17 Cars Driven By American Presidents, Past And Present
From classic cruisers to high-security limousines, American presidents have driven, or been driven in, some of the most fascinating cars in history. These vehicles, whether personal favorites or official state rides, tell a story beyond politics—one of personal taste, technological innovation, and even a bit of presidential personality.
Some presidents loved the thrill of driving while others preferred elegance and luxury, choosing vehicles that exuded power and prestige. Then there are those who simply needed a fortified, bulletproof machine to navigate the high-stakes world of leadership.
From Roosevelt’s classic Packard to Biden’s beloved Corvette, this list takes a nostalgic ride through the most iconic cars driven by U.S. presidents.
1. Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1939 Packard Twelve
Franklin D. Roosevelt had a deep appreciation for automobiles, but his 1939 Packard Twelve was more than just a luxury ride—it was a symbol of both innovation and necessity. As FDR battled the effects of polio, this car was specially modified with hand controls, allowing him to drive despite his condition.
This stately V12-powered machine wasn’t just practical—it was one of the most elegant vehicles of its time, embodying the grace and resilience of Roosevelt himself. Equipped with bulletproof glass and reinforced plating, it also prioritized security in an era of heightened global tensions.
FDR’s Packard Twelve remains a testament to ingenuity, perseverance, and the evolving needs of a wartime president, cementing its place in both automotive and political history.
2. John F. Kennedy’s 1961 Lincoln Continental
John F. Kennedy’s 1961 Lincoln Continental stands as an icon of 1960s American automotive craftsmanship. Its sleek, modern lines were synonymous with the youthful energy and optimism of Kennedy’s presidency.
The vehicle was notably used during public appearances, where its convertible design allowed JFK to connect with the crowd. Yet, it was also secured with special Secret Service modifications, until the tragedy occured…
Nonetheless, this luxurious car combined style with presidential prestige, offering a glimpse of Kennedy’s charismatic leadership and the era’s technological advancements. It remains a beloved symbol of a dynamic time in American history.
3. Lyndon B. Johnson’s Amphicar
Lyndon B. Johnson had a well-known love for pranks, and his Amphicar was the perfect tool for one of his favorite tricks.
This half-car, half-boat hybrid allowed him to give unsuspecting guests quite a scare at his Texas ranch. He would suddenly steer the vehicle toward a lake, pretending the brakes had failed, only for it to glide smoothly onto the water—leaving his passengers both terrified and amazed.
The Amphicar was a rare novelty of the 1960s, capable of functioning both on land and in water, though it never quite caught on in the mainstream automotive market. However, for Johnson, it was a symbol of fun and ingenuity, showcasing the lighter side of a president known for his larger-than-life personality.
4. Richard Nixon’s Oldsmobile 98
Richard Nixon’s choice of the Oldsmobile 98 reflected the classic American car culture of the 1950s and early ’60s. Known for its spacious interior and powerful engine, the Oldsmobile 98 was the epitome of comfort and performance.
Nixon enjoyed driving this car, finding solace and relaxation on scenic drives. The vehicle’s robust design and elegant styling mirrored Nixon’s pragmatic approach to life and governance.
This classic automobile highlights a period of American prosperity and the personal tastes of a president who valued tradition and reliability in his transportation choices.
5. Jimmy Carter’s 1977 Cadillac Fleetwood
Jimmy Carter’s 1977 Cadillac Fleetwood was a symbol of luxury and comfort, befitting a president known for his Southern charm. This vehicle was part of the presidential fleet, used for official duties and personal travels.
With its plush interior and advanced features, the Fleetwood offered a smooth ride, underscoring Carter’s preference for quality and elegance. The car’s connection to Carter’s personal ethos of humility and accessibility was evident.
This Cadillac reflects a blend of tradition and modernity, showcasing how Carter balanced his roles as a public servant and a private individual during his time in office.
6. Ronald Reagan’s Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler
Ronald Reagan’s rugged, all-American persona was reflected in his choice of a Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler. This off-road beast wasn’t just for show—Reagan frequently used it to navigate his California ranch, tending to chores and enjoying the vast open spaces.
The Scrambler was built for adventure, and its versatility made it a perfect fit for Reagan’s outdoorsy lifestyle. Whether he was clearing brush or surveying his land, the Jeep was his trusted companion, emphasizing his connection to traditional American values of self-reliance and resilience.
This vehicle wasn’t just a mode of transportation—it was a symbol of Reagan’s cowboy spirit, capturing his deep appreciation for the land and a simpler way of life.
7. George H. W. Bush’s 1983 Lincoln Town Car
1983 Lincoln Town Car exemplified the elegance and sophistication expected of presidential vehicles during the 1980s. This luxury sedan was known for its spacious interior and advanced technology.
The Town Car was favored for both official and personal use, reflecting Bush’s appreciation for comfort and prestige. Its design echoed the economic confidence and stylish flair of the era.
This car highlights Bush’s diplomatic grace and the era’s automotive excellence, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of a leader who navigated both the political and social landscapes with poise.
8. Bill Clinton’s 1967 Ford Mustang
Before his presidency, Bill Clinton owned a 1967 Ford Mustang, a classic symbol of American muscle and style. The Mustang’s powerful performance and sleek design captivated the young Clinton, who cherished the freedom it represented.
The car was emblematic of the 1960s cultural revolution, aligning with Clinton’s progressive ideals and energetic persona. Even as president, the Mustang remained a fond reminder of his formative years.
Clinton’s connection to this iconic vehicle underscores the enduring appeal of American innovation and the personal journey of a leader who embraced change and diversity in both his life and career.
9. George W. Bush’s Ford F-150
For George W. Bush, the Ford F-150 was more than just a pickup truck—it was a way of life. As a proud Texan, he gravitated toward vehicles that emphasized hard work, practicality, and durability, and the F-150 fit that bill perfectly.
Bush often used his truck to drive around his Crawford ranch, checking on livestock and enjoying the solitude of the countryside. Unlike the sleek limousines associated with the presidency, this no-frills workhorse reflected his down-to-earth nature and strong connection to rural America.
Few vehicles better capture the spirit of American grit like the Ford F-150, making it a natural choice for a president who valued authenticity, tradition, and hands-on leadership.
10. Barack Obama’s Chrysler 300C
Barack Obama’s choice of the Chrysler 300C reflected a blend of elegance and modernity. Known for its bold styling and powerful HEMI engine, the 300C was a nod to American automotive ingenuity.
Obama appreciated the car’s mix of luxury and performance, aligning with his forward-thinking and inclusive leadership style. The vehicle also represented a connection to his Chicago roots and urban sensibility.
This Chrysler stands as a testament to Obama’s vision of progress and unity, providing a glimpse into the personal tastes of a leader who inspired hope and change across the nation.
11. Donald Trump’s Rolls-Royce Phantom
Donald Trump’s Rolls-Royce Phantom epitomizes luxury and success, reflecting his brand and persona. Known for its exquisite craftsmanship, the Phantom boasts elegant design and unmatched comfort.
Trump’s affinity for the car underscores his love for opulence and prestige. The vehicle’s association with wealth and power aligns with Trump’s business acumen and public image.
This car symbolizes a leader who prizes excellence and grandeur, offering insight into Trump’s approach to both business and governance. The Phantom’s presence is as commanding as the man who once owned it, making it a notable part of his legacy.
12. Joe Biden’s 1967 Corvette Stingray
Joe Biden’s deep love for cars is best showcased in his prized 1967 Corvette Stingray, a gift from his father that he has cherished for decades. This classic American sports car is sleek, powerful, and built for speed—qualities that make it as timeless as Biden’s enthusiasm for driving.
Even as president, Biden has expressed how much he misses the freedom of getting behind the wheel, often reminiscing about the open-road joyrides in his Corvette. Its bold design and roaring engine reflect a man who values both nostalgia and performance, making it one of the most personal vehicles on this list.
More than just a car, Biden’s Stingray is a symbol of family, tradition, and a lifelong passion for American muscle cars.
13. Harry S. Truman’s 1953 Chrysler New Yorker
President Harry S. Truman, known for his straightforwardness, favored the 1953 Chrysler New Yorker. This post-war vehicle was a testament to American industry and design, featuring cutting-edge technology and style.
With a HEMI V8 engine, the New Yorker offered both power and prestige, appealing to those who valued both performance and elegance. Its sleek lines and modern features represented a new era of automotive innovation.
Truman’s selection mirrored the optimistic spirit of the 1950s, highlighting the country’s technological advancements. It was a car that matched his practical yet progressive leadership style.
14. Dwight D. Eisenhower’s 1955 Cadillac Series 75
General Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th U.S. President, had an affinity for the 1955 Cadillac Series 75. This limousine was synonymous with American prestige and authority, often used for official functions and transport.
Eisenhower appreciated the comfort and grandeur of the Series 75, which featured luxurious interiors and advanced engineering. It was an emblem of the post-war economic boom and American exceptionalism.
The vehicle’s presence was as commanding as Eisenhower’s leadership, symbolizing strength and prosperity during his presidency. It was a car fit for a leader who valued dignity and respect.
15. Herbert Hoover’s Cadillac V-16
Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States, had a penchant for luxury and elegance, reflected in his choice of the Cadillac V-16. This magnificent vehicle, introduced in 1930, was the epitome of American automotive engineering, boasting a powerful V-16 engine that was both a technological marvel and a status symbol.
During Hoover’s presidency, the Cadillac V-16 offered a smooth and powerful driving experience, which was especially appreciated during the turbulent times of the Great Depression. The car’s sophisticated design, with its long hood and opulent interior, made it a fitting choice for a president who valued innovation and excellence.
Hoover’s Cadillac was not just about luxury; it was a statement of American resilience and ingenuity. The vehicle’s craftsmanship and performance were a testament to the country’s ability to produce world-class automobiles, even in challenging economic times.
16. Woodrow Wilson’s Pierce-Arrow
Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President, appreciated the finer things in life, a trait evident in his choice of the Pierce-Arrow. This vehicle was renowned for its supreme craftsmanship and elegant aesthetics.
The Pierce-Arrow was not just a car but a mobile piece of art, appealing to those who valued distinction and quality. Wilson’s selection of this automobile reflected his sophisticated taste and his desire to project an image of cultured leadership.
Even as he navigated the complexities of his presidency, the Pierce-Arrow represented grace and refinement in motion.
17. Herbert Hoover’s Lincoln Model L
During Herbert Hoover’s presidency, the Lincoln Model L was the pinnacle of American luxury, representing the craftsmanship and engineering excellence of the late 1920s. Sleek, sophisticated, and incredibly well-built, this vehicle exuded class and confidence—qualities that resonated with Hoover’s vision for the country.
Despite leading the nation through economic uncertainty, Hoover still believed in showcasing American-made innovation, and the Lincoln Model L was a testament to that ideal. Its commanding presence on the road reflected the resilience and prestige that the presidency demanded during turbulent times.
Though the Model L has long since disappeared from modern roads, it remains a powerful emblem of an era that valued grandeur and optimism, even in the face of hardship.