The Queen’s enduring passion for driving throughout her 70-year reign has involved an unusual collection of (mostly) regal cars that trace the history of British motoring.

Princess Elizabeth was proclaimed Queen on 6 February, 1952 – although she wasn’t crowned until 2 June, 1953 – meaning that the Platinum Jubilee celebrations commence tomorrow.

As well as the obligatory Bentleys and Rolls-Royces befitting a sovereign, Her Majesty has also chosen sometimes improbable cars to suit her needs, both as a monarch and a mother.

The Queen is the only person in the land who drives without the requirement to hold a valid licence but she is more than qualified. During the Second World War, Her Majesty was a mechanic and driver in the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service.

Equally at home on the back seat or behind a steering wheel, she is also uniquely placed to choose the right royal car. Whether it’s a crawl through crowds at Windsor or hacking a Land Rover Defender across the Balmoral estate, few people can match her motoring experience.

1953: Land Rover Series I

Known by the Royal household as ceremonial vehicle State IV, this rugged workhorse was one of Her Majesty’s first cars in a long association with Land Rover.

However, not even the distinctive royal claret paintwork could hide the fact that the specially adapted 86in Series I had few modern comforts.