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’re among those who crave velocity and have the means to pursue it, you might be wondering just how fast road-legal cars can truly go.
Prepare to enter the realm of hypercars, where engineering boundaries are constantly pushed and the pursuit of speed becomes an art form. Beyond the 250mph mark, and approaching the seemingly mythical 300mph barrier, lies a collection of automotive masterpieces. These are not just cars; they are engineering marvels designed to defy limits. Let’s delve into the exhilarating world of the fastest cars on the planet.
The Definitive List of the World’s Fastest Cars
1. Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut – Aiming for Over 310mph (499km/h)
Koenigsegg, the Swedish hypercar maestro, has consistently delivered automotive insanity, and the Jesko Absolut represents the pinnacle of their achievements. Under its sleek carbon fiber skin lies a monstrous 1,600hp twin-turbocharged V8 engine, capable of launching this machine from 0 to 60mph in a mere 2.5 seconds.
Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut: A Swedish hypercar aiming to break speed records.
Koenigsegg confidently states that the Jesko Absolut is engineered to exceed 310mph. However, it’s important to note that this figure is currently theoretical, derived from extensive computer simulations and rigorous dyno testing. The real-world top speed is yet to be officially verified on a track. The automotive world eagerly awaits the Jesko Absolut’s attempt to validate its claim and potentially redefine the boundaries of road car speed.
2. SSC Tuatara – Officially Clocked at 295mph (475km/h)
In the quest for ultimate velocity, the SSC Tuatara emerges as a formidable contender. While the sophisticated W16 engine of the Bugatti Chiron is undeniably impressive, the Tuatara demonstrates the raw power potential of a meticulously engineered V8. This American hypercar boasts a twin-turbocharged V8 engine that unleashes a staggering 1,750hp when fueled with ethanol.
SSC Tuatara: An American hypercar with a controversial but confirmed top speed.
The SSC Tuatara’s journey to claiming the title of world’s fastest car has been marked by both triumph and controversy. Initially, SSC announced a mind-blowing 331mph top speed in October 2020, but later admitted to discrepancies in GPS data that led to this erroneous figure. Undeterred, SSC conducted further tests in early 2022, achieving a verified top speed of 295mph. While falling short of the initial claim, 295mph firmly establishes the Tuatara as one of the fastest production cars ever built, showcasing American engineering prowess in the hypercar arena.
3. Bugatti Tourbillon – Projecting 277mph (446km/h) and Beyond
For many, the name Bugatti is synonymous with the term “fastest car in the world,” a legacy cemented by the iconic Bugatti Veyron. That spirit of relentless speed and luxury continues with the Bugatti Tourbillon, the latest hypercar to emerge from the prestigious French marque.
Bugatti Tourbillon: The latest hypercar from Bugatti, blending luxury with extreme speed.
The Tourbillon marks a significant shift for Bugatti, moving beyond the W16 engine to a naturally aspirated 8.3-liter V16 engine augmented by a hybrid system. This formidable powertrain produces a combined output of 1,800hp, propelling this £3.2 million luxury missile from 0 to 60mph in under 2.0 seconds, and onward to a projected top speed of 277mph. Given Bugatti’s history of pushing boundaries, with the Chiron surpassing 300mph, it’s highly likely that even faster versions of the Tourbillon are on the horizon, ensuring Bugatti remains at the forefront of the speed race.
4. Hennessey Venom F5 – Verified at 272mph (438km/h) and Aiming Higher
The United States continues to make a significant impact in the high-speed automotive world, with Hennessey Performance Engineering securing the fourth spot with their all-American hypercar, the Venom F5. This car is a testament to American muscle and engineering ambition.
The Venom F5 is powered by a bespoke 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, generating an astonishing 1,817hp and 1,617Nm of torque. This power translates to a blistering 0-60mph acceleration in just 2.6 seconds and a verified top speed of 272mph. However, Hennessey’s pursuit of speed doesn’t end there. The company has publicly stated its intention to push the Venom F5 beyond the 300mph barrier in 2024, seeking to further solidify its place among the fastest cars in the world.
5. Rimac Nevera – Electric Speed at 256mph (412km/h)
Electric vehicles are renowned for their instant acceleration, thanks to the readily available torque from electric motors. However, the weight of battery packs can often be a limiting factor for top speed. The Rimac Nevera shatters this notion, demonstrating that electric power can indeed conquer the realm of top speed.
Rimac Nevera: An all-electric hypercar proving EVs can be incredibly fast.
This Croatian electric hypercar boasts a quartet of electric motors, collectively producing an astounding 1,914hp and 2,300Nm of torque. The result is mind-bending acceleration, reaching 60mph from a standstill in a mere 1.9 seconds, and continuing to a top speed of 256mph. Constructed predominantly from carbon fiber to minimize weight, the Nevera is not just a speed machine; its luxurious interior ensures it remains a refined grand tourer, despite its £2 million price tag.
6. McLaren Speedtail – Aerodynamic Excellence at 250mph (402km/h)
McLaren designed the Speedtail not specifically to break speed records, but to achieve unparalleled aerodynamic efficiency and high-speed cruising capability. Yet, with a top speed of 250mph, it stands as the fastest road car McLaren has ever produced.
McLaren Speedtail: A hypercar focused on aerodynamic efficiency and high speed cruising.
Surpassing even the legendary McLaren F1 in top speed, the Speedtail’s elongated, streamlined bodywork is devoid of drag-inducing wings, giving it a futuristic, almost otherworldly appearance. Imagine experiencing 250mph with two passengers in such a machine – a testament to McLaren’s engineering prowess and design innovation.
7. Koenigsegg Regera – Single-Gear Thrill to 250mph (402km/h)
The Koenigsegg Regera marks the second entry from the Swedish manufacturer on this list, further solidifying their dominance in the hypercar segment. It combines a twin-turbo V8 engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 1,500hp.
Koenigsegg Regera: A unique hypercar with a single-gear transmission for seamless acceleration.
What truly sets the Regera apart is its revolutionary single-gear direct-drive transmission. Unlike conventional multi-gear cars, the Regera accelerates from 0 to 250mph using only one gear. This unique system provides seamless, uninterrupted acceleration, whether you’re cruising at lower speeds or unleashing its full potential on a closed course. It’s a testament to Koenigsegg’s innovative approach to hypercar engineering.
8. Aston Martin Valkyrie – Le Mans Looks, Road-Legal Speed at 250mph (402km/h)
At first glance, the Aston Martin Valkyrie appears more like a Le Mans prototype than a road-legal car. Its radical, aerodynamic design and exposed mechanical elements give it an unmistakable track-focused aesthetic. Yet, remarkably, the Valkyrie is indeed street-legal.
Nestled behind the driver is a high-revving 6.5-liter hybrid V12 engine producing 1,160hp. Combined with its incredibly light weight of just over a tonne, thanks to extensive use of carbon fiber, the Valkyrie accelerates from 0 to 60mph in a mere 2.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250mph. It’s a true fusion of Formula 1 technology and road car usability.
9. Pagani Huayra – Art in Motion at 238mph (383km/h)
The Pagani Huayra is not just about speed; it’s a rolling work of art. Every detail of this Italian hypercar is meticulously crafted, showcasing exquisite design and engineering. But beneath its stunning exterior lies serious performance capabilities.
Pagani Huayra: An Italian masterpiece blending artistry with high performance.
Powered by an AMG-derived twin-turbocharged V12 engine, the Huayra delivers 730hp and 1,000Nm of torque, enabling a top speed of 238mph. Its carbon fiber construction ensures lightness and rigidity, while active aerodynamics further enhance its performance and stability at high speeds. The Huayra is a testament to Pagani’s dedication to both beauty and performance.
10. Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 – American Muscle Joins the 230mph+ Club at 233mph (375km/h)
Rounding out the top 10 is a more accessible yet equally impressive contender: the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. This all-American supercar demonstrates that extreme speed isn’t solely the domain of European hypercar manufacturers. Recently surpassing the Lamborghini Revuelto, the Corvette ZR1 achieved a top speed of 233mph in October 2024.
Unlike many of its rivals that employ complex hybrid systems, the Corvette ZR1 relies on pure American muscle. It’s powered by a traditional 5.5-liter V8 engine, albeit enhanced with two turbochargers, producing a formidable 1,064hp. This makes it the most powerful V8 engine ever produced by an American automaker, bringing high-speed thrills to a slightly more attainable price point compared to the ultra-exclusive hypercars on this list.
Fast Speed, More Accessible: High-Performance Cars on Carwow
While the cars above represent the absolute pinnacle of speed and exclusivity, you don’t need millions to experience exhilarating performance. Carwow offers a range of high-performance cars that deliver impressive speed and driving thrills at a more accessible level. Here are a few examples:
1. Mercedes-AMG GT – 196mph (315km/h)
The latest Mercedes-AMG GT elevates the formula of its predecessor, offering enhanced driving dynamics, striking aesthetics, and surprising practicality for a high-speed machine. Its 196mph top speed is achieved courtesy of a potent 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 585hp, accompanied by a thunderous exhaust note.
2. Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio – 191mph (307km/h)
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio: A fast saloon car with Italian flair and a powerful V6 engine.
For those seeking high speed in a practical saloon format, the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is an exceptional choice. This Italian saloon car houses a Ferrari-derived twin-turbo V6 engine producing a remarkable 510hp, all sent to the rear wheels. It can reach 191mph while still offering the practicality of a four-door saloon, capable of daily driving and even school runs with a touch of Italian flair and a thrilling exhaust soundtrack.
3. BMW M8 Competition – 190mph (306km/h)
BMW M8 Competition: A high-speed GT car that blends track capability with luxury.
The BMW M8 Competition excels as a versatile GT car, equally adept on the track and during cross-continental journeys. With the optional M Driver’s Pack, it can reach a top speed of 190mph. Despite its high-performance capabilities, the M8 Competition doesn’t compromise on luxury, offering a refined interior, advanced infotainment, and exceptional comfort.
4. Audi RS7 Performance – 174mph (280km/h)
New Audi RS7 Sportback Performance: A stylish and fast GT car with a potent V8 engine.
The Audi RS7 Performance presents another compelling GT option, sharing a similar formula with the BMW M8, featuring a 4.0-liter V8 engine. While its top speed is slightly lower at 174mph, the RS7 Performance has proven its real-world speed in drag races, even outperforming the M8 over the quarter-mile in some tests.
5. Lexus LC500 – 168mph (270km/h)
Lexus LC500: A luxurious and fast coupe, offering a stylish alternative to German GT cars.
For those seeking a distinctive alternative to the typical German GT cars, the Lexus LC500 stands out with its striking coupe design and a naturally aspirated V8 engine. The LC500 offers a luxurious and refined interior, ideal for long-distance cruising, combined with a 168mph top speed and a 0-60mph time of 4.6 seconds, ensuring a satisfying blend of performance and luxury.
Fastest Cars FAQs
What is the fastest production car in the world currently?
Officially, the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ holds the title of the fastest production car, having achieved a verified top speed of 304mph. While the Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut is theoretically capable of exceeding 310mph, it has yet to be officially verified in real-world testing.
Which car has the quickest 0-60mph acceleration?
The Rimac Nevera is recognized as the fastest accelerating production car, capable of launching from 0 to 60mph in a blistering 1.9 seconds.
What is the highest speed ever recorded in a car?
The fastest speed ever achieved in any car was 763mph, set by Andy Green in the Thrust SSC, a jet-powered land speed record car. In terms of production cars, Bugatti test driver Andy Wallace reached 304mph in the Chiron Super Sport 300+.
Ready for a Change? Carwow Can Help.
Whether you’re dreaming of hypercar speeds or seeking a performance upgrade in a more accessible car, Carwow is your resource for all things automotive. You can effortlessly sell your car at a fair price and explore a wide range of new and used vehicles to find your next dream ride. From buying new cars and exploring used options to discovering car leasing deals, Carwow simplifies your car-changing journey.
