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The 10 Most Significant Cars In Jerry Seinfeld’s Car Collection

When you think of Jerry Seinfeld, the first thing that likely comes to mind is his razor-sharp wit, iconic TV show, and timeless jokes about life’s everyday quirks. However, just as legendary is his unparalleled love for automobiles, beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Jerry retreats into a world of gleaming metal, roaring engines, and stories encapsulated in four wheels.

This isn’t just a hobby; it’s an ode to the world’s automotive marvels. From the heart-pounding thrills of European racers to the soulful elegance of classic American rides, Seinfeld’s collection showcases a rich tapestry of history, design, and sheer passion. Let’s explore the ten most significant gems from Seinfeld’s illustrious car collection.

Related: Jerry Seinfeld’s Porsche 911 GT3 RS Is Probably the Most Optioned 911 You’ve Ever Seen

10 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder: The ‘Giant Killer’

1955 Porsche 550 Spyder
Forbes

Deep within Jerry Seinfeld’s esteemed collection sat a true icon of the automotive world: the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder. Often referred to as the crown jewel among his Porsches, this particular model holds an illustrious record. It claimed a staggering $5,335,000 at a 2016 auction by Gooding & Co. at Amelia Island, marking the highest sale price for any of Seinfeld’s Porsche fleet. To put that into perspective, a later 1958 550A Spyder model was auctioned for slightly less, at $5,170,000, two years later.

1955 Porsche 550 Spyder Specs:

Feature

Specification

Price

$5.3 million

Engine

1.5 liter Flat-4

Horsepower

108

Torque

89 pound-feet

Transmission

4-speed manual

Exterior Color

Blue

But what’s behind the magic of this car? This isn’t just any Porsche; it was a purpose-built racing sensation that ruled the 1.5-liter race class during its era. Its stellar performances on the racetrack earned it the formidable nickname: “the giant killer.” The specific model that once graced Seinfeld’s collection held the chassis number 550-0060 and the engine number 90-063. Its provenance is undeniable, with a lineage including prominent collectors like Lou Hilton and Joel Horvitz. Only 90 of these masterpieces were ever crafted by Porsche, making it an even rarer treasure.

9 1976 Lamborghini Countach

It’s impossible to forget the episode showcasing the radiant metallic blue 1976 Lamborghini Countach. This stunner, with a price tag of $1,095,000, played host to the talented Canadian-American actor Jim Carrey. Beyond its screen time, the significance of this model runs deep. Jerry’s Countach is an LP400 variant, maintained meticulously in its original condition, echoing the authenticity that car enthusiasts deeply cherish.

1976 Lamborghini Countach Specs:

Feature

Specification

Price

$1,095,000

Engine

3.9 liter V-12

Horsepower

375

Torque

269 pound-feet

Transmission

5-speed manual

Exterior Color

Tahiti Blue

The Countach’s legacy began as a prototype showcased at the Geneva Auto Show in 1971. By the time it reached production between 1974 and 1990, a total of 1,983 units graced the roads, all crafted with precision in Italy. It wasn’t just a treat for the eyes either; the LP400 had a compelling performance profile. It could rocket from 0 to 62 MPH in a mere 5.4 seconds and reach speeds up to 179 MPH. And as a testament to its lasting impact, Lamborghini revived the Countach moniker in 2022, blending it with the innovative design of the Sian FKP 37, delivering a hybrid marvel.

8 1957 BMW 507 Series II

Amidst Jerry Seinfeld’s astonishing array of cars, one gem shines incredibly bright – the 1957 BMW 507 Series II. This exquisite roadster, of which only 252 units touched American soil, stands out for its rarity and auction value of up to $2.2 million. Adorned in a pristine white finish, this beauty was in the spotlight when Seinfeld chauffeured the Oscar-winning Christoph Waltz in an episode of “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.”

1957 BMW 507 Series II Specs:

Feature

Specification

Price

$2.2 million

Engine

3.1 liter V-8

Horsepower

150

Torque

N/A

Transmission

4-speed manual

Exterior Color

White

Surprisingly, this vehicle’s star didn’t always shine so brightly. Some years back, one of its kind went under the hammer for a relatively modest $1.6 million. Born as a luxury roadster variant of the 501 and 502 models, the 507 was ambitiously targeted at the American market. BMW envisioned it selling like hotcakes. However, its then-staggering price tag of $10,500 dampened its appeal, resulting in a financial misstep for BMW. Still, its allure wasn’t lost on everyone. Hollywood’s John Derek and the King of Rock’ n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, were among its illustrious owners.

Related: Jerry Seinfeld’s Porsches Auctioned for $22 Million

7 1964 Aston Martin DB5

Silver Aston Martin DB5
Aston Martin

Few cars capture the imagination quite like the 1964 Aston Martin DB5, which rightfully occupies a place of pride in Seinfeld’s collection. With its staggering auction peak of $6.4 million, this classic beauty is a marvel that swings from $1.2 million to a lofty $4.6 million in various auctions. Jerry showcased this automotive icon in “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee,” with none other than his “Seinfeld” co-star, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, gracing its passenger seat. The car’s exquisite Borrani wire wheels add a touch of class that’s simply unmistakable.

1964 Aston Martin DB5 Specs:

Feature

Specification

Price

$6.4 million

Engine

4.0 liter I-6

Horsepower

282

Torque

280 pound-feet

Transmission

5-speed manual

Exterior Color

Silver Birch

The DB5 is etched in cinematic history as James Bond’s iconic ride, symbolizing a perfect blend of British sophistication and performance. This masterpiece, nestled between the DB4 and DB6’s legacies, boasts a remarkable top speed of 145 MPH, zipping from 0 to 60 MPH in 8.0 seconds. Weighing in at 3,311 pounds, Aston Martin produced 1,059 units of the DB5, carving its place in history from 1963 to 1965.

6 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing

One of the top spot in Jerry’s automotive treasury is the unparalleled 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. This masterpiece, famed for its revolutionary design and engineering feats, appeared in “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee,” with comedy giant Lorne Michaels riding shotgun. Fetching an impressive $6.825 million at auction, Jerry’s Gullwing stands out with its pristine exterior, complemented by a rich tan and beige interior palette and charming white wheel caps.

1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Specs:

Feature

Specification

Price

$6.825 million

Engine

3.0 liter M198 I-6

Horsepower

215

Torque

203 pound-feet

Transmission

4-speed manual

Exterior Color

Silver

In Seinfeld’s words, the 300SL is “about as perfect as it comes when it comes to classic cars.” With a production run from 1954 to 1957, Mercedes crafted just 1,400 units of this iconic coupe. Tipping the scales at 3,300 lbs, this heavyweight of history originally bore a price tag of $6,820 in its US heyday. The 300SL, christened with the W198 chassis code, proudly followed in the footsteps of its predecessor, the W194. This vehicle, a beacon of luxury and class, has also found its way into the collections of eminent figures like Rob Walker and Lindsay Fox.

5 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona

1971 Ferrari 365 GTB4 Daytona
Yahoo

Among Jerry’s carefully curated collection is the radiant yellow 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona, embodying beauty and racing pedigree. Auctions have seen this model fetch $661,000, but whispers suggest Jerry acquired it for around $250,000. Widely termed the “Ferrari Daytona” by fans, its unofficial moniker stems from the marque’s triumphant 1-2-3 finish at the grueling 24 Hours of Daytona race. This grand tourer Berlinetta, a paragon of Italian automotive art, seamlessly marries luxury and performance.

1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Specs:

Feature

Specification

Price

$661,000

Engine

4.4 liter V-12

Horsepower

347

Torque

318 pound-feet

Transmission

5-speed manual

Exterior Color

Yellow

Only 1,284 of these gems were crafted during its five-year production run, making it a sought-after rarity. Jerry’s Daytona took a star turn in “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee,” playing host to the witty Amy Schumer. Its roaring V-12 engine delivered a thrilling ride, leaving the actress both amazed and amused, much to Seinfeld’s delight.

Related: Top 10 Cars In Steve McQueen’s Car Collection

4 1986 Porsche 959

Elegantly sculpted with a striking white finish, Jerry’s 1986 Porsche 959 is a testament to automotive ingenuity and innovation. Originating as a rear-engine sports car, this beauty came standard with all-wheel-drive, originally priced at $225,000. A loyal Porsche enthusiast like Jerry was bound to have this marvel in his collection, ensuring its prominent place even as other Porsches moved on from his garage.

1986 Porsche 959 Specs:

Feature

Specification

Price

$1.00 million

Engine

Twin-turbocharged 2-8 liter Flat-6

Horsepower

444

Torque

369 pound-feet

Transmission

6-speed manual

Exterior Color

White

Despite its inception as a conceptual model, Porsche committed to producing this beast, crafting 337 impeccable units. Later, it’s whispered that an additional eight were born from the vestiges of spare parts. With its staggering 0-60 MPH acceleration in just 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 198 MPH, the 959 held the prestigious title of the fastest road-legal production car in its era. Today, among the few treasured 959s, one stands proudly in the historic hall of Porsche in Stuttgart, echoing its legacy.

3 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII

Jerry Seinfeld’s collection boasts a plethora of automotive marvels, and the 1967 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII is no exception. While the initial purchase price remains a mystery, auction data suggest a pristine example could fetch up to $84,000. True to his love for automotive authenticity, Jerry preserved the car in its original splendor, maintaining its factory-fresh paint and interior finishes without alterations.

1967 Austin-Healey 3000 MkIII Specs:

Feature

Specification

Price

$84,000

Engine

2.9 liter I-6

Horsepower

150

Torque

N/A

Transmission

N/A

Exterior Color

Light Blue

This English classic was showcased on the premiere episode of “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.” For this episode, Ricky Gervais rode shotgun with Seinfeld, experiencing the car’s laid-back cruising demeanor. Unlike the high-octane racers in his collection, this Austin-Healey emphasizes comfort and a leisurely drive. It exudes British charm with its wire wheels and distinctive Ambla vinyl upholstery. By the close of 1967, the curtains were drawn on its production, making it a cherished classic.

2 1969 Jaguar XKE Series 2 E-Type

Jerry Seinfeld’s automotive anthology boasts not only rare but genuinely iconic vehicles. One such gem is the 1969 Jaguar XKE Series 2 E-Type. The Roadster model, with its sensual curves and alluring design, carries a value of approximately $70,000. Comedian Sarah Silverman had the privilege of experiencing this classic’s charm firsthand during a drive with Seinfeld.

1969 Jaguar XKE Series 2 E-Type Specs:

Feature

Specification

Price

$70,000

Engine

4.2 liter DOHC straight-6

Horsepower

249

Production

10,000 (1969 model year)

Drive

Rear-wheel-drive

Equipped with a robust DOHC straight-6 engine, this British classic delivers 249 horsepower from its 4.2 liters. Despite its allure, the E-Type’s production numbers for 1969 were relatively limited, with fewer than 10,000 units rolling out, a stark contrast to the Chevrolet Corvette’s more extensive production that same year. However, compared to rarities like the Gmund, the E-Type isn’t the scarcest in the collection, but it’s undeniably one of the most iconic.

Related: Every Exotic Car In Rowan Atkinson’s Car Collection

1 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

When Jerry Seinfeld sat down with the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama, he chose none other than the iconic 1963 Split Window Chevrolet Corvette Stingray for their ride. This Stingray exudes elegance and timeless American craftsmanship, a true jewel among collectors.

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Specs:

Feature

Specification

Engine

327 V-8

Horsepower

250 (base engine)

Notable Variant

Fuel injected (360 horsepower)

Under its hood, Seinfeld’s Stingray houses a 327 V-8 engine that belts out 250 horsepower. While this might be the base engine variant, it’s worth noting that an optional fuel-injected version was available during its time, boasting a muscular 360 horsepower. Regardless, Seinfeld’s choice speaks volumes about the car’s emblematic status in automotive history.

Jerry Seinfeld’s collection of automobiles is a reflection of his nuanced taste in automotive excellence. From the elegant curves of the Aston Martin DB5 to the historic allure of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, each car tells a tale of design genius and mechanical marvel. However, it’s not just about horsepower or rarity.

Seinfeld’s affinity for these classics stands testament to the undeniable connection between memories on the road and the stories that drive our lives. As he takes comedians, actors, and even a former US president for a spin, each journey becomes a unique chapter in a grander narrative. His fleet is not just a showcase of car culture; it’s an ode to the moments that define our journeys, both behind the wheel and beyond.

The Most Expensive Mercedes-Benz Of All Time

When one thinks of luxury cars, the name Mercedes-Benz often leaps to the forefront of the mind. Established in 1926, this German automotive marquee has become synonymous with elegance, advanced technology, and top-tier performance. From the alluring design of the S-Class to the high-powered AMG models, Mercedes-Benz has a reputation for offering a thrilling driving experience. But these indulgences come with a hefty price tag. The prestige of Mercedes-Benz extends well beyond the showroom floor. Whether it’s the awe-inspiring price tags of their latest models or the record-breaking auction sales of their historic vehicles, the brand continues to set standards in the luxury automotive market. Rooted in innovation, performance, and exceptional craftsmanship, Mercedes-Benz remains a symbol of aspiration for many, reflecting a legacy that few can rival.

View All Mercedes-Benz For Sale

The list of the most expensive Mercedes-Benz models right from the factory is a showcase of automotive excellence. Leading the pack is the Mercedes-Benz Maybach Exelero, with an astounding MSRP of $8 million, designed in collaboration with Fulda Tires and featuring a V12 engine capable of 700 horsepower. Following closely are the Mercedes-AMG One at $2.7 million, a hybrid hypercar boasting over 1,000 horsepower, and the Mercedes-Benz Maybach S650 Pullman, a favorite among dignitaries priced at $1.96 million. These vehicles represent the apex of innovation, performance, and opulence, catering to a clientele that demands nothing but the best.

The auction block has witnessed some staggering sales for Mercedes-Benz cars, reflecting their enduring allure and historical significance. The 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196, driven by Formula One legend Juan Manuel Fangio, stands as a prime example, fetching an astonishing $29.6 million at a 2013 auction. Another gem is the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster, selling for $11.77 million in 2016. These iconic cars not only represent the rich heritage of Mercedes-Benz but also solidify the brand’s standing as a sought-after name for collectors and enthusiasts alike. From celebrity ownership to racing pedigree, the stories behind these sales further reinforce Mercedes-Benz’s position in the pantheon of automotive excellence.


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5 Reasons Why You Should Buy A Big Bike (And 5 Why A Small Bike Might Be Better)

You’re in the market for a motorcycle, and your research is inconclusive. You can’t make up your mind whether you should go for the full fat large motorcycle with all the bells and whistles, or go with the lite version of the experience. Well, worry not, we’re here to confuse you some more with our advice!

As you can imagine, your buying decision will be influenced a lot by factors determined by you alone. What is your experience level with motorcycles? How much are you willing to work on your riding and wrenching skills? Does the place where you live have a lot of great riding weather, or is it unpredictable? Does it snow or rain for a lot of the year? What will you use your motorcycle for the most, commuting or touring? Do you have friends that already own a particular type and size of motorcycle? Whether a big bike or small bike is best for you is a great question and the answer is not as black and white as we’d like it to be. Both sides of the argument have their merits and drawbacks, so let us get on with why a big bike might be good for you – but a small one might just be better.

Related: 10 Reasons Why You Should Buy the KTM 390 Duke Instead Of The Honda CB300R

10 Big Bike: Bigger Is Better

BMW R1250GS static shot
BMW
BMW R1250GS in yellow and black

Have you ever heard the phrase “the only difference between men and boys is the size of their toys”? If you have, and you subscribe to this school of thought, then you must have the biggest, baddest motorcycle possible. A bigger motorcycle will give you more of everything – performance, comfort, admiring looks, features, distance between fill ups (if you’re the touring kind and pick the right one)… the list goes on. You’ll get cutting edge two-wheeler technology because the latest tech always debuts on the more expensive products. You’ll also get a massive range of accessories for a large motorcycle, because that is simple economics – someone who has enough to purchase a large motorcycle will have the moolah to drop on a bunch of accessories because (s)he has that much more disposable income.

9 Small Bike: Cheaper Buy The Dozen

YZF-R125
Yamaha

Sure, bigger might be better, but there also can be too much of a good thing. Look at the prices of the kings of the hill – you’re staring at the wrong end of $30,000 for a two wheeled monstrosity that we’re not sure everyone in the country can use all around the year. Oh, and that’s just the sticker price, we aren’t even talking about the options list! A large motorcycle is in some ways the opposite of what makes two wheels so much fun. Minimalism has its charm, and two wheeled fun certainly subscribes to that. You can have 100% of the fun 90% of the time with a cheaper, smaller motorcycle – so why not pick the smaller one? Or get more than one small motorcycle and cover all your bases!

8 Big Bike: More Features

Zero SR/S dash display with zero app
Zero Motorcycles
Top profile shot of Zero SR/S dash display and smartphone with Zero app. 

The term ‘features’ covers a lot of ground. However, the features that big bikes offer make it easier to be a rider in varied weather conditions. For example, wind protection is better on a big bike, and some will have adjustable windscreens, or you can purchase an aftermarket one to suit yourself. Heated grips are another feature which can extend your riding season, or help you get to your destination if you’ve had some unforeseen delay on the road. If you’re someone who likes to go on long rides, you will appreciate other touches like a good audio system, inbuilt Apple CarPlay, the TFT color screens that will display navigation, so you don’t need a separate screen or to put your phone in harm’s way… the list goes on.

7 Small Bike: Easier In Traffic

Frank Schulenburg“”>

Motorcyclist_in NY
Frank Schulenburg
Blurry image of motorcycle in city traffic.

As of the beginning of this year, lane splitting was legal in only five states: Arizona, California, Utah, Montana, and Hawaii. That means you can filter through stopped traffic as well, given certain conditions. A big motorcycle’s weight and width make it unwieldy in these conditions, and a small bike will be much easier to slip in between cars at the lights. Even not considering lane splitting or filtering, at regular speeds and in stop/go traffic, a small motorcycle will be easier to handle, consume less fuel, and be less likely to cook your legs and other important bits in summer. The energy you save with a small bike will help you through the day, and maybe convince you to take that weekend ride as well!

Related: Is this the most significant motorcycle of all time?

6 Big Bike: Ability To Cruise

Rider on a 2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster Special.
Photo credit: Mary Pierce
You’d have to have an irrational hatred of Harleys (you know who you are) to say this isn’t a great-looking bike.

A big engine brings with it many benefits other than winning at displacement and horsepower top trumps. If your commute involves freeway use, a large engine will keep things relaxed at those speeds. A small bike will feel frantic and drain energy simply because it will need more concentration from you. Doing 80mph at 2000rpm in top gear is infinitely more relaxing than buzzing along at 8000rpm on a small capacity bike. Another oft-overlooked corollary is the fact that the chassis, brakes and tires need to match the motor’s performance, so turning and stopping at and from freeway speeds are far easier on a big bike. Large motorcycles designed for touring also have the ultimate ability to cruise: cruise control! For bonus comfort points, you can have a large motorcycle with an automatic transmission.

5 Small Bike: Easy Parking

2022 Honda Grom minibike motorcycle
Honda
Styled image of a 2022 Honda Grom minibike motorcycle parked in a parking lot with other motorcycles. 

A small motorcycle is easier to park. This is true both in a city and out in the country. You’ll feel this especially in cities, where space is always at a premium. You need almost the width of a small car to park a large motorcycle, while you can squeeze a small motorcycle into a space that could fit a couple of bicycles. The width isn’t the only problem with big motorcycles; their length means that you need more space just outside the actual parking space as well to maneuver into and out of it. Even should you want to park up for the winter, you’re going to need very little space in your garage for a small motorcycle, whereas a large one will require a space to itself.

4 Big Bike: Ability To Carry Weight

Harley-Davidson“”>

2021 Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited
Harley-Davidson
Press photo of the 2021 Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited

A large engine doesn’t just mean a big horsepower figure; this also means a higher torque figure. Torque is more relevant for us than horsepower, because its availability or lack thereof affects us all the time. More torque across the rev range will offer better throttle response and the ability to carry a higher payload. That means a large engine will allow you to carry luggage and/or a pillion in comfort. This might not be a big deal on your daily commute, but going up a canyon road with a full load and a passenger is a very different experience if your engine can handle the extra load without breaking into a sweat. Even going down an incline becomes easier if your high-torque engine can help you regulate your speed and momentum down a slope with engine braking.

Related: Top 10 Touring Motorcycles on the Market

3 Small Bike: Easier To Lift And Move

BMW G310GS
BMW
Action shot of the BMW G310GS 

After all that we’ve said about a large engine being better for touring, if you’re planning on riding an appreciable amount on bad roads or no roads, a small motorcycle might just be the ticket. Of course, the bits on pavement will be boring and drain you, but the same momentum that makes highway cruising easy on a big bike will work against it on a dirt road. Your chances of falling also go up significantly on off-pavement sections, and if you do, lifting a small motorcycle that has fallen is infinitely preferable near the end of a tiring day of riding. Should your motorcycle break down, or even should you need to move it in the parking lot with muscle power, a small motorcycle will be much easier to push around.

2 Big Bikes: Safety

HP4 Race 2D Dash
BMW Motorrad

Sure, ABS is standard for motorcycles in our market, but the bigger the motorcycle, the more the features that get added on to it – including safety. Today’s top-spec motorcycles have six-axis IMUs that enable them to tailor their safety systems like ABS and traction control to the specific conditions. Kawasaki’s cornering ABS on its large motorcycles applies more braking force to the outside front disc in a corner. The Honda Fireblade decides which brake, front or rear, gets the appropriate amount of braking force. Ducati’s Multistrada V4 debuted radar-assisted adaptive cruise control last year. Honda’s Goldwing has had airbags since 2006. Europe is trying to put legislation in place that will help fallen riders send out an SOS message should they fall off their motorcycle. Damon Motorcycles will take safety to the next level with CoPilot, their AI-based safety system. None of this tech has made it to small motorcycles yet because of the costs involved.

Related: 10 Important Riding Safety Tips for Beginners

1 Small Bikes: Easy Repairs

Side of the Road Carburetor Broken
Stranded on side of the road with broken carburetor
Stranded on side of the road with broken carburetor

“The more things there are, the more things there are to go wrong”. With all the safety and comfort that big motorcycles offer, they are complex out of necessity. That means should something break, it’s not going to be easy to fix. That holds true both in terms of cost as well as expertise required to fix the problem. Out in the boonies you might not get the expertise required to fix a large, complex motorcycle, and even in a city, you might have to wait for a while to get a replacement part if your motorcycle isn’t manufactured in the country. Even small repairs can be a pain in the, er, back. Getting a large, fully laden motorcycle onto the main stand to repair a puncture is a task in itself!

2023 Honda Pilot Vs. 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

In the world of mid-size SUVs, two brands that come to mind are Honda and Toyota. Both brands competed fiercely to make the superior mid-size SUV over the years. For 2023, Honda has built the Pilot completely new from the ground up and Toyota has revealed a whole new SUV on its own, the Grand Highlander.

Both SUVs are meant to comfortably seat the entire family but they both have a different approach. The Honda Pilot is known for its practicality and build quality whereas the Grand Highlander is a more premium and luxurious SUV with a refined interior and driving experience, especially when you consider that it is a model from a main stream brand like Toyota.

RELATED: Here’s How The 2023 Honda Pilot Stands Out In The Crowded Mid-Size SUV Segment

The Pilot Hauls People With Ease

Blue Honda Pilot
Honda
A front shot of the 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport off-roading. 

For 2023, the Honda Pilot comes in six trim levels: LX, Sport, EX-L, Touring, TrailSport, and Elite. The base price starts at $37,645 and comes with only one powertrain. The Pilot comes with the same 3.5 liter V-6 from the previous model but produces more power.

The trim that may stand out the most to buyers is the TrailSport model, which is Honda’s take on an off-road version of the Pilot. Honda has made some notable upgrades to the TrailSport to make it a proper off-roading SUV. Honda added an off-road-tuned suspension, which includes a one-inch lift for additional ground clearance. They also added a skid plate as well as the TrailWatch camera system which uses four exterior cameras to help drivers when they are off the beaten path. All these features and more are exclusive only to the TrailSport.

When it comes to the powertrain, the V-6 produces 285 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque as opposed to the previous generation which made 280 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard while all-wheel drive is optional. The front-wheel drive model has an estimated EPA of 19 MPG in the city, 27 MPG on the highway, and a combined EPA of 22 MPG. The all-wheel drive model has a slightly worse gas mileage with an EPA estimated of 19 MPG in the city, 25 MPG on the highway, and a combined EPA of 21 MPG.

All models come with a new 10-speed automatic transmission which shifts smoothly. The engine is more responsive than the previous generation and the steering is more precise and refined. In terms of driving, the Pilot has a tight steering circle which makes maneuvering around town much easier than other mid-size SUVs. With all the extra power, the front-wheel drive model can tow up to 3,500 pounds and the all-wheel drive model can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

RELATED: Everything You Need to Know About the 2023 Honda Pilot TrailSport

The Pilot Is Spacious Enough For The Whole FamilyPilot interior

Stepping inside, all models come standard with a 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster as well as a 7-inch infotainment screen. The TrailSport, Touring, and Elite models come with a larger 9-inch infotainment screen and only the Elite model comes with a larger 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trim levels.

The Pilot has one of the most spacious cabins in the segment. All models can seat up to eight passengers but the EX-L trim can be optioned with second-row captain’s chairs which seat seven passengers. The TrailSport comes standard with the captain’s chairs and the Touring and Elite models come with a second-row seat design which can be removed and stored away when not needed. With 39.3 inches of headroom and 32.5 inches of legroom, the third row is spacious enough for children as well as adults.

RELATED: Here’s What Guarantees The Toyota Grand Highlander’s Success

The Grand Highlander Offers More Powerful and Efficient Powertrains

White Toyota SUV
Toyota
A front shot of the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

The Grand Highlander comes in five trim levels: XLE, Limited, Platinum, MAX Limited, and MAX Platinum. The base price starts at $43,070 which is significantly higher than the Pilot. Toyota offers two engine choices and three powertrains for the Grand Highlander. The gasoline engine makes 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque and the base hybrid engine makes 245 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.

The Hybrid MAX models come with a more powerful hybrid engine which makes 362 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard while all-wheel drive is optional. As far as efficiency goes, the gas powertrain offers 24 MPG combined for the XLE front-wheel drive; the hybrid can do 36 MPG combined for the XLE front-wheel drive and the Hybrid MAX can offer upto 27 MPG combined.

The gasoline engine comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The smaller hybrid engine comes with a CVT transmission while the more powerful hybrid engine comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. Even though the steering is light, it can still go through corners easily. When it comes to towing, it is the same as the Pilot. The front-wheel drive model can tow 3,500 pounds and the all-wheel drive can tow 5,000 pounds.

RELATED: Top 10 Features Of The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

The Grand Highlander Is Not Just A Bigger Highlander

Interior Toyota Grand Highlander
Toyota
A shot of the dashboard in a 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander 

Toyota has taken a different approach with the Grand Highlander. Unlike most of its other vehicles, the Grand Highlander was built with luxury and comfort in mind and this becomes evidently clear when you step inside the cabin. The interior has a surprisingly premium feel with good materials across the door panels and the dashboard. At first glance, the cabin seems to share some aspects with Toyota’s luxury brand, Lexus.

The overall layout and aesthetics like the steering wheel and the infotainment are very similar to some Lexus vehicles. All of this just proves that Toyota didn’t intend to make the Grand Highlander like the regular Highlander. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, as well as a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, is standard across all models, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

By merely hearing the name, one might think that the Grand Highlander is just a bigger Highlander. Although that is true, the Grand is a completely new vehicle that is not just a bigger version of the Highlander. Not only is the Grand Highlander larger in every way, but it also looks completely different.

The Grand Highlander can seat seven or eight depending on the trim and the seat configurations. The cabin is impressively spacious for the passengers to enjoy the ride. The third row has 37.2 inches of headroom and 33.5 inches of legroom which is more than sufficient for children and adults can also sit comfortably. When it comes to technology, the Grand Highlander comes with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, as well as a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, which is standard across all models, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

In conclusion, the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Grand Highlander are two formidable contenders in the mid-size SUV segment. When it comes to deciding which one to buy, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities The Pilot excels in practicality and overall value. It is also a solid choice for those who are interested in off-roading.

On the other hand, the Grand Highlander offers a far more premium package and better gas mileage. It is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious and refined SUVs Toyota has made in recent history. Regardless of which SUV you choose to buy, they both prioritize safety and comfort for the whole family.