Expensive Vehicles Owned By The Royal Family
The British Royal Family is synonymous with grandeur, and their choice of vehicles reflects their unparalleled taste and status. From bespoke Rolls-Royce limousines to super-exclusive Bentleys, the royal fleet includes some of the most exquisite and expensive cars in the world.
Each vehicle owned by the Royal Family has been tailored with unique features, ranging from reinforced security measures to luxurious interiors designed for maximum comfort during official engagements. These cars also hold significant historical and sentimental value, due to which collectors are willing to pay any amount for them. Today, let’s have a look at some of the most expensive vehicles ever owned by the Royal Family.
The Royal Trust’s Bentley State Limousine – $12 Million
Crafted for Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee in 2002, the Bentley State Limousine is the pinnacle of royal luxury. With only two ever made (both owned by the Royal Trust), this exclusive $12 million masterpiece is reserved for state occasions. The vehicle features an armoured body, blast-resistant chassis, Kevlar-reinforced tyres, and an airtight cabin to protect against gas attacks.
Based on the Bentley Arnage, it is powered by a modified 6.75-litre V8 engine that produces 400bhp and enables a top speed of 130mph. The vehicle has a raised roof, raised rear seats, and panoramic glasshouse to make sure the Monarch is visible to the public.
The Royal Trust’s Gold State Coach – $2 Million
Commissioned by King George III in 1760, the Gold State Coach is one of the most iconic symbols of the British monarchy. Valued at over $2 million, the coach is a gilded masterpiece and an epitome of royal grandeur. It was first used in 1762 for the State Opening of Parliament, and has been a part of every coronation since that of William IV in 1831.
The coach was last seen during the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, when it transported them from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace on May 06, 2023. Despite being drawn by eight Windsor Greys, it moved at a walking pace due to its immense weight of 4.5 tonnes.
King Charles’ Aston Martin DB6 Volante: $1.2 Million
King Charles received this stunning Aston Martin DB6 Volante as a 21st birthday gift from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Finished in Seychelles Blue, this 1969 convertible is valued at over $1.2 million and remains one of the King’s most prized possessions. Its connection to royal milestones runs deep – it was used as William and Kate’s going-away car during their wedding in 2011.
In 2008, Charles had the car converted to run on environment-friendly bioethanol made from leftover wine and cheese by-products. The car uses around three to four bottles of wine per mile. Despite initial skepticism from engineers, the modification worked and even improved performance.
The Royal Trust’s Scottish State Coach – $4.5 Million
An elegant four-horse-drawn carriage, the Scottish State Coach was originally crafted in 1830 for the Duke of Cambridge. After years of use by the Duke’s family, it was sold to William Keppel, 7th Earl of Albemarle, who converted it into a semi-State landau. In 1920, the Keppel family returned the coach as a gift to Queen Mary.
Restored between 1968 and 1969, the coach was redesigned with glass windows, a transparent roof, multiple emblems, and the Crown of Scotland. First used by Queen Elizabeth II in 1969, it has since played key roles in royal events… most recently during the King’s Birthday Parade in 2024.
Princess Diana’s Ford Escort RS Turbo S1 – $850,000
Princess Diana had a fondness for driving herself, and her car choices reflected her unique style. Among her vehicles was a rare Ford Escort RS Turbo, a high-performance model from the mid-1980s. Part of a limited-edition series, these cars were originally all white, but Diana had hers painted black to maintain a low profile.
Diana’s 1985 RS Turbo became a sought-after collector’s item, not just for its rarity but also for its royal connection. While a pristine model of this car was valued at around $46,000 in 2022, hers sold for an astounding $850,000 at auction the same year.
Queen Elizabeth’s 2009 Range Rover – $270,000
The 2009 Range Rover (CK58 NPJ) was Her Majesty’s vehicle of choice ever since it joined the fleet, and she was frequently photographed behind its wheel. In the photo above, the Queen can be seen driving the vehicle as she attends the Royal Windsor Horse Show in 2021.
Packed with premium features, the SUV had a panoramic sunroof, rear entertainment system, heated and ventilated seats, a Harmon Kardon audio system, remote park heater, deployable side steps, and luggage guard. The iconic Labrador mascot that once adorned the bonnet has been removed for safekeeping.
King Charles’ Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante – $700,000
King Charles’s second Aston Martin, a V8 Vantage Volante, was a gift from the Emir of Bahrain. While Charles kept the car’s powerful 5.3-litre V8 engine capable of reaching 170 mph, he had Aston Martin remove the Vantage’s signature boot spoiler, side skirts, and wheel arches, opting for a subtler look.
In addition, the car was fitted with a manual gearbox and painted in Balmoral Green, matching the design of the model featured in the 1987 James Bond film The Living Daylights. Only 22 cars were built to Charles’s specifications.
Princess Diana’s Ford Escort – $64,000
Princess Diana’s connection to the Ford Escort began in 1981, just months before her fairy-tale wedding to Prince Charles. As Diana transitioned into her royal role, her first high-end vehicle was a gift from Charles: a gray, five-door Ford Escort Ghia. Delivered three months prior to their nuptials, this modest yet elegant car became a symbol of Diana’s early royal years.
Though Diana parted with the car in 1982 for a modest sum of £6,000, its royal provenance and unique story elevated its value over time. Decades later, in 2021, the Escort captured global attention when it was sold at auction for an astonishing £52,640 to a museum in Chile.
King Charles’ Aston Martin Virage Volante – $280,000
In the mid-1990s, Charles was mostly seen in a green Aston Martin Virage Volante. This high-performance vehicle had its V8 engine upgraded from 5.2 to 6.3 litres, and had a top speed of 175mph.
The car also had unique modifications, including a police radio, an extra rear-view mirror for the accompanying protection officer, and a custom leather jar to hold sugar cubes for Charles’ polo ponies. The car was later auctioned at Bonhams for £230,000. Prince Andrew also has a V8 Volante LWB in the same color.
1902 State Landau Carriage – $1.25 Million
The 1902 State Landau is a magnificent horse-drawn carriage steeped in royal tradition and history. Built by Hooper & Co. for the coronation of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, it remains the most splendid landau used by the monarchy. It is drawn by six horses under the guidance of three postilions, with no coachman.
The landau has flexible leather hoods which can be lowered to give spectators a better view of passengers as compared to the closed coaches and other vehicles. Reserved for ceremonial occasions, this iconic carriage has carried a number of royal newlyweds, including Prince Charles and Princess Diana in 1981.
King Charles’ Jaguar I-PACE – $80,000
The I-Pace wasn’t just Jaguar’s first all-electric vehicle, it was the Royal Family’s first all-electric vehicle as well. King Charles added this eco-friendly SUV to the royal fleet in 2018 due to his dedication toward sustainability.
With 394 horsepower and 512 lb-ft of torque from its dual electric motors, the I-Pace achieves remarkable acceleration, sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. It’s also remarkably comfortable and a true standout among luxury EVs. The SUV was auctioned for £64,960 in 2024.
The Royal Trust’s 1902 Ascot Landau Carriage – $1.25 Million
Built in 1902, the Ascot Landau carriage is a cherished symbol of royal tradition. Housed in the Royal Mews, five of these carriages are reserved for grand occasions such as the Queen’s Royal Ascot procession and welcoming Commonwealth High Commissioners.
The Ascot Landau gained significant attention during the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in 2011. It was also used after the wedding service of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle, when the newly married couple rode it to travel around Windsor for celebrating the occasion with the general public.
Princess Diana’s Austin Mini Metro – $25,970
Princess Diana acquired her dark-red Austin Mini Metro at age 19 during her early courtship with Prince Charles. Diana, who was working as a nanny at a Pimlico kindergarten at the time, was often photographed driving the Metro, affectionately dubbed as her “courting car” by the press, until she sold it in 1981.
Valued at $25,970 today, this humble yet charming vehicle captured public attention at the Festival of the Unexceptional in 2014. Despite its simplicity compared to the luxury vehicles typically associated with royalty, the Mini Metro remains iconic due to Diana’s connection.
King Charles’ Audi A8 – $90,000
King Charles has been known to use various vehicles as part of his royal fleet. Among them is an Audi A8, a luxury sedan that aligns with his preference for understated yet elegant vehicles.
The A8 features sleek lines, iconic singleframe grille, and matrix lighting, all of which make it elegant without being ostentatious. Moreover, its interior is designed for maximum comfort, featuring heated and ventilated leather seats. Like most of the other cars owned by His Majesty, the A8 has also been customized to suit his needs.
Princess Diana’s Ford Escort Convertible – Unknown
In the 1980s, Princess Diana’s love for the Ford Escort Convertible made headlines, reinforcing her reputation as the “People’s Princess.” The red Ford Escort 1.6i Convertible, with its iconic open roof, was in the news all the time. However, its bright color and open design posed security concerns.
Despite the Royal family’s preference for luxury brands like Rolls-Royce and Aston Martin, Diana’s insistence on using the Ford Escort led to the creation of RS Turbo Series 1 – a rare and celebrated series symbolizing Diana’s enduring connection with the public!
Queen Elizabeth’s 1983 Land Rover Defender 110 – $75,000
Queen Elizabeth’s lifelong association with Land Rovers started when King George VI gifted her the 100th Land Rover ever built in 1948. Her Majesty owned a number of Land Rovers during her life, but this 1983 Defender 110 V8 (A444 RYV) was her personal favorite.
The vehicle was equipped with a 3.9L Rover V8 engine, a specially designed manual gearbox, enhanced weatherproofing, and customized door handles for easier access. Her Majesty was photographed numerous times driving this vehicle, including the photo above where she can be seen driving herself to the stables on the Sandringham Estate, Norfolk.
Prince William’s Audi A5 – $45,000
Prince William’s affinity for Audi vehicles is well-documented, with the A5 Sportback being a notable mention. In 2011, he transitioned from an Audi S4 to a sleek grey A5 Sportback S-line. The A5’s spacious interior, advanced features, and stylish design perfectly suited his requirements.
William and Kate were frequently spotted in this vehicle such as in the photo above, where Kate can be seen leaning on William’s car as she watches William and Harry play in The Chakravarty Cup Polo Match 2009 in Tetbury, England.
The Royal Trust’s 1954 Land Rover Series 1 – $40,000
The 1954 Land Rover Series 1 (NXN1) was a natural fit for use at Balmoral, Sandringham and other estates due to its reliability in rural settings. Originally ordered by HM King George VI, this iconic Land Rover was frequently used by Queen Elizabeth and senior Royal Family members in the 1950s.
In the photo above, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, can be seen driving this vehicle with The Queen and Duchess of Gloucester as passengers during a tour of the course of the European Horse Trials at Windsor in 1955. The vehicle now resides in the Land Rover Classic collection after its restoration in 2010.
Queen Elizabeth’s Vauxhall Cresta PA Friary Estate – $50,000
Rumored to be Queen Elizabeth’s favorite car, the 1961 Vauxhall Cresta PA Friary Estate was tailored to her outdoorsy pursuits. The car featured custom additions like fishing rod holders on the roof, a gun rack, a dog guard for her beloved corgis, and unique Imperial Green paintwork. These bespoke touches perfectly suited the late Queen’s active lifestyle.
Her Majesty frequently used the Cresta for personal outings. In the image above, she can be seen driving Prince Andrew to the Windsor Horse Trials in 1968. The vehicle today remains preserved in the royal garage at Sandringham.
Royal Trust’s Land Rover Series IIA Station Wagon – $90,000
The 1966 Land Rover Series IIA Station Wagon holds a special place in royal motoring history as the first of its kind equipped with a six-cylinder engine. Mostly driven by Queen Elizabeth, this vehicle was customized for royal duties… and featured leather seats, a wooden dog guard, and side steps.
In 2021, this iconic vehicle was seen when Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, arrived at The Palace of Holyroodhouse to host a drive-in screening of Disney’s Cruella for Scottish NHS workers. The vehicle is now preserved as part of the Royal Collection at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon.
Queen Elizabeth’s Jaguar Daimler V8 Super LWB – $48,000
In 2001, a specially designed Daimler Super V8 Long Wheelbase Limousine was commissioned for Queen Elizabeth II. Often seen driving it herself near Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, the Queen’s custom vehicle featured flashing blue strobe lights, a supercharged 4.0L V8 engine with 375 hp, and a unique handbag compartment.
In the photo above, the Queen can be seen driving the Daimler Jaguar to the Credit Suisse Royal Windsor Cup Final in Egham, England, in 2007. The vehicle was auctioned after 12 years in service, with 15,242 miles on the odometer.
Princess Diana’s Audi 80 Cabriolet – $75,000
In 1994, after her separation from Prince Charles, Princess Diana embraced her independence by driving an Audi 80 Cabriolet, marking a departure from British cars. Loaned by Audi’s St John’s Wood dealership, the car became closely associated with her radiant public appearances.
Offered with either a four or six cylinder engine, the Audi Cabriolet was a nice car, but it could have never achieved its iconic status on its own. Diana’s choice elevated its appeal, making it “the coolest and most sought-after four-wheeled status symbol” of the era.
Princess Diana’s Jaguar XJ-SC – $100,000
In 1987, Princess Diana chose a Jaguar XJ-SC V12 Cabriolet as her personal car, marking her the third generation of royals to own a Jaguar. She had the two-seater targa-topped convertible modified with rear seats for Princes William and Harry. To ensure their safety, a custom, permanently fixed rear hard-top was added to prevent accidents with the solid roof bar.
Diana drove the car until 1991, when she donated it to the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust in exchange for a charitable contribution. The vehicle is displayed at the Trust today.
Prince William’s Audi A7 – $50,000
Prince William has owned a number of Audis over the years. In 2012, he and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, were seen departing the Audi Polo Challenge charity match at Coworth Park Polo Club in their new Audi A7. The A7 combines the elegance of a sedan with the practicality of a hatchback, so it makes perfect sense for William – a family guy – to prefer it.
The A7 also aligns with the royal family’s enduring relationship with Audi, a brand synonymous with refined engineering. Before his marriage, William drove an Audi S4 and later transitioned to the Audi A5 Sportback.
Prince Philip’s Lagonda 3-Litre Drophead Coupe – $427,000
The Lagonda 3-Litre Drophead Coupe earned Aston Martin its first royal warrant and served as Prince Philip’s cherished vehicle. Painted in elegant Edinburgh Green, this convertible featured a radio telephone, which the Duke famously used to prank his children, King Charles and Princess Anne, and an oversized vanity mirror for Queen Elizabeth II to adjust her hat.
The car’s royal adventures were remarkable. It was shipped aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia to Melbourne for the 1956 Olympic Games and used to inaugurate Britain’s first motorway in 1959. In 2016, this unique Lagonda fetched £350,000 at auction, which was triple of what a regular model could fetch.
The Royal Trust’s 1948 Daimler DE – $210,000
One of the most prestigious gems in Queen Elizabeth’s collection standing alongside the likes of the Rolls Royce Silver Wraith, the 1948 Daimler DE carries deep historical significance. She bought it from the money that she and the Duke of Edinburgh got as a wedding gift from the Royal Air Force and Women’s Auxiliary Air Force.
The car’s 27-horsepower engine and imposing frame embody a sense of grandeur and sophistication from a bygone era of royalty. Now in the Royal Trust’s care, the vehicle is estimated to be valued at more than $210,000.
Queen Elizabeth’s Daimler Double Six – $100,000
The Daimler Double Six featured a unique full-length bench seat in the rear, specially designed to accommodate Queen Elizabeth’s three corgis during travels. The interior boasted parchment finishes… and the car lacked rear headrests and seat belts. For security, a blue convoy light installed above the rear-view mirror allowed easy identification during nighttime operations.
The Daimler Double Six was auctioned by Sotheby’s in 2019 for £80,500. Though no longer owned by the royal family, it remains a fascinating piece of royal automotive history.
The Royal Trust’s Daimler Vanden Plas – $80,000
The Royal Trust’s 1970 Daimler Vanden Plas is an early DS420 model renowned for its elegance and regal history. Made by components from Park Sheet Metal, Pressed Steel Fisher, and Coventry’s Motor Panels, this vehicle’s design features a long nose, commanding front, and sleek body.
The Vanden Plas has been a staple of the royal fleet since 1901 when Queen Elizabeth acquired it. Though understated in appearance compared to modern royal cars, its ageless beauty makes it a timeless classic and a quiet symbol of royal refinement. The vehicle is currently valued at $80,000.
