Remembering Dharmendra: Here’s the Iconic Car Collection of India’s Biggest Icon

Dharmendra, a legendary figure in Indian cinema, passed away on November 24, 2025. Known for his remarkable films like Sholay and Seeta aur Geeta, he was also passionate about automobiles. His car collection included iconic models such as the Premier Padmini, a significant vintage vehicle, the luxurious Range Rover Vogue, and the rare Mercedes-Benz SL500, showcasing luxury and advanced technology. Additionally, the BMW X5 highlighted his appreciation for performance and comfort in driving. Dharmendra's legacy continues through his cinematic contributions and love for cars.

Remembering Dharmendra: Here’s the Iconic Car Collection of India’s Biggest Icon

Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol, popularly known as Dharmendra by Indian cinema fraternity sadly passed away on November 24, 2025. The late actor, widely regarded as one of the best actors from his generation, boasted a film repertoire of movies including Sholay, Yamla Pagala Deewana, Seeta aur Geeta, Phool aur Patthar and Ankhen, among others.

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How does Dharmendra's car collection compare to other Bollywood celebrities like Shahid Kapoor or Amitabh Bachchan?

Dharmendra's collection features classic and luxury cars, reflecting his status as a vintage car enthusiast, while celebrities like Shahid Kapoor own high-performance vehicles like the Mercedes-Maybach and Porsche. Amitabh Bachchan's collection includes ultra-luxury cars such as the Rolls-Royce Phantom, showcasing a preference for high-end brands. This contrast highlights different automotive tastes among Bollywood stars, from classic elegance to modern luxury.

What are some unique features of the Range Rover Vogue that set it apart in Dharmendra's collection?

The Range Rover Vogue is known for its luxurious interior and advanced technology, including a powerful 4.4L SDV8 diesel engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Its off-road capabilities are unmatched for an SUV of its size, making it versatile for both urban and rugged terrains. The Vogue also boasts plush leather upholstery and high-tech features like adaptive air suspension, ensuring comfort and performance in all driving conditions.

What are the historical significance and cultural impact of the Premier Padmini in India?

The Premier Padmini, known as the Fiat 1100, played a crucial role in the Indian automotive industry from 1964 to 2001. It became a symbol of modernity and social status during India's post-independence era, particularly among the youth. The car's stylish design and fuel efficiency made it popular, reflecting the aspirations of a growing middle class. Its long production run contributed to shaping the automotive landscape in India.

How does the Mercedes-Benz SL500's technology compare to modern luxury cars?

The Mercedes-Benz SL500, with features like the Active Body Control suspension and Sensotronic Brake Control, was ahead of its time, focusing on dynamic handling and safety. Modern luxury cars continue to innovate with advanced driver-assistance systems and connectivity features, but the SL500's emphasis on ride comfort and performance remains relevant. Its blend of luxury and technology set a precedent for future luxury sports cars.

What makes the BMW X5 a popular choice among luxury SUV buyers?

The BMW X5 is favored for its blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology. With a powerful engine lineup, precise steering, and adaptive air suspension, it provides a dynamic driving experience. Its spacious interior, premium materials, and modern infotainment systems cater to comfort and convenience, making it a versatile choice for both city driving and off-road adventures. This combination of attributes positions the X5 as a leader in the luxury SUV segment.

While his movies will continue to live forever, the cinema legend was an automotive enthusiast. From riding a 1942 BSA WM 500cc bike in Sholay to driving a 1935 MG PA Roadster in Yakeen. While we are saddened by the loss, we want to celebrate the icon that he was. And being auto enthusiasts, the best way that we know of doing so, is to share Dharmendra’s love for cars. So, let’s take a look at some of the most iconic cars of the late actor:\

Dharmendra Car Collection: Premier Padmini

Premier Padmini

The Fiat 1100 was bought by the late actor in 1960s for a reported sum of Rs 18,000, a significant amount for that time. The car forms an integral part of his collection, with the vintage car being in impressive condition despite being almost 65 years old. The Fiat 1100 was popularly known in India as the Premier Padmini was powered by a 1,089cc four-cylinder engine producing approximately 39.45 bhp and 69 Nm of torque, paired with a four-speed transmission.

The Premier Padmini was one of the foundational car in the developing years of the Indian automotive sector. The car, at the peak of its powers, was considered a symbol of modernity and social status. The Indian youth was especially drawn towards the car owing to its modern look and fuel economic running. Not only that but the car was manufactured from 1964 to 2001, marking a run for almost four decades.

Dharmendra Car Collection: Range Rover Vogue

Range Rover Vogue

One of his later acquisitions, the Range Rover Vogue is a car that is powered by a 4.4L SDV8 diesel engine producing 330.4 bhp and 740 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The SUV is one of the biggest cars in his collection.
The Range Rover Vogue boasts a mix of luxury, performance, and advanced technology. It has plush, spacious interiors boasting high-quality leather upholstery. Not only that, but the Range Rover has unmatched off-road prowess despite its big size.

Dharmendra Car Collection: Mercedes-Benz SL500

Mercedes-Benz SL500

One of the most luxurious cars of its time, the Mercedes-Benz SL500 was considered a symbol of luxury and wealth as the two-seater roadster from the German automaker was an extremely rare car to find. The Mercedes-Benz SL500 was powered by a 5.0L V8 engine producing 297.8 bhp and 459.6 Nm of torque, sending power to its rear wheels.
The Mercedes-Benz SL500 is an iconic car owing to a bunch of features available on the two-seater roadster, one of which is the Active Body Control (ABC) suspension system, which mixes springs and dampers with a hydraulically-controlled servo cylinder that controls the car’s dynamics for the best possible ride. The SL is the first road-car to feature the company’s Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) system, which sends electronic instructions to the individual brake calipers on the basis of pressure applied on the pedal and the ability of the wheel to cope with the braking force.

Dharmendra's Car Collection: BMW X5

BMW X5

Another luxury SUV from Dharmendra’s car collection, the BMW X5 is powered by a 3.0L straight-six diesel engine, paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. It delivers 251.52 bhp of power and 560 Nm of torque. The X5 is known to be a driver’s SUV, owing to its agility, precise steering control, drive modes and active air suspension, turning the harshest off-road segments into comfortable rides.
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