It's a dangerous world out there for the powerful and famous, who are constantly under threat from kidnappers, stalkers, paparazzi and super fans. An even bigger threat exists for the bodyguards who have to throw themselves in front of the bullets. Here are Jalopnik readers' choices for the best VIP/executive protection rides.
Welcome back to Answers of the Day — our daily Jalopnik feature where we take the best ten responses from the previous day's Question of the Day and shine it up to show off. It's by you and for you, the Jalopnik readers. Enjoy!
Photo Credit: Lionsgate
10.) Conquest Vehicles Knight XV
Suggested By: JonZeke
Why it's such a secure proposition: It's definitely not the most discreet set of wheels on the street, and pulling up to the red carpet in one will raise plenty of eyebrows, but if you're in a situation where maximum protection is necessary it's hard to outdo the Knight and its shining armor.
Photo Credit: Prive International
9.) Toyota Avalon
Suggested By: dal20402
Why it's such a secure proposition: Possibly the most anonymous car on the road alongside various Mitsubishi Galants, the Avalon steadfastly refuses to imprint itself on your consciousness. Even the most monomaniacally-obsessed stalker is likely to blank out completely when one of these drives by. It's also pretty comfy in an appropriately bland way, as well.
Photo Credit: Toyota
8.) Lincoln Town Car
Suggested By: JackTrade
Why it's such a secure proposition: The big Panther-platform Lincolns define the term "ubiquitous" in most American cities, where they are usually little more than an upgrade from a taxi. Again, though, invisibility is power. The Town Car can also be turned into a rolling fortress without anyone on the outside being the wiser.
And you never know what might be in that enormous trunk.
Photo Credit: Ken
7.) Bentley Flying Spur from Texas Armoring
Suggested By: Dr_Watson
Why it's such a secure proposition: Leave it to the people who stand (or sit) behind their products to harden a car while leaving all the luxury and style intact. A decadent way to travel, a dignified way to arrive, a pragmatic solution to getting the hell away from trouble.
Photo Credit: Texas Armoring Corporation
6.) Modified Mercedes ML500
Suggested By: GOAT__RODEO
Why it's such a secure proposition: Oftentimes a VIP prefers to travel in anonymous discretion. Sometimes the demands of a person's station in life make that desire unrealistic. If your flock of admirers simply must see you, certain security precautions are still available. We recommend upgrading the air conditioning while the necessary prep work is being done.
Photo Credit: AP
5.) Modified Cadillac DTS/GMC Topkick
Suggested By: waveridin1959
Why it's such a secure proposition: The job application process is ridiculous, the stress levels are incredible, the blend of expectations and criticisms boggles the mind. But at least while you're holding this particular gig down, folks are making sure you're okay.
Photo Credit: AP
4.) Citroën DS
Suggested By: Hart88
Why it's such a secure proposition: On August 22, 1962, a paramilitary group led by Jean-Marie Bastien-Thiry attempted to assassinate French president Charles de Gaulle. The attack was a failure: de Gaulle's DS was sprayed with submachine-gun fire, but the president and his entire entourage were unharmed. Legend has it the DS sped away with one shot-out tire lifted clear of the road by the hydropneumatic suspension. Another credit to everyone's favorite French sci-fi-mobile.
Photo Credit: Jakob Poul Skoubo
3.) Audi A8/S8
Suggested By: StewMM
Why it's such a secure proposition: The vehicle of choice for both former CIA and SAS operatives. Less clichéd than a Mercedes S-class and not as nouveau-bling as a 7-Series, the big Audi is utterly unflappable. Discreet protective options are available through the company's Security program and your choice of aftermarket specialists.
Photo Credit: Audi USA
2.) GMC Yukon XL with Dillon Aero minigun mount
Suggested By: Kiwi_Commander
Why it's such a secure proposition: Not so great for carrying a VIP, but for keeping potential harm at bay? Peerless. Perhaps a slightly demented security choice (resident Texan Hardigree insisted we include it), this normal-looking large SUV packs the firepower of an infantry squad.
1.) BMW E39 M5
Suggested By: jbcustom
Why it's such a secure proposition: The best solution to being in a threatening situation is to get away from that threatening situation, and the M5's 400-horse V-8 and high-grade suspension will dance circles around most other vehicles on its way to safety.
Please remember to wear your seatbelt.