Built on a reputation of a luxury car, the limousine has been the vehicle of choice for a number of dignitaries, from celebrities to the filthy rich. A limousine speeding down a regular avenue results in spectators wondering which bigshot is actually inside the car.

Whoever it is, people are plain convinced that they have a certain kind of significant influence, financial or otherwise.

This image of the limousine – a vessel of luxury, as well as dependable, time-proven safety and security – is what made it a favorite among the moneyed crowd.

And it is because of this that the limousine has been the car of choice for the powerful individuals: those that hold significant political positions. In fact, the limousine is identified as the prime option for transporting heads of state from one place to another.

All kinds of politically powerful people imaginable – the emperor of Japan, the Queen of England, the President of the United States -- have been transported by means of a limousine.

There are a number of reasons for this preference:

• The limousine is any car you want

One of the main reasons why the limousine is often preferred for political dignitaries is because of its appeal as any vehicle of choice that can be customized to become a limousine. For instance, the Japanese emperor is usually transported in a modified Toyota Century. The customizations that came with converting this vehicle into a limousine has resulted in a twenty-foot long vehicle. The Queen of England opted for a Bentley Arnage for a limousine, and the German heads of state have turned to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, as well as Volkswagen and Audi.

In short, the wide range of options that come with modification is what appeals these people of power to the limousine.

• Customized for your needs

A head of state has a range of needs in order for them to do their job; most of the time, the fact that their responsibilities are endless means that they also have to keep working even while on the road. And it is because of this that the limousine is again turned to: its customization features allows for a range of features that would meet the demands of the busy politician. From a built-in computer, to a television set, to a minibar for entertaining guests, the limousine allows for everything the hectic political life could demand for.

• Nothing beats security

This is perhaps one of the most important reasons why politicians depend on the limousine for their choice of ride. Again turning to the modifications, the limousine could be installed with many features that can ensure heightened security for the passenger, from tinted windows to a bulletproof exterior. Also, the limousine is only one of the very few car companies that are capable of armor-plating their vehicles – something that can prove invaluable for a politician.