The world of high-performance cars is full of surprises, with some models flying under the radar despite their incredible speed. Not every fast car is a household name, and some of the quickest machines ever built are rarely talked about. Whether it’s due to limited production, niche markets, or overshadowing by bigger brands, these hidden gems are worth knowing.
Here are some of the fastest cars you probably haven’t heard of.
The Zenvo TSR-S
This car looks like something out of a video game, and its performance backs up the visuals. Packing a powerful V8 engine with over 1,100 horsepower, this Danish-built machine is engineered for blistering speed. With its unique active rear wing that adjusts for stability and cornering, the Zenvo TSR-S is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds. Despite its incredible stats, it’s relatively unknown outside hardcore car circles.
The Rimac Concept_One
Though Rimac is making a name for itself in the electric car world, the Concept_One is a lesser-known masterpiece. This all-electric hypercar delivers nearly 1,100 horsepower and can reach a top speed of 221 mph. This Croatian automaker combines cutting-edge technology with sheer performance, proving that electric cars can dominate in speed. Only a handful were ever made, making it a rare find in the automotive landscape.
The SSC Tuatara
Most people think of Bugatti when it comes to top speed records, but the SSC Tuatara has made waves with its jaw-dropping velocity. Designed in the U.S., it boasts a twin-turbocharged V8 that churns out 1,750 horsepower on E85 fuel and has reached speeds over 280 mph. Yet its understated presence keeps it relatively obscure outside of enthusiast circles.
The Koenigsegg Gemera
While Koenigsegg is no stranger to high-performance vehicles, the Gemera is an unusual addition to its lineup. Billed as a four-seater “mega-GT,” this hybrid hypercar delivers over 1,700 horsepower, combining a twin-turbocharged engine with electric motors. It’s one of the fastest family-friendly cars ever created, reaching speeds above 250 mph, but it’s overshadowed by Koenigsegg’s more traditional hypercars.
The Apollo Intensa Emozione
Sculpted like a piece of art, this car is all about raw, unfiltered performance. Equipped with a naturally aspirated V12 engine, the Apollo Intensa Emozione produces 769 horsepower and reaches a top speed of 208 mph. Its aggressive aerodynamic design and track-focused handling make it a beast on the road, but its exclusivity and low production numbers keep out of the limelight.
The Noble M600
Few cars balance simplicity and speed as effectively as the Noble M600. Built in the UK, this supercar opts for a twin-turbocharged V8 engine that delivers 650 horsepower. With its lightweight construction, it achieves a top speed of 225 mph and offers a pure driving experience free from excessive electronic aids. Its no-frills approach and understated design mean many folk have never heard of it.
The Aspark Owl
Japan’s Aspark Owl might not be a household name, but it holds its own in the electric hypercar world. This all-electric monster produces 2,012 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds, making it one of the fastest accelerating cars ever made. Its sleek, futuristic design and impressive range of over 280 miles add to its appeal.
The Hennessey Venom F5
Hailing from Texas, the Venom F5 was created to break speed records with its insane performance. Its twin-turbocharged V8 produces 1,817 horsepower, and its top speed is claimed to exceed 300 mph. Built by Hennessey Performance Engineering, it’s an amazing all-American hypercar, yet it remains in the shadow of European competitors like Bugatti and Ferrari.
The Pininfarina Battista
Famous for designing luxury cars, Pininfarina has stepped into the spotlight with its own electric hypercar. The blistering Battista boasts 1,900 horsepower and astonishing torque, allowing it to hit 60 mph in under two seconds. Its sleek, Italian styling hides an incredible level of performance, making it a stunning blend of beauty and speed. This newcomer has kept a relatively low profile so far, but that must change soon.
The Glickenhaus SCG 003
This car is the brainchild of filmmaker and entrepreneur James Glickenhaus, but its niche appeal and boutique production mean it isn’t a household name, yet. The SCG 003 was designed for both the track and the road, featuring a carbon-fiber chassis and a V8 engine that delivers around 750 horsepower. Its focus on aerodynamics and agility makes it a thrill to drive.
The Arash AF10
British automaker Arash isn’t even a household name on the other side of the pond. But it deserves to be with the very capable AF10. This hybrid hypercar delivers a jaw-dropping 2,080 horsepower thanks to its V8 engine and electric motors. It’s built for both speed and endurance, with a top speed of 201 mph and a strikingly unique design.
The Devel Sixteen
Rumored to be one of the most powerful cars ever built, the Devel Sixteen pushes the boundaries of engineering. Its top-tier model features a 12.3-liter quad-turbo V16 engine producing an alleged 5,007 horsepower. While its top speed claims exceed 300 mph, it’s still a rare sight even among enthusiasts. The Devel Sixteen remains shrouded in mystery, adding to its intrigue.
The Saleen S7 Twin Turbo
Though the Saleen S7 made headlines in the early 2000s, it’s often forgotten in modern hypercar discussions, with so many newer advanced models. Its twin-turbocharged V8 produces 750 horsepower, enabling a top speed of 248 mph. Built with a focus on racing heritage, it’s a car that still impresses decades later.
The Lykan HyperSport
Famous for its brief appearance in Fast & Furious 7, the Lykan HyperSport should be getting top billing, yet few know how impressive it truly is. Built by W Motors, it features a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine with 780 horsepower. Its top speed of 245 mph is paired with a luxurious interior. This hidden gem’s headlights are encrusted with diamonds.