Presidential inaugurations typically put a spotlight on the POTUS' limousine. As Joe Biden prepares to take office, Vanarama explored the history of America's official state car. Let's take a look back at a presidential protection story that includes more than 80 years of General Motors versus Ford rivalry, though Mopar fans are out of luck.
FDR’s 1939 Lincoln K Sunshine Special
First up on Vanarama’s list is Franklin D. Roosevelt became the first U.S. president to ride in an official government limo. High-tech capabilities onboard the Lincoln K Sunshine Special included a two radio along with Secret Service-friendly grab handles and extra-wide running boards. Following U.S. entry into WWII, bulletproof tires, armored doors, and submachine gun storage were added to FDR's Lincoln.
JFK’s 1961-1972 Lincoln Continental SS-100-X
The Secret Service used the Lincoln Continental for presidential protection during this period. While four variants of the car entered service, the agency assigned code SS-100-X to the now infamous limousine used by John F. Kennedy during his fateful trip to Dallas in November 1963.
As a result of his assassination, the SS-100-X became the last open-top POTUS vehicle. Post assassination, the Continental fleet was upgraded with titanium armor plating and a permanent bulletproof hardtop to serve Presidents Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, and Reagan.
Ronald Reagan’s 1983 Cadillac Fleetwood
After more than forty years of presidential service, GM finally beat out Ford for POTUS duty. In 1983, a heavily-modified Cadillac Fleetwood limousine began service for Ronald Reagan. The raised roof and rear seats offered better visibility between President Reagan and passing crowds. This series of limos were the first to use bulletproof glass on all windows: the resulting extra weight and the addition of thicker armor required heavy-duty brakes for better stopping power.
Barack Obama / Donald Trump’s 2009 Cadillac "Cadillac One"
President Obama's first presidential limo was called the "Cadillac One" as the custom-made vehicle was not based on any existing Cadillac model. Security measures include advanced electronics, five-inch-thick bombproof glass, and a sealed interior to counter a chemical attack.
A press release touting the Cadillac One touted the car's "security and coded communications systems make it the most technologically advanced protection vehicle in the world." The Cadillac One also began to be called "The Beast," referring to the car's bulk.
Barack Obama’s 2011 "Ground Force One"
Used for campaign activities and more remote trips, Ground Force One entered service in 2011 for presidential duty and other government officials' use. Security features are reported to include countermeasures against chemical and weapon attacks. Tinted side windows means that the POTUS has to stand next to the driver to be visible to crowds.
Donald Trump’s 2018 Cadillac "The Beast"
"The Beast" receives a "mid-cycle refresh" with styling and security updates for President Trump. A foam-sealed fuel tank prevents explosions, and Kevlar-lined tires become the ultimate run-flats. Other enhancements include state-of-the-art communications equipment, secure oxygen supplied, and a refrigerator stocked with blood that's matched for the president.
The Most Expensive Presidential Limousine
Vanarama also looked at the costs of these presidential limousines. After adjusting for inflation, Kennedy's Lincoln Continental SS-100-X was the most costly presidential ride. The Continental's cost of about $200,000 in 1961, which works out to $1,741,000 in today's money, includes the original price of the car and customization features.
Sources: Vanarama, Bonhams