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Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Video: YouTube / Mecum
When you think of Jerry Seinfeld, you likely envision him behind the wheel of some seriously cool cars. As a collector, comedian, and Porsche enthusiast, Seinfeld’s collection features some of the most iconic vehicles ever made. However, one stands out above the rest: his 1969 Porsche 917K. This car isn’t just any sports car—it’s a piece of automotive history, a vehicle that starred in the legendary 1971 film Le Mans with Steve McQueen behind the wheel.
Currently, experts believe that Seinfeld’s Porsche 917K could fetch an astonishing $25 million at auction. Yet, despite these staggering offers, Seinfeld has reportedly declined them. So what makes this car so valuable—and why is Seinfeld unwilling to sell it? Let’s explore the story of this remarkable car and what makes it more than just a collector’s item.
Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Image: Mecum
How did Seinfeld End Up with the Porsche 917K?
The story of Seinfeld’s Porsche 917K begins in 2001, when one of his close friends, Spike Feresten (the writer behind the famous Soup Nazi episode of Seinfeld), spotted the car at Symbolic Motors, a luxury dealership in Los Angeles. Feresten, knowing that Seinfeld shared his passion for rare cars, persuaded him to check out this extraordinary Porsche 917K.
The Porsche 917K was originally owned by none other than Steve McQueen, who bought it in 1970 to feature in his film Le Mans. McQueen didn’t just possess the car—he also drove it during the racing sequences, demonstrating the car’s impressive performance. The 917K was a dominant force on the track in the 1971 World Sportscar Championship, winning seven out of eight races that season, including the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.
When McQueen finished filming, he sold the car to Reinhold Joest, and it changed hands several times before it ended up with Seinfeld. For Seinfeld, this car became more than just a cool toy—it represents a significant piece of automotive history, and it’s no surprise that he’s held onto it in his collection for so long.
Ownership History
Steve McQueen / Solar Productions, 1970-1971
Reinhold Joest, 1971-1975
Brian Redman, 1975-1977
Richard Attwood, 1977-2000
Frank Gallogly, 2000-2001
Jerry Seinfeld, 2001-Present
Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K
Why Is the Porsche 917K So Special?
The 1969 Porsche 917K is valuable not only because it’s a Porsche or because it featured in a famous movie. It represents the ideal combination of engineering excellence and cultural significance. Built for racing, the 917K is one of the most iconic race cars ever conceived. With a 5.0-litre flat-12 engine, it generates approximately 600 horsepower, a remarkable achievement for its era.
What sets the 917K apart, however, is its significance in Le Mans. McQueen’s portrayal of a gritty race car driver made the 917K synonymous with both the film and the golden age of racing. The car’s Gulf Oil blue-and-orange livery became instantly recognizable, enhancing its legendary status. Additionally, the car’s technical achievements, such as its aerodynamic design and lightweight structure, marked it as a game-changer in the world of motorsport.
Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Image: Mecum
As a lifelong Porsche fan, Seinfeld frequently shares his admiration for the brand and its history. He’s recognized for his profound appreciation of the craftsmanship and engineering that goes into every Porsche, with the 917K no exception.
In a 2020 interview on Spikes Car Radio (hosted by Feresten), Seinfeld explained why the 917K holds such a special place in his heart. “There are cars that I call ‘moment cars,’ that are from moments when things just landed perfectly,” he said. “To me, the 917 is the moment of Porsche where all their work and expertise came together.”
Retired American race car driver and Porsche expert Bruce Canepa, who has worked with and restored several Porsche 917s, shares Seinfeld’s sentiment. He describes the 917K as a driver’s car that is perfectly balanced and incredibly responsive, making it a joy to drive even today. “It’s hard to believe this is a car that was designed in 1969 and is this good,” Canepa says. “It does exactly what you want it to do.”
Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Image: Mecum
The $25 Million Offer & Whats Next F
Experts now estimate that Seinfeld’s 917K could be valued at as much as $25 million, a staggering amount for any car—especially one that is nearly 60 years old. However, despite the high offers, Seinfeld has declined them.
As Seinfeld explained in the Spikes Car Radio podcast, money can’t measure some things. “There are objects that have great value, and then there are objects that you really can’t place a value on because they evoke so much,” he said. “If you’re in the car hobby, you pursue these cars that give you a special feeling of excitement. I would say it’s the automotive equivalent of sitting behind the Resolute Desk.”
Seinfeld isn’t alone in his belief that the 917K is priceless. Canepa, too, thinks the car is worth $25 million—or more. He points out that McQueen’s association with the car adds to its allure. “There is no guy who’s comparable to Steve McQueen. I’m just guessing, but that car should be a $25 million car,” Canepa says.
Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Image: Mecum
While Seinfeld has made it clear that money isn’t the driving factor behind his ownership of the Porsche 917K, the car’s value continues to rise. The last time a similar 917K sold at auction was in 2017, when it fetched around $14 million at Gooding & Co.’s Pebble Beach auction. With the 917K’s ongoing rise in fame, it wouldn’t be surprising to see it surpass the $25 million mark when it goes up for auction at Mecum Auctions in Kissimmee, Florida, in January 2025.
Whether or not the Porsche 917K reaches $25 million or beyond, one thing is clear: Jerry Seinfeld’s 917K will always be more than just a car. It’s a piece of automotive history, a symbol of Steve McQueen’s legendary status, and a cherished part of Seinfeld’s incredible collection.
In the end, Seinfeld’s Porsche 917K is the perfect example of how cars can hold more than just financial value—they can evoke emotions, memories, and stories that no price tag can capture.
Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Image: Mecum Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Image: Mecum Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Image: Mecum Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Image: Mecum Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Image: Mecum Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Image: Mecum Steve McQueen’s Porsche 917K | Image: Mecum
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.
Our team of editors and experts thoughtfully chooses each product. If you decide to buy through one of our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more. Want to know how we test products? Click here for more details.
Few things in a man’s wardrobe are as dependable as a pair of white sneakers. Clean, crisp, and endlessly adaptable, they’re the shoes you can rely on to work with almost anything—sharp tailoring, casual jeans, or relaxed weekend shorts. Unlike their colourful cousins, white sneakers act as a blank canvas, giving you the freedom to build any look around them with ease.
What makes them even better is their timelessness. Trends come and go, but a solid pair of white kicks will always hold staple status. Choose the comfort level you need, the style you’re aiming for, and the purpose you want them for, and you’re already on your way to finding the perfect pair. To keep it simple, we’ve rounded up eight of the best white sneakers every man should consider.
Best Paired With: Jeans, joggers, oversized tees, hoodies
Price: USD $115
When you think of white sneakers, the Nike Air Force 1 ’07 is the icon that immediately comes to mind. First released in 1982, this classic has stood the test of time, evolving from a basketball shoe to a cultural staple worn by everyone from athletes to artists. Its chunky sole, clean lines, and unmistakable Swoosh make it a pair that looks just as good with slim jeans as it does with relaxed joggers.
What makes the AF1 ’07 stand out is its perfect balance of comfort and durability. The leather upper is easy to wipe clean, the air-cushioned sole provides all-day support, and the classic silhouette ensures it never feels out of place. If you’re only going to own one pair of white sneakers, this is the one that deserves a permanent spot in your collection.
Best Paired With: Tailored trousers, chinos, slim-fit jeans, casual suits
Price: From USD $490
If white sneakers set a luxury standard, it would be the Common Projects Original Achilles. Lacking logos and flashy details, this pair has earned its reputation through clean lines, high-quality Italian leather, and that signature gold-stamped serial number. It epitomizes less-is-more design, making it the preferred sneaker for men seeking understated style with a refined touch.
The Achilles is also surprisingly versatile. It looks sharp enough to wear with a blazer and trousers but relaxed enough to pair with jeans and a T-shirt on the weekend. Durable, comfortable, and timeless, it’s not just a sneaker—it’s an investment piece that elevates every outfit without saying a word.
Season: Spring and summer standout, but works year-round
Best Paired With: Jeans, chinos, polo shirts, casual button-downs
We have a serious soft spot for the Adidas Stan Smith, and for good reason. Often recognized as one of the greatest sneakers of all time, this pair essentially shaped the modern white sneaker trend. Created as a tennis shoe in the 1960s, its clean silhouette and simple design quickly gained fans well beyond the court.
The beauty of the Stan Smith lies in its subtle details. The perforated three-stripe design on the sides and the coloured heel tab with branding give it just enough character without overwhelming its minimalist style. That balance is what makes it so easy to pair with nearly anything, from casual weekend outfits to smart-casual looks.
Decades later, it remains equally relevant. Affordable, versatile, and instantly recognisable, the Stan Smith isn’t just another white sneaker — it’s a piece of footwear history that still influences street style today.
Best Paired With: Jeans, joggers, polo shirts, casual jackets
The Reebok Club C 85 may not shout for attention, but that’s exactly what makes it so good. Originally created in the mid-80s as a tennis sneaker, it offers that simple, old-school charm that still feels fresh today. Smooth white leather, a low-cut profile, and just the right amount of branding—it’s the kind of sneaker that quietly complements an outfit without drawing too much notice.
Personally, we always saw the Club C 85 as your dependable go-to. It’s not as flashy as an Air Force 1 or as hyped as a Stan Smith, but it’s the pair you’ll grab on days when you want to keep things simple. Comfortable, durable, and easy to wear, it’s the sneaker that shows sometimes simplicity really is better.
Few sneakers have made as much of an impact as the Alexander McQueen Exaggerated-Sole. Taking the simple concept of a sleek leather low-top and reimagining it with a thick, oversized sole, McQueen transformed a minimalist silhouette into a striking fashion statement. Made in Italy from smooth leather, these sneakers are instantly recognizable and effortlessly elevate even the most basic outfit.
What we love about the Exaggerated-Sole is how it plays with proportions. The chunky sole adds a bit of height and presence, while the sleek upper keeps things modern and refined. It’s this balance between boldness and minimalism that makes them so versatile—you can pair them with slim trousers for a polished look or with casual denim for a more relaxed vibe.
The Saint Laurent Gym Low demonstrates that white sneakers can be understated yet luxurious. Made from supple leather and finished with the house’s discreet logo print, they embody effortless Parisian cool—sleek, relaxed, and timeless. This type of sneaker seamlessly transitions from day to night, elevating your outfit without overpowering it.
What makes the Gym Low stand out is its versatility. Pair them with sharp tailoring for evenings out or keep it casual with jeans and a T-shirt for relaxed weekends—the effect remains sophisticated. They embody Saint Laurent’s signature blend of elegance and edge, exuding quiet confidence with every step.
Occasion: Casual wear, street style, off-duty looks
Style: Retro, sporty, chunky
Season: Year-round (especially great in fall & spring)
Best Paired With: Relaxed jeans, cargos, hoodies, oversized tees
The New Balance 550 has gone from a forgotten basketball silhouette of the late ’80s to one of the most in-demand sneakers of today. With its chunky sole, retro paneling, and low-cut profile, it strikes the perfect balance between vintage charm and modern streetwear appeal. In all-white, the 550 keeps things crisp and versatile while still carrying that unmistakable NB edge.
What makes the 550 stand out is its character. It’s bulkier than minimalist sneakers like the Stan Smith, but that’s exactly the point—it has presence. Pair them with relaxed denim or cargos, and they instantly add a laid-back, sporty vibe to your outfit. Comfortable, durable, and packed with personality, the 550 has cemented its place as one of the go-to white sneakers of the moment.
The Valentino Garavani Upvillage draws inspiration from classic tennis sneakers of the 1970s and gives them a contemporary, luxurious touch. Made in Italy from high-quality perforated leather, the design features sleek side stripes accented by the iconic VLogo. The gum-rubber midsole is finished with Valentino’s signature Rockstud details, adding texture and a hint of colour at the base — which not only helps the sneaker stand out but also prevents the constant hassle of keeping an all-white sole clean.
This pair stands out for its ability to blend vintage sport heritage with modern fashion. They’re sophisticated enough to wear with tailoring but relaxed enough to style with jeans and a bomber jacket. For us, the Upvillage feels like a revival of classic tennis style, reimagined for today’s streets, and it offers a luxurious sneaker option that’s stylish, practical, and designed to be noticed.
Best Paired With: Tailored trousers, chinos, crisp button-downs, lightweight knits
The Tom Ford Warwick exemplifies understated luxury. Crafted from supple full-grain leather, it features a clean silhouette enhanced by smooth lines, subtle branding, and a sleek finish that exudes effortless sophistication. From the moment you slip them on, the quality is immediately evident.
Versatility is where the Warwick truly shines. These sneakers flow effortlessly from smart-casual tailoring to relaxed denim, always offering a refined touch. For us, they perfectly embody Tom Ford’s philosophy—modern, timeless, and made for the man who expects his footwear to be as sharp as the rest of his wardrobe.
Best Paired With: Tailored trousers, chinos, cashmere sweaters, casual blazers
George Cleverley is renowned for its bespoke shoes, but the Jack II sneaker demonstrates the brand’s ability to deliver the same craftsmanship in casual footwear. Crafted from supple full-grain deerskin, they provide an unmistakably luxurious feel, soft to the touch and designed to mould perfectly to your foot over time. The clean, minimalist silhouette keeps them timeless, while the superior leather quality firmly situates them in the luxury sneaker category.
What sets the Jack II apart is its quiet elegance. Instead of loud branding or flashy details, it leans on understated sophistication, pairing effortlessly with tailoring or upscale casual outfits. For us, it represents the perfect balance where heritage shoemaking meets modern style, making it one of the most refined white sneakers you can own.
If you’re still searching for the perfect pair or simply want to expand your collection, there are plenty more white sneakers that deserve your attention. These options offer their own mix of heritage, craftsmanship, and personality—whether it’s vintage charm, understated luxury, or bold, statement-making designs. Here are a few more that should be on your radar.
Converse White Chuck 70 Low Sneakers (USD $60): Few sneakers hold as much cultural significance as the Chuck 70. With its vintage canvas design, reinforced stitching, and timeless rubber toe cap, it embodies decades of heritage while still feeling modern today. Comfortable, affordable, and endlessly versatile, it’s the sneaker that should be in everyone’s wardrobe—and one you’ll likely wear more than you think.
Grenson Leather Sneakers (USD $305): Known for their traditional English brogues, Grenson brings the same meticulous craftsmanship to its sneakers. Built with premium leather and clean silhouettes, they strike that balance between dressy and casual. Perfect for men who want a sneaker that works with smart tailoring as easily as it does with denim, these feel like an effortless extension of classic British style.
Celine Leather Sneakers (USD $970): Sleek and minimalist, Celine’s take on the white sneaker exemplifies understated luxury. With smooth leather, sharp lines, and subtle branding, these are the kinds of shoes that quietly elevate an outfit. Pair them with sharp tailoring or casual layers—they bring that unmistakable Parisian polish regardless, making them a perfect choice for those who appreciate subtle sophistication.
Gucci Ace Faux Watersnake-Trimmed Embroidered (USD $950): The Ace receives a bold update here, with Gucci’s signature embroidery and faux watersnake trim adding texture and colour. It’s a sneaker that doesn’t just complete an outfit—it steals the spotlight. Luxury, playful, and instantly recognizable, this version of the Ace is designed for men who want their footwear to turn heads while remaining true to the heritage design.
Why Trust Our List?
We don’t just chase hype — we carefully research, compare, and consider what genuinely makes a great white sneaker. Every pair featured here was selected for its balance of style, comfort, craftsmanship, and longevity, covering both timeless icons and modern highlights. From classics like the Adidas Stan Smith and Converse Chuck 70 to sophisticated luxury options by Tom Ford and Valentino, we’ve highlighted sneakers that have proven their value on the streets and in wardrobes around the world. By blending heritage, innovation, and real-world wearability, this list is curated to provide reliable options you can trust — whether you’re purchasing your first pair of white sneakers or looking to expand a well-loved collection.
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.
