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10 Underrated Lightning-Fast Classic Cars

The world of classic cars is filled with Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Porsche, etc. And despite possessing the same caliber, some cars are long forgotten by most. In this list, we’ve got 10 monstrous V16 beasts and lightweight racing machines. These speed demons were overshadowed by bigger brands or were too rare for mainstream fame, but they …
Craig Howell/Wikimedia Commons

The world of classic cars is filled with Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Porsche, etc. And despite possessing the same caliber, some cars are long forgotten by most. In this list, we’ve got 10 monstrous V16 beasts and lightweight racing machines. These speed demons were overshadowed by bigger brands or were too rare for mainstream fame, but they pushed limits in their day.

Vector W8

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Introduced in the early ’90s, the Vector W8 was a technological marvel, equipped with a twin-turbo 6.0L V8 engine that generated 625 hp. Its aerospace-inspired cockpit and a 218 mph top speed made it a true hypercar ahead of its time. However, due to limited production and financial troubles, this American dream could not thrive.

Jensen FF

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The Jensen FF introduced all-wheel drive to performance cars, way before Audi’s Quattro was introduced. Fueled by a 6.3L Chrysler V8, it could reach 140 mph, which was quite impressive for the late ’60s. However, due to its high price and complex mechanics, it became a rare sight.

De Tomaso Pantera GT5-S

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A fusion of Italian design and American muscle, the Pantera GT5-S was powered by a Ford 5.8L V8, which delivered 180 mph. Its aggressive looks and affordability made it special for its time. However, the corporate struggles faced by the company left the Pantera in the shadows of Ferraris and Lamborghinis.

Isdera Imperator 108i

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Straight out of a car maker’s fantasy, the Imperator 108i was a rare Mercedes Benz powered masterpiece. Its 5.0L V8 engine allowed it to run at 176 mph, but its exclusivity with only 30 units made kept it out of the limelight. A true hidden gem for those who appreciate boutique engineering.

Monteverdi Hai 450 SS

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Monteverdi, a lesser-known Swiss automaker, shocked the world with the Hai 450 SS. It featured a monstrous 426 HEMI V8, and was capable of 174 mph. Unfortunately, only two were built, which left it nothing but a rare footnote in supercar history.

Lister Storm

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The Lister Storm packed a 7.0L Jaguar V12, producing 546 hp, which made it one of the fastest road cars of the ’90s. Capable of 211 mph, it saw limited success due to its unusual design and a hefty price tag. Racing variants, however, made their mark in endurance events.

Cizeta-Moroder V16T

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Powered by a V16 engine, the Cizeta-Moroder V16T was wild, produced 560 hp, and a top speed of 204 mph. Designed by ex-Lamborghini engineers, it had outrageous styling and an astronomical price. Sadly, production fizzled out and it was left behind as an ultra-rare collector’s item.

Stutz Blackhawk

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The exclusivity of the Stutz Blackhawk and the high price point kept it out of the public eye. The car packed serious power under its hood, despite looking more like a luxury cruiser. A 7.5L Pontiac V8 delivered 425 hp, which allowed it to dominate straight-line speeds.

Mosler Consulier GTP

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Lacking the elegance of European supercars, the Mosler Consulier GTP was focused on performance. It could reach 160 mph due to its lightweight Kevlar body and a turbocharged 2.2L Chrysler engine. Despite being a track monster, poor sales and divisive looks held the car back.

Bizzarrini 5300 GT Strada

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Designed by former Ferrari engineer Giotto Bizzarrini, the 5300 GT Strada combined stunning Italian style with a Chevy 5.3L V8 engine. The GT Strada was both beautiful and brutal, with a horsepower of 365 and a top speed of 174 mph. Its limited production kept it from Ferrari-like fame.

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