Top 5 Of Fastest Cars
With a new year comes our favorite cars being reincarnated to a new (and hopefully better) make and model. While there is plenty of “bells and whistles” to distract consumers, there are also some cars on the cutting edge of technology, luxury and value. This list is a rundown of the top 5 cars to keep your eye on in 2014.
5. Tesla Model S P85+
Base MSRP: USD 104,070
The Tesla Model S P85+ is a fully electric sedan that combines terrific fuel economy with the impressive look of a Jaguar XK. The Model S P85+ is elegant and modern throughout with a sleek exterior and an interior that would make any Bentley owner jealous. On the performance side, the Model S P85+ has a 416 horsepower electric engine that can accelerate from 0-60 in 4.2 seconds— and at an estimated MPG equivalent of 90 city/94 highway; it is nothing short of amazing. The steering, handling, and braking are good enough to be in “super-car territory” according to Tesla founder Elon Musk. The only knock on the Model S P85+ is the top speed of 130MPH, while same-class competitors are easily reaching speeds of 185MPH and higher. The interior of the P85+ leave nothing to be desired—except for numerous buttons commonly found on cars like Porsche. Everything is minimalist but luxurious—from the Nappa leather seats to the infotainment system. For successfully combining all the standard features and elegance of a BMW 7 Series with the sports car performance of a Porsche, the striking aesthetic of a Jaguar XK; and coming out with a sedan—the Tesla Model S P85+ earns a spot on our list of Top 5 Cars of 2014…and it should earn a spot on yours too.
4. Range Rover Supercharged
Base MSRP: USD 99,100
The Range Rover is the gold standard when discussing luxury SUV’s. With off-road capabilities that compare with Jeep and old-school elegance reminiscent of Rolls Royce—this is one formidable auto. The Range Rover can take you from an African safari to Times Square without missing a beat; and will do it in an impressive fashion. The Range Rover’s 5 liter Supercharged V8 cranks out a ridiculous 516 horsepower and 461 ft-lb of torque with a 0-60 time of about 4.7 seconds…and it does this with all time 4X4. With Range Rover’s Terrain Response 2 system, there are few situations the Range Rover cannot navigate: snow, sand, rock and water. While the off road capability is impressive, the combination with an amazing interior is what really sets this vehicle apart. This car is simply spectacular in looks, trim, and finish—the opulence just washes over you. There is even a refrigerated console box to keep drinks cold. Though the infotainment system is difficult to navigate and could be more intuitive, the sound system is top notch. For combining excellent off-road capability, high-tech features, and a limousine interior; the Range Rover Supercharged busts onto our list at No. 4.
3. Ferrari LaFerrari
Base MSRP: Unknown
In a complete coup for Ferrari, the LaFerrari signals an effort by supercar makers to introduce hybrid engine cars. Indeed, the mid-engined LaFerrari will be powered by a 6.3 liter V12 hybrid engine producing a mind-blowing 950 horsepower. While this is certainly not a car focusing on optimum fuel efficiency—Ferrari is a supercar brand after all—it is a nod to the rapid development of hybrid technology and signals its acceptance among automobile elite. Expect the price of this car to be staggering—even for Ferrari standards—as currently only 499 LaFerrari’s will be made.
2. Nissan 370Z NISMO
Base MSRP: USD 43,020
It may seem strange to put a car that retails for around USD 43,000 on a list of cars that are more than double the cost…but that value is part of the reason it ranks so high. A similarly spec’d Porsche 911 carries a base price of roughly USD 84,000—that gets you a 3.4 liter straight 6 engine producing 350 horsepower. For almost half that price, you can have a fully loaded brand new 2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO (the tippy top performance package) with a 3.7 liter V6 engine producing an awe-inspiring 350 horsepower. Of course, horsepower alone does not make a sports car; it is important to have the right components like suspension and steering properly tuned, details that Porsche has spent decades mastering. Unfortunately, perfect component tuning is where the NISMO falls short of the Porsche—this is not to say the NISMO is not an exhilarating drive, but there’s no denying that it doesn’t measure up to the more expensive maker. However, for outstanding value in producing a competitive sports car the Nissan 370Z NISMO earns a spot on our list.
1. Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4
Base MSRP: Unknown
The Lamborghini Huracán is the highly anticipated successor to the Gallardo, and should make its debut in March 2014. The sleek exterior is striking and attractive in its simplicity. With a 5.2 liter V10 engine producing 610 ponies (thus the 610 in the name) and 413 ft-lb of torque, the Huracán will do 0-60MPH in 3.2 seconds with a top speed of 201MPH. Even more impressive is the implementation of a stop-start system which allows this road monster to get 18.5 miles per gallon fuel efficiency. This is a true supercar. The incredible engine technology is coupled with a driving dynamic system that optimizes engine, breaking, transmission, all-wheel-drive and steering according to driving conditions with selectable street, sport, or race mode. While purists may balk at the computer controlled aspects of the car, no one can deny the advanced technology in this car is awesome and deserving of a top spot on any enthusiasts list.
If you own any of the cars in this list—be proud. You own one of the standout vehicles of the year; and are on the forefront of revolutionizing decades of stagnation in engine technology. Of course, to one degree or another, these vehicles cost a pretty penny. For tips on how to (check the website to see if they discuss how to obtain a loan, how to buy a car or something related, and link to it), click here. If you need help financing one of these great autos, be sure to visit sites like Auto Credit Express or Lending Tree for a monthly payment that won’t break the bank. While some of these vehicles are pricey—they may turn out to be priceless.