It’s Presidents Day in the U.S. so you know what that means… save big on mattresses! At the Model Car Hall of Fame, it also means it’s time to look at some Presidential diecast! And there is a lot to choose from.
Presidential Rides – First of all, there are numerous models of Presidential limousines for inaugurations and parades, such as Richard Nixon’s Lincoln from Greenlight seen above. Offerings range everywhere from the 1920s to modern, like this TRL model of Barack Obama’s car known as “The Beast.”
There are also many models whose names echo various Presidents, whether they are related or not.
Lincoln (Abe) – The only marque on this list actually named for a President, Lincoln has made so many fine rides over the years that it’s impossible to choose one. Kenner made a fun Continental in the 1970s, a Smash-Up Derby car with fly-off parts.
Pierce (Franklin) – Pierce Arrow was one of the premiere luxury American auto companies of the first part of the 20th Century. (Franklin was a lesser-known auto brand from that era as well). Brooklin Models has several to choose from.
Ford (Gerald) – The most populous nameplate on the list is one of the most American brands ever. There are thousands of models to choose from, but the Mustang is the most patriotic, including this one from GreenLight.
It’s not just American automakers who are in on the action.
Fillmore (Millard) – This is cheating a bit, but the beloved Volkswagen Bus from Pixar’s Cars shares that surname, although most likely referencing the famous concert venue in San Francisco. Mattel offers several variants.
Adams (John and John Quincy) – The Adams Probe 16 was a British concept that was too impractical and too expensive to get off the ground. Only three were ever produced, including one that appeared in A Clockwork Orange as the star car. AutoCult makes a great model of it.
Taft (William H.) – Strangely enough, Daihatsu made a Kei car called the Taft. Ironic that such a tiny vehicle would have the same name as the most rotund President. Tomica makes an even tinier version.
Nissan President – This stately Japanese sedan covers all the bases, doesn’t it? Several models have been made including one from Diapet.
Studebaker President – Let’s get back to the U.S., however… Studebaker offered a car called the President. One wishes the brand and nameplate were still around today for this occasion. Esval makes a great model of the wagon version.
The President name in this case may have been a correction from an older model from Studebaker, the Dictator, represented here by Brooklin. For some reason that name fell out of favor in the 1930s.
However you choose to celebrate this holiday, drive safely and make sure you secure that mattress to your roof! Also, if you think of any we left out, hit us up in the comments!
Ron Ruelle is a cartoonist, writer, and illustrator who also writes about model cars. You can see his work at www.ronruelle.com
