
When it comes to luxury vehicles, the Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine is one of the most remarkable cars in the world. This car was longer than six meters, and it symbolized the ultimate driving experience. Inside the car, there was a luxury interior with all the comforts of a private jet. The Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine was a real masterpiece, and it became another symbol of the Beatles’ era.
Key Highlights of Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine:
- Six-meter luxury limousine design
- Created for global VIPs
- Symbol of power and prestige
- Featured private comfort features
- Connected with Beatles history
The Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine was one of the most expensive and luxurious cars in the world. The car’s length and unique interior became a symbol of the Beatles’ era. In addition, the Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine was one of the most famous cars of that time, as it was the favorite vehicle of the world’s political leaders. In 1969, the white Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine became a real star as George Harrison drove it to the Beatles’ famous rooftop concert.
The interior of the Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine was designed in such a way that the driver could enjoy ultimate comfort. In addition, the car had a record player, drinks cabinet, and privacy screen. In 1971, George Harrison bought the Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine from his bandmate John Lennon, which made this car even more special for him. This car was not only a symbol of luxury and power but also an important part of the Beatles’ history.
7. Porsche 911 Turbo
In the 1970s, the tastes of George Harrison in terms of cars have changed yet once again. In the 1970s, he became a fan of sports cars and bought a Porsche 911 Turbo. This car was one of the fastest and most powerful vehicles of that time, and its unique design became a symbol of the era. The Porsche 911 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged engine, which provided the driver with an incredible driving experience.
Key Points of Porsche 911 Turbo’s Appeal:
- Powerful turbocharged performance engine
- Iconic whale tail spoiler design
- Advanced Porsche engineering approach
- Symbol of driving excitement
- Racing-inspired technology influence
The Porsche 911 Turbo became a symbol of the 1970s and one of the fastest cars in the world. This car was not only powerful but also had a unique design, which made it even more remarkable. The “whale tail” design of the Porsche 911 Turbo became one of the most memorable symbols of this car. In addition, the Porsche 911 Turbo was one of the most powerful cars of that time, which made it a real sports car.
The Porsche 911 Turbo was one of the fastest and most powerful cars in the world, and George Harrison was one of the few people to own it. The acquisition of this car demonstrated that George Harrison was not only a fan of luxury vehicles but also of fast cars. In addition, the Porsche 911 Turbo was a symbol of the 1970s and one of the most memorable cars in the collection of George Harrison.
8. Porsche 924 Carrera GT
When it comes to unique cars, the Porsche 924 Carrera GT is one of the most remarkable vehicles in the world. This car was not only powerful but also had a unique design, which made it even more fascinating. The Porsche 924 Carrera GT was one of the lightest and fastest sports cars in the world, and it became a symbol of the Porsche collection of George Harrison.
Key Highlights of Porsche 924 Carrera GT:
- Rare Porsche racing-inspired model
- Lightweight turbocharged performance engineering
- Built with motorsport ambitions
- Limited production created exclusivity
- Appreciated by true enthusiasts
The Porsche 924 Carrera GT was one of the rarest and most powerful sports cars in the world. This car was not only powerful but also had a unique design, which made it even more fascinating. The Porsche 924 Carrera GT was created for motorsport and had exclusive features that made it unique among other cars.
The Porsche 924 Carrera GT was a rare and powerful sports car, and it became one of the most remarkable vehicles in the collection of George Harrison. The acquisition of this car demonstrated that Harrison was not only a fan of luxury vehicles but also of sports cars. In addition, the Porsche 924 Carrera GT was one of the fastest cars in the world, which made it a real symbol of the motorsport spirit.
9. Porsche 928 S Coupe
In 1980, George Harrison once again surprised his fans by buying a Porsche 928 S. This car was unique in terms of its design and power, and it became another symbol of the Porsche collection of George Harrison. The Porsche 928 S was a luxury grand tourer, which was characterized by its front-mounted V8 engine. This car was not only powerful but also provided the driver with ultimate comfort.
Key Highlights of Porsche 928 S Coupe:
- The car had a front-mounted V8 engine
- Porsche 928 S Coupe was a luxury grand tourer
- The car provided ultimate comfort and power
- The Porsche 928 S Coupe was unique in terms of its design
- The car symbolized the modernity and innovativeness of Porsche
The Porsche 928 S Coupe was one of the most powerful and comfortable cars in the world. This car was not only powerful but also had a unique design, which made it even more fascinating. The front-mounted V8 engine of the Porsche 928 S Coupe was a symbol of the modernity and innovativeness of Porsche.
The acquisition of the Porsche 928 S Coupe by George Harrison once again demonstrated his interest in sports cars. In addition, this car was one of the most comfortable vehicles in the world, which made it a real luxury grand tourer. The Porsche 928 S Coupe was unique in terms of its design and power, and it became another symbol of the Porsche collection of George Harrison.
10. Ferrari 365 GTC
The Ferrari 365 GTC was one of the Italian masterpieces that reflected George Harrison’s appreciation for automotive craftsmanship beyond German engineering. Purchased in 1969, this blue Ferrari represented a perfect blend of Ferrari’s legendary V12 performance and elegant grand touring character. Unlike more aggressive Ferrari models, the 365 GTC focused on balance, refinement, and a sophisticated driving experience. Its design and personality matched Harrison’s preference for vehicles that offered style, character, and lasting appeal rather than simply attracting attention.
Key Highlights of the Ferrari 365 GTC:
- Blue Ferrari grand touring elegance
- Legendary V12 engine performance
- Sophisticated and balanced driving experience
- Comfortable design with practical usability
- Italian passion with timeless appeal
The Ferrari 365 GTC delivered the excitement expected from a Ferrari while maintaining a refined and comfortable nature. Its powerful V12 engine provided impressive performance, but the subtle styling gave the car a more mature and graceful identity. This combination allowed Harrison to enjoy Ferrari’s racing heritage while still having a vehicle suitable for everyday journeys. The car represented a different side of Ferrari, where luxury, usability, and emotional connection came together.
For George Harrison, the Ferrari 365 GTC showed that a great car was not only about speed or visual impact but also about personality and craftsmanship. His choice highlighted his preference for automobiles with a unique character and timeless design. The Ferrari became an example of how Italian automotive passion could be combined with thoughtful engineering, making it a meaningful and fitting addition to his diverse collection.
11. Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL AMG
By the 1980s, George Harrison discovered a vehicle that would become one of the most meaningful cars in his collection: the Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL modified by AMG. Instead of choosing a regular luxury sedan, Harrison transformed the car into a personalized creation that reflected his own taste and preferences. With around £85,000 spent on modifications, the vehicle received major upgrades that improved both its appearance and performance. AMG enhanced the sedan with a sportier setup while maintaining the comfort expected from a premium Mercedes-Benz model.
Key Highlights of Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL AMG:
- Custom AMG performance modifications
- Luxury combined with hidden power
- Black understated exterior styling
- Sixteen years of ownership
- Regularly driven collector vehicle
The modified Mercedes-Benz perfectly represented George Harrison’s personality and approach toward cars. It offered the elegance and comfort of a high-end limousine while carrying the performance characteristics of a powerful sports sedan. The subtle black finish allowed the car to maintain a low-profile appearance, avoiding unnecessary attention while still creating a strong presence on the road. This balance between refinement and performance made the vehicle a unique expression of Harrison’s automotive preferences.
Unlike many rare and valuable cars that remain protected in private collections, the Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL AMG was a vehicle Harrison genuinely enjoyed using. He owned the car for sixteen years and personally drove approximately 30,000 miles, proving that it was more than just a luxury purchase. The long period of ownership showed the strong connection he had with the car, as it provided the comfort, dependability, and discreet performance he valued. The Mercedes became a trusted companion rather than simply another collectible in his impressive garage.
12. McLaren F1
The final and most extraordinary addition to George Harrison’s remarkable car collection arrived in 1994 with the McLaren F1. Recognized as one of the greatest performance cars ever produced, the McLaren F1 represented the peak of automotive technology, engineering, and craftsmanship. With only 106 examples built worldwide, Harrison’s car became an exceptionally rare machine from the moment it joined his collection. It was not simply a supercar purchase but a symbol of innovation and exclusivity that matched his appreciation for unique creations.
Key Highlights of McLaren F1:
- Extremely rare limited production model
- Custom Dark Purple Pearl finish
- Central driving position technology
- Powerful naturally aspirated V12 engine
- Personalized artistic interior details
George Harrison selected a highly individual specification for his McLaren F1, choosing a Dark Purple Pearl exterior combined with satin black wheels. The car featured revolutionary design elements, including a central driving position and a naturally aspirated V12 engine that delivered incredible performance. It represented the perfect combination of speed, advanced engineering, and artistic craftsmanship. The vehicle reflected Harrison’s personal taste by blending cutting-edge technology with a distinctive and creative appearance.
Harrison’s passion for the McLaren F1 went beyond simply owning one of the world’s fastest cars. He frequently contacted designer Gordon Murray to follow the car’s development, showing his deep excitement and connection with the project. Before the car was completed, Harrison added Hindu symbols and handwritten song lyrics to the bare chassis, turning the vehicle into a personal work of art. After his passing, the McLaren F1 remained carefully preserved as part of his estate, standing as the final masterpiece of a collection that represented his creativity, individuality, and unique vision.
