Bulletproof Getaway: Audi A8L VR9 Security
Sean Rooks | January 2, 2026

Good Find Friday features interesting vehicles we’ve found for sale while conducting market analysis or appraisal research. They are not for sale by Wolf and Mare and we have no business relationship with the sellers. We just think they’re worth learning about and sharing with our readers!
Ever since I was first exposed to the Audi A8 (in S8 spec) in the movie Ronin, I’ve been a fan. The platform has made numerous feature film appearances since — such as in the Transporter franchise — which has kept it top of mind for enthusiasts seeking a large luxury sedan with good performance. Today’s Good Find Friday car is the perfect version of the A8 to acquire if security, rather than speed is your primary goal. Feast your eyes on this 2014 Audi A8L VR9 Security.
Audi A8

Introduced in 1994, the Audi A8 was developed as the flagship full-size sedan for Audi, marking the company’s entry into the upper luxury segment. The first-generation A8 was defined by its use of the Audi Aluminum Space Frame, an aluminum-intensive body structure intended to reduce weight while maintaining structural rigidity, setting it apart from many steel-bodied competitors. Across successive generations, the A8 served as a platform for introducing technologies that later appeared elsewhere in Audi’s lineup, including quattro all-wheel drive systems, adaptive air suspension, and increasingly integrated digital control and driver-assistance systems.

Exterior design evolved in line with Audi’s broader styling language, while interior development emphasized electronic interfaces, comfort systems, and safety features. Powertrain offerings included V6 and V8 engines, diesel variants in select markets, and limited-production W12 configurations. Over its production history, the A8 functioned as a testbed for new materials, technologies, and vehicle systems within Audi’s model range.

Audi developed the armored version of the A8 to serve government officials, corporate executives, diplomats, and other high-profile individuals who require discreet personal protection integrated into a production luxury sedan. The variant was created to address demand for factory-engineered ballistic resistance, blast protection, and secure mobility while maintaining the standard A8’s packaging, controls, and compatibility with official and fleet service requirements.

The earliest and most prominent adopters of these Security variants of the A8 were German federal and state government agencies, naturally. Production of this variant has continued into the current D5 generation A8s, though the model will likely be replaced after 2026 as Audi focuses on SUVs and EVs.

Today’s Good Find Friday car is a genuine Audi A8L VR9 “Security” armored vehicle currently offered for sale by a dealer in the Netherlands with an asking price of €140,000 or $165,000.

Built on the facelifted D4 Audi A8 platform, this armored example of the A8L was built to the 2009 European standard for bullet resistance and 2010 standards for explosives survivability. On top of the facelifted D4 platform improvements, the Security featured an occupant cell made of heat-formed armor steel, aramid fabric, ceramic, special aluminum alloy and this laminated glass. The car was offered with both V8 and W12 engine options, and today’s car sports the 4.0-liter V8.

The exterior of the A8L Security is remarkably similar to the standard car, with a few tell-tale details such as the stowable magnetic emergency light for the roof, auxiliary emergency beacons mounted in the side mirrors, diplomatic flag holders and tiny LED lights in the rear windscreen for convoy following. Of course, a closer look would reveal the ridiculously thick rear glass and other armored features, but the car generally flies under the radar.

Passengers are well-protected in the A8L Security, with the floor made of an alloy resistant to explosive weapons. Optional equipment included an emergency exit system, fire suppression, fresh-air system and smoke extraction. Luxury is not compromised either, with the long wheelbase providing copious room for massaging seats, rear entertainment screens, folding table, cooling compartment and more.
Final Thoughts
Said to be in near-new condition, this Audi A8L Security would be an affordable conveyance for the paranoid millionaire. Newer models can be had on the secondary market, such as this 2023 model offered for sale at a staggering $678,437. Alternatively, these security cars are often rented instead of bought, so an enterprising limousine company with drivers possessing significant tactical driving experience could add secure transport capability to their services.
For me personally, I’d like to own this to live out my Transporter film fantasies as well as satisfy my constant cravings for a car with flashing blue police lights.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Wolf and Mare provides car finding, appraisal and auction services for sellers and buyers of collector European cars. We also provide importation services. Give us a call or drop us a line!

