Military armored cars are a type of armoured fighting vehicles and have wheels (usually 6 or 8 large off-road wheels) instead of tracks, and light armor. They may have a machine gun, an autocannon, or a small gun, or may even be unarmed. Their primary purposes are reconnaissance, command/control, and communications (C3I duties).

Civilian armored cars are cars or trucks used in transporting valuables, such as large quantities of money. They are armored and equipped to resist attempts at highway robbery or the hijacking of the cargo. They may be manned with armed guards but do not mount artillery. Armored cars are usually operated by security firms, which provide secure transport for clients' property.\n