Buying a Car

Armored or non-armored??


Yes, this is a weird question but when you live in cities like Sao Paulo and Mexico City this is the first question that comes to mind. If you're going to buy an armored car you will need an SUV. If it is non-armored, it doesn't matter. You can buy a sports car, a mini-van, a coupe, whatever suites you best.


The reason for the armored SUV is the weight. It weights a ton! Even tough the materials have been getting lighter, the armoring still weights a lot. When you're buying an armored car you need it to have the whole cockpit and the tires armored. It is better if the car does not have a sunroof because this can be a soft point. And the suspension needs to be able to handle the weight, and this is why a 4x4 SUV is your best option.


There are different levels of armoring and the higher the number, the more protection you get. In Brazil the norm is a level III. In Mexico they use levels V and VI. They have bigger machine guns in Mexico so the armoring has to be heavier.


Your car will also need a big engine so you can drive fast and be able to escape if necessary. SUV again. Taking some Defensive Driving Classes is a must, whether your car is armored or not.


Buying an armored car is like buying insurance. You buy it not to use it. But you something happens you're glad you have it. A couple of friends had some incidents in Sao Paulo and it was very nice to have the armored cars.  I've been driving one here in Sao Paulo. It does make me feel safe, but I'm always alert. Now we have a decision to make.