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Long before Bill Gates became synonymous with philanthropy and global health initiatives, he was a rising tech billionaire looking for something surprisingly unflashy: a bulletproof station wagon.
In the late 1980s, Gates—already Microsoft’s leading figure—sought to purchase a discreet but armored Mercedes-Benz wagon for his family’s use. According to former dealership manager Terry Haigh, the request was made not for show but for safety. The vehicle would be driven by the Gates family nanny and was intended to blend into suburban traffic while offering protection in case of a threat.
But Mercedes-Benz wasn’t having it.
Despite Gates’ status, the German automaker denied the request outright, citing legal and liability concerns. The company, known for its engineering precision and strict production standards, refused to equip any of its station wagons with ballistic protection, even for one of the wealthiest men in the country.
So Gates turned to an unlikely alternative: a Volvo 240 DL.
The boxy Swedish sedan may not have had the badge appeal of a Mercedes, but it got the job done. Armored aftermarket, the Volvo came with its own quirks—especially frequent failures of the power window motors due to the added weight of bulletproof glass. But Gates accepted the tradeoff, prioritizing function over flair.
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It was a curious decision, but not an out-of-character one. Gates' automotive tastes have long skewed practical. Though his collection has included rarities like a Porsche 959, he’s also owned Teslas, Toyotas, and plenty of models that emphasize innovation over ostentation.
The story of the rejected Mercedes reveals a rare moment when wealth didn’t win out—and a glimpse into the deliberate mindset of a man who’s always been more substance than spectacle.
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