Top 10 most influential supercars of all time
We've compiled a list of 10 of the greatest supercars of all time, based on the influence they've had on supercar fans and the automotive industry.
10. Lexus LFA (2011)
Lexus spent 10 years perfecting the LFA, and it shows. From its responsive steering to the incredible brake feel, this car is a masterpiece. The V10 engine is a true gem. The only downside? The single-clutch transmission feels a bit outdated.
9. Pagani Zonda (2002)
Engine: 7291cc V12
Power: 408 kW
Torque: 750 Nm
When the Zonda hit the scene in 1999, it was the creation of the then-unknown Pagani and featured a modest 289 kW from its Mercedes 6.0-liter V12. Fast forward 20 years, and Pagani is still producing Zondas, often upgrading older models to the impressive 559 kW '760' spec.
8. Ferrari F50 (1995)
When the F50 launched, it was initially overlooked by many. However, in the last decade, its reputation in the supercar world has skyrocketed. With only 349 ever made, it boasts a screaming F1-derived V12 and a perfectly balanced, highly responsive chassis.
7. Ferrari Enzo (2003)
Named after Ferrari's founder, the Enzo dominated the early 2000s supercar scene. During a 2005 supercar test at Nardo, it reached a top speed of 352 km/h, outpacing all rivals and boasting the best acceleration. However, it wasn't the fastest on the handling circuit—that title belongs to the next car on the list.
6. Porsche Carrera GT (2003)
Technology ages quickly. The Enzo's F1-style gearbox was revolutionary in 2002 but now seems outdated. In contrast, the Carrera GT's smooth, wood-topped manual transmission remains timeless. Initially notorious for being easy to stall and challenging to manage, modern tires now match the capabilities of Porsche's carbon-fibre masterpiece, enabling full enjoyment of its powerful V10 engine.
5. Bugatti Veyron (2005)
Ferdinand Piëch's passion project reshaped automotive limits and expectations. The Veyron pushed top speeds, power outputs, and price tags to unprecedented heights while requiring little from its driver aside from deep pockets. Some criticised its ease of use, likening it to an Audi TT, but it undeniably drew a new breed of enthusiasts and left an indelible mark on the supercar world.
4. Ferrari LaFerrari (2013)
Despite its playful name, the LaFerrari embodies everything Ferrari has mastered in performance since 1947. It integrates cutting-edge hybrid technology not for efficiency, but to enhance its power and handling. In essence, the LaFerrari stands as the ultimate representation of a contemporary supercar.
3. Ferrari F40 (1987)
Engine: 2936cc V8 twin-turbo
Power: 352 kW
As Dennis Denuto famously said, "It's the vibe of the thing." The F40 isn't particularly rare (1315 were built), wasn't known for exceptional build quality, suffered from significant turbo lag and questionable brakes. Yet, just look at it—this car is a snarling, flame-spitting thrill ride that prioritises adrenaline over technology. If the ultimate goal of a supercar is to make you exclaim "wow!" then few achieve it better than the F40.
2. Lamborghini Miura (1966)
The Miura marked the dawn of the 'supercar' era, setting a standard with its mid-mounted V12, stunning design, and unforgettable exhaust note. While its performance has been eclipsed over time, its iconic styling remains timeless. Beyond its technical prowess, the Miura encapsulated the spirit of the mid-1960s—a time of limitless possibilities in space, air travel, and automotive innovation. Its celebrity owners, including Frank Sinatra, Twiggy, Rod Stewart, Eddie Van Halen, Jay Kay, and Miles Davis, underscore its status as a cultural icon.
1. McLaren F1 (1992)
How do you surpass the car that set the standard? By rewriting the entire playbook. The F1 took the widely imitated formula of its predecessors and elevated it to unprecedented heights, reshaping the definition of supercars. Gordon Murray's uncompromising vision for the ultimate driving machine didn't just challenge conventions—it completely ignored them. This was a road-going masterpiece capable of 386 km/h, accommodating three passengers and luggage with ease. The only thing that outpaced the F1 was its exclusivity—only 64 road versions were sold out of 106 produced, heightening its desirability and value in today's market.