Cleetus McFarland’s Epic 150-Car Collection: A Crown Vic Paradise

In the heart of Bradenton, Florida, at the Freedom Factory compound, YouTuber-turned-NASCAR-racer Cleetus McFarland has built an automotive empire that’s as wild as it is diverse. With over four million subscribers glued to his high-octane YouTube channel, McFarland, whose real name is Garrett Mitchell, recently pulled back the curtain on his jaw-dropping collection of over 150 vehicles. From race cars to quirky project builds, the star of this show is undoubtedly his obsession with Ford Crown Victorias—affectionately dubbed “Crown Vics.” If you’re a car enthusiast or just love a good story of passion and chaos, this collection is a must-see.

A Collection Like No Other

McFarland’s love for cars isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle. His latest YouTube video, a full tour of his sprawling garage, showcases everything from souped-up race cars to a John Deere tractor and even a hot dog stand. But let’s be real—it’s the Crown Vics that steal the spotlight. With too many to count (some estimate over 50), these full-sized Ford sedans dominate his property like a fleet ready for a Hollywood action flick. Why so many? As McFarland might say, “Because ‘MERICA!”

From retired police interceptors to a pizza delivery Vic, each Crown Vic tells a story. One was even transformed into a side-by-side transporter with air ride, though McFarland admitted it was a bit too top-heavy for practical use. Others are race-ready, fitted with roll cages, Nitto tires, and nitrous for events like the Freedom 500, a 100-lap oval race that’s become a fan favorite. These aren’t just cars; they’re the backbone of McFarland’s brand of grassroots motorsport madness.

The Freedom Factory: Where Dreams Meet Horsepower

The Freedom Factory, McFarland’s privately owned racetrack (formerly Desoto Speedway), is the playground where these Crown Vics come to life. Since purchasing the 3/8-mile oval in 2020, he’s turned it into a hub for wild automotive experiments. Picture 21 Crown Vics tearing around the track, bumping fenders, and occasionally spinning out in glorious chaos. Events like the Freedom 500 and Bristol 1000 have drawn big names like Travis Pastrana and Lia Block, proving McFarland’s vision resonates far beyond his YouTube audience.

His collection isn’t limited to Crown Vics, though. Standouts include “Leroy,” a twin-turbo Corvette that’s a dragstrip legend, and “Eagle,” a 5,000-horsepower 1969 Camaro. There’s also “Ruby,” a turbocharged auction find, and “Neighbor,” a Crown Vic with a 1,000+ horsepower supercharged Coyote engine. Toss in a custom forklift, a jetboat, and a leased Porsche GT2 RS, and you’ve got a collection that’s as eclectic as it is impressive.

Why Crown Vics?

You might wonder why anyone would amass so many Crown Victorias. The answer lies in their affordability, durability, and versatility. These sedans, once staples of police fleets and taxi services, are dirt cheap—some in McFarland’s collection were likely free or bought for under $1,000. With V8 engines and a reputation for taking a beating, they’re perfect for McFarland’s brand of high-energy, low-budget racing. Plus, they’re a blank canvas for custom builds, whether it’s adding nitrous for speed or spray-painting wild liveries for flair.

A Community of Car Enthusiasts

What makes McFarland’s collection so shareable is the community behind it. His fans, who pack the Freedom Factory for events like Cleetus & Cars, aren’t just spectators—they’re part of the chaos. From burnout contests to school bus races, McFarland’s events are a celebration of automotive freedom. His YouTube channel, with over 1.7 billion views, captures this spirit, blending humor, heart, and horsepower. It’s no wonder posts about his collection light up platforms like Facebook, where car lovers share clips of his latest antics.

A NASCAR Dream in the Making

McFarland’s not just a YouTuber anymore. In 2025, he made his ARCA Menards Series debut at Daytona, piloting the No. 30 car for Rette Jones Racing. While his first race ended in a crash, his passion for racing is undeniable. He’s already eyeing tracks like Talladega, proving that his car collection is more than a hobby