Imagine a vehicle with the roar of a motorcycle yet grounded by the stability of four wheels. These hybrid creations bring out the best of both worlds—unmatched acceleration and nimble handling, but with a driver’s control. Lightweight and powered by bike engines, each of these cars push the boundaries of performance. Here’s a look at some unique rides delivering speed, thrill, and unexpected twists.

Honda Beat

The Honda Beat, a tiny Japanese kei car, has seen popular custom modifications with motorcycle engines. Enthusiasts often swap its 656cc engine for Honda CBR motorcycle engines, giving it extra punch and higher revs. A motorcycle-powered Beat is a blast to drive because it’s lightweight and surprisingly fast.

Caterham 7 620R

While the Caterham 7 R500 doesn’t come with a Hayabusa engine stock, it’s a popular model for aftermarket engine swaps, with enthusiasts often installing the Hayabusa engine for added thrill. These modified R500s hit impressive speeds and bring a bike-like thrill to four wheels thanks to the lightweight chassis and Hayabusa’s high-revving power.

Morgan 3-Wheeler

This iconic British 3-wheeler has been reborn with a V-twin engine by S&S, adapted from motorcycle design. The Morgan 3-Wheeler Weighs only around 1,100 pounds and brings a vintage, open-air experience paired with thrilling acceleration. Its distinct retro style and signature motorcycle growl are a unique combo of classic and exhilarating.

Ariel Atom 500 V8

The Ariel Atom 500 V8’s engine is a custom-built masterpiece made from two motorcycle-derived engines combined into a V8. This Atom is a truly wild ride, whose incomprehensible 500 horsepower lets it howl to 60 mph from a standstill in 2.3 seconds. Experiencing all that with the wind in your hair is genuinely special.

Radical SR8

This lightweight track weapon gets its power from a highly-tuned Suzuki Hayabusa engine, custom-built for high performance. Its 430 horses allow it to dominate racetracks with far more expensive and complex cars. Moreover, the high-revving engine and ultra-lightweight body of this car let drivers tackle corners with precision and reach blistering speeds.

Grinnall Scorpion III

The Grinnall Scorpion III combines a BMW K-series motorcycle engine with a sleek, three-wheeled design. Light as a feather and sporting 120 horsepower, it flies from 0-60 mph in less than five seconds. Plus, its open-top cockpit adds a sense of freedom and excitement, bringing a dynamic mix of car and motorcycle sensations to every ride.

Lotus Elise R1

This Lotus prototype is a unique creation, featuring a Yamaha R1 motorcycle engine for a high-revving, lightweight build. While not a mass-produced model, this custom setup transplants the banshee-screaming Yammie heart onto an already light Elise that is only fit for daredevils. The R1 engine’s iconic sound and responsiveness give this prototype an unforgettable character.

Westfield Megabusa

The Westfield’s name is an indication of its raw, no-nonsense speed. Fitted with a Suzuki Hayabusa engine, this kit car can scream to 60 mph from naught in around three seconds. The Megabusa is built for drivers who want an unfiltered, high-speed experience on both road and track—which, its stripped-down weight and rapid acceleration help to achieve.

Mazda Miata Hayabusa Conversion

For enthusiasts, the lightweight and nimble Miata transforms into an adrenaline-charged machine when fitted with a Suzuki Hayabusa engine. This conversion offers exhilarating revs, blistering acceleration, and a pure driving experience that balances track-level performance with everyday charm. The Miata’s frame and handling only enhance its thrilling personality.

Suzuki Cappuccino Hayabusa

Though not standard, many Suzuki Cappuccino owners opt to swap the car’s stock engine for a Hayabusa motor. This custom setup gives the Cappuccino around 190 horsepower in a featherlight frame, turning it into a speedy, nimble machine with fantastic handling. It’s the ultimate surprise for anyone expecting a mild-mannered compact car.