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Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite car had a quirky feature for her corgis

Despite having plenty of chauffeurs on staff, the late Queen Elizabeth II was a big fan of the automobile. She learned how to drive a truck during the war and was often pictured driving herself around the various royal estates.

Queen Elizabeth II’s Land Rover collection.
Queen Elizabeth II’s Land Rover collection.

As for what the Queen liked to drive, she had quite an extensive collection. But at its core is plenty of evidence that she preferred to keep it British. This includes several vehicles from the Land Rover family, such as examples of the Defender and Range Rover. Some of these are part of high-profile exhibits, including a recent display at Pebble Beach. Here are ten of the SUVs in question.

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Two of the oldest State Vehicles are available for viewing

Two of the oldest vehicles in Queen Elizabeth II’s collection are on display, both dating back to 1954. The 1954 Land Rover Series I State Review vehicle features a few royal modifications, including a custom rear platform. Land Rover is displaying an example that was sent to Australia for use during the late monarch’s post-coronation tour of the Commonwealth.

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The other 1954 Land Rover Series I on display was actually ordered by George VI, the Queen’s father, and ended up being used to transport the Royal Family around Balmoral.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip riding on the 2005 Range Rover L322 State Review<p>Land Rover</p>
Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip riding on the 2005 Range Rover L322 State Review

Land Rover

Related: Queen Elizabeth II was a longtime automotive enthusiast

Some of the old Land Rovers are newer than they look

A 1958 Land Rover Series II State Review vehicle is on display, but it didn’t have as hard a life as some of its siblings. This custom vehicle, fitted with blue lights to indicate when a Royal was inside, was designated as a “reserve vehicle” and only clocked around 13,000 miles during its service life.

<em>Queen Elizabeth II’s Land Rover collection.</em>
Queen Elizabeth II’s Land Rover collection.

The Queen had something in common with Breaking Bad’s Gus Fring

Who doesn’t love a station wagon? The Griswold family had one, Breaking Bad’s Gus Fring drove one as his daily driver, and Queen Elizabeth II spent some time cruising around in a 1966 Land Rover Series IIa Station Wagon.As with most royal cars, this Land Rover was a custom job. It included leather upholstery to keep its VIP occupants comfortable, side steps to ease Her Majesty's entry and exit, and a “wooden dog guard” to presumably keep the royal corgis secure.Another vehicle on display, the 1983 Defender 110 V8, has similar custom modifications, including leather seating, steps, and grab handles.

<em>Queen Elizabeth II’s Land Rover collection.</em>
Queen Elizabeth II’s Land Rover collection.

The 1974 Range Rover State Review vehicle had a long service life

The 1974 Range Rover State Review is one of the longest-serving vehicles in the former monarch’s collection. It entered service in 1975 and was still spotted on duty in 2002. It even adopted a touch of Rolls-Royce luxury in certain areas.

A lectern was installed to store umbrellas for the occupants, and the exhaust was modified to dampen the noise from the big V8 engine, keeping it to a more sensible level.

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One of the Land Rover Range Rovers was involved in some festive fun

Die-hard monarchists may recognize the 1990 Range Rover State Review vehicle. It made an appearance alongside Queen Elizabeth and her husband, Prince Philip, on the front of the royal couple’s 1994 Christmas card.

<em>Queen Elizabeth II’s Land Rover collection.</em>
Queen Elizabeth II’s Land Rover collection.

There are two more claret cars on offer

In Britain, official state vehicles are painted claret, as it’s the royal color. These vehicles also feature additional adornments, including crests and a pinstripe painted along the side. You’ll see these details on the 1996 Range Rover P38 State I Royal Review and the 2005 Range Rover L322 State Review, which were the fourth and fifth state review vehicles issued, respectively.

Both vehicles include the special rear platform common among state Land Rovers and Range Rovers. There are also several unique adornments and comfort features to take note of.

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You can still see one of the Queen’s favorite rides

After the 2009 Range Rover joined the royal fleet, it quickly became one of the Queen’s favorites. The head of state was often pictured behind the wheel.

Although the vehicle is now on display, it has undergone a slight modification. The Labrador mascot that once adorned the hood has been removed — presumably to keep it from falling into the hands of the general public.

Queen Elizabeth II seen driving her Range Rover<p>Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images</p>
Queen Elizabeth II seen driving her Range Rover

Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

You can see the Queen’s vehicles in person

If you’re quick enough, you can view Queen Elizabeth II’s Land Rover collection in person. The vehicles will be on display in New York City from September 17 to September 20, 2024. The four-day exhibition will take place on the Plaza at Rockefeller Center.

Opening hours vary by day, with public access available from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Thursday, October 17, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Friday, October 18, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Saturday, October 19, and 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Sunday, October 20.