8. HERBERT HOOVER: CADILLAC V16 FLEETWOOD
The Cadillac is a top contender for one of the most iconic American cars. Not only does the V16 engine speak for itself, but the car was designed by Harley Earl. Earl is the famed designer of the Buick Y-Job, and more importantly, the Chevrolet Corvette.
Shortly before leaving office, Hoover purchased one of only 49 452-B V16 Imperial Limousines ever produced. Hoover bought the car as his own personal vehicle. Although it was a limousine, it was not official White House property.
9. PRESIDENTIAL LIMOUSINES: 1961 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL CONVERTIBLE
President John F Kennedy’s primary mode of transportation while in office was the Lincoln limousine. Beginning its life as a four-door convertible that retailed for $7,300, the customized vehicle was worth upwards of $200,000.
Kennedy was shot and killed while riding in the now infamous limousine. The assassination caused a historical chain of events that forever changed presidential transportation. After the investigation, the car was completely revamped, with $500,000 worth of armor and a permanent hard top. Following this, it was put back into service for many years, and reused by Johnson, Nixon, Ford, and Carter. Now it is on continuing display at The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan.
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