6. Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, Shah of Iran
The Shah of Iran, Reza Pahlavi, was not a bloodthirsty mass murderer like the other dictators on this list. However, people remember him as a ruthless leader who spent his government’s money on a lavish lifestyle and thousands of expensive cars. Yes, you read that correctly – Reza Pahlavi owned several thousand cars. The National Car Museum in Tehran, Iran displays his cars. There is even enough space on their premises to keep all of his cars.
Even today, almost 40 years after they forced him to flee Iran, people are finding his cars around the country. The Shah of Iran was known for his love of sports cars. So, despite being chauffeured in luxury limousines during the official visits, he was in his element behind the wheel of thoroughbred sports or racing cars. During the 50’s and 60’s, he was a favorite customer of Maserati, Lamborghini and Mercedes.
In addition, he would pay the expenses of research, development and prototype production, just to get a car suited for him. As a talented driver with knowledge in engineering, he discussed the technology with the world`s best constructors and drivers. They even named a Maserati after him, which was the 5000 GT Shah of Persia. There are reports of his secret service closing down some of Teheran’s boulevards, so the Shah could reach top speeds in his new Lamborghini.
His love of cars was famous. The people of Iran seemed to approve of it, since the Shah led the transition of this traditionalist county to modern society. Unfortunately, the Islamic revolution in 1979 forced him to flee, so his vast car collection spread across Iran. They sold some cars overseas or destroyed them, as well.