If you close your eyes and imagine what kind of car a royal family member would drive, chances are you picture something exclusive and expensive. However, back in the early 1980s, Princess Diana drove a modest Ford Escort around. In fact, this sensible Ford was an engagement gift from Prince Charles. However, this car went missing for about 20 years before resurfacing.

According to the BBC, this infamous machine now heads to auction at the end of this month. As you might imagine, everyone involved expects this car to attract big money.

How did Princess Diana end up with a Ford Escort?

Princess Diana received this Ford Escort as a gift at the beginning of the 1980s. In fact, there are several photos of her happily driving her sensible Ford around. According to Motor1, she used this car as her daily driver until 1982. If you’re looking for a clue as to how this car stands out, look closely, and you’ll spot a silver frog on its hood. According to Motor1, this ornament served as a copy of a gift the Princess received from her sister.

While this Ford Escort is certainly a sensible ride, Princess Diana had better taste in cars. In fact, she also drove an Audi 80 Cabriolet finished in dark green. Aside from being a stylish Audi, Car and Driver report that it was one of the most photographed cars of the 1990s. However, her Audi had a well-documented history, whereas this Escort went missing.

This car was missing for over 20 years

According to the BBC, Princess Diana’s Ford Escort vanished for well over 20 years before popping up for sale now. In fact, the current owner went to great lengths to keep the car’s location a secret, not even letting her close friends know about the car’s true history. Thanks to this secrecy, no one knew where this car was hiding or what condition it’s in.

Thankfully, this Ford Escort is in fairly original condition. In fact, the BBC reports that the car still features its original paintwork and upholstery. In total, this sensible hatchback has covered over 83,000 miles during its time on the road. Judging from the auction photos published by Reman Dansie, the car looks quite sharp, especially when we consider that it’s 40 years old.

Princess Diana’s Ford Escort is now on sale

If you want to own a vehicle driven by a member of the royal family, this may be your only chance. That’s because Princess Diana’s Ford Escort will head to the auction block at the end of this month. According to the BBC, experts believe the car will fetch between $42,000 and $56,000. However, if previous auctions of ultra-rare vehicles are anything to go by, this car could sell for significantly more than those suggested figures.