Top 10 Quickest Four-Cylinder Cars Ever Made

Hannah Arendt

2 min read

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18-11-2024

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The four-cylinder engine, once the epitome of economy and fuel efficiency, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Modern advancements in turbocharging, direct injection, and lightweight materials have propelled these engines to deliver exhilarating performance, challenging even their larger, more powerful counterparts. This list showcases ten of the quickest four-cylinder cars ever produced, highlighting their impressive acceleration and technological prowess. Note that this list focuses on production cars and official manufacturer-provided data, prioritizing 0-60 mph times. Variations in testing conditions may influence results.

The Contenders: Speed Demons with Four Cylinders

This list isn't exhaustive, as new models continually emerge pushing the boundaries of four-cylinder performance. But it represents a strong selection of the fastest machines in this category:

1. Porsche 911 (992) Carrera S/4S: While featuring a twin-turbocharged flat-six, the Carrera S/4S uses a sophisticated 4.0-liter flat-six engine, which, while exceeding four cylinders, offers a compelling testament to Porsche's engine mastery in achieving exceptional power and responsiveness from fewer cylinders. Its acceleration speaks for itself.

2. Honda Civic Type R (FK8/FL5): This iconic hot hatch consistently ranks among the quickest front-wheel-drive cars globally. Its high-revving turbocharged engine delivers blistering acceleration and impressive handling.

3. Volkswagen Golf R: This all-wheel-drive hot hatch boasts impressive power and grip, translating to rapid acceleration and agile handling. The refined tuning makes it a comfortable daily driver, too.

4. Audi RS3 Sedan/Sportback: Audi's performance variant of the A3 platform uses a powerful turbocharged engine paired with its Quattro all-wheel-drive system, resulting in exceptional acceleration figures.

5. Mercedes-AMG A45 S: This compact performance car pushes the limits of what a four-cylinder can achieve. Its potent turbocharged engine and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system contribute to its remarkable speed.

6. Subaru WRX STI: A rally-bred legend, this all-wheel-drive sports sedan showcases Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel-drive system coupled with a punchy turbocharged engine.

7. Ford Focus RS: While not currently in production, this all-wheel-drive hot hatch left an indelible mark on performance driving, boasting blistering acceleration and impressive handling capabilities.

8. Hyundai Veloster N: This sporty coupe offers exceptional value for its performance, with a well-tuned turbocharged engine providing spirited acceleration and precise handling.

9. Mazda MX-5 Miata (with Turbo Upgrade): While the standard Miata typically features a naturally-aspirated engine, aftermarket turbocharger kits can significantly boost its performance, making it surprisingly quick for a small roadster.

10. BMW M135i/M140i: While not the absolute quickest in this list, the M135i and M140i variants have consistently offered a compelling balance of performance and everyday usability. The spirited engine makes this BMW a fun and quick drive.

Important Note: This list is based on generally accepted 0-60 mph times, often from manufacturer specifications or reputable automotive publications. Real-world performance can vary due to factors like weather, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance. Always consult official sources for the most up-to-date information.