Aaron Paul, the four-time Emmy-award-winning actor known for his role as Jesse Pinkman in Breaking Bad, has a deep-rooted passion for classic cars. Growing up in rural Idaho, Paul’s love for vintage vehicles was sparked by his uncle’s 1967 Ford Mustang. This early exposure to iconic American automobiles set the stage for Paul’s future automotive adventures.
Paul’s affinity for classic cars was further fueled by his uncle’s gift of a model 1965 Shelby Cobra. This gesture ingrained in Paul a lifelong appreciation for the craftsmanship and design of vintage cars. As he embarked on his acting career, Paul’s first splurge was a 1965 Cobra continuation car, purchased from Shelby American during a memorable date night in Las Vegas with his wife.
While Paul currently navigates the streets of LA in a Mercedes EQS EV, his heart belongs to his Cobra, which he affectionately refers to as his daily driver. The accessibility and thrill of driving the Cobra allow Paul to indulge in his passion for vintage cars without the pressure of preserving a multi-million dollar original.
In his role in the movie Need for Speed, Paul had the opportunity to showcase his driving skills behind the wheel of various classic cars, including a vintage Ford Torino. The experience of mastering stunt driving for the film provided Paul with a new level of appreciation for the artistry and precision required in executing high-speed maneuvers on camera.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Paul remains grounded in his love for classic cars, particularly Mercedes-Benz vehicles. As a brand ambassador for Mercedes, Paul admires the timeless elegance of models like the Gullwing and the 1971 Mercedes 300SEL 6.3. The allure of classic Benz cars with their distinctive design elements and iconic emblems continues to captivate Paul’s imagination.
Amidst his busy schedule, Paul has faced challenges with one of his most cherished possessions, a 1969 Ford Torino that went missing for close to three years. Entrusted to a mechanic who disappeared without a trace, the Torino suffered neglect and damage, leaving Paul devastated by the loss of his beloved classic car. Despite this setback, Paul remains optimistic about the future of his automotive collection and looks forward to restoring the Torino to its former glory.
In addition to his acting career, Paul is involved in various entrepreneurial ventures, including Dos Hombres, a mezcal company he co-founded with his Breaking Bad co-star Bryan Cranston. Celebrating five years on the market, Dos Hombres reflects Paul’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship in all his endeavors. With plans to launch a caviar company, The Only, and explore the world of truffles, Paul’s passion for luxury and fine living extends beyond the realm of acting and classic cars.
As Paul reflects on his journey from rural Idaho to Hollywood stardom, his love for classic cars remains a driving force in his life. Whether cruising in his vintage Cobra or dreaming of acquiring a classic Mercedes-Benz, Paul’s connection to the world of classic cars is a testament to his enduring passion for automotive excellence. Despite the challenges he has faced with his lost Torino, Paul’s unwavering dedication to the preservation and enjoyment of classic cars is a testament to his enduring love for the artistry and craftsmanship of vintage vehicles.