Narendra Modi vs Shehbaz Sharif: A Look at the Luxurious Cars of Two Prime Ministers

When it comes to world leaders, their vehicles are not just about comfort — they’re also a matter of national security, status, and symbolism. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif both command respect on the world stage — and their choice of official cars reflects that.

From bulletproof armor to sophisticated communication tech, the vehicles these leaders travel in are more like mobile command centers than just luxury sedans or SUVs. In this detailed comparison, let’s take a look at the car collections, security features, prices, and unique aspects of both leaders’ rides.

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🇮🇳 PM Narendra Modi’s Car Collection: A Fortress on Wheels

PM Modi, known for his minimal lifestyle, rides in maximum-security vehicles. Over the years, his official car has evolved with changing threats and global standards.

🛡️ 1. Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard

• Cost: Approx. ₹12 crore (INR)
• Armor Level: VR10-rated bulletproof protection (highest civilian level)
• Features:
  • Can withstand 15 kg TNT blasts from a distance
  • Resistant to sniper rifles and armor-piercing rounds
  • Run-flat tires, oxygen supply system, and explosion-proof fuel tank
• Engine: 6.0-litre V12 Biturbo, 621 bhp

This model replaced Modi’s earlier Range Rover Vogue and Toyota Land Cruiser.

🚙 2. Land Rover Range Rover Sentinel (Used Earlier)

• Armored by Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO)
• Features included explosive protection and emergency escape options

🚗 3. BMW 7 Series High Security (Earlier Vehicle)

• Used during initial years as PM
• Custom-built for blast and ballistic protection

✅ Other Observations:

• Modi does not personally own any luxury cars.
• His convoy includes decoy vehicles, emergency response vans, and SPG (Special Protection Group) units.

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🇵🇰 PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Car Collection: A Blend of Luxury and Authority

PM Shehbaz Sharif has access to some of the most luxurious and high-security cars in Pakistan’s state fleet. Though more low-key than his predecessors, Sharif’s official rides offer both protection and elegance.

🚘 1. Mercedes-Benz S600 Pullman Guard

• Cost: Estimated over PKR 18 crore
• Armor Level: VR9-rated protection
• Features:
  • Resistant to armor-piercing bullets and grenades
  • Emergency air supply, special run-flat tires, and communication systems
  • Extended wheelbase for rear-seat comfort

This car has historically been used by heads of state in Pakistan.

🚙 2. Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Armored

• Widely used in Pakistan’s government and military elite
• Offers B6-level armor and all-terrain capabilities
• Equipped with bulletproof glass and underbody protection

🚗 3. BMW 7 Series Armored Edition

• Used occasionally for diplomatic meetings
• Features luxury interiors, armored panels, and high-end infotainment

✅ Other Observations:

• Shehbaz Sharif has often faced criticism over use of expensive government cars during financial crises, though recent usage has focused on state-allocated vehicles rather than personal acquisitions.

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🔐 Security Features: Modi vs Sharif

Feature	PM Narendra Modi (India)	PM Shehbaz Sharif (Pakistan)
Primary Vehicle	Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard	Mercedes-Benz S600 Pullman Guard
Armor Level	VR10 (highest)	VR9
Blast Protection	Up to 15 kg TNT	Grenade + small explosives
Run-flat Tires	Yes	Yes
Oxygen Supply System	Yes	Yes
Underbody Protection	Yes	Yes
Communication Systems	Encrypted, secure satellite link	Encrypted systems
Convoy Support	SPG with decoy and escort vehicles	Elite police and army guard units

PM Modi’s car offers a slightly higher armor rating, but both vehicles are customized to their country’s specific threat levels.

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🏎️ Performance Comparison

While performance isn’t the top priority in a Prime Minister’s car, the vehicles they use are highly capable in speed and endurance for emergency response.

• Modi’s Maybach S650 Guard: 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds despite its weight.
• Sharif’s S600 Pullman: Slower but more spacious, built more for luxury than speed.

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🌍 Symbolism and Diplomacy

Cars used by leaders are often a symbol of national power and global status.

• PM Modi’s switch to a German-made Maybach reflects India’s increasing ties with Europe and its emphasis on security modernization.
• PM Shehbaz Sharif’s vehicle choices echo traditional preferences of past Pakistani leaders, blending luxury and tradition.

Interestingly, both countries choose German cars as their official state vehicles, reinforcing Germany’s dominance in luxury and armored automobile manufacturing.

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💰 Cost to the Taxpayer: A Controversial Debate

Both India and Pakistan face scrutiny over public spending, especially when it comes to VIP security.

• In India, the cost is defended as necessary for the PM’s safety in light of past threats.
• In Pakistan, such expenses are sometimes questioned due to the country’s ongoing economic challenges.

However, for both nations, these vehicles serve not just their leaders but also act as mobile command centers in crisis scenarios.

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🧾 Final Verdict: Who Wins the Car Comparison?

Category	Winner
Armor Rating	Narendra Modi (VR10)
Luxury Factor	Shehbaz Sharif (Pullman)
Security Tech	Narendra Modi
Vehicle Size	Shehbaz Sharif
Performance	Narendra Modi

While both leaders are well-equipped for safety and style, PM Modi’s Maybach S650 Guard takes the edge in terms of modernity, armor level, and speed. That said, PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Pullman Guard wins in space and comfort, making it ideal for formal, diplomatic engagements.

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Conclusion

In the end, the vehicles of PM Narendra Modi and PM Shehbaz Sharif are more than just transportation. They’re symbols of national leadership, diplomacy, and high-stakes security. Each one reflects the priorities and image of the leader it serves.

Whether it’s bulletproof precision or luxurious authority, both Prime Ministers travel in some of the most sophisticated cars in South Asia — proving that leadership travels in style, but safety always rides shotgun.