Exploring Tim Walz’s Car Collection: An In-Depth Analysis
Tim Walz, the Governor of Minnesota, is known for his leadership and dedication to public service. However, beyond his political career, Walz has a notable interest in automobiles. His car collection reflects a mix of practicality, style, and an appreciation for both classic and modern vehicles. In this article, we delve into the details of Tim Walz’s car collection, examining when and where he bought each car if he is still using them, the purchase prices, current retail prices, and features. Let’s explore the fascinating world of Tim Walz’s car collection.
Tim Walz’s Car Collection
1. 1966 Ford Mustang
Tim Walz’s love for classic cars is evident with his ownership of a 1966 Ford Mustang. This iconic American muscle car represents a bygone era of automotive excellence. Walz purchased this vehicle in 2005 from a classic car dealership in Minneapolis. The Mustang was acquired for $25,000, a fair price for its condition and historical significance.
Features:
- Engine: 289 cubic inch V8
- Transmission: 3-speed manual
- Interior: Black vinyl with bucket seats
- Exterior: Candy Apple Red
- Current Retail Price: $40,000 – $60,000 (depending on condition)
Walz occasionally drives this beauty for special events and parades, showcasing his appreciation for automotive history and American engineering.
2. 2018 Tesla Model S
Emphasizing his commitment to sustainability and modern technology, Tim Walz added a 2018 Tesla Model S to his collection. He purchased this electric vehicle directly from Tesla’s showroom in Minneapolis in early 2018. The Model S was bought for approximately $80,000.
Features:
- Battery: 100 kWh
- Range: 335 miles per charge
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds
- Interior: Premium leather with a 17-inch touchscreen
- Exterior: Midnight Silver Metallic
- Current Retail Price: $50,000 – $60,000 (used)
Walz uses the Tesla Model S as his daily driver, reflecting his support for green energy and innovative automotive technology.
3. 2020 Ford F-150
Recognizing the need for a reliable and versatile vehicle, Walz invested in a 2020 Ford F-150. This full-sized pickup truck was purchased from a Ford dealership in St. Paul for $45,000.
Features:
- Engine: 3.5L V6 EcoBoost
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Interior: Cloth seats with an 8-inch infotainment screen
- Exterior: Oxford White
- Current Retail Price: $35,000 – $40,000 (used)
The F-150 serves as a practical vehicle for various needs, including transportation during campaign events and state visits.
4. 2015 Chevrolet Suburban
For family and official travel, Tim Walz relies on his 2015 Chevrolet Suburban. This full-sized SUV was purchased in 2015 for $55,000 from a Chevrolet dealership in Rochester.
Features:
- Engine: 5.3L V8
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Interior: Leather with tri-zone climate control
- Exterior: Black
- Current Retail Price: $25,000 – $30,000 (used)
The Suburban is still in use today, providing ample space and comfort for both personal and professional travel.
5. 2019 Jeep Wrangler
Tim Walz’s adventurous spirit is reflected in his 2019 Jeep Wrangler, a vehicle known for its off-road capabilities. Purchased in 2019 for $40,000 from a Jeep dealership in Duluth, this vehicle adds a rugged element to his collection.
Features:
- Engine: 3.6L V6
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Interior: Cloth seats with Uconnect infotainment system
- Exterior: Firecracker Red
- Current Retail Price: $30,000 – $35,000 (used)
Walz enjoys using the Jeep Wrangler for outdoor activities and exploring Minnesota’s natural beauty.
6. 2012 BMW 3 Series
Adding a touch of European elegance to his collection, Tim Walz owns a 2012 BMW 3 Series. This compact executive car was bought in 2012 for $35,000 from a BMW dealership in Minneapolis.
Features:
- Engine: 2.0L turbocharged inline-4
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Interior: Leather with a sunroof
- Exterior: Alpine White
- Current Retail Price: $10,000 – $15,000 (used)
The BMW 3 Series is used for more formal occasions, providing a balance of performance and luxury.
7. 2008 Toyota Prius
Tim Walz’s commitment to environmental sustainability is further demonstrated by his ownership of a 2008 Toyota Prius. This hybrid vehicle was purchased in 2008 for $25,000 from a Toyota dealership in Mankato.
Features:
- Engine: 1.5L 4-cylinder hybrid
- Transmission: CVT automatic
- Interior: Fabric seats with a touchscreen display
- Exterior: Silver Metallic
- Current Retail Price: $5,000 – $7,000 (used)
The Prius is still in use today, mainly for short commutes and local travel.
8. 2016 Subaru Outback
For a mix of practicality and ruggedness, Tim Walz owns a 2016 Subaru Outback. Purchased in 2016 for $30,000 from a Subaru dealership in St. Cloud, this vehicle is perfect for Minnesota’s varying weather conditions.
Features:
- Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder
- Transmission: CVT automatic
- Interior: Cloth seats with a touchscreen display
- Exterior: Crystal White Pearl
- Current Retail Price: $15,000 – $20,000 (used)
The Outback is used for family trips and weekend getaways, offering versatility and reliability.
9. 2017 Honda Civic
Tim Walz’s collection also includes a 2017 Honda Civic, known for its reliability and efficiency. This compact car was bought in 2017 for $22,000 from a Honda dealership in Bloomington.
Features:
- Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder
- Transmission: CVT automatic
- Interior: Cloth seats with a touchscreen display
- Exterior: Lunar Silver Metallic
- Current Retail Price: $12,000 – $15,000 (used)
The Honda Civic serves as a practical vehicle for everyday use, especially for shorter trips around town.
10. 2013 Cadillac Escalade
Adding a touch of American luxury to his collection, Tim Walz owns a 2013 Cadillac Escalade. This full-sized SUV was purchased in 2013 for $70,000 from a Cadillac dealership in Minneapolis.
Features:
- Engine: 6.2L V8
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Interior: Leather with a rear-seat entertainment system
- Exterior: Black Raven
- Current Retail Price: $20,000 – $25,000 (used)
The Escalade is used for both personal and official purposes, offering a combination of luxury and performance.
11. 2021 Ford Explorer
Tim Walz’s collection includes a 2021 Ford Explorer, a mid-sized SUV known for its versatility and advanced technology. This vehicle was purchased in 2021 for $50,000 from a Ford dealership in St. Paul.
Features:
- Engine: 2.3L turbocharged inline-4
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Interior: Leather with a 10.1-inch touchscreen
- Exterior: Rapid Red Metallic
- Current Retail Price: $45,000 – $50,000 (used)
The Explorer is used for various official duties, providing a blend of practicality and modern features.
12. 2014 Audi Q7
Tim Walz also owns a 2014 Audi Q7, a luxury SUV that offers performance and comfort. This vehicle was purchased in 2014 for $60,000 from an Audi dealership in Minneapolis.
Features:
- Engine: 3.0L V6
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Interior: Leather with a panoramic sunroof
- Exterior: Glacier White Metallic
- Current Retail Price: $20,000 – $25,000 (used)
The Audi Q7 is used for longer trips and official travel, offering a comfortable and luxurious ride.
13. 2020 Lexus RX 350
Adding a touch of Japanese luxury to his collection, Tim Walz owns a 2020 Lexus RX 350. This mid-sized luxury SUV was purchased in 2020 for $55,000 from a Lexus dealership in Rochester.
Features:
- Engine: 3.5L V6
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Interior: Leather with a 12.3-inch touchscreen
- Exterior: Eminent White Pearl
- Current Retail Price: $50,000 – $55,000 (used)
The RX 350 is used for both personal and professional purposes, offering a luxurious and comfortable driving experience.
14. 2011 Chevrolet Volt
Tim Walz’s commitment to green energy is further demonstrated by his ownership of a 2011 Chevrolet Volt. This plug-in hybrid vehicle was purchased in 2011 for $40,000 from a Chevrolet dealership in Mankato.
Features:
- Engine: 1.4L 4-cylinder with an electric motor
- Transmission: CVT automatic
- Interior: Cloth seats with a touchscreen display
- Exterior: Cyber Gray Metallic
- Current Retail Price: $8,000 – $10,000 (used)
The Volt is still in use today, primarily for local travel and short commutes.
15. 2019 Volvo XC90
Completing his collection, Tim Walz owns a 2019 Volvo XC90, a luxury SUV known for its safety features and advanced technology. This vehicle was purchased in 2019 for $65,000 from a Volvo dealership in St. Paul.
Features:
- Engine: 2.0L turbocharged inline-4
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Interior: Leather with a 9-inch touchscreen
- Exterior: Onyx Black Metallic
- Current Retail Price: $55,000 – $60,000 (used)
The XC90 is used for family trips and official travel, offering a combination of safety, luxury, and modern features.
Conclusion
Tim Walz’s car collection is a testament to his diverse automotive tastes, ranging from classic American muscle cars to modern electric vehicles. His collection reflects a balance of practicality, luxury, and a commitment to sustainability. As an auto dealer, it’s fascinating to see how Walz’s choices highlight his appreciation for both classic and contemporary vehicles. Each car in his collection tells a story, showcasing his love for automobiles and his dedication to preserving automotive history while embracing the future of transportation.
FAQs About Tim Walz’s Car Collection
1. What are the standout cars in Tim Walz’s collection?
Tim Walz’s car collection features a mix of classic, practical, and luxurious vehicles. Some standout cars include the 1966 Ford Mustang, which represents his appreciation for classic American muscle cars, and the 2018 Tesla Model S, showcasing his commitment to sustainability and modern automotive technology. The collection also includes a 2020 Ford F-150, reflecting practicality and versatility, and a 2013 Cadillac Escalade, adding a touch of American luxury.
2. When did Tim Walz start collecting cars?
Tim Walz’s interest in cars has been longstanding, but his collection began to take shape around the early 2000s. His purchase of the 1966 Ford Mustang in 2005 marked the beginning of his collection. Over the years, Walz has added various cars to his collection, each reflecting his evolving tastes and interests in the automotive world.
3. How does Tim Walz choose his cars?
Tim Walz selects his cars based on a combination of personal interest, practicality, and appreciation for automotive history and innovation. His choices reflect a balance between classic cars like the 1966 Ford Mustang, which holds historical significance, and modern vehicles like the 2018 Tesla Model S, which emphasizes sustainability and advanced technology. He also considers practical needs, evident in his ownership of the 2020 Ford F-150 and the 2015 Chevrolet Suburban.
4. Is Tim Walz still using all the cars in his collection?
Tim Walz actively uses several cars from his collection, although not all are in regular rotation. For instance, the 2018 Tesla Model S serves as his daily driver due to its eco-friendliness and modern features. The 1966 Ford Mustang is reserved for special events and parades, showcasing his appreciation for classic cars. Other vehicles, such as the 2020 Ford F-150 and 2015 Chevrolet Suburban, are used for specific purposes, including official duties and family travel.
5. What are some unique features of Tim Walz’s cars?
Each car in Tim Walz’s collection boasts unique features that highlight its significance and appeal. The 1966 Ford Mustang, for example, features a 289 cubic inch V8 engine and Candy Apple Red exterior, representing the quintessential American muscle car. The 2018 Tesla Model S includes a 100 kWh battery and a range of 335 miles per charge, emphasizing modern electric vehicle technology. The 2020 Ford F-150 is equipped with a 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine and advanced towing capabilities, showcasing practicality and performance. Each vehicle in Walz’s collection is chosen for its distinctive characteristics and how it fits into his broader automotive interests.
