While the British monarchy is synonymous with royalty, tradition, and history, there is another integral part of their history that goes overlooked-the truly exceptional range of vehicles. Over more than one hundred years of motoring, cars used by the British family have borne testament to the era, the taste of individual members of the monarchy, and all kinds of technical advances. Each motor car has its own unique history.
There is little doubt that a collection of cars the size of that possessed by the Royal Family over the years would never be purely for static display. Some vehicles were designed for state functions and state visits abroad; some cars were used only for the utmost personal travel during rural retreat, family occasions or private exploration. The models used represent the more personal aspect of the monarchy, representing the personalities and mannerisms away from the official duties of the monarchy.
In addition to these personal cars there is no doubt that over the years, the British monarch formed strong associations with the greatest British car manufacturers such as Daimler, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin and Jaguar, later also adopting top end European engineering and eco friendly technology. Between them these motor vehicles form a moving chronology.
1. 1900 Daimler Mail Phaeton
The royal family’s venture into motoring began officially in 1900, when King Edward VII, then the Prince of Wales, bought the Daimler Mail Phaeton. The automobile was, at the time, an untested piece of technology which most people viewed as unreliable and noisy, in comparison with the carriage pulled by the usual method of horses. However, despite this lack of knowledge, the Prince of Wales saw something in the future for the automobile and became one of the first members of royalty to adopt the new mode of transport.
Key Historical Significance of the Daimler Mail Phaeton:
- First royal automobile purchase
- Early support for motor technology
- Symbol of transportation modernization
- Six-horsepower pioneering vehicle
- Beginning of royal car legacy
The modest 6HP Daimler Mail Phaeton, a “state of the art vehicle” of its time, meant a revolutionary change for the British monarchy, bridging the era of the coach with the future of the car. A far cry from the technological marvels of the 21st century, in 1900 the Mail Phaeton was “light, and perfectly formed, reflecting the advance in both engineering and attitude of the Royal Family”.
It may be largely static now, but its significance is profound. This one car heralded over a century of Royal motoring and forged a unique relationship between the monarchy and the motor industry, ultimately paving the way for arguably the finest private collection of cars the world has ever seen.
2. 1955 Rolls-Royce Phantom IV State Landaulet
As soon as Elizabeth II came to the throne the Rolls-Royce brand became a symbol of royalty. The quality, image and style of a Rolls-Royce would complement that of the crown perfectly. One of the first, truly regal, royal motorcars was the Phantom IV State Landaulet.
Key Features of the Phantom IV State Landaulet:
- Extremely rare ceremonial royal limousine
- Reserved for heads of state
- Symbol of prestige and luxury
- Long-term royal service vehicle
- Icon of British ceremonial tradition
One of the rarest vehicles to be put into production in history; only 18 Phantom IV vehicles were produced by Rolls-Royce. This is no doubt largely down to the exclusive nature of ownership; they could only be purchased by a ruling monarch or head of state. A Phantom IV was more than just a vehicle in its own right. It became an international statement of authority, luxury and diplomacy.
The Queen’s Phantom IV remained in royal service for over forty years, before eventually being returned to Rolls-Royce. It showed the quality that the car was made with and also the dedication of the monarchy to keeping traditional values. It stands today as an icon to the era of traditional British ceremonial luxury and royal car.
3. 1961 Vauxhall Cresta PA Friary Estate
Far from state occasions and formal royal events, Queen Elizabeth II was far more at home with the natural world and outside activities. Her down-to-earth nature is typified by the Vauxhall Cresta PA Friary Estate, and it is thought that this vehicle was her favourite personal one.
Unique Features of the Royal Vauxhall Estate:
- Customized for countryside lifestyle
- Included fishing rod holders
- Featured hunting gun rack
- Protective guard for royal corgis
- Distinctive Imperial Green finish
Special features for outdoor and countryside use made the vehicle the perfect accessory for the Queen. The specific additions made to the Vauxhall were, for example, the custom made rod holders, the rifle rack used when hunting and the safety dog guard to keep her beloved corgis from going astray. The modifications in effect made the car and, indeed, the entire story behind it a reflection of her interests and lifestyle when out of royal duties.
The Vauxhall became one of the most striking models in royal service and finished in the specially commissioned Imperial Green the vehicle stands out as something of a unique and highly personal part of the royal fleet. It showed a part of the Queen in a more informal and private capacity, a lover of country life and outdoor pastimes.
4. 2002 Bentley State Limousine
This brings us to the start of the contemporary age of royal cars, the Bentley State Limousine introduced in 2002. Custom built to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee, this car truly signalled the new era that the monarchy was now entering in its reliance on British automotive design.
Key Features of the Bentley State Limousine:
- Built for Golden Jubilee celebrations
- Only two examples ever produced
- Large glass panels for visibility
- Advanced armored protection systems
- Blend of luxury and security
The Bentley State Limousine was one of the rarest state vehicles, with just two of them being made. It was designed with a raised roofline and a large section of glass that permitted a good view of the Queen for all of the crowd during state visits and formal occasions, but still preserved the royal luxury and the need for easier entry and a good view while on state occasions. Behind the luxury exterior was one of the most advanced security features ever made for state vehicles.
The luxury state limousine contained armored panels, run-flat tires and chemical-fighting defense systems. Bentley motors successfully managed to combine luxury and royal decor with a state vehicle that fulfilled all of the safety requirements necessary for a modern royal protection system.
5. 1954 Lagonda 3-Liter Drophead Coupe
An engineering enthusiast Prince Philip obviously expressed himself in his choice of vehicles. A prime example of this is the Lagonda 3-Liter Drophead Coupe-a complex luxury vehicle that introduced the name Aston Martin Lagonda into the royal garage. It typified the pinnacle of 1950’s engineering, and British engineering, at that.
Unique Features of the Royal Lagonda Coupe:
- Advanced radio telephone communication system
- Early example of mobile connectivity
- Customized luxury interior details
- Personal comfort-focused modifications
- Blend of innovation and elegance
The radio telephone system built into the car, allowing Prince Philip to speak on the telephone in transit several decades before the introduction of mobile telephones, was one of the most astounding features of this car. At the time, it was incredibly advanced and showed the Duke’s interest in modern communication technology and engineering.
It illustrated how much use the royal family’s cars made of highly sophisticated technology before it became available on the general market. The Lagonda also featured personal adjustments such as the particularly large make-up mirror required for Queen Elizabeth II to arrange her hat during the course of the journey.
6. 1961 Alvis TD21 Series II Drophead Coupe
Prince Philip owned a similar outstanding automobile to the Morris that is the Alvis TD21 Series II Drophead Coupe. The Duke first spotted the car at a motor show held in London and was very keen with the cars styling and workmanship. This vehicle was a prestige British car however, the model was later customised as the prince commissioned his own specification on it.
Custom Enhancements for the Royal Alvis:
- Five-speed ZF gearbox upgrade
- Taller windscreen for comfort
- Electrically powered folding roof
- Improved long-distance touring capability
- Blend of luxury and practicality
To enhance the car’s driving ability and to ensure greater passenger comfort, Prince Philip had the car altered. These alterations included the addition of a five speed ZF gear box, an elevated screen and a powered folding hood system. These modifications resulted in an elegant grand tourer in the form of the Alvis which would have been able to accommodate a luxurious and comfortable journey to anywhere around the country. This tailoring perfectly encapsulates the Duke’s interest in engineering exactitude and functionality.
The combination of a technologically inquisitive, elegant and practical nature, made this car a wonderful expression of Prince Philip. The car remains one of the finest classic cars in association with the royal collection and is still a keen favourite with people interested in old English vehicles.
7. 1969 Aston Martin DB6 Volante
King Charles III has been known for years to be the owner of his legendary Aston Martin DB6 Volante in Seychelles Blue. He was presented with it on his 21st birthday and it became one of the most cherished cars in the royal garage. Over the years, it has become one of the best known cars linked with the British royal family.
Notable Features of the Royal DB6 Volante:
- Gifted for King Charles’s 21st birthday
- High-performance British grand tourer
- Linked to youthful royal driving passion
- Received eco-friendly bioethanol conversion
- Symbol of royal automotive heritage
The DB6 Volante presented itself as the definitive combination of luxury and strong performance. The potent engine, capable of achieving 150 mph, convinced the royal family that their young prince required driving lessons from professional Graham Hill, and the car became irrevocably tied to the youthful Charles’s love for driving and motoring adventures.
The Aston Martin would then be brought to a second burst of international fame when it was modified for running on bio-ethanol fuel made from the waste products of surplus English wine and cheese production, an eccentric testament to his Majesty’s decades-long green commitment whilst maintaining a beloved classic British sportscar’s traditional appeal. The DB6 Volante represents the ultimate combination of royalty and British sports car prowess coupled with green tech.
8. 1970 Reliant Scimitar GTE
Princess Anne gained her reputation as a down-to-earth and self-reliant woman. And it suited the princess perfectly, for her love of cars, and particularly the Reliant Scimitar GTE, has been legendary. Princess Anne owned numerous versions of the quirky model throughout the years and is now arguably its most famous and most influential proponent.
Why the Reliant Scimitar GTE Stood Out:
- Practical yet sporty British vehicle
- Combined performance with usability
- Reflected Princess Anne’s personality
- Boosted Reliant’s public reputation
- Symbol of unconventional royal taste
The Scimitar GTE was a compromise between sporting dynamics and everyday practicality unlike traditional ‘royalty luxury cars,’ it served the purpose of being a performance sports estate capable of quick acceleration but offering practical passenger space and comfort. This unique aspect proved to be perfectly suited to Princess Anne’s no-nonsense approach to life.
Her patronage provided Reliant with a positive publicity image beyond small economy cars and the Scimitar became something of an emblem for Princess Anne’s individuality and it became evident that royal taste in motor cars needn’t be entirely predictable but still celebrated Britain’s engineering and design strengths.
9. 1987 Jaguar XJ-SC
Diana’s XJ-SC was not just a luxurious ride, but a symbol of her independence and sense of self in a difficult phase of her life. The V12-powered Jaguar XJ-SC, offered potent performance while retaining the usual luxury and style a member of the Royal family would expect. It offered Diana an escape, far from the constant glare of public scrutiny.
Unique Characteristics of Diana’s Jaguar XJ-SC:
- Elegant V12-powered sports car
- Customized for family practicality
- Modified rear seating arrangement
- Combined luxury with comfort
- Symbolic royal personal vehicle
Although it started life as a two-seater, the Jaguar was converted to be fitted with more rear seats to carry Princes William and Harry. The mother felt it was essential for her sons to be in luxury and safety travelling with her, and interior adjustments were planned to accommodate this without compromising on the sportiness of the car.
The outcome was a vehicle which combined the thrill of performance motoring with family comfort, a vehicle as charismatic, warm and human as the woman it carried and it is as a result one of the most emotionally potent cars within the British royal car collections.
10. 2017 Audi RS6 Avant
The Prince Harry’s Audi RS6 Avant mirrored how the younger generation of royals’ interest for modern performance vehicles shifted towards these and not to classic luxury ceremonials. Finished in Daytona Grey the potent estate offers impressive speeds, combined with practicality and practicality, it is definitely one of the most sporting models to wear the Royal colours.
Key Highlights of the Audi RS6 Avant:
- High-performance twin-turbo V8 engine
- More than 550 bhp output
- Supercar-level acceleration capability
- Practical luxury estate body style
- Symbol of modern royal car culture
Underneath, the RS6 Avant boasted V8 underpinnings with outputs exceeding 550 brake horsepower. Many supercars of its time could not hope to rival its acceleration and could reach from 0-62 in a mere few seconds. This blend of sheer opulence and everyday practicality, married with mind boggling performance, grabbed public imagination and the Audi was undoubtedly the most potent vehicle linked to the royal family.
It was rumored subsequently that speed governor had been removed from Prince Harry’s original factory fitted model prior to him selling the vehicle-which may perhaps be a telling glimpse into his automotive interests. It was an obvious statement about the young royals’ foray into the modern motoring scene with its combination of modern engineering and incredible performance with the usability of the average family car.
11. 2011 Ducati 1198S Evo Corse SE
Prince William is well known for his enthusiasm for motorcycles and the Ducati 1198S Evo Corse SE is one of the machines associated with him that is probably his most respected; it’s a superb performance superbike that demonstrates his taste in speed, technology and the freedom a bike offers.
Key Features of the Ducati 1198S Evo Corse SE:
- High-performance Italian superbike
- Symbol of speed and precision engineering
- Connected to Prince William’s adventurous side
- Reflects passion for motorcycle culture
- Blend of performance and exclusivity
Prince William obtained his motorbike licence in his youth, and this provided him with a great fondness for high performance superbikes well before he ever became Prince of Wales. He clearly loved the sense of personal privacy and freedom that his bikes provided when he wanted to get away from the spotlight and royal obligations that he found himself in.
Superbikes ended up being one of the more public and accessible passions that he has developed, as it appeals more to the common man than being Prince. Even after he has become a father and there are fears, apparently, about his safety while operating a motorbike, he has still never entirely given up his love for them and the Ducati serves as clear evidence of his thrill seeking nature and desire to be interested in, and involved with the nuances of modern design, engineering and bikes.
12. 2021 Audi RS E-Tron GT
In a further advancement to royal vehicles, the launch of the Audi RS E-Tron GT was significant. Prince William’s selection of a completely electric sports car is an indication of the monarchy’s progression and increasing awareness of environmental, sustainability and technological developments within transportation.
Key Highlights of the Audi RS E-Tron GT:
- Fully electric high-performance vehicle
- Combines luxury with sustainability
- Supercar-level acceleration capability
- Advanced modern driving technology
- Symbol of changing royal identity
For a totally electric vehicle, the performance that the Audi RS E-Tron GT provides is in a similar category to many combustion engine supercars. The quickness of its acceleration, its modern battery systems and engineered finesse, clearly show that performance cars don’t have to be built on tradition of combustion engines in order to give a luxury performance feel and the perception of status. It is an all electric vehicle that is both performing and yet responsible and stylish at the same time.
It is also representative of a generational change occurring throughout the royal family itself. Whereas prior to this a car had to represent ceremony, history and tradition; modern royals are now seen to be striving for modern, green alternatives which would imply for a change in identity where status is more represented through engineering and luxury. The RS E-Tron GT seems to perfectly embody this new identity.
