Unique Rides of Our Presidents
Although Presidents can’t normally drive during their presidency doesn’t mean some of them have a true love for cars. If they have owned cars before the presidency they tend to be parked for the duration considering no driving is allowed while in the White House. A number of presidents have known to be car lovers including Kennedy, Reagan, Truman, and Bill Clinton. One of the most well-known presidential limos is known as “The Beast.” The Beast is based off of a Cadillac platform although it doesn’t retain much of the drivetrain at all. It is a fully custom armored vehicle that is estimated to weigh as much of 15,000-20,000 pounds. It is believed to have either a 8.1L Vortec gas engine or 6.6L Duramax diesel. Due to the heavy weight of the vehicle top speed reaches about 60 mph and won’t be winning any races. Completely outfitted with bulletproof glass, multiple heavy duty metals, and run flat tires the president remains safe from outside threats.
A special and unique presidential vehicle is Ronald Reagan’s 1962 Jeep CJ-6. The Jeep was one of his prized possessions and was not just for show. He used it quite a bit on his private ranch as he didn’t get many chances to drive during his time as president. It was no show piece as he utilized it for chores on the ranch and many times would bring his dogs along for some extra company. It was virtually unrestored and original although it received a red paint job with pinstripes.
Bill Clinton loved his 1967 Ford Mustang Convertible that he owned prior to his presidency. Convertible cars seem to be a trend among our presidents so far and rightfully so, they are very fun and entertaining. Upon receiving the Mustang he made sure it was up to top spec. He wanted up to par with his preferences and had a great deal restored on the car so he could enjoy it in great condition for years to come.
Next on our list is John Kennedy with his 1961 Ford Thunderbird Convertible. This was the first year of the legendary “Bullet Bird” styling. It was such a unique special edition that it was created just for the presidency and its first featured appearance was in the inaugural parade along with 50 other identical Thunderbirds. Today the Thunderbird is still a very recognizable and collectable car.
Harry S. Truman owned a 1946 Ford Super Deluxe Tudor Sedan. It was moonbeam gray and was the most popular model for that year. Truman received the first Ford to come off the assembly line after production resumed preceding World World War II.
There were a number of other presidents who were car lovers and enthusiasts that didn’t make our list. These are just some of our favorite vehicles and enjoyed sharing them with you. Other vehicles include Barack Obama’s 2005 Chrysler 300C that he traded in for a 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid and George Bush’s 2009 Ford F-150 King Ranch SuperCrew 4x4 that he drove often on his ranch. The truck made it to the auction block at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale and sold for a whopping $300,000.