How Much Does it Cost to Bulletproof a Car? This Much! | Legionary (2023)

Bulletproof cars used to be extravagant purchases made by international drug dealers with cash to burn or necessities of life for heads of state in war-torn, third-world countries. They are now more in demand than ever, and they are being driven by local politicians, CEOs, doctors, and people of means. In fact, that nondescript SUV cruising down the highway may very well be a Class IV armored vehicle.

The process of bulletproofing a car is complex and expensive, and the end cost may well exceed the original price of the vehicle. Depending on the level of protection (as measured by its stopping power) and the size of the car, bulletproofing costs can range from $14,000 to over $100,000.

There are plenty of reasons why someone would feel the need to drive a bulletproof car. It frequently boils down to a person’s vocation (e.g., a high-value target like a political leader or a mark associated with wealth) or location (living or working in high-crime or unstable areas). High-level personal security while traveling on the road can be had, but it does come with a hefty price tag.

How Much Does it Cost to Bulletproof a Car? This Much! | Legionary (1)

Here is How Much it Costs to Bulletproof a Car

Since the ultimate objective in bulletproofing a car is to protect the occupants from harm, all potential exposures must be armored. Several factors determine the cost of bulletproofing a car:

  • The desired level of ballistic protection – when bulletproofing a vehicle, the first consideration is determining against what type(s) of munitions protection is being sought. Armoring against small-caliber handguns is less costly than stopping armor-piercing rounds fired from a high-powered rifle.
  • Vehicle type – armoring materials are expensive, and installation is time-consuming and highly technical. As such, larger vehicles like SUVs will be more expensive to bulletproof than small sedans. Particular makes, such as high-end European brands, tend to require more labor, resulting in higher bulletproofing costs (10 to 20% more).
  • Coverage area – armoring only door panels and windows is a less costly option than bulletproofing a full 360° of exposed surfaces all around a vehicle (which would include the pillar posts, headers, and in some cases, the roof and floor).

With these parameters in mind, armor packages protecting only car windows and doors can range from around $28,000 to $43,000. More comprehensive bulletproofing will result in a significantly higher price tag, starting at roughly $58,000 and very possibly exceeding $100,000. It is important to keep in mind that these costs are on top of the vehicle’s original purchase price. (Source: Armormax)

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Recognizing the increased demand for armored vehicles globally (there are an estimated 200,000 to 300,000 bulletproof cars being driven around the world today), luxury car brands have discretely made available certain models with bulletproofing performed in-house. Needless to say, the price tags for these vehicles are astronomical:

  • Mercedes-Maybach Pullman Guard – $1,600,000
  • Range Rover Sentinel – $500,000 (rumored)
  • Audi RS7 Sportback – $205,000 (manufacturer claims a top speed of 200 mph)
  • BMW X5 Security Plus – $144,000
  • Toyota Land Cruiser – $100,000

It is worth noting that the cost of purchasing bulletproof vehicles direct from manufacturers may steer many would-be buyers to specialized armoring outfitters, as discussed above. Even so, depending on the make and model of the car, bringing a vehicle in for custom-bulletproofing can potentially cost over $100,000 (the average job ticket at one major company is around $150,000).

How Much Does it Cost to Bulletproof a Car? This Much! | Legionary (2)

Why Does it Cost So Much to Bulletproof a Car?

Because not only does the armor need to shield the occupants from harm, it also has to protect vital car components from damage so that the vehicle can still be driven away. In conjunction with the high-tech, bullet-stopping materials used to armor a vehicle, an effective defense strategy must include being able to drive away and effect an escape. (Source: Bloomberg)

This is How Cars are Bulletproofed

Armoring a vehicle is a laborious process that entails stripping it down to its frame and installing bulletproofing materials in vulnerable sections to protect both the occupants and vital components of the car to ensure it can be driven away. For many outfitters and manufacturers, the ultimate goal is to achieve perfect discretion so that all the armoring work is undetectable.

Stripping the Vehicle

In order to properly armor a vehicle and make it bulletproof, it basically needs to be completely disassembled. Not only must the doors and body panels be removed, but also:

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  • All seats
  • All electrical wiring
  • Inside trim
  • Carpeting

Only when the car is down to its bare framework can the complex work of bulletproofing begin.

Armoring the Door and Body Panels

Bulletproofing the doors and body surfaces involves the insertion or installation of armored plates and other bullet-stopping materials into all cavities. For the doors, this can involve using Kevlar, ballistic nylon, and other similar materials. The addition of armoring can significantly add to a vehicle’s weight (from 500 to several thousand pounds). In the case of car doors, which must still be opened and closed, the extra weight often requires the installation of additional door hinges. As far as the ceiling and floor, these are typically armored using sheets of bulletproof materials.

Bulletproofing the Windows

Known in the industry as transparent armor, bulletproof glass is made by layering polycarbonates with leaded glass. The result is glass that can still be seen through, but depending on the thickness, can stop a bullet:

  • 0.8-inch thickness – can stop a 9 mm round fired from a handgun
  • 2-inch thickness – can stop a bullet fired from a high-powered rifle

Because the “windows” are so heavy, bulletproof glass installed in car doors is often fixed (e.g., it can no longer be lowered). Alternatively, more powerful motors must be installed in the doors to lower and raise bulletproof windows.

Protecting Vital Car Components

It is not just the occupants that must be shielded from bullets but vital sections like the engine and transmission. Steel plates are commonly used to bolster the firewall and rear bulkhead, while gas tanks will either be armored or feature some type of self-sealing mechanism in case of a puncture. Some outfitters replace stock bumpers that are designed to absorb impact by crumpling with specially reinforced versions that can act as a battering ram without damaging the car’s radiator.

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Making the Armored Vehicle Drive-able

Armoring does not stop with the vehicle’s chassis. The tires are crucial to effecting a safe getaway, so special technologies have been developed to allow them to be driven on even if struck by gunfire. So-called run-flat tires typically feature a solid polymer ring that sits inside an air-filled tire and will allow the vehicle to be driven at highway speed for up to 60 miles with the outer tire punctured.

Another important consideration with armored vehicles is the significant weight that the bulletproofing process adds to the car. All told, the installation of ballistic protection can add several thousand pounds to the vehicle’s standing weight. Not only must suspensions be beefed up to support the added load, but the engine must often be enhanced as well. (Source: Car and Driver; Alpine Armoring)

Vehicle Armor Rating Systems

When it comes to evaluating vehicle armor systems, there are rating schemes that indicate the effectiveness of the armor against various types of armament and different levels of firepower. The two most widely used armor rating scales are implemented by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) for use in the US and the EN 1063 classification system (also known as CEN), which is predominantly used in Europe.

Armor rating systems essentially assign a value (usually a number or letter) to a particular level of ballistic protection, usually indicated as the type of munition(s) that can be stopped. For instance, the NIJ III-A standard (CEN B4 standard) would be assigned to armor capable of stopping bullets fired from handguns ranging in sizes from a .38 special to a .44 magnum.

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Here are several other notable ballistic protection levels:

Ballistic Protection StandardWeapons Protected AgainstMunitions Protected Against
NIJ III; CEN B6+High-powered riflesFull metal jacket pointed bullet
NIJ IV+; CEN B7Assault riflesArmor-piercing rounds

Conclusion

Perhaps it is a sign of the times and a reflection of today’s world, but bulletproof cars have never been so popular and in such high demand. Whatever the reason or rationale, people feel the need to protect themselves while on the move and are willing to pay a fortune for what amounts to driving a fortress on wheels. But if it saves a life, it is without question money well spent.

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FAQs

How much does it cost to fully bulletproof a car? ›

Summary. The cost of bulletproof car windows varies depending on where you live. The price can range from $3,000 to $20,000. The price of the car window will depend on the size of the car, the style of the window, the material of the window, and the level of insurance coverage you have.

Can you legally bulletproof a car? ›

Yes – we have thousands of vehicles in the United States and being used around the world. It is legal to own and drive the bulletproof vehicles we upgrade. With an increasing amount of violent events across the world, driving an armoured vehicle is a great way to mitigate everyday danger.

How long does it take to bulletproof a car? ›

The armoring process depending on the package selected can take anywhere from 30 – 45 working days on a majority of vehicle models. International Armoring Corporation® is able to accomplish this due to the volume of vehicles being armored and by keeping in stock armor components for most of the popular luxury vehicles.

Are bullet proof cars crash proof? ›

A heavily armored vehicle with proper reinforcement, armor plating, and perfect welding procedure has more chances of surviving an accident. Armored vehicles are safer at low speed during accidents because of not having crumple zone to absorb energy at high speed.

How much does it cost to install bullet proof glass in a car? ›

The cost of bulletproof protection depends upon the level of protection it comes in. It can start from around $14,000 and exceed $100,000 based on the customization you'd like to have on your car.

How many bullets can a bulletproof car take? ›

For instance, if you were to get level 1 protection, it would be able to protect you from a minimum of 3 shots from a 9 mm handgun. That's regardless of the material you choose. On the other hand, level 2 protection means that the glass is able to withstand at least three . 357 Magnum shots.

Do bulletproof tires exist? ›

Technically there is nothing like bulletproof tire, but there are tires resistant with rubber or metal band inside. There are some other tires having an insert around the inside of the rim to provide control and degree of traction when the tire is shredded.

What vehicles are bullet proof? ›

  • Mercedes-Benz S-Guard 600. Mercedes-Benz S-Guard 600 is one of the most common armored vehicles available for civilians. ...
  • Audi A8 Security. ...
  • Cadillac Escalade. ...
  • Bulletproof Lexus LX 570. ...
  • Genesis G90 Sedan. ...
  • Bulletproof Dodge Charger Hellcat. ...
  • Bulletproof BMW 750i. ...
  • Ford F150.
Jul 7, 2022

Do bulletproof car windows roll down? ›

Yes – see also, can armored car windows go up and down? Can my bulletproof car have operable windows? We have several specialized motors depending on your vehicle where we can get our ballistic glass to go up and do in your armored vehicle.

Can a normal person buy bulletproof car? ›

Can you buy an armored car? It is completely legal and ethical to buy an armored car from the best armored car companies out there.

Can a bullet go through a bulletproof window? ›

It is designed to withstand one or many rounds of bullets depending on the firing weapon and the thickness of the glass. Bulletproof glass reduces the velocity by absorbing the energy from the bullets. However, it is not fully impenetrable.

How long does bulletproof last? ›

The majority of NIJ-certified body armor vests can maintain their ballistic capabilities for a minimum of five years. There are some Dyneema body armor vests that have a seven-year ballistic capability.

Do police cars have bullet proof tires? ›

No, they are still not bulletproof – but they are markedly more fuel-efficient.

How much are bulletproof windows? ›

The cost of a bulletproof window ranges from $150 to $800 per square foot depending on what bullets are to be stopped, whether the window is opening, how intricate the design is, and the size of the window.

How much weight does bulletproofing a car add? ›

Depending on what protection level your vehicle has been retrofitted for and how comprehensively or certifiably it was armored, its final weight could be 800 to 2,000 pounds heavier than the standard unarmored version.

Can you put bulletproof glass in your street car? ›

Yes, the installation of bulletproof glass in private cars is entirely legal, and anyone can install bulletproof glass for protection in their vehicle (we recommend professionals who can properly seal and install the Armormax® materials).

How thick is a bullet proof windshield? ›

Bulletproof glass varies in thickness from 3⁄4 to 31⁄2 inches (19 to 89 mm).

Can you buy bullet proof windshield? ›

Many people refer to this extra-strong glass as “bulletproof glass.” There is no such thing as “bulletproof” glass, but bullet-resistant glass is available for windshields, back glasses, and side windows.

What caliber will bullet proof glass stop? ›

Bullet Resistant Glass would withstand up to a . 50 Caliber round from a high powered rifle. A . 50 Caliber round is most closely associated with military usage, and is not typically or commonly in widespread usage amongst most civilian products.

Are there bomb proof cars? ›

The bombproof car is also known as an armored vehicle. An armored vehicle has a reinforced structure that is typically made with a variety of defensive materials. Material includes bullet-resistant glass and different layers of armor plating.

Can a bullet travel 4 miles? ›

In reality, the short answer to how far a bullet can travel is around 1.5 miles, which is equal to about 7,920 feet. In terms of velocity, the average speed is an impressive 1,700 mph.

Are luxury cars bulletproof? ›

Luxury armored cars look like ordinary cars. However, they are protected with special sheets behind the scenes. Instead of ordinary glass, they have a bulletproof glass or bullet-resistant glass to protect the passengers. Some cars also have anti-blast seats to protect the passengers.

What is the highest level of bulletproof car? ›

The strongest protection often offered, the B7 protection level stops various armor-piercing rounds fired from super high-velocity rifles, even sniper rifles. This is in many cases the highest feasible protection available within civilian-grade armored vehicles.

Does bulletproofing a car make it heavier? ›

They're much heavier

Depending on what protection level your vehicle has been retrofitted for and how comprehensively or certifiably it was armored, its final weight could be 800 to 2,000 pounds heavier than the standard unarmored version.

What brand of cars are bullet proof? ›

Armored Trucks and SUVs: Toyota Land Cruiser, Chevrolet Suburban, Lexus LX570, Mercedes G-class, Mercedes GL-class, Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon, etc. Bulletproof Luxury Sedans: Mercedes S-class, BMW 7-series, Lexus LS-series, Toyota Camry, etc.

Is there such thing as bulletproof car tires? ›

Technically there is nothing like bulletproof tire, but there are tires resistant with rubber or metal band inside. There are some other tires having an insert around the inside of the rim to provide control and degree of traction when the tire is shredded.

Which is the safest bulletproof car in the world? ›

1 Rezvani Tank X

Its features include special bulletproof glass, run-flat tires, thermal night vision technology, and electrified door hinges to shock intruders. To make it even more unstoppable, under the SUV's hood is a 1000-horsepower engine offering a top speed of 160 mph.

What SUV is bulletproof? ›

The 2023 Rezvani Vengeance Is An Armored SUV That's Built For The Apocalypse. This 690-HP SUV is a bulletproof beast that can spray its own smoke screen. The term “super-SUV” is typically reserved for high-end utility vehicles from supercar companies like the Lamborghini Urus and the new Ferrari Purosangue.

Does car armor expire? ›

What is the shelf life of Armor All® Protectant? The shelf lives of Armor All® protectant products are at least five years from date of manufacture.” Products may last longer than our shelf life.

What is level 7 body armor? ›

UL 752 Level 7 Bullet Resistant Barriers

Most commonly used as a protection barrier against multiple shots from a military assault rifle, such as the M-16, and the like, with muzzle energy of 1158-1402 foot-pounds (1570-1901J). Nominal Thickness. 1 – 1/8”

What is level 6 bulletproof? ›

UL 752 Level 6 Specifications

Most commonly used as a protection barrier against multiple shots from a submachine gun, such as a 9 mm Uzi, and the like, with muzzle energy of 540-653 foot-pounds (732-885J). Nominal Thickness. 3/8"

Which country has the most bullet proof cars? ›

The State of Bulletproof Cars 2021

Brazil leads with the highest per capita number of armored vehicles in the world.

How thick does metal need to be for bulletproofing? ›

To these standards, some materials are natively “bulletproof”: a foot-thick concrete wall or two inches of solid steel will withstand many shots from a handgun, sub-machine gun, or rifle.

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