Performance cars often capture the imagination with their speed, power, and sleek designs. While iconic models like the Porsche 911 and Ferrari F8 steal the spotlight, many lesser-known performance cars offer equally impressive specs. This list highlights 17 hidden gems in the automotive world that deliver remarkable performance, combining power, agility, and cutting-edge technology. Discover these underrated vehicles that deserve a place in the spotlight.
Contents
Maserati Ghibli Trofeo
The Maserati Ghibli Trofeo packs a punch with its Ferrari-built 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, boasting 580 horsepower. Rocketing from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds, it reaches a top speed of 203 mph. Maserati’s signature luxury isn’t sacrificed for performance; the Ghibli Trofeo offers a plush ride and elegant interior. Blending power and sophistication, it remains a hidden gem among high-performance vehicles.
Alfa Romeo 4C
Delivering a thrilling experience, the Alfa Romeo 4C features a 1.75-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 237 horsepower. Weighing in light, thanks to a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis, it sprints from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.1 seconds. The 4C’s sharp steering and race-inspired dynamics make every drive exhilarating. Often overlooked, this nimble sports car competes well against much larger, more powerful contenders.
Cadillac ATS-V
Under the hood of the Cadillac ATS-V lies a 3.6-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, churning out 464 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque. This sedan hits 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds and achieves a top speed of 189 mph. Precise handling and magnetic ride control make it a joy to drive, rivaling European luxury sports sedans.
Lotus Evora GT
Showcasing a 3.5-liter supercharged V6 engine, the Lotus Evora GT delivers 416 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds, it has a top speed of 188 mph. Lightweight construction and balanced weight distribution give the Evora GT exceptional agility. Despite its remarkable specs, it offers a pure driving experience often overshadowed by more mainstream options.
Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400
Infiniti’s Q60 Red Sport 400 features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, pushing out 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Propelling from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, it caps at 155 mph. The Q60 blends smooth power delivery with advanced handling technologies, wrapped in a luxurious package.
Kia Stinger GT
The Kia Stinger GT, with its 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, generates 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. This performance sedan hits 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 167 mph. Combining sporty handling with a spacious, well-appointed interior, the Stinger GT is both fun and practical. Yet, it remains an underappreciated gem in the performance car market.
Polestar 1
The Polestar 1, a plug-in hybrid performance coupe, combines 619 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, it offers an electric-only range of 60 miles. Sleek design and cutting-edge technology mark it as a futuristic option in the performance realm. Limited production and a unique hybrid powertrain often keep it under the radar.
Jaguar XE SV Project 8
Jaguar’s XE SV Project 8 houses a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine, producing 592 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This beast accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 200 mph. Track-focused design and a limited production run make it a rare find. Despite these credentials, Project 8 is not as widely recognized as some of its peers.
Volvo S60 Polestar Engineered
The Volvo S60 Polestar Engineered sports a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged engine, outputting 415 horsepower and 494 lb-ft of torque. Dashing from 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, it is electronically limited to 155 mph. This Volvo seamlessly merges safety, luxury, and performance, creating a unique driving experience.
Lexus GS F
Powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, the Lexus GS F delivers 467 horsepower and 389 lb-ft of torque. Sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, it tops out at 168 mph. The GS F pairs balanced handling with a sumptuous interior, offering both comfort and performance. Despite these qualities, it is frequently overshadowed by its European competitors.
Cadillac CTS-V
The Cadillac CTS-V boasts a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, generating 640 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. Rocketing from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, it reaches a top speed of 200 mph. Combining aggressive styling with advanced technology, the CTS-V offers a thrilling yet luxurious drive. However, it often remains in the shadows of its more renowned European rivals.
Hyundai Veloster N
The Hyundai Veloster N features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, it has a top speed of 155 mph. Its sporty handling and unique three-door design make it stand out among hot hatches. Despite its appeal, it is often overlooked in favor of more established models in the segment.
Acura TLX Type S
The Acura TLX Type S is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, offering 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Reaching 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, it is limited to a top speed of 155 mph. Combining Acura’s reliability and luxury with impressive performance, the TLX Type S stands out. Yet, despite its capabilities, it often remains underappreciated compared to more popular performance sedans.
Ford Taurus SHO
The Ford Taurus SHO comes with a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, generating 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, it has a top speed of 150 mph. Blending power and comfort, it stands out among performance sedans.
Volkswagen Golf R
Equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Volkswagen Golf R produces 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, it reaches a top speed of 155 mph. The Golf R combines practicality and performance, making it a versatile hot hatch. Despite its impressive specs, it often doesn’t receive the same level of attention as other high-performance compact cars.
Subaru WRX STI
The Subaru WRX STI features a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. This rally-inspired car sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, with a top speed of 158 mph. Its advanced all-wheel-drive system and sharp handling make it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Nissan 370Z NISMO
Powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine, the Nissan 370Z NISMO produces 350 horsepower and 276 lb-ft of torque. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds, it reaches a top speed of 155 mph. The NISMO-tuned suspension and aerodynamic enhancements give the 370Z NISMO a distinct edge in handling and performance.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
More from MyCarMakesNoise
15 Trucks That Are More Impressive Than You Think
When it comes to trucks, some steal the spotlight, and those that quietly get the job done without much fanfare. Our list of the world’s most underrated trucks shines a light on those reliable workhorses that offer outstanding features and capabilities but don’t always receive the recognition they deserve. Read More.
13 Rare Jeeps That Are Hard to Find
Jeep enthusiasts know that some models are harder to find than others. In this list, we’ll explore 14 rare Jeeps that are elusive and highly sought after. From unique limited editions to vintage classics, these Jeeps are a treasure trove for collectors and fans alike. Read More.
15 Surprising Facts About Cruise Ship Operations
Cruise ships are floating marvels of modern engineering, but there’s more to them than meets the eye. Behind the scenes, these vessels operate with precision and complexity that most passengers never see. Read More.
