Investing Magazine

Magazine:
  • Business
  • Entertainment
  • Lifestyle
  • Sports
  • History
  • Movies & TV
  • Tech & Innovation
  • Automotive

The Most Expensive Cars Owned By The British Royal Family

Updated: Dec 20, 2023By Kate PrinceAutomotive
This article originally appeared on Investing.com. It has been republished here with permission.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry © Natalia Ramirez Roman / © FiledIMAGE | Shutterstock.com Meghan Markle and Prince Harry © Natalia Ramirez Roman / © FiledIMAGE | Shutterstock.com

The British Royal family has managed to amass quite the fortune over the years, but their net worth extends far beyond what King Charles has in the bank. In fact, what the Royal Family have in the garage is just as lucrative, too. The House of Windsor has always been fortunate enough to acquire and drive some of the best cars in the world. 

From Rolls Royce Phantoms to top-of-the-line Audi’s and E-Type Jaguars, you’ll probably never ever catch the likes of Prince Harry or King Charles  in a second-hand Ford. This is one family that knows how to travel in style – no matter the occasion. 

For example: Prince William has top-of-the-line family cars to transport Kate Middleton and their three children around the country, while King Charles has been driving the best sports cars around  for most of his life. To us it’s an incredible way of life; to the Windsors, it’s just another normal stroll outside the castle.

1. Audi A6 Hatchback

Year: 2020
Owned By:
Prince William
Estimated Value:
$103,000*

Prince William might be a family man, but that doesn’t mean he has to drive a dull car. Even his family-friendly hatchback is top of the line. Will drives a 444 horsepower Audi A6 that likely set him back somewhere in the region of $103,000. However, the Royal Family does get a discount from Audi which helps. 

Audi A6 Hatchback ©Anwar Hussein / Gettyimages.com Audi A6 Hatchback ©Anwar Hussein / Gettyimages.com

Will isn’t the only member of the family that loves an Audi. In fact, most of the most prominent Windsors have been spotted in one at some point. The Audi A6 Hatchback is perfect for Will to transport his three kids and the Duchess from A to B – but don’t expect to see him at a McDonald’s drive-thru any time soon. 

This might be an “everyday” car by royal standards, but to the rest of us this is a truly expensive investment that stays in the garage and only comes out for special occasions. It’s discreet enough for the Cambridges’ to get around unnoticed, while also providing the right level of luxury. 

2. Aston Martin DB6

Year: 1966
Owned By: King Charles
Estimated Value: $500,000*

There are fewer British car brands more luxurious and stately as Aston Martin. The former Queen Elizabeth II counted this 1966 Aston Martin DB6 as a prized part of her collection. It’s enough to make any car collector green with envy, especially as it’s an incredibly rare model. Although the Queen purchased it, she actually gifted it to Charles on his 21st birthday. 

Aston Martin DB6 @Pursuitist Luxury / Pinterest.com Aston Martin DB6 @Pursuitist Luxury / Pinterest.com

Most of us only get a Target gift card, but considering Charles’ status the gift makes sense. The King allegedly still uses the vehicle to this day, although he has had the engine modified so it’s more eco-friendly. 

In fact, Charles is considerably more eco-conscious than some of the other royals, and has had several of his vehicles revamped to be greener. Considering how much money he has at his disposal, it makes sense that the King would use it wisely in a way that benefits his country.

3. 1902 State Landau Carriage

Year: 1902
Owned By:
United Kingdom
Estimated Value:
Priceless

The 1902 State Landau Carriage is incredible to look at, but it actually belongs to the United Kingdom rather than a specific person. The carriage is solely reserved for the use of the monarchy and was specially built for the coronation of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra over 120 years ago. 

1902 State Landau Carriage @Devin Wall / Pinterest.com 1902 State Landau Carriage @Devin Wall / Pinterest.com

The carriage is most commonly used by the Queen to greet heads of state but was loaned to Princess Diana and Prince Charles for their 1981 wedding. The couple used it to travel from Westminster Abbey back to Buckingham Palace after tying the knot. 

4. Audi A8 limousine

Year: Unknown
Owned By: King Charles
Estimated Value: $90,000*

King Charles loves luxury cars. He’s been spotted in several different models over the years, but frequently uses an Audi A8 limousine for official visits. A top of the line 2019 model can set you back as much as $90,000. As with most limos, the A8 offers plenty of space for its passengers as well as the finest interior. 

Audi A8 limousine @dailymail / Pinterest.com Audi A8 limousine @dailymail / Pinterest.com

The Audi A8 is also popular with politicians, too, so Charles is in good company there. Whether he is visiting workers in a factory or spending time with his best bud, AT&T’s Warner Records artist Rod Stewart, Charles always arrives in style. 

Queen Consort Camilla can often be spotted sitting alongside her husband in the A8. Don’t be fooled by thinking Charles always has a driver, either; this monarch loves driving his cars just as much as he likes buying them, so can frequently be seen behind the wheel.

5. Jaguar I-PACE

Year: 2019
Owned By:
King Charles
Estimated Value: $60,000*

Spotting King Charles in a new whip isn’t uncommon, but onlookers were particularly impressed when he debuted his new Jaguar I-Pace back in 2019. The hot new wheels likely set Charles back around $60,000, though it’s incredibly eco-friendly. 

Jaguar I-PACE @Duke Of Sussex/Pinterest.com Jaguar I-PACE @Duke Of Sussex/Pinterest.com

The I-Pace is Jaguar’s first battery-powered model. Rather than add to the smog in the big city, King Charles uses it to get him around London without weighing heavy on the environment. Needless to say, it’s a beautiful ride that certainly turns heads. General Motors should take note. 

Rather than opting to go for mid-life-crisis-red, King Charles stuck to time old royal tradition and went with sleek black when it came time to pick his color. It’s timeless and classic, but most importantly, it doesn’t attract too much unwanted attention. 

6. Rolls Royce Phantom VI

Year: 1950
Owned By: Queen Elizabeth II
Estimated Value: $2.6 million*

We all know that the late Queen was no stranger to the finer things in life. In 2018, buyers were delighted when Liz put her 1950 Rolls Royce Phantom VI up for sale, but you needed more than just spare change to buy it. 

Rolls Royce Phantom VI ©Tim Graham / Gettyimages.com Rolls Royce Phantom VI ©Tim Graham / Gettyimages.com

With a price tag of $2.6 million, the Phantom was one of just 18 models made between 1950 and 1956, making it a rare jewel that was worthy of its astonishing asking price (for comparison, Ford sold 12.3 million cars in the 1950s alone). The Queen frequently used the vehicle for royal tours, making it steeped in history. 

Sometimes when valuing cars it’s not just about the exquisite craftsmanship or who manufactured it. This vehicle’s unique backstory and its long list of historical passengers makes all the difference when it comes to fixing a price. In this case, the figure says it all. 

7. Land Rover Discovery

Year: 2019
Owned By:
The Royal Trust 
Estimated Value: $68,000*

When Prince Philip was involved in a nasty crash back in 2019, many wondered if he should be driving. After all, he isn’t as young as he used to be. The accident didn’t deter the Queen’s late husband though, who had a brand new Land Rover Discovery delivered the very same day. 

Land Rover Discovery @royalworldthailand / Facebook.com Land Rover Discovery @royalworldthailand / Facebook.com

The slick 4×4 was top of the range, costing at least $68,000 upfront. Black in color, it’s clear to see that the Prince had very good taste when it comes to choosing which vehicles are worthy of his time. He could’ve easily purchased a Tesla, but the Windsors have a long history with Land Rover that stands the test of time. 

Nearly every member of the royal family has owned a Land Rover at some point. But Her Majesty was an especially devout fan (and client) of the manufacturer. She was spotted driving different types around her estates multiple times over the course of her reign, dating back to her earliest days as Queen. 

8. Citroen SM Opera 1972

Year: 1972
Owned By:
The Royal Trust 
Estimated Value: Unknown

Queen Elizabeth II loved cars as much as the next person. Her fascination went right back to World War II when she served as a mechanic. In 1972, she purchased Motor Trends Car of the Year, a Citroen SM Opera. These days, it’s a beautiful classic car with wonderful lines and almost completely hidden rear tires. 

Citroen SM Opera 1972 ©Brian Snelson / Wikimedia.org Citroen SM Opera 1972 ©Brian Snelson / Wikimedia.org

It’s not known just how much Liz’s Citroen cost, but you can bet your bottom dollar it wasn’t cheap. The Queen had a penchant for making her vehicles the best they possibly can be. You won’t catch anyone spilling – or even opening – a can of Coke in this bad boy. 

By modern standards this car has an extremely unusual shape and is incredibly low to the ground. However, that’s what makes it so intriguing to look at; it’s a snapshot of a bygone era that just oozes nostalgia. This car is a true gem in the Royal collection.

9. Bentley State Limousine

Year: 2002
Owned By:
The Royal Trust 
Estimated Value: $15,167,500*

Out of all the cars in the Royal collection, this might be one of the best. This 2002 Bentley State Limousine was specially designed specifically for the Queen as part of her Golden Jubilee. Her Majesty wanted something a little different for the celebrations – and who could blame her? 

Bentley State Limousine ©S. Foskett / Wikimedia.org Bentley State Limousine ©S. Foskett / Wikimedia.org

Not only did it cost an incredible $15 million, but there are only two of its kind in the world. It’s similar to “The Beast” in America, a highly-modified, super secure Cadillac designed to transport the President and First Lady. As much as Liz loved a Land Rover, this is the creme de la creme of cars. Needless to say, when the Queen rode in this, she was followed closely by security. 

These guards are tasked not only with protecting Britain’s royalty at all costs, but also with ensuring that nobody attempts to steal the car after it’s been parked – not that we can imagine anyone dim enough actually trying to steal the Royal Family’s car.

10. Land Rover Freelander

Year: Unknown
Owned By: The Royal Trust
Estimated Value: $40,000*

Prince Philip’s 2019 car accident saw him roll his pristine Land Rover Freelander straight over in what has since become one of the most headline-grabbing events of the last decade. Within a month of the incident, despite ordering a new car, the late 97-year-old Prince would give up his driving license. 

Land Rover Freelander ©Max Mumby/Indigo / Gettyimages.com Land Rover Freelander ©Max Mumby/Indigo / Gettyimages.com

Philip did love to drive his Land Rover though, which cost him roughly $40,000. The heavy-duty vehicles are built to withstand quite a lot, making it perfect for the Prince to get around in. The Duke of Edinburgh got on well with the car… Until he didn’t. Even a Tesla wouldn’t have fared better. 

It’s a sad end to the life of Philip’s Land Rover Freelander, but thankfully everyone involved is none too worse for the wear. Even the best of us have to admit when it’s time to give up the ghost – or in this case, the wheel.

11. 1965 Mercedes Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet

Year: 1965
Owned By: The Royal Trust
Estimated Value: $1 million*

Queen Elizabeth wasn’t the only person of importance to drive the beloved $1 million 1965 Mercedes Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet. In fact, many Popes have been spotted in one. It’s the perfect vehicle to wave to the adoring public in – plus there’s plenty of room for other passengers..

1965 Mercedes Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet @simon simons / Pinterest.com 1965 Mercedes Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet @simon simons / Pinterest.com

Security was the optimum concern when the Queen traveled, so this bulletproof titan was the ideal choice for her. It’s not a family car, but it could easily carry a monthly Walmart shop with more ease than a station wagon. We can dream, right? 

The Pullman Landaulet is incredibly attractive to look at, too. It has all the trappings of a classic car, with a perfect combination of angular lines and highly-polished metal. You could almost imagine Gotham’s finest riding through the streets in this work of art.

12. Bentley Continental Flying Spur

Year: 2013
Owned By:
Kate and Will
Estimated Value: $323,000*

It’s easy to think that Kate and Will had everything they needed when they became parents for the first time back in 2013, but that wasn’t the case. Prince Will made sure to order a bulletproof Bentley Continental Flying Spur that cost roughly $323,000. 

Bentley Continental Flying Spur @TopGearIndia / Facebook.com Bentley Continental Flying Spur @TopGearIndia / Facebook.com

The couple used the car for official visits in England, making sure they traveled in safe, secure style. Despite the car’s appealing exterior, it wasn’t exactly cost effective. It cost over $150 to fill up. Luckily, they have that kind of money and BP certainly isn’t complaining. 

That being said, the overwhelmingly high price of the vehicle is certainly worth it for what you get. The Flying Spur has everything the royals need, from the latest gadgets to incredibly comfortable seats that make for a wonderful driving experience. You would expect as much for the price.

13. Rover P5

Year: 1974
Owned By: The Royal Trust
Estimated Value: $55,422*

The Rover P5 is a seldomly-mentioned car, but it deserves far more recognition than it gets. The Queen had the pleasure of owning several different models of this particular vehicle, including the beloved 1974 model. Elizabeth simply fell in love with it, leading to a lifelong love affair with the vehicle.

Rover P5 @BritishMotorMuseum / Facebook.com Rover P5 @BritishMotorMuseum / Facebook.com

Interestingly, the British government also liked the look of the Rover, with many prime ministers using the car as their ride of choice. It’s not hard to see why; it commands attention, looks sleek and powerful while also being incredibly sturdy and safe – even if it does cost in excess of $55,000 (nearly double the price of a 2020 Ford Mustang).

That price tag is small change compared to how much Elizabeth spent on cars in the past. When you think about it, $55,000 is nothing when you take into consideration the millions of pounds she dropped on specially-made rides.

14. 1953 Humber Super Snipe

Year: 1953
Owned By: The Royal Trust
Estimated Value: $200,000*

Calling a car a Super Snipe sounds like a pretty scary, intimidating name, but it fits the Humber Vehicle. The 1953 car owned by Queen Elizabeth was a force to be reckoned with, which was probably why she bought it in the first place. The Queen made the purchase after World War II, most likely falling prey to the ad campaign. 

1953 Humber Super Snipe @vin webb / Pinterest.com 1953 Humber Super Snipe @vin webb / Pinterest.com

The late Queen and Prince Philip were spotted in the ride on their Commonwealth Coronation Tour Sadly, after that, the car largely went into storage and hasn’t been spotted out and about on many occasions since, which is a crying shame. 

Imagine having something this wonderful sat in the garage covered with a dust sheet, never seeing the light of day. The same could be said for a lot of the Royal possessions (save for the McDonald’s they owned) kicking around their estates, so why should cars be any different?