Marketing Manager - Bridge Classic Cars
Sandringham Museum in Norfolk is where a small collection of vehicles that have been used as part of the Royal Household at some point in their lives is kept.
We recently visited the museum, which is situated in the former coach houses and stable block, and it was great to see some former royal vehicles up close.
Our two favourites were the Rolls Royce Phantom V and the 1969 Austin Princess Vanden Plas Limousine.
Rolls Royce Phantom V
This large four-door limousine was used for state and official occasions between 1961 to 2002. Weighing 3 tons and powered by a 6230cc engine, the Rolls Royce Phantom V had a busy working life during its time in the royal household.
When the late Queen Elizabeth II used the vehicle, the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy on the bonnet was replaced with her personal mascot of St George and the Dragon.
The car was even transported to Russia on the Royal Yacht Britannia, in 1994, in preparation for a state visit from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip.
1969 Austin Princess Vanden Plas Limousine NGN1
Although they went out of production in 1969, this one, delivered to the Royal Mews in 1972, was one of the last-ever Princesses. The appropriately named vehicle was used as an alternative to the much more expensive Daimler limousines that junior members of the Royal Family could use.
Princess Anne even escaped unscathed from a kidnapping attempt while in the car in March 1974!
