1956 CADILLAC V16 - EISENHOWER PRESIDENTIAL LIMO PARADE CAR (YAT MING) 1/24 

The 1956 Cadillac presidential parade cars were 21 feet long and weighed 7,000 pounds. The two identical cars were built by Hess Eisenhardt, beginning with a Series 56-86 commercial chassis characterized by a 158 inch wheelbase and a 365 cid, 305 horsepower V-8 engine. Because they replaced the previous twin presidential Cadillac parade cars known as the Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth (named after the largest ocean liners of the day), they became known as Queen Mary II and Queen Elizabeth II. Like the cars they replaced, they were arsenals on wheels with features like pistol holders and a rifle rack. There were also phones and a large extra-large siren with an oscillating rear light. The car tires were fitted with a narrow rim inside the tire to support the car should the tires be shot out. The special Cadillac could travel 115 mph if needed. Secret Service agents were given extensive training in driving these huge cars under all possible emergency conditions, including while under bullet fire or with other agents firing weapons from the moving car. This car is still operating today, although retired in 1968, and is owned by a businessman in Cincinnati.