Coolest Presidential Cars
|
During the primaries, we looked at cars the 2008 presidential candidates drive. But now that the dust has settled and Barack Obama is set for his presidential inauguration, it's time to take a look at some of the coolest cars ever to grace 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Barack Obama - Ford Escape Hybrid
President Barack Obama (2009 - present) has a pretty lame vehicle compared to other presidents in the past century, but it is one of the most fuel-efficient. The selection of the Ford Escape Hybrid is more political than stylish, as Obama dumped his Chrysler 300C Sedan before calling on U.S. automakers to produce more fuel-efficient vehicles. The Escape does offer some cool features, though, like voice activated navigation and satellite radio.
If President Obama wants to be remembered as the 21st Century's JFK, he'd better upgrade his ride before he leaves office.
Bill Clinton - 1967 Ford Mustang Convertible
Bill Clinton (1993-2001) led America into the 21st Century, but his favorite vehicle was a throwback to American engineering of yesteryear. He owned an ice blue 1967 Mustang convertible with a white interior. With his wife Hillary selected as the next Secretary of State, maybe the '67 'Stang will make a triumphant return to the White House.
Ronald Reagan - 1952 U.S. Army Jeep
Ronald Reagan (1981-1989) wasn't known for flash or flair, but like other great Americans of his generation, he got the job done. His most prized vehicle, a 1952 U.S. Army Jeep, was testament to that. The jeep isn't stylish by any means, but it's tough and durable, and was the original inspiration for the now-famous Jeep Wrangler.
John F. Kennedy - 1961 Ford Thunderbird Convertible
No American president had more style and grace than John F. Kennedy (1961-1963), and JFK's vehicle of choice proves it. The 1961 Ford Thunderbird is a classic in every sense of the word. Long, sleek, confident, comfortable--this car has it all.
Dwight D. Eisenhower - 1956 Chrysler Imperial Luxury Sedan
Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953-1961) was a rough-and-tumble kind of guy, one of the few five-star generals in the history of the U.S. Army. So it's no surprise that he chose an American-made Chrysler with a V8 "HEMI" engine as his flagship vehicle. Long, powerful, and classic white wall tires, it epitomizes 50's carmaking.
William Taft - 1909 Baker Electric
If you think the 'green' revolution began in this century, think again. Believe it or not, the electric car was a reality one hundred years ago--and President William Taft (1909-1913) owned one. Unlike most vehicles in that day, it didn't require a hand crank to start. It looked like a mini stagecoach, or a retro version of the back half of the Popemobile. It had little bike tires and a top speed of only 14 mph, but Jay Leno owns one, so it must be cool.
« 'Grassoline' - A Guide to Alternative Fuels (Part III) | Main | Getting Divorced and Car Insurance »

January 20, 2009
| By:
Robert
|
Comments (
0
)