Driving a car that feels fast can be exhilarating, but some vehicles deliver this sensation without the blistering speed to match. These cars are designed to provide a thrilling driving experience, even if their actual performance numbers don’t break records. Below are five cars that feel fast but aren’t, offering an exciting ride without the blinding speeds.
Honda Civic Si
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The Honda Civic Si is a prime example of a car that feels faster than it is. Known for its sporty suspension and peppy engine, the Civic Si offers a responsive and engaging driving experience. Its turbocharged 1.5-liter engine produces a respectable 205 horsepower, creating a sense of speed with its quick acceleration and sharp handling. However, while it may feel like a rocket, its 0-60 mph time is not the quickest in its class, making it a fun but not overly fast option.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
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The Mazda MX-5 Miata is celebrated for its light weight and nimble handling, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. The Miata’s 2.0-liter engine delivers only 181 horsepower, but the car’s low curb weight and balanced chassis provide a spirited and lively drive. While it feels quick around corners and offers a thrilling top-down experience, its straight-line speed is modest, reminding drivers that it’s built more for fun than outright speed.
Subaru BRZ
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The Subaru BRZ is known for its balanced handling and rear-wheel-drive layout, offering an engaging and dynamic driving experience. With a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter engine producing 228 horsepower, the BRZ feels agile and responsive, especially on twisty roads. However, its acceleration figures won’t break any records, as it prioritizes driver enjoyment over sheer speed. This makes the BRZ a car that feels fast in the right conditions, even if its performance numbers are more modest.
Mini Cooper S
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The Mini Cooper S is a compact car with a big personality, known for its go-kart-like handling and zippy nature. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine produces around 189 horsepower, which is more than sufficient to provide a thrilling ride through city streets and winding roads. Despite its energetic demeanor, the Mini Cooper S doesn’t offer the blistering acceleration of some rivals, making it a fun and characterful choice that feels faster than it actually is.
Toyota 86
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The Toyota 86 shares its platform with the Subaru BRZ, delivering a similar focus on driving enjoyment. The 2.4-liter engine under the hood generates 228 horsepower, providing a balanced and engaging drive. Its lightweight design and rear-wheel-drive configuration make it a joy to drive on curvy roads. While it feels fast thanks to its agile handling and sporty sound, the Toyota 86’s actual acceleration is more moderate, which aligns with its philosophy of providing driving fun rather than outright speed.
