How China's Hongqi N701 compares against US presidential limo 'The Beast' as the two ultimate armored cars
Published on Nov 04, 2026 at 10:04 AM (UTC-5)
by Ben Thompson
Last updated on Nov 04, 2026 at 10:04 AM (UTC-5)
Edited by
Mason Jones
China’s Hongqi N701 is the vehicle of choice for China’s President – but how does it compare to ‘The Beast’, the US presidential limo?
When President Xi Jinping visited the US, all eyes were on his heavily armored car.
Leaving aside the international politics, this visit had us wondering – how do the two vehicles compare?
Which one comes out on top in this automotive clash of the titans?
What is so special about ‘The Beast’? What sets this presidential limo apart from normal cars?
‘The Beast’ serves each US President and comes equipped with more gadgets and supplies than your average car.
The Cadillac comes with its own oxygen supply system, a fridge of blood, and a seriously advanced communications system.
Practically every facet of this vehicle has been analyzed, from the costs to its air travel.
But the question of how it compares to other state cars from other countries hasn’t come up all that much.
But when President Xi Jinping from China visited, people couldn’t help but admire the Hongqi N701 he was driven around in.
How does China’s Hongqi N701 compare?
The N701 debuted during Jinping’s visit to Hong Kong back in July 2022.
Since then, it has accompanied the Chinese President on many overseas trips.
Not a lot is known about its specifications, but reports suggest it has a length of around 5.5 meters.
It’s also reported to have bullet-resistant glass, reinforced armor, and specialized security equipment.
But how does it compare to ‘The Beast’ in terms of power?
It’s believed that the N701 carries a 6.0-liter V12 engine pushing 408hp, while ‘The Beast’ is powered by a 6.6-liter Duramax V8 Turbo-Diesel which is believed to push between 300 and 445hp.
Unfortunately, the odds of us seeing these two automotive titans in a drag race are nil.
Maybe someone can make a simulation of it, though?
Other state cars that are equally as fascinating
Part of the intrigue around these vehicles is their exclusivity.
The vast majority of people in the world will never get to look inside of them, let alone go for a ride.
And it’s not just in China or the US that they generate interest.
The various Popemobiles that have made their way to the Vatican over the years continue to make headlines.
And then there’s the array of cars linked to the British Royal Family, including its custom limousines which are exceptionally expensive.
Timeline of ‘The Beast’
1993 – 2001: The precursor to ‘The Beast’ during Bill Clinton’s presidency. This was adapted from an existing Cadillac passenger car platform.
2001 – 2005: The first generation of ‘The Beast’. This was built from the ground up.
2005 – 2009: A mid-era update sees taller rooflines and a sealed environmental system added.
2009 – 2018: Second generation, built on a GMC TopKick / Chevrolet Kodiak commercial medium-duty truck chassis, with exterior styling blending Cadillac STS and DTS design language.
2018 – present: The third generation, with enhanced dual-hardness steel and electrified door handles.
The best of Supercar Blondie, every Sunday
The week's best car stories, straight to your inbox. Free.
Ben joined Supercar Blondie in February 2025 after being published by international organizations including LADbible, The Sun, the New York Post, and the Daily Mail. He covers supercars, rare and collectible vehicles, aviation, luxury assets, and the fascinating people behind them. His reporting has explored everything from seven-figure supercars and historic Ferrari collections to unusual aircraft adventures and extraordinary automotive discoveries from around the world. Ben has also gained first-hand insight into vehicle craftsmanship and customization, including visiting specialist workshops to see bespoke vehicles up close.
