For many, a car is about practicality, fuel efficiency, and safety. But for a select few, the ultimate automotive desire is raw, unadulterated speed. If you belong to the latter group and have the means, you might be wondering: just how fast can a road-legal car actually go?
Prepare to enter the realm of hypercars, where engineering pushes boundaries and speed becomes an art form. While most of us will never experience these velocities outside of a simulator, these incredible machines can break the 250 mph barrier and some even flirt with the elusive 300 mph mark. Let’s dive into the exhilarating world of the fastest cars in the world and explore these marvels of automotive engineering.
The Reigning Monarchs of Speed: The Fastest Cars Globally
1. Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut – Aiming for Over 310mph (499km/h)
Koenigsegg, the Swedish hypercar maestro, has consistently delivered automotive insanity for years, and the Jesko Absolut represents the pinnacle of their pursuit of speed. Packing a 1,600hp twin-turbocharged V8 engine, this machine promises acceleration from 0-60mph in a blistering 2.5 seconds.
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut, a contender for the title of the fastest car in the world, showcased in its aerodynamic design.
Koenigsegg boldly claims the Jesko Absolut can exceed 310mph, a figure derived from sophisticated computer simulations and rigorous dyno testing. However, this top speed is yet to be officially verified in real-world track conditions. The world eagerly awaits confirmation of whether the Jesko Absolut can truly live up to its staggering potential and claim the title of the undisputed fastest car in the world.
2. SSC Tuatara – Officially Clocked at 295mph (475km/h)
While Bugatti’s intricate W16 engine is a technological masterpiece, the SSC Tuatara demonstrates the raw power of a colossal V8 enhanced with twin turbochargers. This American hypercar boasts a twin-turbocharged V8 engine generating a staggering 1,750hp when fueled with ethanol. The journey to its official top speed, however, was not without controversy.
The SSC Tuatara, an American-made hypercar, pictured highlighting its sleek aerodynamic profile.
SSC initially claimed an astonishing 331mph top speed in October 2020, briefly crowning the Tuatara as the fastest car in the world. Unfortunately, a GPS error was later identified, invalidating the record. Undeterred, SSC conducted further tests in early 2022, achieving a verified top speed of 295mph. While not the initially claimed record, this speed firmly establishes the Tuatara as one of the fastest cars the world has ever seen.
3. Bugatti Tourbillon – Projected Top Speed of 277mph (446km/h)
For those who remember the early 2000s, the phrase “fastest car in the world” likely conjures images of the Bugatti Veyron challenging fighter jets on television. The spirit of the Veyron lives on, evolving into the breathtaking Bugatti Tourbillon.
The Bugatti Tourbillon, the latest hypercar from Bugatti, seen driving and showcasing its luxurious design.
This hypercar features a monstrous 1,800hp V16 hybrid engine, propelling this £3.2 million luxury missile from 0-60mph in under 2.0 seconds. Bugatti’s history suggests that an even faster iteration is likely in the future, following the precedent set by the Chiron, which eventually surpassed the 300mph barrier. The Tourbillon continues Bugatti’s legacy in the quest to build the fastest car in the world.
4. Hennessey Venom F5 – Reaching 272mph (438km/h) and Aiming Higher
The United States is making a significant impact in the high-speed automotive arena, with another American supercar claiming the fourth spot. The Hennessey Venom F5 boasts a 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing a formidable 1,817hp and 1,617Nm of torque.
This power translates to a 0-60mph sprint in just 2.6 seconds and a current top speed of 272mph. However, Hennessey is not resting on its laurels. The company has publicly stated its ambition to push the Venom F5 beyond the 300mph mark, targeting this monumental feat in 2024. The Venom F5’s pursuit of 300mph is a testament to the ongoing race for the title of the fastest car in the world.
5. Rimac Nevera – Electric Speed at 256mph (412km/h)
Electric cars are renowned for their instant acceleration, thanks to the readily available torque from electric motors. However, battery weight can sometimes limit their top speed potential. The Rimac Nevera shatters this notion.
The Rimac Nevera, an all-electric hypercar, dynamically displayed to highlight its futuristic design.
This all-electric hypercar is equipped with four electric motors, delivering a staggering 1,914hp and 2,300Nm of torque. This translates to a mind-bending 0-60mph time of just 1.9 seconds and a top speed of 256mph. Constructed almost entirely from carbon fiber to minimize weight, the Nevera is not just a stripped-out speed machine. Its luxurious interior ensures it remains a comfortable and sophisticated vehicle, despite its £2 million price tag. The Rimac Nevera proves that electric power can compete at the very top end of the “fastest car in the world” spectrum.
6. McLaren Speedtail – Effortless Speed of 250mph (402km/h)
McLaren didn’t specifically design the Speedtail to break world records, but its inherent engineering prowess resulted in a top speed of 250mph, making it the fastest road car McLaren has ever produced.
The McLaren Speedtail, celebrated as the fastest McLaren road car, showcasing its elongated and aerodynamic silhouette.
This speed surpasses even the legendary McLaren F1, its iconic three-seater predecessor. The Speedtail’s incredibly streamlined bodywork, devoid of drag-inducing wings, gives it a futuristic, almost science-fiction aesthetic. Imagine experiencing 250mph with two passengers – a truly unique sensation.
7. Koenigsegg Regera – Single-Gear Thrill Ride to 250mph (402km/h)
Matching the Speedtail’s top speed is another Koenigsegg, the Regera, marking the Swedish brand’s second entry on this list of fastest cars. It combines a twin-turbo V8 engine with an electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 1,500hp.
The Koenigsegg Regera, another entry from Koenigsegg, pictured on an airstrip highlighting its performance capabilities.
Uniquely, the Regera can accelerate from 0-250mph using only a single gear. Whether cruising at 30mph or aiming for its 250mph top speed (on a closed track, of course), you remain in the same gear. This unconventional approach adds to the Regera’s distinctive character.
8. Aston Martin Valkyrie – Le Mans Looks, Road-Legal Speed of 250mph (402km/h)
The Aston Martin Valkyrie’s appearance might suggest it belongs exclusively on a racetrack. It resembles a full-fledged Le Mans race car, yet remarkably, it is road legal.
Powering this F1-inspired road racer is a mid-mounted 6.5-liter hybrid V12 engine producing 1,160hp. This propels the Valkyrie from 0-60mph in a mere 2.5 seconds. Considering its weight is just over a tonne, this acceleration is hardly surprising.
9. Pagani Huayra – Artistic Speed at 238mph (383km/h)
The Pagani Huayra is not just fast; it’s visually stunning. Every detail exudes exquisite craftsmanship, making it more than just a performance machine. It’s powered by an AMG-derived twin-turbocharged V12 engine generating 730hp and 1,000Nm of torque, enabling a top speed of 238mph.
The Pagani Huayra, an Italian hypercar, pictured highlighting its detailed design and aerodynamic features.
Constructed primarily from carbon fiber for lightness and rigidity, the Huayra also incorporates active aerodynamics to enhance its airflow efficiency. It’s a masterpiece of both design and engineering.
10. Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 – American Muscle Joins the 233mph Club (375km/h)
Finally, a touch of blue-collar spirit enters the fray. The tenth spot was previously held by the Lamborghini Revuelto, but the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 recently surpassed its 217mph top speed, achieving 233mph in October 2024.
Unlike the Lamborghini, this all-American supercar eschews a complex V12 hybrid system. Instead, it relies on a traditional, yet potent, 5.5-liter V8 engine with twin turbochargers, producing 1,064hp. This makes it the most powerful V8 engine ever produced by an American car manufacturer, proving that traditional engine configurations can still compete for a place among the fastest cars in the world.
Fast Cars You Can Find on Carwow: Speed Within Reach
While the hypercars above represent the extreme edge of performance, there are still incredibly fast cars available through platforms like Carwow, offering exhilarating speed in more attainable packages.
1. Mercedes-AMG GT – 196mph (315km/h) of Accessible Supercar Performance
The latest Mercedes-AMG GT builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, enhancing every aspect. It’s thrilling to drive, visually appealing, and surprisingly practical for a 196mph supercar. This impressive speed is delivered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 585hp, accompanied by a thunderous exhaust note.
2. Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio – 191mph (307km/h) Saloon Speed
The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, a high-performance saloon, pictured to emphasize its sporty design.
Looking for a high-speed saloon car? The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is an excellent choice. This twin-turbo V6 saloon unleashes a remarkable 510hp, all directed to the rear wheels. Given sufficient space, it can reach 191mph while still offering practicality. This is a car capable of handling the school run and embarrassing the kids with its exhilarating exhaust sound.
3. BMW M8 Competition – 190mph (306km/h) of Track-Ready GT Performance
The BMW M8 Competition, a high-performance GT car, displayed to showcase its luxurious yet sporty character.
For a vehicle equally adept on the track and long-distance journeys, the BMW M8 Competition is a compelling GT car. With the optional M Driver’s Pack, it can reach 190mph. However, it’s far from a spartan race car. It’s replete with luxury features, a sophisticated infotainment system, and genuine comfort.
4. Audi RS7 Performance – 174mph (280km/h) of Versatile Speed
The Audi RS7 Sportback Performance, a fastback GT, pictured showcasing its dynamic design.
If the M8 doesn’t appeal, the Audi RS7 Performance offers another compelling GT option. It also features a 4.0-liter V8 engine, but its top speed is slightly lower than the BMW. Despite this, in a drag race against the M8, the RS7 outperformed it over the quarter-mile.
5. Lexus LC500 – 168mph (270km/h) of Unique GT Style
The Lexus LC500, a stylish coupe, shown to highlight its distinctive Lexus design language.
Seeking a more distinctive alternative to typical German GT cars? The Lexus LC500 is a stunning coupe with a powerful V8 engine. The interior is designed for comfortable long-distance driving, and it offers impressive speed. With a 168mph top speed and a 0-60mph time of 4.6 seconds, it delivers satisfying performance.
Fastest Cars FAQs: Answering Your Speed Questions
What is the fastest production car in the world right now?
Technically, the Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut holds the title on paper, with a theoretical top speed exceeding 310mph. However, this is based on simulations. Until the Jesko achieves this speed in reality, the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ officially remains the fastest car in the world, having reached a verified top speed of 304mph.
What car has the quickest 0-60mph acceleration?
The Rimac Nevera is the current acceleration champion, launching from 0-60mph in a mind-boggling 1.9 seconds.
What is the highest speed ever recorded in a car?
For production cars, Bugatti test driver Andy Wallace achieved 304mph in the Chiron Super Sport 300+. However, the absolute fastest speed in any car was achieved by Andy Green in the jet-powered Thrust SSC, reaching a staggering 763mph, breaking the sound barrier. The Thrust SSC is far removed from a production vehicle, representing a different category of speed record.
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