The world shouldn’t underestimate American performance anymore.
For much of automotive history, the term “supercar” has been reserved for a very specific type of vehicle: usually, one that is European, mid-engined, extravagantly styled, and exorbitantly expensive. Equally, the title “hypercar” was only achieved when a modern four-wheel marvel came packed with more than 1,000 horsepower and a price tag well in to the millions. However, there has been a decades-long battle on the other side of the Atlantic to prove that the States are capable of bringing about the same caliber of performance, and what has resulted is the competitive nature that has brought about some of the most iconic performance machines from both sides of the pond.
Here in the U.S., one of the earliest chapters in the American supercar story is that of the Ford GT40, a car born out of a legendary Le Mans rivalry with Ferrari that resulted in an early but still-storied upset of Ford victories. After that, cars like the Corvette, Dodge Viper, and many more continued to prove the worthiness of American performance on the most competitive global stage of supercars. Fast forward a few years after previous attempts to take on the Bugatti Veyron from SSC North America and TRION, Hennessey Specialty Vehicles hit the mark with the legendary 1,244 horsepower Venom GT.
Whether it’s achieving blindingly quick acceleration, reaching incredible top speeds to become part of the exclusive 200, or now even 300-mph club, or being some of the world’s most formidable time-attack track dominators, the best American supercars and hypercars are proving themselves highly capable of going after some of the most venerated titles and breaking the most incredible records in the automotive world. In decades past, Europe was just about the only place to go if you wanted a true performance car, but now, many seekers of speed look to performance engineering that’s American-made. There’s no better motivation than having a point to prove, and with all the incredible things that have come from supercar and hypercar manufacturers in the USA, here are the 10 that prove that point the best.
Hennessey Venom F5
The Hennessey Venom F5 is a breathtaking symphony of speed and engineering mastery. With its massive 6.6-liter twin-turbo V8 engine nicknamed ‘Fury’. The Venom F5 obliterates all boundaries, offering an astronomical 1,817 horsepower. The powertrain launches the hypercar car from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.6 seconds. Its design, a seamless blend of form and function, captures the essence of aerodynamic efficiency while also showcasing a bold design that’s unmistakably Hennessey. With its focus on delivering an unmatched driving experience, the Venom F5 is a true marvel in the world of hypercars.
Czinger 21C
The Czinger 21C is the prime example of automotive innovation merging with futuristic design, with its unique 2.88-liter twin-turbocharged V8 hybrid powertrain generating an impressive 1,250 horsepower. Its tandem seating configuration is a nod to fighter jets but also a smart approach to aero and weight distribution, enhancing its agility and speed. What sets the 21C apart is its pioneering use of 3D printing for its chassis, an exmaple of Czinger’s forward-thinking approach to manufacturing. With a top speed of 268 mph and a 0-60 mph sprint in just 1.9 seconds, the 21C is a bold statement in the evolution of hypercars.
SSC Tuatara
The SSC Tuatara is the brainchild of SSC North America, formerly known as Shelby SuperCars, a name that resonates with speed and innovation. The Tuatara, named after a New Zealand reptile known for its speed, holds its own in the supercar world with a record-setting top speed. Its aerodynamically sculpted carbon fiber body is a critical component in achieving its jaw-dropping velocity. Under the hood, the Tuatara packs a punch with its bespoke V8 engine, delivering over 1,350 horsepower and 984 lb-ft of torque. Back for vengince, SSC North America returns to the hypercar sector with the Tuatara.
Ford GT
The Ford GT continues to embody the pinnacle of American performance. With its racing roots embedded in its DNA, the Ford GT commemorates its historic Le Mans victory while reimagining what a American supercar can be. At the heart of this beast lies a 647 horsepower EcoBoost V6 engine, Ford’s ingenious approach in blending efficiency with raw power. Inside, the GT’s cockpit balances minimalist design with high-tech features, ensuring the driver is both engaged and exhilarated. The GT’s carbon-fiber construction and aerodynamically sculpted design translate into exceptional agility and speed, making it a weapon on both the track and the road.
Chevrolet Corvette C8 Z06
Chevrolet’s Corvette C8 Z06 is a staple for modern American muscle, offering raw power with refined technology. The heart of the C8 Z06 is a 5.5-liter supercharged LT6 V8 engine. This beast delivers a staggering 670 horsepower, capable of achieving a mind-blowing 0-60 mph time of just 2.6 seconds. Chevrolet has gone above and beyond with the aerodynamics too, ensuring that the car not only looks sleek but also cuts through the air with precision. The interior is equally impressive, offering a cockpit-like experience that’s both luxurious and driver-focused. With the C8 Z06, Chevy sculpted an American supercar that stands tall against competitors who have been in the industry since day one.
Dodge Viper ACR
The two characteristics that best describe the Dodge Viper ACR are raw power and track-focused engineering. The Viper ACR, with its iconic V10 engine, is about impressive horsepower figures and how it translates that power into a visceral driving experience. What sets the ACR apart is its aerodynamic package, designed for maximum downforce and cornering performance. It’s a supercar that lunges forward with an aggression that’s almost tangible. The interior, while base, keeps the focus on driving, making no compromises for luxury in the pursuit of speed. With production having ended, the Viper ACR has solidified its status as a collector’s dream for its rarity and the unadulterated driving experience it offers.
Saleen S7 Twin-Turbo
The Saleen S7 is an iconic example of American ingenuity in the supercar realm, famously known for its head-turning design and high-performance powertrain. Its heart, a 7.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine launches from S7 0-60mph in 3.3 seconds thanks to its 631 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque output. With its limited production run, the S7 has also evolved into a collector’s dream. The S7’s legacy is not just in its speed records or technical specifications, but in its enduring impact on the supercar landscape, continuing to inspire both American supercar manufacturers in todays generation.
SSC Ultimate Aero TT
The SSC Ultimate Aero TT has embedded its place in the history of supercar legends. This marvel of engineering by SSC North America is a testament to the pursuit of extreme performance. Its twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering a staggering 1,287 horsepower, forced it to briefly hold the title of the world’s fastest production car. The Aero TT’s blend of raw power and aerodynamic finesse, paired with its exclusive production run, demonstrates SSC’s mastery of high-performance vehicle design while also cementing its status as a coveted collectible among enthusiasts. Its significance goes beyond mere speed records; it’s a symbol of the relentless push for automotive excellence in the supercar world.
Panoz Esperante GTR-1
The Panoz Esperante GTR-1 is a true icon in the world of exotic supercars. Born from the ambitious vision of Don Panoz, this race-bred vehicle made its mark in the late 1990s, challenging the norms of endurance racing. Its engine, a thunderous Ford-based 6.0-liter V8, proved to be a true powerhouse on the track. The Esperante GTR-1, with its distinctive, almost aggressive stance and sleek, aerodynamic lines, brought American motorsport engineering to the big stage. It showcased Panoz’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of speed and style. For the discerning enthusiast or collector, the GTR-1 remains a symbol of a bold era in racing history, a blend of power, innovation, and artistry on four wheels.
Vector W8
The Vector W8, an iconic piece of automotive history, was produced in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was a spectacle of engineering, blending futuristic aesthetics with groundbreaking performance. Powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, the W8 boasted impressive figures, reaching 0-60 mph in just 4.2 seconds, and it had a top speed reportedly exceeding 220 mph. Its distinctive wedge shape and scissor doors made it an instant classic, embodying the bold and unconventional spirit of its era. With only 17 units produced, the Vector W8 is now a rare collector’s item, celebrated for its unique blend of style, power, and exclusivity.