Oprah Winfrey famously gave away two different kinds of cars to her studio audience during her show's history:
- Pontiac G6 Sedan (2004): On September 13, 2004, every member of Oprah's studio audience-276 people-received a brand-new Pontiac G6 sedan, each valued at around $28,500. This giveaway became one of the most iconic moments in television history, with the audience reacting with shock, screams, and tears. The cars were donated by Pontiac (a division of General Motors), and while state sales tax was covered, recipients still owed federal and state income taxes of about $6,000 per car
- Volkswagen Beetle (2010): In 2010, during one of her final "My Favorite Things" episodes, Oprah gave away 2012 Volkswagen Beetles to her audience. This time, all taxes, registration, license, and destination fees were paid for, so winners only had to cover gas and insurance. The winners could choose from four colors: silver, red, yellow, or light blue
These two giveaways-especially the Pontiac G6 event-are among the most memorable in Oprah's show's history.
