A little extra protection for your car is a big comfort in these uncertain times. But, of course, the true threat in a zombie apocalypse doesn’t come from brain-dead flesh-munchers. The worry is sentient humans on the prowl for resources.
In these situations, an armored vehicle, like the fortified 2012 Ford Transit Connect for sale on eBay, might come in handy. This Transit Connect might look like a stock delivery vehicle. But the owners upgraded the unassuming van to withstand more than potholes and door dings.
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Resistant Body and Bullet-Proof Glass
According to the description, The Ford Transit Connect has Level 3 armoring. However, there are several different rating systems used around the world.
For example, the EN1063 standard determined by the European Committee for Standardization indicates that a B3 ballistic protection level can withstand rounds that come from a .357 Magnum. Meanwhile, a National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Level III rating is more robust and can withstand a 7.62mm round, commonly found in weapons like an AK-47.
The eBay listing says The Armored Group modified the van. The company’s standard package for the Ford Transit uses an NIJ Level IIIA armoring standard. As a result, it can take five rounds from a .44 Magnum but not necessarily the 7.62mm round.
The Armored Group also says its armor includes vertical panels (except the firewall) and roof protection. In other words, there are reinforcements to the body panels, doors, pillars, and rear doors. In addition, you’ll notice bullet-resistant glass installed via a modular frame because the window must be flat. The photos also show a door overlap system, which prevents bullets from entering the cabin in exposed points along factory door openings.
Nail Thrower?
An additional bulkhead separates the cockpit and the cargo area. The cargo space contains a large safe—and an extra passenger seat for a second “shotgun” position.
The company replaced the standard locks with high-security ones, likely backed up with a deadbolt. In addition, the Armored Group’s design package includes protection for the car’s battery and onboard engine management computer.
The outfitters upgraded the suspension to compensate for the added weight. But as with all the vehicle details, you should verify the level of protection before transporting big bucks and precious valuables.
If you want to add more security features, the Armored Group reportedly offers these add-ons:
- Run-flat tires
- Electric-shock door handles
- A nail and tack thrower to disable the tires of pursuing vehicles
Secret Power
This Ford Transit Connect—located in Waterloo, Iowa—shows 167,655 on the clock. That seems relatively low compared to other similar security vehicles. Typically, they’re modified for CIT (Cash In Transit) duty and spend most of their lives on the road. However, the added weight can take a toll on the engine, and the head gasket is a common replacement item as mileage gets higher.
Most armored vehicles are based on rugged SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser or equivalent Lexus-branded variants. Chevy Suburbans or Ford Explorers are also law-enforcement favorites. And the executive crowd usually opts for high-end Mercedes-Benz sedans.
Meanwhile, the Ford Transit Connect, like the one for sale on eBay, is one of the most affordable armored vehicles you can buy. The fact that it’s so unassuming and unexpected as a security vehicle is perhaps its greatest secret power. Bad guys will never know that you have valuables on board.
