The first British royal to drive a foreign car—and she chose a Mercedes

In 1991, Princess Diana made headlines by driving a Mercedes-Benz 500 SL—breaking royal tradition, which favored British-made cars. Her sleek, navy-blue roadster symbolized independence and modernity, reflecting her evolving public image. Though controversial at the time, the choice marked Diana’s bold spirit and personal style. Today, the very car she drove is preserved at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, offering visitors a rare glimpse into both royal history and the cultural impact of an iconic woman behind the wheel of a German legend.