15 Indian Celebrities And Their First Cars: From A Maruti 800 To A Mercedes-Benz

Owning a car is a dream that almost everyone grows up with. For many, it becomes a reality through years of hard work, saving, and determination. That moment when someone buys their first car is unforgettable. It’s not just about having a mode of transport; it’s about achieving a milestone, gaining independence, and experiencing the joy of success in a tangible form. A person’s first car often becomes a memory they carry for life, no matter how many luxury vehicles they own later. This feeling is no different for our favorite celebrities.

From Rajinikanth’s modest beginnings to Shah Rukh Khan’s early struggles, their first cars represent far more than just four wheels; they reflect their journey and their rise to stardom.

Here’s a look at Bollywood celebrities and the beloved first cars that hold a special place in their hearts, to date.

1. Rajinikanth’s first car was Premier Padmini

Our dear Thalaiva i.e. Rajinikanth is one of the most loved and admired celebrities in India, known not just for his stardom but also for his humility. Interestingly, the first car he ever bought was a white Premier Padmini; a classic that many from Gen-Z might not recognize, but his loyal fans from the 90s surely remember fondly.

This vintage beauty holds a special place in his heart, and despite owning several luxurious cars today such as luxury SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser and Mercedes-Benz models, he still treasures and preserves it. It’s a symbol of his journey from modest beginnings to superstardom.

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2. Dharmendra’s first car was Fiat 1100

Buying  a car for Rs. 18000 sounds like a joke but it was a reality in the 1960s. Purchased in the 1960s for just Rs. 18,000, veteran actor Dharmendra’s first car, a Fiat 1100, remains a treasured part of his journey. This car was one of the early models to hit Indian roads and has since gained a classic, vintage status.

At present he owns luxurious cars like Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Range Rover but nothing compares to the first purchase. Even after more than six decades, Dharmendra’s beloved Fiat 1100 is still in remarkable condition.

3. Salman Khan’s first car was Triumph Herald

Unlike the luxury vehicles he owns today, Salman Khan’s first car was a modest and reliable vehicle that marked the beginning of his journey to stardom. It was a Triumph Herald. The car was gifted to Salim Khan in recognition of his outstanding writing for the 1985 film Zamana and was later passed down to Salman.

Interestingly, the iconic car originally belonged to the late Rishi Kapoor who was a part of the film. To say that despite owning Rolls-Royce Phantom, Bentley Continental GT, BMW X6, and a Land Rover Defender among others, Triumph Herald has been dear to Salman Khan would be a sheer understatement.

4. Imtiaz Ali’s first car was Maruti 800

Imtiaz Ali, the acclaimed Bollywood director known for his heartfelt and relatable storytelling, started his journey just like many others; with humble beginnings. While Imtiaz Ali now drives a luxurious BMW 6-Series GT, it was the Maruti 800 that marked the start of his personal and professional journey.

Maruti 800 is one such vehicle that holds a special place in the hearts of countless Indians and instantly evokes a sense of nostalgia.

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5. Shah Rukh Khan’s first car was Maruti Suzuki Omni

Shah Rukh Khan, the King of Bollywood, never fails to make headlines with his charismatic presence and latest ventures. He recently made his much-awaited debut at the Met Gala, winning hearts worldwide and delighting his fans. SRK has one of the most luxurious car collections in the Bollywood industry. But have you ever wondered what his first car was? Despite owning some of the most luxurious vehicles today, SRK’s very first car was a humble Maruti Suzuki Omni.

It was a gift from his mother during his struggling days. This simple vehicle holds a special place in his heart, reminding us that even legends start with modest beginnings.

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6. Amitabh Bachchan’s first car was Fiat 1100

Big B of Bollywood is renowned for his impressive collection of luxurious cars, including the Bentley Continental GT and Rolls-Royce. However, if we look back at his very first car purchase, it was quite humble compared to his current fleet. Amitabh Bachchan’s first car was none other than a second-hand Fiat 1100.

He bought this iconic vehicle after the success of his debut film, Saat Hindustani. This early purchase reflects the beginning of his incredible journey.

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7. Akshay Kumar’s first car was Fiat Padmini

Akshay Kumar is known for his dedication and consistency, with new movies releasing almost every year. With such a busy and successful career, it’s no surprise that he owns a collection of expensive and luxurious cars today. However, no matter how many high-end vehicles he acquires, his first car will always hold a special place. That first purchase was nothing else but a Fiat Padmini.

It was indeed more than just a car; it marked the beginning of his journey. Akshay even took it to Shirdi to seek blessings for a prosperous career, and his hard work has truly paid off since then.

8. Sachin Tendulkar’s first car was Maruti 800

Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, a Padma awardee and cricketing legend, is known not only for his incredible achievements on the field but also for his impressive collection of luxury cars. Despite owning several stylish sedans and supercars, Sachin has always valued his humble beginnings. His first car was a modest Maruti 800, a symbol of the early days of his journey.

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9. Kajol’s first car was Maruti Suzuki 1000

Kajol, one of Bollywood’s most iconic actresses, also began her journey with a humble first purchase. Her first car was purchase for Rs 4 Lakh and it was the Maruti Suzuki 1000, one of the early premium sedans launched in India in 1990. While Kajol is often seen driving luxurious SUVs today, she still holds a special place in her heart for that first car. It remains her first love and a reminder of the early days of her successful career.

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10.  Katrina Kaif’s first car was Audi Q7

Katrina Kaif became a household name from the early 2000s and continues to be one of Bollywood’s most beloved actresses even today. Known for her grace and talent, she has built a successful career over the years.  Her first car purchase holds a special place in her heart, and it was none other than the luxurious Audi Q7.

With a price range between Rs. 59 lakhs and Rs. 85 lakhs, this elegant vehicle marked an important milestone in Katrina’s journey.

11. Priyanka Chopra’s first car was Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan

Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who has truly made a mark on the international stage, was also a stunning presence at this year’s Met Gala. Unlike any other Bollywood star, she has successfully carved out a global identity for herself through her work and style. Her first car was a Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan, valued between Rs 1.57 crore and Rs 1.62 crore.

This elegant vehicle marked the beginning of her journey toward becoming a worldwide icon.

12. Deepika Padukone’s first car was Audi Q7

When it comes to actresses who rose to fame in the early 2000s, the name Deepika Padukone is impossible to miss. She made a spectacular debut in 2006 with Om Shanti Om alongside Shah Rukh Khan, which became a massive hit. Following this success, Deepika bought her first car, an Audi Q7 worth around Rs. 80 lakhs.

Today, she owns an impressive collection of luxury vehicles, including a BMW 5-Series, a Mini Cooper, and a Mercedes Maybach S500 among others.

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13. Kangana Ranaut’s first car was BMW 7 Series

Kangana Ranaut, who began her Bollywood journey at just 17, quickly became a household name known for delivering several huge hits. Today, Kangana is not only celebrated for her powerful performances but has also made a significant shift by stepping into the world of politics. Talking about her humble beginnings, she rose to superstardom by the age of 21 and that is when she bought her first car which was none other than luxurious BMW 7 Series, costing around Rs. 1.30 crore.

14.  Alia Bhat’s first car was Audi Q7

Alia Bhatt, one of Bollywood’s most successful stars, began her journey into ‘buying first car’ with the iconic Audi Q7. She bought the vehicle soon after her big breakthrough in the film industry, and it continues to be a cherished part of her car collection. Today, Alia’s garage boasts an impressive lineup of luxury vehicles, including the stylish Range Rover and the sleek Audi A6.

Despite owning several high-end cars now, the Audi Q7 remains a reminder of her early success and the milestones that shaped her journey.

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15. Sara Ali Khan’s first car was Honda CR-V

Hailing from the royal Pataudi family, Sara Ali Khan had every opportunity to indulge in the finest luxuries early on. However, she chose to begin her journey with simplicity and grace. Her first car was a white Honda CR-V, a humble yet reliable choice that cost around Rs. 30 lakhs.

This decision reflects Sara’s grounded nature and shows that despite her royal lineage, she chose what was good enough.

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The humble beginnings that the richest celebrities had is truly amazing to know. What are your thoughts on this list of 15 celebrities and their first cars? Do share your thoughts via the comments below.

Also read: 21 Bollywood Celebrities And Their Luxurious Cars Which Shows Their Lavish Life