Here’s ‘Black Mamba’ Kobe Bryant’s Car Collection

Kobe Bryant, the legendary NBA superstar, was not only known for his skills on the basketball court but also for his impressive car collection. His cars reflected his taste for speed, style, and sophistication. Kobe’s passion for high-performance cars spanned from Italian supercars to classic American muscle cars. Let’s uncover what all cars have been part of his car collection before his tragic death in 2020.

1. Bentley Azure Convertible

Kobe Bryant owned a Bentley Azure convertible that was finished in a pearl white shade. For him, the Bentley was not just a car; it represented his success and status as an NBA superstar. He owned several luxury vehicles, but the Bentley was his prized possession, as he was frequently spotted driving in the white barge. It was common for fans and fellow drivers to recognize him on the road, often leading to chaotic scenes.

One such incident happened during a drive home from a game in 2012, Lakers broadcaster Bill Macdonald spotted Kobe's distinctive white Bentley on the freeway. As Macdonald passed by, he greeted Bryant with a playful gesture, prompting Kobe to throw his head back in laughter, a moment that showcased Bryant's lighthearted side amidst his competitive nature. This encounter quickly turned into a friendly race, with Bryant's Bentley leaving Macdonald behind as the chase began.

In another instance, after a Lakers road trip in 2013, Bryant organized a Thanksgiving dinner for the entire team at their hotel in Detriot. The event included games and laughter, with Kobe at the center of it all. Following this he was seen leaving the dinner behind the wheel of his Bentley.

2. Maserati GranTurismo

Kobe had a deep appreciation for Italian automotive design, which was reflected in his choice of the Maserati GranTurismo. In interviews given to ESPN, Kobe mentioned that driving his black Maserati was a way to celebrate his achievements. After significant milestones, such as winning championships, he would take the GranTurismo out for a drive around Los Angeles. 

In 2010, Kobe took a memorable drive in his Maserati after winning his fifth NBA championship. Kobe’s Maserati wasn't just a personal indulgence, he often shared the car with his daughters. On one occasion, he was snapped by paparazzi taking his eldest daughter on a special outing in the GranTurismo.

3. Ferrari 458 Italia Spider

Kobe purchased his red 2012 Ferrari 458 Italia Spider for approximately $329,000 as per Business Insider, customizing it to accommodate his height of 6'6". Impressed by its performance Ferrari quickly became his daily driver replacing the Bentley. Kobe was frequently seen driving the Ferrari around Los Angeles, especially after Lakers training sessions.

Having spent part of his childhood in Italy, Kobe had a deep appreciation for Italian craftsmanship, which was evident in his choice of cars. In interviews, he highlighted how owning such a vehicle allowed him to celebrate his childhood time while also enjoying the artistry and engineering excellence that Ferrari is known for.

The experience of driving the Ferrari also influenced Kobe's mindset. He often drew parallels between the precision and performance of the vehicle and his approach to basketball, both required focus, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. This nature was integral to his "Mamba Mentality."

4. Lamborghini Aventador

Kobe Bryant owned a black Lamborghini Aventador. It was another Italian sportscar in his collection and a testament to his penchant for brands from the country where he spent his childhood days. The Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard reportedly customized his Aventador, enhancing its performance for an additional $109,000.

In January 2020, shortly after Kobe's tragic passing, a fan created a special tribute to him by customizing a Lamborghini with a Black Mamba design. This car became a symbol of Kobe's legacy and influence on fans and car enthusiasts alike.

5. Lamborghini Murcielago

In 2001, Kobe Bryant made headlines for his extravagant gesture of love towards his then-girlfriend, Vanessa Bryant. As a birthday gift for her 19th birthday, Kobe purchased a brand new Lamborghini Murciélago, finished in yellow. This particular model was special, as it became the first Murciélago ever fitted with an automatic transmission, a crucial modification since Vanessa did not know how to drive a manual car.

Determined to ensure that Vanessa could enjoy her luxurious gift, Kobe sought inspiration from fellow Lakers teammate Shaquille O'Neal, who had previously modified his Ferrari to accommodate his size. Kobe took the Murciélago to Exclusive Motors in Los Angeles, where it underwent an intricate transformation. The modification involved installing a semi-automatic transmission system.

The total cost of the modifications reportedly reached an astonishing $400,000 excluding the original MSRP of $270,000. The upgrades included enhancements like aftermarket wheels, drive-by-wire technology, etc.

6. Ferrari F430

The five-time NBA champion also owned a black Ferrari F430 Spider. Being his first Ferrari, this car held a special place for him. Thus he kept it only for special occasions and was rarely seen in it.

After he died a tragic death in a helicopter crash, his fans found a Ferrari F430 in a junkyard. In his memory, a Facebook page was dedicated by his fans to document the resurrection of the junkyard Ferrari.

7. 1963 Chevrolet Impala Convertible

The story of Kobe's 1963 Impala begins in 2006 when his wife, Vanessa Bryant, wanted to surprise him with a unique Christmas gift. She approached West Coast Customs, a renowned custom car shop, to create a one-of-a-kind lowrider that would reflect Kobe's personality and style. A good condition Impala was sourced for the work and was restored and customized, featuring a bespoke blend of purple and royal blue paint, white leather upholstery adorned with Swarovski crystal studs, and a hydraulic suspension that allowed it to bounce to the beat of music.

After Kobe's tragic passing in January 2020, the Impala was put up for auction as part of his estate. The car fetched an impressive $221,000 at Goldin Auctions and drew significant attention, with fans eager to own a piece of memorabilia linked to the NBA legend.

8. 1967 Pontiac Parisienne Convertible

Kobe Bryant's 1967 Pontiac Parisienne Convertible, gifted to him by rapper Snoop Dogg, is a notable part of his car collection. In 2016, Snoop Dogg presented Kobe with a custom 1967 Pontiac Parisienne Convertible as a retirement gift after playing 20 seasons for the Los Angeles Lakers. 

This car was not just any vehicle, it was a beautifully modified lowrider, adorned in a vibrant Los Angeles Lakers yellow and purple color scheme. Inside, the car features custom upholstery, with Lakers embroidery on the seats, dashboard, floor mats, and trunk.

9. Jeep Wrangler Black Ops Edition

In 2010, Kobe was gifted a 2011 Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: Black Ops Edition as part of a promotional partnership with Activision, the company behind the popular video game franchise. The Jeep was specially designed to coincide with the launch of the game, featuring a rugged exterior and custom touches that made it stand out.

Kobe embraced the opportunity during the Los Angeles Lakers season opener in October 2010. He drove the Black Ops Edition Jeep to the Staples Center, making a grand entrance. The SUV featured Call of Duty: Black Ops logos on the roof and front quarter panels, Mopar fuel-filler door, taillamp guards, and Mineral Grey Rubicon wheels.