Behind Magic Johnson's Championship-Level Car Collection

Magic Johnson, the former NBA player, is renowned for his activism in HIV/AIDS prevention, his role as a motivational speaker, and his philanthropic efforts. He has inspired thousands of HIV-positive people to keep fighting and never accept defeat. With an estimated net worth of about $620 million, a distinguished career, and a successful business portfolio, it makes sense why Magic Johnson likes to keep exclusive and expensive automobile gems in his collection.

Furthermore, Magic Johnson is 6.9 feet tall. Hence, one thing that all of his cars have in common is that they are all big luxury cruisers. These cars come from esteemed American brands like Lincoln to German automobile giants like Rolls Royce. Additionally, Mojo is a doting father as well, who is willing to gift a Mercedes-Benz AMG G63 SUV worth over $135,000 to his son EJ Johnson.

6. Mercedes-Benz SL450

At the start of his professional career at the Lakers, basketball legend Magic Johnson bought a 1979 Mercedes-Benz SL 450 Convertible. However, owing to his big build and hence lower comfort, Magic sold it just after one year. The current average price paid for the 1979 Mercedes-Benz SL 450 is around $16,000. If you want to buy the same car that Magic Johnson used to own, then you can try contacting its second owner, Tom Jamieson.

Tom Jamieson bought it in 1980 and listed it for $24,000. According to some reports, the car was later available for $50,000. The 1979 Mercedes-Benz SL 450 Convertible carries a 4.5-liter V8 engine. It is either mated to a 4-speed manual transmission or a 3-speed automatic transmission. The SL 450 generates 225 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque.

5. Lincoln Navigator

As per some reputed sources, the current estimated value of the 2006 Lincoln Navigator SUV lingers around just $7,000. However, at that time, Magic Johnson paid $55,000 for it. Does it sound expensive enough? Not when you are a famous NBA star who had previously signed a 25-million-dollar contract with the Lakers.

The 2006 Lincoln Navigator full-size SUV hides a 5.4L V8 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission arrangement that is able to produce 300 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. However, this power comes at a much higher cost in terms of fuel consumption. The 2006 Navigator managed a meager combined fuel economy of 13 mpg.

4. Lincoln Mark LT Pickup Truck

Lincoln made a special 2006 Mark LT pickup truck for Magic Johnson. This exclusive Magic DUB edition Lincoln Mark LT truck was later put up for auction on eBay, with all proceeds going to the non-profit Magic Johnson Foundation. That said, the base retail price of this Lincoln Mark LT Pickup Truck is estimated to be $64,035.

The Lincoln Mark LT is powered by a 5.4-liter V8 engine, which is mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. It puts out 300 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. The Mark LT’s cabin had high-quality appointments, and its ride quality was pleasant. Having said that, the regular model was discontinued after 2008.

3. Cadillac Escalade

If you have seen Magic Johnson virtually or in real life, one thing immediately comes to mind: "he is huge." Yes, he is an exceptionally tall and well-built man. That is why he prefers big, beefy luxury cars like the Cadillac Escalade, which suits his personality well. The 2023 Cadillac Escalade demands $79,295 for the base trim, which can stretch up to $105,595 for the top Sport Platinum trim.

The 2023 Escalade is simply generous with interior space. It also has a massive fuel tank and a big cargo area. The 6.2-liter V8 engine is connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission. It churns out 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.

2. Bentley Continental V8

As per some reports, Magic Johnson's Bentley Continental V8 was a bespoke one, flaunting $200,000 worth of alloy spoke wheels. Currently, the 2022 Bentley Continental GT V8 Convertible has a starting price of $254,100. If you want the coupe version, expect to pay $231,000. Additionally, just like Johnson’s Bentley, you can also get the custom-designed spoke alloy wheels for a premium.

The 2022 Continental GT V8 Coupe and Convertible trims are equipped with a 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 engine, which is coupled with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The powertrain can produce up to 542 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. It can cross the 60 mph mark in just 3.7 seconds.

1. Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe

Magic Johnson is one of 237 individuals worldwide who own the limited edition, custom-made Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe. Reportedly, MaJo has spent around half a million dollars on this excellent piece of art and engineering. The Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe is a car that fits Johnson’s personality. It is grand, and luxurious, and hides a great deal of history under its brand name.

The Phantom Drophead Coupe gets power from a massive 6.7L V12 engine, which is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup is able to put out 453 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque.

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