Not all billionaires cruise around in supercars or luxurious limousines. Bernard Arnault, chairman of luxury giant LVMH and currently the world’s fifth-richest person, once preferred a modest Peugeot 205 GTI valued at around $12,000. His choice of vehicle, however, once led to a surprising encounter when a security guard denied him entry to his own company, doubting that a billionaire would drive such an “ordinary” car.
The Practicality Behind Arnault’s Car Choice
In the 1990s, despite his rapidly increasing wealth, Arnault chose this compact, moderately priced car for daily use. Unlike many of his wealthy peers, who often prefer lavish vehicles, Arnault favored practicality and discretion. To ensure his safety, the car was re-equipped with advanced security features, including B2 armor that could withstand small to medium-caliber bullets, and bulletproof windows. These modifications significantly increased the car’s weight, adding a hidden layer of protection without drawing attention.
The “Genuine” Simplicity of Arnault’s Peugeot
The car’s most luxurious feature was its genuine leather interior. Other than that, Arnault’s Peugeot 205 GTI remained largely unassuming—a quality he valued. The unremarkable appearance of the vehicle allowed him to move around without attracting unnecessary attention. However, this inconspicuous “strategy” led to an amusing situation when Arnault arrived at work one day and was stopped by security. The guard, unaware of Arnault’s identity, found it hard to believe that the LVMH billionaire would show up in such a humble car and asked him to leave.
From Daily Ride to Collector’s Item
Arnault’s Peugeot 205 GTI has since become a notable collector’s item. In 2018, it was auctioned for approximately $40,000, and it is now back on the market with an asking price of nearly $66,000—far surpassing the typical value of similar models. This vehicle, once a symbol of modesty, is now sought after for its connection to one of the world’s most influential businessmen.
The LVMH “Empire” and Arnault’s Approach to Wealth
Bernard Arnault oversees an impressive portfolio at LVMH, encompassing 75 luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Sephora. Despite his vast wealth, Arnault’s down-to-earth choice of car highlights a different approach to billionaire life, one not centered around ostentation. While his net worth has seen fluctuations—recently dropping by $54 billion due to LVMH stock performance—Arnault’s story demonstrates that not all billionaires choose to flaunt their fortune through extravagant lifestyles. Instead, his Peugeot 205 GTI reflects a pragmatic and understated side to his personality, showing that wealth and humility can indeed coexist.
