Renowned TV chef showcases an impressive array of vintage and luxury vehicles, including rare classics and rally legends

James Martin, the 51-year-old celebrity chef known for his culinary prowess on shows like “Saturday Kitchen” and “Saturday Morning,” is also a passionate car enthusiast with a stunning collection valued at around £5 million. His impressive assortment of vehicles ranges from a classic Ferrari and a legendary Colin McRae rally car to a rare Mini Cooper with a unique history.

Nestled in a special garage at his Hampshire home, Martin’s collection reflects his lifelong fascination with cars, ignited by a childhood toy Ferrari. Among the highlights is a Mini Cooper that once belonged to world rally champions Paddy Hopkirk and Rauno Aaltonen, boasting hydro-elastic suspension and a trio of engine variants.

A standout piece is a 1965 Ferrari 275 GTS, an iconic model Martin occasionally takes for a spin, describing it as “absolutely incredible.” The car has undergone extensive restoration, including a new engine.

The collection also includes a Shelby GT500, a project car Martin restored to glory after purchasing it in a damaged state from Florida. The restoration of this stunning muscle car took 18 months, with painstaking attention to detail evident in its completion.

Martin’s love for motorsports is evident in his ownership of a Ford GT40 and a Ford Escort Mk I, both with significant racing histories. The GT40, which he shares with racing champion Jason Plato, has triumphed in events like the Goodwood Revival. The Escort, the first model ever produced by Ford, holds a second-place finish in the 1969 Acropolis Rally.

Adding to the rally theme are two Subaru Impreza models once driven by rally legends Colin McRae and Petter Solberg. These vehicles, still road legal, showcase Martin’s admiration for the thrilling world of rally racing.

An unusual but cherished part of his collection is a Citroen 2CV, previously owned by TV chef Keith Floyd. Martin acquired this car after Floyd’s death, preserving a piece of culinary and automotive history.

Luxury is not amiss in Martin’s garage, with a Bentley Drophead and a Mercedes-Benz 380SL among his prized possessions. The Bentley, a hand-built classic from 1988, and the meticulously maintained Mercedes add a touch of elegance to his diverse collection.

For daily driving, Martin prefers his Toyota Hilux, despite playful jibes from friends about his choice. He also values a BMW 760Li recommended by singer Jay Kay, praising its powerful V12 engine and impressive performance.

Martin’s first classic car purchase was a Mercedes-Benz SL 1955 Gullwing, a decision made on a whim at a car show in Germany. Though he eventually sold it back to Mercedes-Benz, the car remains a cherished memory in his automotive journey.

As he continues to share his love for cooking and cars, James Martin’s collection stands as a testament to his diverse passions and achievements beyond the kitchen.