Almost as reliable as the super heroics of our favorite heroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is Tony Stark’s love of amazing cars. As soon as the world was introduced to the billionaire genius playboy philanthropist, it was clear that Tony is dedicated to driving (and flying) the best equipment out there – and that doesn’t include the goodies he invents for himself.
But along with high-octane, top gear mechanics, Tony has time and again demonstrated that defeating villains, and saving the world, requires dedication, and attention to detail. Just how does he do it? Follow along as we highlight some of Stark’s best cars and share a few tips about how to stay safe on the road.
2008 Audi R8
If not for his Ol’ Shellhead suit, Audis would be Tony Stark’s signature machinery. He was first seen behind the wheel of this sweet ride in 2008’s Iron Man before replacing it with the Audi R8 Spyder in Iron Man 2. In fact, the top of the line German car (with the Stark 4 plate number, and powered by a V10 engine) is literally the one he drives to the airport in before heading off on that fateful trip to Afghanistan.
1978 Wolf WR For Replica
Despite having one of the most coveted armor in the MCU (although Black Panther’s suit comes close), Tony still feels the need for speed on four wheels – and in competition. Driving this F1 car from the Ford Motor Company, he joined the Monaco Grand Prix in this vehicle with a V8 Chevrolet engine. When racing to enter the ranks of Formula One drivers, you can bet Tony would stay safe behind the wheel and texting while driving. Unfortunately for Tony, Whiplash, aka Ivan Vanko, isn’t interested in his safety.
Acura NSX Roadster (Concept)
By the end of The Avengers in 2012, the heroes have assembled and defeated Loki before heading off in separate directions. But one hero that rode off with science bros Tony and Bruce Banner was Honda’s topless Acura NSX coupe with a mid-mounted V6 engine. The deep red concept vehicle did not actually exist when it was debuted on screen (and wasn’t available to the public for four more years). This supercar’s power definitely earns it a spot on the new team.
Rolls Royce Phantom
Even though it is part of the Stark fleet, the 2009 Phantom is not one that we actually see Tony drive. Instead, it is controlled by Tony’s main man, Happy Hogan, who drives it in Iron Man 2 (well, until Whiplash splits it in two. The black and silver car is a vehicle of luxury and comfort but also has power under the hood in the form of a 6.7-liter V12 engine. It just goes to show that, even though Tony typically likes to be in control, there are times when he should take the back seat and let some else focus on the road (after all, super-heroics and the life of a billionaire playboy can lead to fatigue).
’32Ford Flathead Roadster
Tony isn’t just a fan of shiny, new toys; he also has an appreciation of old-school power. The 32 Roadster is a classic that appeared in the first Iron Man, and one he works on in Iron Man 2 (along with some assistance from JARVIS). We don’t see Tony drive this beaut, but the restoration project had some real-world connection since the car was owned by director Jon Favreau.
Audi R8 V10 Plus
Our list concludes with the orange 2015 model seen in Captain America: Civil War. At the time of its release, this 5.2-liter V10 was the Audi’s heaviest, and more powerful, hitter. And even though Tony and Cap get a bit reckless in the film, you won’t see them losing focus in the driver’s seat and texting while driving. Save it for a final showdown in a former HYDRA base.
Fandom and the NHTSA remind you that a real hero stays focused behind the wheel. The fight to end distracted driving starts with you. Make the commitment to drive phone-free today.
- Protect lives by never texting or talking on the phone while driving.
- Be a good passenger and speak out if the driver in my car is distracted.
- Encourage my friends and family to drive phone-free.
#justdrive
