David Spade was reported to have paid $900,000 for a restored, copper-toned 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona at Mecum’s Kissimmee auction in January 2015. That figure is a historical reported purchase price—not a current appraisal of the car. The available reporting also does not establish whether Spade still owns it.
What is known about Spade’s Daytona purchase?
Us Weekly reported on January 29, 2015, citing a source for the auction details, that Spade paid $900,000 for a restored, copper-toned 1969 Dodge Daytona offered at Mecum Auctions in Kissimmee. TMZ also reported the purchase, describing the car as fully restored and Hemi-powered. The reports support describing the transaction as reported, rather than treating an exact lot record or sale documentation for Spade’s specific car as established.
Spade joked about the purchase to Us Weekly: “It’s too nice for me. I’m just going to wake up every morning and spray it with Armor All. Or I’ll just drive it to the Beverly Center and stand on the hood.”
Was the Daytona from Joe Dirt the same car?
No. Spade’s collector car was described as restored, while the Daytona used in Joe Dirt was a separate, visibly rough vehicle. Us Weekly described the movie car as rusty, missing headlights, and needing paint. The film connection helps explain the interest in Spade’s purchase, but it does not mean he bought the movie prop.
Why is a 1969 Daytona valuable to collectors?
The Charger Daytona was a limited-production model. Hot Rod reported in May 2022 that 503 Daytonas were built for 1969, including 70 equipped with the 426 Hemi. Of those Hemi cars, 22 were paired with the A833 four-speed manual transmission.
Those production figures explain rarity; they do not determine what any individual car is worth. Engine and transmission, originality, restoration quality and records, mileage, provenance, and the sale date all matter when comparing collector cars.
Rank #2
- Recommended for age 14+ years and up, not recommended for play
- Created in tribute to America's 250 year celebration
- Part of the GreenLight Collectibles Anniversary Collection Series 18
- Material: Diecast metal with some plastic components
- Approximate dimensions: 3.5in L x 1in W x 1in H
How does $900,000 compare with other Daytona auction results?
| Reported result | Car and sale | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|
| $900,000 | Spade’s reported purchase at Mecum Kissimmee in January 2015, as reported by Us Weekly and later characterized by Hot Rod | Hot Rod called it the previous Hemi Daytona auction record in its May 2022 report. The exact lot number and primary sale record for Spade’s car are not established in the cited reporting. |
| $1.32 million | A different Hemi four-speed Daytona sold at Mecum Indianapolis on May 20, 2022, as reported by Hot Rod | A later result for a separate car; it is not a present-day appraisal of Spade’s Daytona. |
| $750,000 | A different 1969 Hemi Daytona, Mecum Lot F167, in 2017 | Mecum’s result page identifies that car as having a 426-cubic-inch, 425-horsepower engine and an automatic transmission. It is a comparison, not evidence of the specifications or value of Spade’s car. |
These figures are not interchangeable. A headline price for one Daytona cannot establish the value of another without matching the cars’ specifications, condition, documentation, provenance, and sale circumstances.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What is not established about the car today?
The cited reports do not identify Spade’s car by VIN or exact auction lot, confirm its present owner or condition, or establish a current market value. The $900,000 figure should therefore be read as the reported 2015 purchase price, not as a verified current valuation.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 1/43 scale car
- Metal
- Detailed and faithful reproduction of the original vehicle
- Car screwed to base and presented in a display box
Rank #4
- Diecast Metal Build – Crafted with durable diecast metal for a premium, long-lasting feel that stands the test of time.
- Opening Parts – Features opening parts like doors and hoods, providing an interactive experience and enhancing the realism of each model.
- Impressive 1:24 Scale – Every detail, from sleek designs to realistic features, captured perfectly in a 1:24 scale model for true-to-life representation.
- Perfect for Display or Play – Whether you’re displaying them in your collection or using them for imaginative play, these muscle cars shine in any setting.
- Jada Toys – A leader in creating high-quality diecast cars with premium craftsmanship, designed to fuel your passion for speed, style, and collectability.
Rank #3
- Opening hood, doors, trunk
- Detailed interior
- Exterior styling directly from the movie
- Die Cast Replica
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