When it comes to race cars, some models don’t always get the attention they deserve. While high-profile supercars often steal the spotlight, there are plenty of underrated gems that offer incredible performance on the track. These race cars may not be the obvious choices, but their speed, agility, and surprising capabilities prove they can hold their own against more famous rivals. Here are 18 race cars that deliver unexpected results on the circuit.
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Mazda RX-7 (FD3S)
The Mazda RX-7 FD3S may not boast the power of modern supercars, but its lightweight frame and rotary engine make it a competitive force on the track. Its 1.3L twin-turbo rotary engine, capable of delivering 276 hp, offers a superb power-to-weight ratio. Balanced with near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, it handles tight corners with precision.
Nissan GT-R R32 (Godzilla)
Dubbed “Godzilla,” the Nissan GT-R R32 shook up the racing world with its dominant all-wheel-drive system and twin-turbo inline-six engine. Although it may not receive the same attention as its successors, the R32 won numerous championships, including 29 victories in the Japanese Touring Car Championship. Its advanced ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system provided exceptional grip and handling, allowing it to outperform much more powerful vehicles.
BMW E30 M3
The BMW E30 M3 may not match the horsepower of modern sports cars, but its razor-sharp handling and lightweight construction make it a legend on the track. Its 2.3L inline-four engine was highly efficient for its time, winning numerous touring car championships, including in DTM. Designed for balance and precision, the E30 M3’s responsive steering and firm chassis excel in corners.
Honda S2000
At first glance, the Honda S2000 might look like a stylish convertible, but its 240 hp, high-revving 2.0L engine proves it’s built for the track. The engine’s ability to rev up to 8,300 rpm, coupled with the car’s low curb weight, offers superior acceleration and handling. Rear-wheel drive and near-perfect weight distribution make it a pleasure to pilot through tight circuits. Often underestimated, the S2000 holds its own against much more powerful competitors.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI, part of the iconic Evo family, often gets lost in the shadow of later models, yet its track performance speaks volumes. Equipped with a 276 hp turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive, the Evo VI brings rally-bred power to the circuit. Its precise handling is enhanced by Active Yaw Control, which improves cornering dynamics. Despite its rallying roots, the Evo VI has gained a reputation as a surprisingly adept track car.
Porsche 944 Turbo
Frequently overshadowed by the 911, the Porsche 944 Turbo surprises many with its track performance. Its 2.5L turbocharged inline-four engine produces 217 hp, and with a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, the car excels in balance and handling. Light and nimble, the 944 Turbo performs particularly well on technical circuits where precision is key. It remains a popular choice for track enthusiasts looking for a more affordable entry into the Porsche racing scene.
Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2004-2007)
While its rally heritage is well-known, the 2004-2007 Subaru Impreza WRX STI also delivers impressive track results. Powered by a 2.5L turbocharged engine producing 300 hp, the car’s all-wheel-drive system ensures strong grip and stability, even at high speeds. It handles sharp corners with ease, thanks to a stiff chassis and race-tuned suspension. Although commonly associated with rallying, the WRX STI has made its mark in various track competitions.
Lotus Exige S2
The Lotus Exige S2 doesn’t rely on raw horsepower, but rather on lightweight engineering to perform on the track. Its 1.8L supercharged engine delivers 218 hp, but the car weighs just over 2,000 pounds, giving it an exceptional power-to-weight ratio. The Exige’s tight handling and quick reflexes make it a standout on twisty tracks.
Ford Mustang SVT Cobra (1999-2004)
Known for straight-line speed, the Ford Mustang SVT Cobra also surprises on the track with its improved suspension and handling. Its 4.6L V8 engine produces 390 hp, allowing for rapid acceleration, but the real surprise lies in its cornering abilities. Enhanced by independent rear suspension, the Cobra grips the road better than previous Mustang iterations. Despite its muscle car roots, it’s proven to be an unexpectedly capable track car.
Acura NSX (First Generation)
The first-generation Acura NSX redefined what a sports car could be, yet its track performance is often overlooked. With its lightweight all-aluminum body and mid-engine layout, it delivers exceptional balance and handling. The 3.0L V6 engine provides 270 hp, which may not seem like much, but the car’s design allows it to outperform expectations. Originally fine-tuned by Ayrton Senna, the NSX remains a hidden gem for those seeking precise track performance.
Dodge Neon SRT-4
Despite its economy car origins, the Dodge Neon SRT-4 delivers a punch on the track with its turbocharged 2.4L engine generating 230 hp. Lightweight and nimble, the SRT-4’s handling is sharper than many expect, particularly in tight corners. While it lacks the refinement of more expensive sports cars, its affordability and raw speed have made it a favorite in grassroots racing. The SRT-4 is proof that track performance can come from the most unlikely vehicles.
Toyota Celica GT-Four (ST205)
The Toyota Celica GT-Four ST205 is often overlooked in favor of its Supra sibling, but its rally-bred DNA makes it a strong track performer. Equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive, it produces 255 hp and excels in both acceleration and cornering. Its balanced chassis and advanced suspension system make it a joy to drive in technical circuits. The Celica GT-Four’s underrated track abilities often catch competitors by surprise.
Alfa Romeo 4C
Though it may be overshadowed by its more luxurious counterparts, the Alfa Romeo 4C offers remarkable track performance. Its 1.75L turbocharged engine produces 237 hp, but the real magic lies in its carbon-fiber monocoque, keeping the car’s weight to just over 2,000 pounds. This results in blistering acceleration and nimble handling that outshines many heavier sports cars.
Renault Clio V6
The Renault Clio V6 stands out for its mid-engine layout in a compact hatchback body, producing 255 hp from a 3.0L V6 engine. While its quirky design garners attention, its performance on the track is where it truly shines. The Clio V6’s rear-wheel-drive setup gives it playful handling, and its balanced chassis allows it to tackle corners with agility. Though not widely known outside of Europe, this car is a true hidden gem for track enthusiasts.
Volvo 850 BTCC
Known more as a family car, the Volvo 850 shocked motorsport fans when it entered the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) and performed admirably. Its front-wheel-drive layout and turbocharged engine enabled it to compete against more established race cars. The 850 estate version is iconic for its unusual presence on the track, yet it managed to secure competitive lap times.
Peugeot 205 GTi
The Peugeot 205 GTi may not be the most powerful hot hatch, but its track performance is legendary thanks to its lightweight body and precise handling. Its 1.9L engine produced just 130 hp, yet it’s a blast to drive on technical circuits due to its nimble nature. The 205 GTi’s agility and quick steering often allow it to outperform more powerful competitors in the corners.
Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA)
While the Mazda MX-5 Miata NA is known for its fun-to-drive road manners, it also excels on the track thanks to its simplicity and balance. The 1.6L engine may not produce massive power, but its low weight and near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution give it incredible handling. In the hands of a skilled driver, the Miata can easily outmaneuver heavier, more powerful cars on tight circuits. Its engaging driving dynamics make it a favorite among track day enthusiasts.
Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4
The Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 is packed with technology, often seen as too heavy for track performance, yet its twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 320 hp combined with an advanced all-wheel-drive system makes it a formidable track car. Its four-wheel steering and active aerodynamics enhance cornering ability, giving it an edge on technical tracks. While it may not be the lightest car, the 3000GT VR-4’s innovative features allow it to perform at a level that surprises many who doubt its capabilities.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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