“Things aren’t always as they seem.”
Who would’ve thought that this saying also applies to vehicles, specifically sleeper cars? These cars’ exteriors are designed just like a daily driver but deliver powerful performance under the hood.
Sleeper cars can either have a powerful engine, a sophisticated suspension, or a combination of both. They can also be equipped with performance upgrades.
Interested in owning a sleeper car? Here’s our list of the top sleeper cars in history.
1996 Ford Taurus SHO
One of the best sleeper cars you can find is the 1996 Ford Taurus SHO. This model is known as the “bubble Taurus” because of its oblong styling. Even if this Taurus doesn’t have an impressive exterior, what it has under the hood is worth it.
The model has a top speed of 136 mph. It’s equipped with a 3.4 liter V-8 engine with a horsepower of 235 hp. It also has a torque of 230 lb-ft.
Although it’s not the most powerful car out there, who would expect a Taurus to have such a high-performance engine?
2003 Subaru Forester XT 2.5
Next in line is the 2003 Subaru Forester XT 2.5. If you’re looking for a compact SUV to use as a family car, the Subaru Forester will surely be on your list of options.
But if you’re looking for a ride that can compete with top-performing vehicles out there, make sure to get the Forester XT 2.5.
The 2003 Subaru Forester XT 2.5 has a top speed of 201 km/h. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 8.3 seconds. What’s more, this powerful SUV is powered by a 2.5L H4 SOHC 16 valves engine that gives a power output of 165 hp @ 5600 rpm.
1969 Mercury Marauder X-100
The ‘69 Marauder is a powerful 2-door luxury sports coupe. The model is actually smaller than its four-door Marquis sibling but it hides a beast under the hood.
The model’s maximum speed is 199 km/h. It’s equipped with a 29 cubic-inch V8 that can give 360 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. It can impressively go from 0 to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds.
If you’re after both luxury and speed, you can never go with this Merc. But if you’re buying a used model, make sure to check the modifications done under the hood.
2012 Buick Regal GS
With larger wheels and a reworked bumper, the 2012 Buick Regal GS has an impressive exterior. It also has a comfortable interior with contoured leather seats and good side bolsters.
But aside from its superb features, you’ll be more impressed with its specs. The 2012 Buick Regal GS has a top speed of 142 mph. It’s equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that gives 270 horsepower and nearly 300 lb-ft of torque. Like other fast cars, it can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds.
2004 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG (W211)
This model is one of the greatest German performance sedans of all time. This super sedan ignited the German horsepower wars that continue today.
The W211 E55 AMG has a top speed of 155 mph. It’s equipped with a handbuilt 5.5-liter Supercharged V-8. Even if critics argue that 469 hp is not jaw-dropping in this modern day, you’ll surely be impressed that it has 516 lb-ft of torque.
This modest-looking Benz can speed up from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive four seconds. If you’re looking for a fast but humble-looking Benz, go for this model.
2008 Lexus GS460
The 2008 Lexus GS460 has a user-friendly interior and a quiet cabin. It also boasts impressive handling. So if you’re after ride comfort, you might want to explore this model.
The 2008 Lexus GS460 also has good reliability ratings. It got a 4.9/5 reliability score from Cars.com.
The GS460’s 4.6-liter V-8 engine is impressively smooth. This powerful engine delivers 342 horsepower and a torque of 339 lb-ft. The GS460 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds and can reach a maximum speed of 146 mph.
2004 Cadillac CTS V
This model is known for its spacious cabin, making it a perfect daily driver. But there’s more to this model than just being your typical transportation to work or school.
The 2004 Cadillac CTS V has a powerful V8 engine, boasting a power output of 400 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque. It also has excellent handling dynamics.
Wondering how fast this model can go? The 2004 Cadillac CTS V has a top speed of 165 mph. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds.
2009 Hyundai Genesis
One of the fastest and most powerful sleeper cars on our list is surprisingly a Hyundai. The brand’s Genesis line granted Hyundai access to the premium segment.
This 2009 Hyundai Genesis is impressively reliable. It got a 5/5 score from J.D. Power in terms of reliability. It also topped the list of luxury midsize cars for 2009.
If you’re looking for a combination of luxury, comfort, and speed—you can’t go wrong with this model.
It boasts a maximum speed of 185 mph. Its V8 engine can give a power output of 375-429 hp and a torque of 333-376 lb-ft. With a 2009 Hyundai Genesis, you can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6-5.7 seconds.
Aside from these sleeper cars mentioned above, there are still a lot of models to explore if you’re looking for cars with hidden beasts under the hood. Whether it’s a sleeper car or not, it’s important to choose a car that will fit your personality, driving habits, lifestyle, and needs.
A Little More About Sleeper Cars
Sleeper cars are basically wolves in sheeps’ clothing. Sleeper cars are often sedans, SUVs, or wagons that appear to be more practical instead of performance-ready.
But behind those unassuming looks, you can find a massive engine that boasts impressive specs you won’t normally find in everyday cars.
The unsuspecting appearance of sleeper cars diverts attention away from them, especially those coming from law enforcement officials. They offer the perfect combination of power and practicality.
When going out for a long drive in a sports car, limited seating capacity is often a problem. But with a sleeper car, you have more space for passengers and gear.
The US and several European countries have produced some of the most memorable sleeper cars in history.
In 1994, the Chevrolet Impala SS debuted in the American market with a Corvette-inspired V8 that churned out 260 horsepower.
European automakers like BMW brought the M5 to the global market in 1985 as their own version of a sleeper car.
Italy also had their entry with the 1986 Lancia Thema 8.32, which sported a front-mounted V8 that had some resemblance with the Ferrari 308.
Used Sleeper Cars Hold Their Value, Too!
Even used sleeper cars are considered great choices because they can hold their value well. If you’re in the market for a used sleeper car, here are some options you might want to consider.
- 2018 Buick Regal GS (310 hp)
- Cadillac XTS V-Sport (410 hp)
- Ford Fusion Sport (325 hp)
- 2003-2010 BMW 550i (362 hp)
- 2003-2007 Volvo V70 R (300 hp)
- Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring (494 hp)
- Volvo V60 Polestar (362 hp)
- Lexus GS F (467 hp)
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