While there is a certain classic appeal for the styling and handling of classic cars, modern innovations in groundforce, traction control and aerodynamics have enabled modern cars to achieve speeds previously thought impossible even in racing vehicles. Advanced computer measurements and new engine designs (and fuels) have enabled engineers to produce cars that are absurdly fast, outrunning even the most advanced racing vehicles in a straight line. And unlike racing vehicles, these cars aren't just something you'll see on auto blog Canada, you can own them too —provided you can afford them!

5. The 9ff GT9-R - 257mph Top Speed

Image source: gtspirit.com

Although the 9ff series of cars began life as Porsche 911s, everything from the engine to the exterior bodywork has been extensively changed, retooled and enhanced. Essentially retaining only the unique RR layout (all other cars on this list are mid-engined) it is nonetheless only a few MPH off being the #1 fastest car ever built.

 

 

4. The SSC Ultimate Aero - 257 mph Top Speed

Image source: autoblog.com

Unless you are a fan of certain heavily specialized racing circuits, you've probably never heard of SSC. However, they have been producing excellent racing cars for many years, and they put that technology to use in the Ultimate Aero, which was the world's fastest car in 2010. The Aero is still in production, although it is to be replaced by an even faster car in 2014-2015.

3. The Koenigsegg Agera - 260 mph Top Speed

Image source: cardotcom.com

Koenigsegg emerged in the early 00s as Sweden's definitive hyper car manufacturer. Blisteringly fast and perfectly balanced, Koenigsegg is known for testing on everything from the Nurburgring to the Top Gear Test Track to optimize top speed and handling. The Agera has the highest theoretical top speed on this list (about 270 mph) but thus far Koenigsegg has not successfully achieved that speed.

2. The Hennessey Venom GT - 260 mph Top Speed

Image source: hennesseyperformance.com

The Venom GT is already a fast car, and with careful tuning from Hennessey, it comes in at #2 on our list. With a 1200hp engine it also has the most horsepower of any of these cars, although its weight and aerodynamic limitations keep it from being the fastest.

1. The Bugatti Veyron SuperSport - 267 mph Top Speed

Image source: dancewithshadows.com

Astute readers will notice that the Veyron doesn't just top the list, it dominates it, being 7 mph faster than the nearest competitor. Even though the Veyron has "only" 1001 hp (the least on this list) it is the lightest and most aerodynamic car, with special tuning to enable it to reach these incredible speeds.