Daimler, a prestigious British coachbuilder with a rich heritage, crafted the Majestic. Essentially a rebadged Jaguar XJ, it falls squarely within the realm of luxurious automobiles. The Queen Elizabeth II, known for her discerning taste, had the car finished in her preferred color, British Racing Green, and appointed with a luxurious cream leather interior. Polished wood inlays, green contrast stitching, and matching floor mats further elevate the cabin’s elegance. A special touch is the dedicated tray in the center console, designed specifically for her trademark handbag.
Under the hood lies a powerful 4.0-liter V8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. While not designed for top-speed chases, the Majestic delivers capable performance, capable of accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in seven seconds and reaching a top speed of 149 mph. More importantly, with only 16,200 miles on the odometer, the car remains in exceptional condition, likely a testament to the Queen’s careful driving habits.
The Daimler remained in the Queen’s possession until 2007 before being returned to the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust. Bonhams proudly states the car “has been kept in a heated garage as part of a fantastic private collection,” ensuring its overall condition remains impressive.
As of today, bidding for the Majestic has reached $59,000, exceeding Bonhams‘ initial estimates of $45,000 to $75,000. With four days left in the auction, the final price could climb even higher.
Those interested in acquiring this piece of automotive history will find a car boasting exceptional condition. The paintwork gleams, the wheels are pristine, and the interior retains its luxurious feel. Minor imperfections, such as a missing pinstripe and a small dent, do little to detract from the car’s overall grandeur.
Adding a touch of intrigue is a hidden feature – a “James Bondesque” bank of controls for flashing blue strobe lights, alternating headlights, and special blue identification lights – remnants of the car’s royal security detail.
The front cabin further reinforces the car’s regal provenance. The impeccable condition of the trim, center console, wooden inlays, and leather upholstery speaks volumes about the care taken to preserve this historic vehicle. A silver plaque on the dashboard proudly declares the car’s history as Queen Elizabeth II’s personal vehicle from 2001 to 2005.
Queen Elizabeth II, a monarch known for her passion for cars, possessed an impressive collection valued at an estimated $16 million. The Daimler Majestic stands as a testament to her refined taste and appreciation for British automotive excellence.
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