If you’re looking to dominate the streets of Los Santos, you’re probably asking what is the fastest car in gta 5. Across both story and online play, determining the absolute fastest car in GTA 5 depends on how you measure performance. Top speed, lap time, and acceleration all tell a different story, and the game’s frequent updates constantly shift the leaderboard.
This guide breaks down the top contenders in every category. We’ll look at raw stats, practical performance, and how to get these incredible vehicles for yourself.
What Is The Fastest Car In Gta 5
There is no single answer, as “fastest” can mean three different things. The car with the highest possible top speed might be terrible on a twisty track. The vehicle with the quickest lap time around a circuit needs balanced handling. Pure acceleration from a standstill is another metric entirely. For 2024, the crown for overall fastest lap time typically goes to one hypercar, but let’s examine the details.
First, you need to understand the in-game mechanics. The performance stats shown in Los Santos Customs are often misleading or incomplete. Real testing on tracks like the “Criminal Records” circuit or using community time trials provides better data. Furthermore, many top-tier vehicles require specific upgrades to reach their full potential.
Top Speed Champion: The Pfister 811
When measured for pure, flat-out top speed, the Pfister 811 often comes out on top. This sleek, futuristic hypercar can reach staggering velocities on long straightaways, like the Los Santos Freeway. Its high top speed comes from a powerful engine and aerodynamic design optimized for velocity over grip.
However, the 811 has significant drawbacks. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and relatively light rear end can make it twitchy and difficult to control at extreme speeds. Taking corners requires careful braking and steering input. If you crash at 130 mph, you lose all your speed advantage, so this car demands skill.
- Unmatched top speed potential on long straights.
- Requires a very skilled driver to handle properly.
- Performance in races with many corners is often poor.
- Can be purchased from Legendary Motorsport for $1,135,000.
Lap Time King: The Ocelot Pariah
For years, the Ocelot Pariah has reigned supreme as the fastest sports car in the game for circuit racing. Its combination of a exceptionally high top speed for its class and superb handling makes it almost unbeatable on most tracks. The Pariah’s acceleration and downforce allow it to maintain speed through corners where other cars must brake.
It’s important to note the Pariah is classified as a Sports car, not a Super car. This means it dominates Sports class races but cannot compete directly against Super cars in class-restricted events. Nevertheless, its lap times rival or beat many Super cars, cementing its legendary status.
Why The Pariah Dominates Circuits
The secret to the Pariah’s success is balance. While it doesn’t have the absolute highest top speed, it’s very close. Meanwhile, its cornering ability and braking performance are top-tier. This means it loses less speed in corners and can get back to its high top speed quicker than a pure speed-focused vehicle. For most races, which are won in the corners, this is the winning formula.
Acceleration Beast: The Coil Cyclone II
If you want explosive speed off the line, look no further than the electric Coil Cyclone II. This all-wheel-drive electric supercar delivers instant torque, rocketing it from 0 to 60 faster than almost any other vehicle in the game. Its initial burst is simply breathtaking and gives you a massive advantage at the start of a race or when pulling away from traffic.
The downside? Its electric motor means it has a lower overall top speed compared to top-tier gasoline supercars. Once you reach higher speeds, other cars will eventually catch up on a long enough straight. It’s the king of short sprints and technical tracks with frequent acceleration zones.
Top Contenders For The Fastest Super Car
The Super car class is where the most intense competition for the “fastest” title happens. These are the hypercars and elite performance vehicles with million-dollar price tags. Here are the top five you need to know about.
1. Pfister 811
As mentioned, the 811 holds the top speed crown. It’s a dedicated missile for straight lines. Driving it effectively requires practice, but the reward is being the first down any long highway.
2. Progen Emerus
The Progen Emerus is a fierce competitor for best lap time in the Super class. It’s incredibly agile, with sharp handling that allows for precise cornering. Its top speed is also very competitive, making it a fantastic all-rounder for skilled drivers. Many top racers consider it the best Super car for technical tracks.
3. Benefactor Krieger
The Benefactor Krieger is another top-tier Super car known for its all-wheel-drive system, which provides exceptional grip and stability. It’s slightly easier to drive at the limit than the Emerus, making it a popular choice for both new and experienced racers. Its acceleration and top speed are excellent, offering a very balanced performance profile.
4. Overflod Entity MT
A classic contender, the Overflod Entity MT offers great value and performance. It has near-perfect traction due to its weight distribution and all-wheel drive, making it very forgiving to drive. While it may not have the absolute peak stats of newer cars, it remains a consistently fast and reliable choice that can win races.
5. Truffade Adder
The Adder was the original “fastest car” in GTA Online’s early days. While it has been surpassed in both top speed and handling by newer vehicles, it retains a high top speed and is a piece of GTA history. It’s a heavy car, so its cornering isn’t the best, but it can still be effective on speed-focused tracks.
How To Get The Fastest Cars In GTA 5
Acquiring these elite vehicles requires either a lot of in-game money or some luck. Here are the primary methods.
Purchasing From Legendary Motorsport
Most top-tier Super cars are available for purchase on the in-game websites on your phone or computer. Legendary Motorsport and Southern San Andreas Super Autos are the two main sites. Simply browse, select your car, choose a color, and have it delivered to one of your garages. Be prepared to spend between $1.5 million and $3 million for the latest models.
- Open your in-game phone.
- Navigate to the internet browser.
- Select either Legendary Motorsport or Southern S.A. Super Autos.
- Browse the Super or Sports categories for the high-end vehicles.
- Select the car, customize its initial color, and confirm the purchase.
- Wait for the confirmation text and have it delivered to a garage.
Winning The Prize Ride At The LS Car Meet
The LS Car Meet, added in the Los Santos Tuners update, offers a weekly “Prize Ride” challenge. By completing specific racing objectives within a week, you can win a high-end vehicle for free. These challenges often involve placing well in LS Car Meet series races or placing top in pursuits. It’s a great way to build your collection without spending GTA$.
Finding Rare Spawns In Story Mode
In GTA 5’s single-player story, some very fast cars can be found spawning in the world or obtained through missions. For example, Franklin’s special ability makes any car he drives handle exceptionally well, effectively making many standard sports cars much faster. Keep an eye out for high-end vehicles in neighborhoods like Vinewood Hills and Rockford Hills.
Making Your Car Faster: Essential Upgrades
Buying the car is only the first step. To truly unlock its maximum speed, you must visit a mod shop. Not all upgrades are created equal for racing.
Must-Have Performance Mods
- Engine Upgrade (Max Level): This is the most important upgrade for increasing acceleration and top speed. Always buy the highest level you can afford.
- Turbo Tuning: Adds a significant boost to acceleration. A essential purchase for any race car.
- Transmission (Max Level): Improves gear shifting, leading to better acceleration across the speed range.
- Brakes (Max Level): While not making you faster in a straight line, better brakes allow you to brake later and harder before corners, improving your overall lap time.
- Spoiler: This is critical. Adding a spoiler (not a cosmetic one) increases traction and downforce. This actually improves your acceleration by reducing wheel spin and allows for higher cornering speeds. The game applies a hidden traction bonus.
Handling And Suspension Tweaks
The right suspension and handling mods can shave seconds off your lap time. Lowering suspension generally improves handling. For racing, the “Race” or “Track” options are best. Avoid “Lowrider” or “SUV” suspensions on performance cars. Armor plating does not affect speed or handling, so you can add it for survivability in freemode without penalty.
Testing And Comparing Car Speeds
Don’t just rely on hearsay. You can test cars yourself to see which one fits your driving style best.
Using The Airport Runway
The LS International Airport provides a long, flat, and straight runway perfect for top speed tests. Line up two cars and race them from one end to the other. This gives you a clear idea of acceleration and terminal velocity. Remember to use fully upgraded versions for a fair comparison.
Time Trial Challenges
Weekly Time Trials and the Rockstar Created “Criminal Records” race (set to one lap) are standardized tests. You can run the same circuit repeatedly with different cars and compare your best lap times. This is the most accurate way to gauge a car’s overall performance on a track.
Fastest Car For Specific Situations
Your goal should determine your choice of vehicle.
For Winning Races: Ocelot Pariah Or Progen Emerus
Choose the Pariah for Sports class races and the Emerus for Super class races on technical tracks. For tracks with long straights, the Pfister 811 or Benefactor Krieger might be better. Always check the track layout before selecting your vehicle.
For Freemode Travel: Oppressor Mk II
While not a car, the Oppressor Mk II is arguably the fastest way to get across the map. Its ability to fly, hover, and boost bypasses all traffic and most terrain. For practical point-to-point travel in freemode, nothing beats it, though it lacks the thrill of a high-speed car chase.
For Show And Speed: The Newest Hypercar
Rockstar often releases new cars that claim the “fastest” title with each update. Staying current with the game’s meta means checking community feedback after each major DLC. Vehicles like the Annis RE-7B have held the crown in the past, showing how the landscape changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Fastest Car In GTA 5 Story Mode?
The performance dynamics are similar. The Ocelot Pariah, Pfister 811, and Progen T20 (a precursor to the Emerus) are among the fastest you can buy or find. Franklin’s special ability can make many cars feel faster due to improved handling.
What Is The Fastest Car In GTA Online Right Now?
As of recent updates, the Progen Emerus and Benefactor Krieger are top contenders for fastest Super car lap times. The Ocelot Pariah remains the fastest Sports car. Always check for new vehicle releases with major updates, as they can shift the balance.
How Much Does The Fastest GTA 5 Car Cost?
The most expensive top-tier Super cars typically cost between $2.8 and $3.5 million GTA dollars from Legendary Motorsport. Fully upgrading them with performance mods, armor, and cosmetics can add another $300,000 to $500,000 to the total cost.
Is The Oppressor Faster Than A Car?
For cross-map travel, yes, the Oppressor Mk II is generally faster due to its ability to fly in a straight line over obstacles. In a point-to-point race on a traditional road circuit, a top-tier Super car like the Emerus could potentially win due to its higher ground speed.
Do Different Tires Make Your Car Faster In GTA 5?
No, tire type (like off-road or high-end) does not directly affect top speed or acceleration on pavement. However, some players believe off-road tires can improve traction on curbs. The primary performance gains come from engine, turbo, and transmission upgrades, along with a spoiler.