When you ask what’s the fastest car in forza 5, you’re probably looking for a simple answer. Finding the fastest car in Forza Horizon 5 is about more than just a top speed number on a spec sheet. The true answer depends on how you define “fastest,” as different cars excel in top speed, acceleration, or lap times on specific tracks.
This guide breaks down the top contenders in every category. We’ll look at the raw speed kings, the quickest accelerating machines, and the best cars for setting unbeatable lap records. You’ll get the exact car names, how to get them, and how to tune them for maximum performance.
What’s The Fastest Car In Forza 5
For pure, unadulterated top speed on the highway, one car consistently stands above the rest. The current king of the speed trap is the 2011 Koenigsegg Jesko. In its stock form, it’s incredible, but with the right tune, it can achieve mind-bending velocities.
The Jesko’s secret is its advanced aerodynamics and a powerful 5.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. When you install all the performance upgrades and apply a specialized top speed tuning setup, this car can reach over 310 mph. That’s more than enough to dominate any speed zone or speed trap challenge in the game.
How To Get The Koenigsegg Jesko
You won’t find the Jesko in the Autoshow right away. Here are the primary methods to add it to your garage:
- Win it as a reward from certain Festival Playlist series (a seasonal event reward).
- Purchase it from the Auction House using credits. Be prepared to spend a lot, as it’s a highly sought-after vehicle.
- It has occasionally been available as a Forzathon Shop item.
Essential Tuning For Maximum Top Speed
Owning the Jesko is just the first step. To unlock its full potential, you need to tune it correctly. Here is a basic setup guide:
- Install all engine and platform upgrades to reach an X 999 rating.
- Set the final drive ratio in the transmission tuning to a very tall setting (a lower numerical value). This allows for higher top speed but slower acceleration.
- Adjust the downforce to the minimum possible settings, especially at the rear.
- Set the tire pressure to a high level to reduce rolling resistance.
Search for “Top Speed” or “Highway” tunes in the tuning menu created by the community for ready-made setups.
Defining Different Types Of Speed
Speed isn’t a one-dimensional stat. Before we list more cars, it’s crucial to understand the three main ways we measure speed in Forza Horizon 5.
Top Speed (The Straight-Line King)
This is the absolute maximum velocity a car can reach on a long, flat straight, like the main highway. It’s all about power and gearing. Cars that excel here often struggle on corners.
Acceleration (The 0-60 And Quarter-Mile Hero)
How quickly a car can get off the line and reach high speeds. This is vital for drag racing and street races. Electric cars and hypercars with all-wheel drive often dominate this category.
Circuit Or Lap Speed (The Balanced Performer)
This is the most important metric for most races. It combines acceleration, top speed, braking, and most critically, cornering grip. The fastest lap time car may not have the highest top speed, but it gets around a track quicker than anything else.
The Top Speed Contenders
Beyond the Jesko, several other hypercars can breach the 300 mph barrier with the perfect tune and conditions.
2018 McLaren Senna
While known as a track monster, with a top speed-focused tune, the Senna can achieve incredible speeds. Its lightweight construction and aerodynamic body help it cut through the air efficiently. It’s also more readily available in the Autoshow compared to the Jesko.
2010 Noble M600
This is a dark horse for top speed runs. Its relatively simple, lightweight design and massive power from its V8 engine make it a fantastic platform for top speed tuning. Many players have achieved over 300 mph with a well-built Noble.
1993 McLaren F1
The legendary F1 remains a force. Its central driving position and naturally aspirated V12 can be tuned for blistering top end speed. It’s a classic that still competes with modern hypercars on the long straights.
The Acceleration Champions
If your goal is to win drag races or feel that instant push off the line, these cars are for you.
2021 Rimac Concept Two
This all-electric hypercar delivers instant, shocking torque. Its 0-60 mph time is among the lowest in the game, making it almost unbeatable on very short drag strips. The all-wheel drive system puts the power down without any wheelspin.
2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon
A dedicated drag racing machine. The Demon is built for the quarter-mile. With the correct upgrades and tuning focused on launch control, it can out-accelerate many more expensive hypercars off the line. It’s a credit to raw American muscle.
2020 Tesla Model S
An unexpected but formidable contender. The in-game Plaid model offers insane acceleration thanks to its electric powertrain. It’s a more accessible option that can humble supercars in a straight line sprint.
The Fastest Lap Time Cars
For road racing, street scenes, and circuit events, these are the vehicles that consistently set the fastest lap times.
2018 McLaren Senna
Yes, it appears again. The Senna is arguably the best all-around road racing car in the game. Its phenomenal aerodynamic grip allows it to take corners at speeds other cars can’t match, making up time on twisty sections even if it loses a bit on the straights.
2019 Porsche 911 GT3 RS
A precision instrument. The GT3 RS offers incredible balance and feedback. Skilled drivers can extract every ounce of performance from it, making it a top choice for rivals mode lap times on technical circuits.
2020 Lamborghini Huracán EVO
This car is a popular meta-choice for a reason. It has excellent acceleration, strong top speed, and very predictable handling. It’s a forgiving yet extremely fast car that performs well on most tracks without needing an expert-level tune.
How To Tune Any Car For Better Speed
You can make almost any car faster with proper tuning. You don’t need to be an expert to make effective adjustments.
Basic Upgrade Path For Speed
- Install the best Engine and Turbo upgrades for maximum horsepower.
- Upgrade the Platform and Handling items: tires, brakes, weight reduction, and roll cages.
- Convert to All-Wheel Drive for better launch traction, even if it adds some weight.
Simple Tuning Adjustments
- Gearing: For top speed, increase the Final Drive number last. For acceleration, lower it.
- Tire Pressure: Higher pressure (over 30 psi) can reduce rolling resistance for top speed runs. Lower pressure (around 26-28 psi) offers better grip for cornering.
- Aerodynamics: Lower downforce increases top speed but reduces cornering grip. Find a balance based on the track.
Finding And Testing Your Fastest Car
Theroyally, the best way to find your personal fastest car is to test them. Forza Horizon 5 provides excellent tools for this.
Use The Horizon Solo Mode
Switch to Solo mode to test cars without traffic interference. Head to the main highway or a circuit like the Estadio Circuit.
Utilize The Telemetry Screen
Bring up the telemetry screen (usually on the D-pad). This shows you real-time data like horsepower, torque, g-forces, and most importantly, your current top speed. It’s an invaluable tool for comparing cars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Fastest Accelerating Car In Forza Horizon 5?
The 2021 Rimac Concept Two and the 2020 Tesla Model S Plaid are generally considered the fastest accelerating cars from a standstill due to instant electric torque.
What Car Has The Highest Top Speed In Forza 5?
The 2011 Koenigsegg Jesko, when fully upgraded and tuned for top speed, holds the highest potential top speed, capable of exceeding 310 mph under ideal conditions.
How Do You Get The Jesko In Forza Horizon 5?
You typically need to win it as a seasonal Festival Playlist reward or buy it for a high price from the Auction House, as it is not normally available in the Autoshow.
Is The Bugatti Chiron Faster Than The Jesko In FH5?
In most top speed tests, a properly tuned Jesko will outpace a properly tuned Chiron. The Chiron is still extremely fast, but the Jesko’s aerodynamics give it an edge for pure velocity.
What Is The Best Car For Racing In Forza Horizon 5?
For all-around road racing, the 2018 McLaren Senna and 2020 Lamborghini Huracán EVO are top-tier choices that balance speed, acceleration, and cornering grip effectively.