Fastest Cars In NFS Heat

The Need For Speed franchise has been rather diverse in what they offer players. Some games in the series are for car enthusiasts, others are for players who like the arcade feeling of the racing series. But whatever the reason, Need For Speed has left an imprint on gaming. Though the franchise isn’t perfect, it still offers a lot for players in terms of what they can do, so each game in the Need For Speed series has something for everyone.

6:19

Related

All Need For Speed Games Ranked From Worst To Best

Few racing games have grabbed players’ attention the way the Need for Speed franchise has, and these are the top entries in the series.

This makes Need For Speed: Heat accessible to a wide range of players. In addition, being an open-world racing game makes it one of the best games in the series. However, the way each game plays is only half of any Need For Speed game. The cars make up a large part of any racing game. If players want to get the most out of this title, they should look for some of the fastest cars Need For Speed: Heat has to offer.

Updated January 28, 2025 by Vlad Mazanko: Need for Speed Heat brought a refreshing twist to the NFS formula with its well-executed day-and-night mechanic, a feature later carried over with minimal changes into the latest installment, NFS Unbound. This dynamic system introduced a roguelike element, where players race to earn cash during the day and valuable Rep at night, unlocking new rides and tuning parts along the way.

To stay competitive in both phases of this gameplay loop, having a car capable of reaching breakneck speeds and dominating the competition is essential. This updated list highlights the fastest cars in NFS Heat, complete with detailed stats like top speed and price for each vehicle.

20

Mazda RX-7 Spirit R 2002

An Early, Versatile Car With Great Potential For Upgrades

• Base Top Speed: 159 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 144
• Base Horsepower: 276 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 4.80 secs
• Cost: $59,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 4

Mazda’s cars are great for many things in Need For Speed: Heat, they can be great for off-road action, and be amazing cars for racing. The RX-7 is a versatile car, one that players can keep using through most of the game, and since Need For Speed: Heat’s story is surprisingly well-told, going through the narrative with this car can feel more rewarding.

For players who want to drift with ease, the RX-7 is just for them. With minor upgrades, they can do these types of events or moves a lot easier. Boasting a top speed of 159 mph, players can dominate quickly most events. The great thing about the Mazda RX-7 is that it requires a rep level of 4 to unlock, so if players grind early, and do big-ticket events, they can unlock a car that can be modified to what they want.

19

Porsche 911 Carrera RSR 2.8 1973

A Fast Beast In Every Department, Capable Of Leaving More Expensive Rides Far Behind

• Base Top Speed: 174 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 188
• Base Horsepower: 308 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 5.00 secs
• Cost: $86,000
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 16

Most Need for Speed veterans are well aware of a car that may not look the part but can comfortably leave most other cars in the dust when push comes to shove. In fact, in the hands of a skilled racer, the RSR is a beast with no equal. As one would expect, following some investment, this car is capable of being one of the fastest vehicles in a Need for Speed game once again.

It doesn’t matter whether players use this car for on-track races, offroad tracks, or a mix of both — the RSR is a beast in every department and can comfortably beat most vehicles that have more powerful customizations as long as the setup is done with great care. If players race against opponents at the same or lower level, then they’ll have no problems completely humiliating these so-called “opponents”.

18

Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 2014

One Of The Most Potent And Charged Classic Muscle Cars In The Game

• Base Top Speed: 177 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 206
• Base Horsepower: 504 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 3.90 secs
• Cost: $93,000
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 18

The Camaro is among the fastest cars in NFS Heat, one that has been in most of the other Need For Speed games. In Need For Speed: Heat, it has a little more going on. Many players who own the Z/28 will think that because it’s a muscle car, it’s not good at much aside from speed. This is untrue, while the Z/28 is fast, with top speeds of 177 mph, it also has exceptionally good handling, which makes it easy to race. Plus, the best way to escape cops is by outrunning them, the Z/28 does this in a very fluid manner with its high acceleration stat.

Related

8 Best Stories In The Need For Speed Games, Ranked

Known for its cinematic narratives filled with engaging cutscenes, these are the best stories the Need for Speed series has to offer.

It’s also a very dynamic car, meaning the Z/28 can be driven in any style provided it’s upgraded to do so. While the Z/28 is a fast car, it can also be one of the best drifting cars in Need For Speed: Heat, because of its handling and breaking. Sadly, it is a grind to get, but if players win and play well, getting to rep level 18 can be done sooner.

17

BMW M3 E46 GTR 2006

A Legendary Pre-Tuned Variant That Is A Delight To Drive

• Base Top Speed: 177 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 174
• Base Horsepower: 345 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 4.60 secs
• Cost: $202,000
• How To Unlock: Unlocked After Completing The Campaign Story

Fans who have played older Need For Speed games will recognize this classic car. For an older car, the M3 still holds a punch and can stand out on its own. On top of that, with minor upgrades, the M3 can be quicker than the fastest cars on this list. While it’s not as expensive as the faster cars featured here, it still needs players to grind. But, once they unlock the M3, it feels more rewarding. Need For Speed: Heat’s open world is amazing, full, and immersive, driving with the M3, highlights the beauty of the world in the game.

As mentioned before, players may want to upgrade it, but won’t need to as much, since it can reach a top speed of 177 mph, which is impressive for a car that can be considered out of its prime. Plus, with the rep level required to unlock the stock M3 being 7, getting it would be a breeze, much like the RX-7.

16

Polestar 1 2020

A Car From The Game’s Cover Expectedly Delivers The Thrills

• Base Top Speed: 193 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 247
• Base Horsepower: 600 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 3.43 secs
• Cost: $162,000
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 22

For players who may not know much about this car, it’s a luxury car under the Volvo brand, so the Polestar has similar qualities. This is a huge benefit because Volvo cars are rather fast and reliable. Being the cover car for Need For Speed: Heat, players may think it’s just for show, but once they unlock it and drive it, they’ll see how much power the Polestar can give the player. With top speeds reaching around the 193 mph mark, players who own this car will make every race a Sunday drive.

If they choose to upgrade the Polestar 1, the car can become a real threat to cops and other drivers. Plus, going online, owners of the Polestar will get an advantage of top speed, and also fast acceleration. However, unlocking this car requires a lot of work, since it needs a rep level of 22. There is a “Hero” edition of the Polestar with the same stats, but players need to beat the main game, plus the driving mission of Need For Speed: Heat to unlock it.

15

Lamborghini Huracán 2018

Probably The Best For Lambo Lovers

• Base Top Speed: 199 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 208
• Base Horsepower: 572 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 3.20 secs
• Cost: $183,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 24

Lamborghini is synonymous with speed on the racing scene, and the Huracán is one of the best models players can acquire in Need for Speed Heat. Its impressive acceleration from a standstill and top speed potential nearing 200 mph make it a must-have for those who prefer stock variants with minimal upgrades. However, there’s limited room for further enhancement with the Lamborghini Huracán.

2:42

Related

Need For Speed Games With The Best Open-Worlds

These Need For Speed games stand out as the best of the lot when it comes to open worlds.

For players looking to go all out, additional Huracán variants are available, including the boosted Performante edition. Each model offers different responsiveness in suspension, gearbox, and throttle, catering to various driving preferences.

14

Ferrari F40 1988

Beauty And The Beast — All In A Single Alluring Package

• Base Top Speed: 201 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 266
• Base Horsepower: 471 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 3.90 secs
• Cost: $547,000
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 24

Many cars can speed through races and get amazing lap times with great finesse, but some players who share a love for this Italian car brand would love to use a Ferrari to leave their opponents in the dust. There are more than enough candidates that players can check out in this department, but one particular vehicle that stands above the rest of the pack is the Ferrari F40.

This car is a veritable speed demon that can overpower opposition racers in no time with its amazing performance. It’s easy to see why so many players love using the Ferrari F40, with the car’s classic look and amazing performance making it a no-brainer for NFS veterans who want to zoom past other racers in style.

13

Porsche 911 GT2 RS 2018

The Ultimate Modern Reimagining Of The Iconic Porsche Classic

• Base Top Speed: 211 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 313
• Base Horsepower: 691 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 2.70 secs
• Cost: $246,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 32

In terms of top speed, the Porsche 911 GT2 RS falls just slightly behind the 918 Spyder. However, fans of the classic, timeless Porsche design might still favor the 911 over the newer, flashier model. Additionally, the 911 GT2 RS is unlocked notably faster than its counterpart and comes at half the cost, making it a more accessible option.

The 911 GT2 RS features the most powerful engine ever installed in a 911, paired with an aerodynamic bodywork package designed to enhance downforce, ventilation, and overall driving and handling capabilities. Statistically, the 911 GT2 RS can hold its own against some of the fastest race cars in NFS Heat. While its visual customization options are limited due to its “Icon Car” status, this isn’t much of a drawback for drivers seeking the signature Porsche appeal and performance that this powerhouse confidently delivers.

12

Lamborghini Murciélago SV 2010

A Series Staple, Renowned For Its Speed And Reliability

• Base Top Speed: 213 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 294
• Base Horsepower: 661 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 3 secs
• Cost: $335,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 32

The Lamborghini Murciélago SV stands as the most powerful model in the Murciélago lineup. Its reduced weight, achieved through the use of carbon fiber components for the front and rear fenders and a lighter exhaust system, showcases a modern approach to supercar assembly. Additionally, the SV generates more raw power thanks to a new intake system and enhanced valve timing.

2:52

Related

Need For Speed Heat: Best Drift Cars

These cars excel at seamlessly drifting around corners at high speeds, giving you a vital edge.

These upgrades enable the Murciélago SV to effortlessly achieve a top speed of 213 mph in Need for Speed Heat. For fans of the Italian supercar brand, choosing between the Murciélago, Aventador, and Huracán models often comes down to personal preference in design. Each delivers the speed and acceleration Lamborghini is renowned for, ensuring none will disappoint.

11

Porsche 918 Spyder 2015

The Latest And Fastest Chapter In Porsche’s Rich Legacy

• Base Top Speed: 214 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 341
• Base Horsepower: 868 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 2.50 secs
• Cost: $591,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 36

The only notable drawback of the Porsche 918 Spyder in Need for Speed Heat is its steep price. In every other aspect, this car is an engineering marvel, almost too pristine for the rough world of aggressive street racing and high-stakes pursuits. This hybrid supercar features two additional electric motors and can run entirely on electric power. However, for maximum performance, the 918 Spyder combines these with its cutting-edge 4.6L V8 engine, enabling it to rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds and reach a blistering top speed of 214 mph.

Unlike the 911 GT2 RS, the 918 Spyder utilizes an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, offering distinct handling characteristics compared to other Porsche models. Drivers need not worry, though, as the AWD setup is exceptionally responsive and reliable, allowing for sharp cornering at very high speeds without sacrificing control.

10

Ford GT 2017

Blending Exotic And Muscle Strengths

• Base Top Speed: 216 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 327
• Base Horsepower: 646 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 2.90 secs
• Cost: $342,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 36

One of the best cars in Need For Speed Heat, the Ford GT packs a massive punch in this game. With faster-than-lighting acceleration, and a high top speed of 216 mph to back it up, owners of the Ford GT can and will dominate any race. Players may get faster cars than the GT, but what makes it a car that players should keep driving for as long as they can, is the adaptability it has. Fast cars usually suffer in the handling area, which is why players may focus on that stat.

For the GT most stats are well-balanced, turning on a dime can be done fluidly, and doing last-second maneuvers can be easy. It’s a great car for players who want to start getting into the quicker cars in Need For Speed: Heat. However, like most of the cars on this list, they need to unlock it. While a rep level of 36 may seem like a chore at first, once players unlock and buy the GT, Need For Speed: Heat will have a different feel.

9

Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 2019

A Roaring Speed Demon That Dominates Its Price Range

• Base Top Speed: 217 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 315
• Base Horsepower: 755 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 3.10 secs
• Cost: $142,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 32

For its price, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is an absolute steal. It’s one of the fastest cars in Need for Speed Heat with a sub-$150,000 price tag, making it a no-brainer for budget-conscious players seeking a high-performance rocket. As a quintessential modern American muscle car, the ZR1’s signature rear-wheel-drive (RWD) setup is perfect for players who enjoy long, controlled drifts around corners and lightning-fast acceleration off the line.

2:51

Related

Need For Speed Heat: Best Off-Road Cars

Having a vehicle fit for off-roading in Need for Speed Heat can be very important, and these are some of the best choices to pick from.

Although the ZR1 offers limited visual customization options in the game, its aggressive sports body hardly needs additional flair. With its prominent rear spoiler and front splitter designed for increased downforce, the ZR1 already exudes a sleek, supercharged style ideal for street racing fans.

8

McLaren P1 2015

A Perfectly Balanced Supercar With Loads Of Potential

• Base Top Speed: 217 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 346
• Base Horsepower: 903 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 2.80 secs
• Cost: $776,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 40

Once players get to the higher-performance cars, they’ll notice there are a lot of compromises. For example, top speed may be the highlight, but at the cost of acceleration or handling. However, players who have this McLaren won’t face much on an issue. What makes the P1 stand out from its peers, is that it’s an all-around balanced car, with every section working in harmony. The best part is that players don’t need to upgrade it that much, but since the Need for Speed games encourage players to do so, it still isn’t a bad idea.

With this car, players can win any race and escape all cop chases, even if they get to a level 5 chase. If players opt to run with P1, they’ll see a lot more wins. Still, they should note that even though it’s one of the fastest, it’s not the fastest. But because it’s a balanced supercar, players won’t struggle as much to keep up.

7

Pagani Huayra BC 2017

A Track-Focused Exotic Ride That Hardly Needs Further Improvements

• Base Top Speed: 217 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 338
• Base Horsepower: 754 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 2.90 secs
• Cost: $1,574,000
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 36

As one of the most exotic and expensive cars in Need for Speed Heat, alongside the Koenigsegg Regera, the Pagani Huayra BC is a top choice for high-speed enthusiasts who love leaving competitors or cops in the dust on straightaways. Although this hypercar has limited performance upgrade options, its stock stats are among the highest in the game, and its bodywork is exquisite as-is.

The Huayra BC is a track-focused variant of the original Huayra, designed for peak performance. With only 20 models ever produced, players get the thrill of driving this exclusive speed demon in NFS Heat.

6

Ferrari FXX-K Evo 2018

Devilish Speed Can Coexist With Prime Handling

• Base Top Speed: 217 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 363
• Base Horsepower: 1,035 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 2.50 secs
• Cost: $2,177,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 50

This is not only a really fast car, but it has one of the best engines in the whole game. The FXX-K gives so much to players in terms of speed and power, and when fending off police during the chases, the FXX becomes the player’s best friend. At the start, the FXX will push players to the first-place position. It’s one of the highest-rated cars in Need For Speed: Heat for acceleration, and gets better per upgrade.

2:47

Related

Need For Speed Payback: Best Drag Cars, Ranked

With so many cars to choose from in Need for Speed Payback, players might have a hard time picking the perfect drag setup in Fortune Valley.

However, just like the rest of the cars on this list, it’s a must for players to stay on the road with it. They can lose control immediately on any uneven surface. This aspect won’t be much of an issue, because the FXX-K has some of the best handling, which will give its driver a run for their money. Racing in this car won’t give players much of an issue, as long as they stay on a normal road. With the power and acceleration together, the owner of this car will be a threat even to the faster players.

5

McLaren P1 GTR 2015

An Ultimate Road Warrior That May Be Just A Little Too Pricey

• Base Top Speed: 217 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 363
• Base Horsepower: 986 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 2.40 secs
• Cost: $2,120,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 40

One of the best things about Need For Speed: Heat is that it gives players tons of options. Having multiple cars from the same brand gives players a lot to choose from. The P1 GTR showcases that. If players want a safer, less stressful race, they can choose its little brother, the standard P1 listed above. But, for players who dare to live a little, the P1 GTR is for them.

This car takes everything from the P1 to another level. Though it has a slightly lower top speed (which can be upgraded), players can own the roads in this. The Need For Speed: Heat upgrade system works like an RPG, meaning there are tiers of parts players can get. The P1 GTR can easily get those elite and ultimate parts. As long as they use this guide, their car will be kitted for anything. Even when it’s fully upgraded, the P1 GTR is best for roads, so players should stay on them as much as possible because the off-road is rather unforgiving.

4

Lamborghini Aventador SVJ 2019

Fast, Powerful, And Available In A Variety Of Impressive Variants

• Base Top Speed: 218 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 331
• Base Horsepower: 759 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 2.80 secs
• Cost: $384,000
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 36

Need for Speed Heat offers several Lamborghini Aventador SVJ models, including coupe, roadster, and SV variations. As a track-ready, pre-tuned version, the Aventador SVJ features enhanced bodywork designed for extreme downforce, keeping the car firmly planted during high-speed maneuvers. With its “Icon Car” status, players should note that all Aventador SVJ models have limited visual customization options — a common trait among the fastest and most expensive cars in the game.

While the Aventador SVJ delivers an impressive top speed, its acceleration sadly isn’t as groundbreaking, placing it behind some entries listed above, so players who often need quick bursts of speed after sharp turns or during intense police chases should keep that in mind. However, its relatively affordable price makes it an attainable choice for most players once they reach Rep Level 36.

3

Ferrari LaFerrari 2016

The Best Ferrari Fans Of The Iconic Brand Can Get

• Base Top Speed: 218 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 360
• Base Horsepower: 949 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 2.80 secs
• Cost: $1,104,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 40

A small step up from the McLaren P1, players will have a hard time picking between the two. Both are great cars and do well in all areas. However, players who pick the LaFarrari will have something of an edge, which will only get bigger with upgrades. The LaFerrari has better acceleration and more horsepower overall than the P1, but owners of the P1 can upgrade to keep up.

Related

Need For Speed Unbound: Best Cars For The Grand

The Grand serves as Unbound’s ultimate challenge, requiring players to come fully prepared with four cars across different tiers to secure a big win.

The good news is that the LaFerrari is even more customizable than the P1. While the P1 has a certain limit, the LaFerrari does not have the same limit as far as customization goes. However, the LaFerrari is not as balanced as the P1 and does take more time to get used to. But it makes up for that in other areas, like the horsepower and its top speed. It is lower to the ground, so it can only be driven on one type of surface — in cop chases this will be very important. It is, for sure, one of the fastest cars in NFS Heat.

2

McLaren F1 1993

A Superior Choice That’s Not For Everyone

• Base Top Speed: 221 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 326
• Base Horsepower: 618 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 3.20 secs
• Cost: N/A (Paid DLC Exclusive)
• How To Unlock: Unlocked For Pickup From Port Murphy After Reaching Rep Level 30

While it’s a shame that one of the best cars in Need for Speed Heat is a vehicle that can only be acquired via paid DLC, that shouldn’t take away from the allure of the McLaren F1, which is the perfect car for speedfreaks. Boasting amazing stats from the get-go that can be propelled to greater heights, players who get their hands on the McLaren F1 will be more than pleased by what this car brings to the table.

Most opponents have no chance against a souped-up and upgraded version of this car, which can reach breakneck speeds that only the most skilled racers around will find easy to control. DLC comments aside, the McLaren F1 deserves its plaudits as one of the fastest cars in Need for Speed Heat that is marginally beaten out by one other vehicle.

1

Koenigsegg Regera 2016

The Fastest And Most Exclusive With No Caveats

• Base Top Speed: 255 MPH
• Base Performance Rating: 400+
• Base Horsepower: 1,500 bhp
• Base Acceleration (0 to 60 mph): 2.70 secs
• Cost: $1,227,500
• How To Unlock: Unlocked At Rep Level 50

If players come across the Regera, which is not only a hard car to beat but also the fastest car with the upgrades, picking it is an easy choice. Since Need For Speed: Heat uses the Frostbite engine, players can see how gorgeous the game looks at top speeds. The Regera allows players to do that, and keep safe at the same time. With its near-perfect handling and its cannon-like launch, players will be ahead of others more often than not.

The interesting part about the Regera is that it’s oddly decent on the off-road parts of the world, although players will face issues when going in those spots. But unlike the other cars on this list, drivers who use the Regera off-road will be less impacted by it. This, in turn, makes it a very versatile car and does something for any type of driver.

Systems

Released

November 8, 2019

Developer(s)

Ghost Games