Show 'em how it's done. Meet people WHERE THEY ARE. Good job.
It's a great government scam.
If Oprah bought the cars - she had to pay tax.
(I don't know if they were donated as prizes, or not.)
When the winner received the vehicle - they had to also pay taxes, because it was a "winning".
You are allowed to receive a certain amount in gifts (I believe up to $20k) - but it has to be from family, I think.
But winnings are always taxable. Doesn't matter if it's from the lottery, a game show, or a church raffle.
The government figures your "personal wealth" increased, so they should get some of it.