What are some cars that are “true sleepers”?
Posted by Tape_Face42@reddit | askcarguys | View on Reddit | 891 comments
I’m talking about cars that even a good majority of car guys wouldn’t be able to tell are fast.
Most cars that are classified as sleepers like a Chevy SS or an Audi RS7 aren’t really sleepers if you think about it because most car guys will look at them and think “Oh yeah, I know what that car is, those are pretty fast”
spezizacuk@reddit
VW Passat W8 Wagon. W8 power in a Passat station wagon.
Old_Pipe_2288@reddit
I see your Passat and raise you an Audi S8 (not the r8), with a w12 motor. Twin turbo it. Uff luxurious family vehicle with a fridge but eats cars
GolfArgh@reddit
Phaeton
Andyman1973@reddit
W12 Phaeton!
Old_Pipe_2288@reddit
Man I was sad when they stopped making them. I was like maybe I’d get a chance but no sigh
Andyman1973@reddit
I’ve only ever seen 1 on the road. Seen a handful of the W8 powered ones though.
Old_Pipe_2288@reddit
The were kinda popular in south florida. Saw several around there in the years they made them
MeIsMyName@reddit
I remember seeing Passat buyer's flowchart that involved the question "do you own an engine hoist?" and told you not to buy a W8 if not. The reputation that went with that really steered me away from those back in the day, otherwise it checked a lot of boxes.
danrunsfar@reddit
I test drove a sedan and still wish I would have gotten it. My biggest hangup was 2x the engine stuff to break and 1/2 the room to work on it in there.
jackbarbelfisherman@reddit
There's also the later R36
MOTRHEAD4LIFE@reddit
Though a lightly tuned 1.9tdi or 1.8 turbo will be as fast and available with 4mo(awd) and cheaper to run in the long term
No_University4765@reddit
The w8 Passat was only a 4 motion car
It’s hard to mask the sound though so it gives itself away
OberonsGhost@reddit
They made regular Passats like that too. My brother had one.
jeramycockson@reddit
Early 2000s ford thunderbirds
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Accord 2.0T.
It always gets down voted by losers malding that it's faster than their Miatas.
If you take the small 2.0T badge off there's absolutely no way to tell it apart from a typical econobox Honda. That's what sets it apart from other "sleepers".
Accord 2.0T is faster to 60 and around a track than BRZ, Miata, 86, WRX, GTI. Basically as fast to 60 and quarter mile as Civic Type R and Elantra N.
Express-Grape-6218@reddit
I have a 2.0T with a 6MT. People are always surprised lol
jon_voyage@reddit
No way! I have one, too!
Express-Grape-6218@reddit
There are dozens of us!
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
It's the same transmission as Civic Type R. You can even swap the CTR LSD into it.
Yet car guys will still endlessly rant at me about how Accord 2.0T is "in a totally different league" than Civic Type R and I shouldn't even compare them. Because Accords aren't cool, so it's can't possibly be fast.
Meanwhile, the guys on Accord forum are bolting on Civic Type R junkyard turbos, CTR LSD, hitting 170mph on the Autobahn, and spinning the front wheels at 60mph.
L_Outsider@reddit
It's been over a decade since Honda hasn't sold the Accord in Europe though.
bornecrosseyed@reddit
Why everybody say the accord and not the V6 Camry. Lose the manual but gain an n/a 3.5.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
V6 Camry is quick too but has basically zero aftermarket potential.
Accord 2.0T you can bolt on most Civic Type R parts. Theres tunes available.
It's also slower than Accord 2.0T, with bad torque steer. On top of not having a manual option.
https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a14517937/2018-toyota-camry-xse-v-6-test-review/
As far as Toyota sleepers go I would say Avalon is a bigger one. Nobody knows what it is. Looks like a grandma car. Has the same v6 in it.
bornecrosseyed@reddit
0.3 seconds.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
And bad torque steer (none on Accord). Accord shares parts with Civic Type R, the turbo is even a bolt on. Accord has adaptive suspension dampeners with sport mode. Theres KTuner and Hondata support. Accord has a manual option.
V6 Camry does 14.4 quarter mile. Accord 2.0T is around 13.9
The most common V6 trim of Camry by far is TRD which has an obvious body kit and red seats. The 2.0T Accords have no visible markings besides a tiny "2.0T" badge on the trunk.
bornecrosseyed@reddit
Torque steer is a minor consideration for stock sleepers on the street. And on badging the Camry is more effective, i4 and v6 xse Camrys look literally identical. There’s absolutely nothing to distinguish them. No badge, no change in exhaust tips.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Yeah you're right there. The TRD V6 with body kit is way more common though
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
I found out why Accord 2.0T doesn't have torque steer (which is extremely rare for a FWD car). It uses an advanced suspension design with zero scrub radius borrowed from Civic Type R.
https://www.civicx.com/forum/threads/why-doesn%E2%80%99t-the-civic-type-r-have-torque-steer-engineering-explained.17174/
Proof that the Accord 2.0T has more than just the CTR motor and transmission. It shares a substantial amount of suspension/body design.
metamodern-mess@reddit
Definitely a sleeper but not touching a 2nd gen BRZ on a track.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
I donno about that. It still has a faster 0-60 time. On equal tires power to weight ratio is by far the dominant factor in track times
metamodern-mess@reddit
You’d need to find over 8 seconds with tires but that will cook the brakes(based on the posted article) so they’d need to upgrade those too.
Nichia519@reddit
I was a tech at Honda and was always pleasantly surprised when I got to test drive it, that 10 speed auto makes it a fucking rocket!
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
I'm convinced that if Honda didn't ship it with trash tires the 10AT would do 0-60 faster than Civic Type R. Quick shifting 10 speed beats 6 speed manuals easily.
btone911@reddit
I finally put sticky tires on my ‘18 2.0t and my god, what were they thinking?
jrileyy229@reddit
Faster around a track than all those cars? Source for that?
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a23289554/2018-honda-accord-sport-turbo-manual-lightning-lap-2018/
Lightning lap faster than BRZ. Which itself is faster than the rest of those cars.
Brake fluid was boiling at the end. The thing is way overpowered. Honda rated it 254hp crank and Hondata dynoed it at 262 wheel.
Careless-Trick-5117@reddit
I like the 2.0T, but the fact that it’s faster around a track than an old BRZ, while yes impressive, does not mean it will be faster than a WRX, GTI, EN, etc. Mainly because this is the OLD BRZ which is literally known for being slow as shit. You also say that the BRZ is faster than all those other cars, but that’s just not true in 2022 LL the Golf GTI lapped over 6 seconds faster, same for a newer GR/BRZ, and WRX. I agree that they’re definitely surprisingly quick, my friend had one and it rips. But you are totally overselling it, even an equivalent year Civic Si with roughly 80 less crank HP was a few seconds quicker at LL.
I think the main sleeper factor from these comes when you mod them, since yeah they do basically use a CTR engine with a smaller turbo.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
You need to look at the tires these cars were tested on.
Like the new Civic Si had Goodyear Eagle F1 . The Accord 2.0T was tested with much worse Eagle Touring.
The 2022 Golf GTI was tested on Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 which is a barely streetable Ultra High Performance tire.
Tires make a huge difference in track times. And anything sold as a "sports car" came with and was tested on much better tires than Accord 2.0T
KMFDM781@reddit
Yeah, no. Those tires are poopy for any real performance. I swapped mine out for a set of Potenza RE71RS' because my '23 GTI with just a tune would easily overwhelm them at anything under 60mph at anything but exactly straight steering angle. They were vague in corners and washed out into mushy understeer easily. Not a terrible tire for longer lasting 3 season performance with stock power.
MeIsMyName@reddit
RE71Rs are probably pushing the limits of streetable in the sense that you'll want to be very careful in the rain. A middle ground would be more along the lines of Pilot Sport 4S or ExtremeContact Sport, but both of those options are incredibly common tires for street cars, including as sold by car manufacturers. Barely streetable is definitely not an accurate representation of the Hankook tires mentioned above, they're just normal summer tires.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Any summer tire is barely streetable outside of California. Yeah you're supposed to swap out with winter tyres, but maybe 5% of people actually do.
MeIsMyName@reddit
I live in Washington State and most summer tires are actually better in the rain than all seasons since the tread pattern does not have to consider snow traction and can be purely focused on wet and dry traction. I swap between summer tires and all seasons on my daily, and the fun cars wear summer tires year round. I wouldn't consider driving on summer tires if there's a chance of ice or snow on the road or well below freezing, but otherwise it's perfectly fine.
Careless-Trick-5117@reddit
Of course, but you’re referring to lap times from testers like C&D who will typically use cars as they come from the manufacturer, and even used that as your source. Still pretty debatable if it would be faster than any of these low end enthusiast cars since the gap is pretty large and it doesn’t have some of the performance bits and bobs the others have, just seems like a big conclusion to jump to. Any sources that show it outpacing similar cars when both on summer tyres?
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
The giveaway that a car is handicapped by tires is usually quarter mile time.
The new Golf GTI did it in 13.6 and the best time I can find for a stock Accord 2.0T is 13.8 .
The GTI got a 0.3 second faster 0-60.
That means the GTI accelerated faster off the line but slower down the rest of the track. Which points pretty conclusively at worse tires being the main reason for performance difference.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Just look at the power to weight ratio. Using actual dyno figures not the bs manufacturer ratings.
It's basically identical to new Golf GTI. Slight more HP and 50lb heavier.
You can easily gain 6 seconds on a 3 minute lap with better tires.
ChingyBingyBongyBong@reddit
I mean, that’s VIR… it has 1.3 miles of straight aways. BRZ being a second behind it is actually closer than I would expect. It favors horsepower over anything else. Kind of why I dislike the Nurburgring, it is basically “how fast is your top speed and how does your car handle at 130+”
Ridiculous time to put down in a “sleeper” sedan regardless. Thing is quick as hell.
There’s so many tracks and so many different strengths where cars are worse or better, and any car with more power is going to be favored at VIR with the gigantic straights. Miata’s and s2ks have the fastest time at autocross by a lot, but would get smoked at VIR by a mustang.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
I agree. I just wanted to point out that it's fast around a track too.
Because the first thing people say when I mention 0-60 and quarter mile is "well it's still a grandma car so slow on the track".
It appears to have been tested on trash stock economy tyres too. If it had Ultra High Performance summer tires on it like most sports cars come with the numbers would have been even more shocking.
The reality is that all cars for 20+ years have computer designed suspension. Unless you've got some trash like torsion beam rears the majority of difference in track time is from tires.
jrileyy229@reddit
Well, that is interesting... Although it does introduce a minor discrepancy... They didn't specifically say they used OEM tires and pads when they replaced them... But the underlying point is valid, as long as they didn't put on track tires and pads, for a few laps it can punch above its weight class.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
From the article:
They tested on stock crappy all seasons.
One of the ways manufacturers game performance numbers is shipping their sports models on Ultra High Performance tires. Reviewers always test on stock ones.
For instance, the BRZ Sport trim comes with Michelin Pilot Sport 4. An Ultra High Performance Summer tyre.
So the Accord 2.0T is much faster than insinuated by 0-60 and track times. On equal tires it would destroy the BRZ and probably a dozen more sports cars.
jrileyy229@reddit
I understand that.. did you read the article? They noted they switched to dot4 fluid and changed the pads and tires before they did that BRZ beating lap. However they didn't mention what they put on it. Wouldn't be the first time a magazine purposely worded a sentence in a certain way to skip over a detail. Especially when they usually make these things so absurdly long winded... It strikes me as odd they didn't call out "new OEM pads and tires"... Instead basically just said they cooked that stuff and put new pads and tires on.... Kind of an important detail
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Ahhh I didn't notice they also changed the tires!
jrileyy229@reddit
Did Honda send them extra OEM all seasons? I have no idea obviously. Very well could have gone either way.
If they published the full set of lap times it would be pretty easy to tell. In reality, doesn't matter. Definitely a sleeper... I had never heard of Honda putting under-rated motors in base model accords
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Look, you were right.
But the 2.0T Accord is also very sandbagged. Hondata measured more at the wheels than crank rating.
Is it a actually faster than BRZ on the track? Maybe not. But it's very close at the least which is still scandalous
Apprehensive_Bit_176@reddit
No one who drives a Miata claims it’s faster than anything. The experience of driving a Miata is the joy of the drive itself, especially in corners, not straight line speed.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
The buzzing of the tiny shitbox mill and crunchy interior is intoxicating
Top-Dimensi0n@reddit
Whoa, now I'm skeptical faster than those cars at a track? Maybe to 60 but an actual road course? If so, I'm surprised I haven't seen anyone recommend them for track use.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
The brake fluid boiled after a few laps. Car wasn't designed for it but smoked entry level sports cars anyways.
https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a23289554/2018-honda-accord-sport-turbo-manual-lightning-lap-2018/
Top-Dimensi0n@reddit
Agreed on the sleeper part. I had no idea they put down those numbers stock.
I can imagine a set of decent wheels/tires with upgraded fluid and pads would wake up the car in the handling department.
For fun I did a 500 mile radius search and only found a handful with the 2.0. This car is essentially a unicorn.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Agree. The rarity makes it even more of a sleeper. Less than 15% of Accords were ordered with the 2.0T motor. And it was only available for 5 years. Supposedly less than 1000 of the manual transmission version with Civic Type R trans were sold a year, and it only existed 2018-2020.
The Touring trim comes with adaptive suspension and paddle shifters too. Firms up in sport mode. Those were less than 5% of Accords sold AFAIK.
AbsolutZeroGI@reddit
Love my 2.0T Accord. 2019 EX-L (I wanted the thicker tire sidewall on the 17s over the 19s). Easily the fastest vehicle I've ever owned and I didn't even know what I was getting when I bought it.
DarknessGamers@reddit
I picked up a used 2.0t in June 100% sleeper it still surprises me, raced my brothers GTI and smoked him!
People push them pretty hard 400+ whp
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Put some Michelin Pilot Sport 4 AS tires on it.
On stock tires it's traction limited till 40 mph. Even on good ones it will spin if you launch in first gear. Always go into manual paddle shifter mode and launch in 2nd.
Tricksaturn@reddit
i have this car and it is a beast lol. its a 2018 but it still feels A THOUSAND times faster than my new 2025 civic hybrid sport in sport mode. the acceleration puts a smile on my face every time.
Absentmindedgenius@reddit
That's probably the one Top Gear used to bring up about "A Honda sedan beating old Ferraris"
Grandemestizo@reddit
It’s a shame they don’t make that anymore. All I see on their website is the 1.5T and the hybrid.
kick6@reddit
You have to build something that never had a performance model. Like a Buick roadmaster. Everything else car but will suspect.
NuAccountHuDis@reddit
95 1/2 base model (2rz) stick-shift Tacoma. The engine low-key ripped, crisp handling, and it didn’t weigh anything. It won’t win every drag race, but it will surprise you.
Report_Last@reddit
The Holden Pontiac GTO.
KyOatey@reddit
The Ford Taurus SHO is what comes to mind for me. I don't have any idea if they're still making it or not.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Every car guy knows what a Taurus SHO is. They've been making them since the 1980's.
KyOatey@reddit
I feel like car guys will know most of the stock sleepers. If you really want a true sleeper, then you need take some unassuming model and add performance mods.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Or take the badge off an Accord 2.0T.
There's true sleepers out there. And car guys hate them because they put their entry level sports cars to shame.
_MadSuburbanDad_@reddit
LOLOLOL.....no.
This is a monumental quantity of pharmaceutical-grade cope.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
I've seen a stock 2.0T do 13.7 quarter mile on sticky tires.
That's faster than Ecoboost Mustang, V6 Camaro, GR68, BRZ, Miata, WRX, GTI, etc...
_MadSuburbanDad_@reddit
I'm going to have to take your word for that
dudebronahbrah@reddit
Dude yes a few years back I traded my daily, ‘16 ATS-V for a ‘18 2.0t with the 6MT. Definitely doesn’t feel like a downgrade and I absolutely love blending in with regular traffic (not the case with a blacked out Caddy lol).
1st owner debadged and it’s so much fun watching G37s try to keep up off the line
CBus660R@reddit
I test drove 1 not knowing much about it. That 1st punch coming off a stop sign was a WTF moment lol
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
If you turn traction control off it will spin wheels at 40mph lol
SirSpanksAlot1992@reddit
And what does Honda do. Get rid of it.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
I sold my Accord 2.0T a while back but it was a mom-mobile that reached 165mph when you unplugged the speed sensor.
Dreamsof899@reddit
Brother holy shit yes. My brother bought one new, bought the tune cranking up the boost a little. It's astonishing how hard that car pulls. Coupled with the 6 speed manual that car feels fantastic to hustle up the gears.
Fred-Mertz2728@reddit
I knew a machinist who stuffed a 312” Ford into a Corvair. Machined the adapter for the transaxle at work. Fabricated the exhaust to where at idle you couldn’t tell. Scary fast.
118545@reddit
My dream is a Ford 289 in a Volvo 122 station wagon.
Fred-Mertz2728@reddit
That sounds like fun.
northman46@reddit
Had a buddy that put a 427 Ford in like a 60s falcon. Not stealth though. The traction bars and big slicks were a tell.
pessimistoptimist@reddit
Back in the days of the Chevy Vega, guys would cram.a 350 under the hood...had to mount the radiator on the other side of the front frame and use electric fans. Just scary to drive.
Fred-Mertz2728@reddit
I lived in Vancouver,WA in the early eighties,and there were many of those around there. I always thought they should have come that way from the factory.
Buildinggam@reddit
There's a guy by me who built a tube frame and put a LS2 in a Porsche 914. He takes it to cars n coffee every month.
equityorasset@reddit
a lot of car guys dont know about the MKZ 3.0. Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT 3.5, and MKS 3.5
Upstairs-Fan-2168@reddit
I have one. It's a sleeper. Looks like a grampa car, but packs 400 horsepower.
RockSteady65@reddit
That is a beautiful car. I want one
Upstairs-Fan-2168@reddit
I've noticed that when I drive it, I drive unusually slow haha. I also have a Mazdaspeed3, which isn't as fast, but that car seems to want to be driven hard. The Lincoln is faster, but I get in and it's smooth, the cabin is bright, the seats comfy. I just get lazy.
RockSteady65@reddit
That’s called enjoying the ride.
InotMeowMeow@reddit
I’ve wanted an MKZ 3.0 forever. Love how they look and 400hp is nothing to sneeze at. Ford Flex Ecoboost is the same. I absolutely love them.
equityorasset@reddit
just got one last week, i love it so much, best car i ever owned
FingerPuzzleheaded81@reddit
Ford flex with a tune is fun. I have one. Will do 0-60 in just a hair under 5 seconds. Could shave a tiny bit more off with a different sensors and a new tune.
BadDudes_on_nes@reddit
It’s too bad it looks so ugly.
JoeySe7en791@reddit
A black one kind of has a box hearse vide.
FingerPuzzleheaded81@reddit
The base ones do. The top trims with blackout can look pretty nice though.
brandon_7ohmit@reddit
This is the correct answer, no one knows what the fuck just happened when they get their doors blown off by a Ford flex. The mkts are the same deal, who would think that retired airport taxi has 550 hp
GundamArashi@reddit
The twin turbo Flex surprises a lot of people
SaltLakeBear@reddit
A big part of the reason I got my Flex.
vaswamp@reddit
Love the MKT. Flappy paddle gearbox is zesty.
Substantial-Elk-7533@reddit
Currently doing that to my Malibu 😂
Anal_Sandblaster@reddit
Big turbo PT cruiser has always been a dream of mine. Such a dumb idea but it sounds fun
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
I'm old. The PT Cruiser GT had a Neon SRT-4 motor in it. Insane
Hot_Willow_5179@reddit
We have an 05 SSR with a 6.0 in it. She's relatively quick.
Anal_Sandblaster@reddit
Yep I’m fully aware of the stock powerhouse lol. That’s why it’d be fun to mess with. The srt4 can go pretty hard. Probably easy to hit 500 with that platform and that’s all a person needs to make people scratch their heads. The difficult part is finding a wood panel PT cruiser that’s not rusted to hell.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Yeah lol they all rusted to hell.
Dodge sports cars were something else before they became Stellantis garbage.
The Neon SRT-4 was a 2.4 liter DOHC turbo. Nobody puts a motor like that in FWD econobox platform anymore. It easily bests even my fan favorite Accord 2.0T. bolt on a bigger turbo and some decapped injectors and you would have 400whp in no time.
mbzp@reddit
The GT had stupid bad torque steer, can only imagine it with more power
AcanthisittaFine7697@reddit
They made it . It's called the PT cruiser GT . It has a 2.4 litre turbo motor. That same engine they later made the neon SR/T-4 with . And that srt-4 was bananas fast even from factory. Manual gearbox blow off valve
Anal_Sandblaster@reddit
I know they made a quick one. That’s why I specified building a big turbo PT. Build the engine and slap a bigger turbo on the bitch.
KhalCharizard@reddit
Like Letterman’s Volvo.
Broncuhsaurus@reddit
Precisely. Even unassuming cars that actually get in feasibly fast for what they are are well know. Like the Honda Accords with the 2.0 K series. Slap a turbo on it and boom, instant hurt feelings. But everyone knows those can be fast.
Dislocated-Elbow@reddit
True, a V6 Camry with a supercharger from like a Lotus Evora (that has the same motor) would be an incredible sleeper
neonxmoose99@reddit
3.5 eco ford flex
youeatlikethis@reddit
You twin turbo
35gli@reddit
Thing is fast almost bought one but they rusted so bad so fast.
infinitecosmic_power@reddit
Right. The fusion with the tt v6 would be a sleeper.
Andyman1973@reddit
Till you spot the quad tips out the back, lol
TransportationAny757@reddit
There were a couple years of those Taurus', that had a motor made by yamaha. Little known fact! Those bad boys could scream. I used to race a guy about 3 nights a week on the way home from closing my restaurant/bar. 2:30 am 3 exits on the PA turnpike (about 45 miles) I had a tricked out VW GTI. Lots of fun
Andyman1973@reddit
Those Yamaha built V6s were detuned from 250+hp, and redline dropped from 9k, to 7200rpm, because the Ford accessories couldn’t handle Yamaha’s higher redline. Which was just a shame.
Vedfolnir5@reddit
They are made from 89-99 and then 2010-2019
Watpotfaa@reddit
Honestly do younger car guys know what the SHO was? I dont think Ive seen one with the Yamaha motor in many years.
Gone-Z0@reddit
The original Yamaha motor was only until 95. The third gen’s had a 4v V8 and the 2010+ had the EB 3.5 V6 and AWD.
Andyman1973@reddit
That V8 also benefitted from Yamaha’s touch. Same for the 4.4l V8 Volvo used from 2005-2010, while owned by Ford. That 4.4l V8 was rated at 311hp/325lb-ft.
Human_Name9961@reddit
Yea I talked with a ford engineer. Said it was a detuned motorcycle engine.
Vedfolnir5@reddit
I would imagine a good number do? They weren't really that obscure
DishRelative5853@reddit
Is there a 2024 model?
DarthTexasRN@reddit
Not for a loooong time now. The Mustang is literally the only car that Ford still makes. At least in the US.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
True if you're not fossilizing.
I've been around car forums probably longer than you've been alive. God damnit I'm old
DarthTexasRN@reddit
Well….you might be, but I am not young lol.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Get me my cane
yugami@reddit
I mean except when they didn't make the Taurus
not1or2@reddit
No idea what a “Taurus” is..? Never sold here
K_Linkmaster@reddit
Where they still selling it? Australia? They always get the good cars. Here in America the only car Ford sells is the mustang.
john_jacob_01@reddit
Car guys know what every factory sleeper is.
Stunning_Donkey_ou81@reddit
I had two of them, a 93 automatic and a 94 manual back in the day. They were a riot to drive. That redline!!
charge556@reddit
Car guys know. The average person will just be like "ehh its a Taurus).
Human_Name9961@reddit
I talked with a ford engineer when that vehicle was being built that’s engine is a “de tuned” motorcycle engine. Scary
Hersbird@reddit
Better is the police interceptor version on the modern one. Same awd 3.5 ecoboost that is an easy tune away from 12s in a plain Taurus wrapper. The police version comes in normal versions and turbo versions so not all are quick. Same thing instead of a newer Chevy SS or GTO there was a police Caprice version on the same platform from Australia with the same 6.0 LS.
VictimOfRegions@reddit
Came here to say any PPV car, i dont think anyone realizes those caprices had a 6.0l motor
Hersbird@reddit
Some did have the 3.6 v6 so you have to check. It does seem like most departments checked the box to get the V8. It was the quickest police car ever tested for a while in the big annual Michigan testing. I think the Ecoboost Ford sedan might have beaten it by a little more recently. The awd helps the Ford get a jump. They both are quicker than any 5.7 Charger ever tested. One surprise in the top speed testing was the Impala after they went to the 300hp 3.6. That thing has better aerodynamics than any of the Charger, Caprice, or Interceptor and went 151 mph. The Carpice was something like 153 and the others right at 150 or 151 as well.
MeIsMyName@reddit
Isn't that the same 3.5 EcoBoost as in the SHO?
Hersbird@reddit
Yes, really the same car as an SHO just without a bunch of extras like leather and bigger aluminum wheels.
whygodples@reddit
I've got a Caprice and it gets way to many people asking me what it is for it to be a sleeper.
It's also got long tubes and a cam so maybe I'm not the best case scenario example
Hersbird@reddit
I saw some 6.0 versions with around 100,000 miles pass through the police auctions and go under $5000 because I don't think people know about them. They did have a 3.6 v6 version like the more common Impala too. I ended up just buying Impalas for $3000. Up north the fwd is much preferable to rwd and 300hp in the smaller Impala is pretty peppy too.
Substantial-Elk-7533@reddit
They’re not making them anymore. Just blew a head gasket too
Unexpected_Cheddar-@reddit
My dad bought one in 1990. I was in high school at the time and can confirm nobody knew what that car was at the time. It’s main flaw was getting all that power to the pavement with only front wheel drive though
TunakTun633@reddit
If only there was an easy way to find out... (It's been discontinued for 7 years.)
KyOatey@reddit
Thanks. That's more recent than I expected. I was just too lazy to look it up.
TunakTun633@reddit
Can I ask: How does that happen? It takes less time to type that question into Google than it does replying on Reddit.
BigBallininBasterd@reddit
Because Reddit for a lot of people is more like a conversation than a search for information. I get it.
TunakTun633@reddit
Like, it's lower pressure?
i_like_fat_doodoo@reddit
Because it literally sparked conversation. You wouldn’t have replied otherwise
HanlonsKnight@reddit
last year for all taurus was 2019
Opeth4Lyfe@reddit
Dad used to have a 99 Taurus SHO. Was a fun car to drive around. Definitely surprised me with how quick it was and it sounded pretty good.
LincolnContinnental@reddit
I’ll see your SHO and raise you a FLEX
PreferenceContent987@reddit
It’s got like 365 hp, it’s got balls, but it’s pretty slow. It runs a 14 and a half second quarter mile
LameBMX@reddit
raced a c4 'vette with a 1st or second Gen (newest with stick shift still) to 160 and held for a while. neck and neck.
its got balls and they aint dragging on the atreet.
The_Real_NaCl@reddit
They run 13.4 to 13.7 stock. Not sure what you’re looking at, but a quick google search gave me several results of those same times.
oldmanlikesguitars@reddit
Ford eliminated all cars in the US except the Mustang. No Taurus, Focus, Fiesta and certainly no cool versions of any of em. Mustang is cool but the back seat is a lie.
born_zynner@reddit
I have a 2012 MKS Ecoboost and it's even more of a sleeper lol same motor and everything but there's absolutely no styling on the outside that would indicate it's anything but your wealthy Grandma's grocery getter
No_Character_5315@reddit
Buick t type looks like your granpas car but has the motor of a gran national.
BluebirdDull2609@reddit
Not to mention the comfiest seats ever made haha
No_Character_5315@reddit
Like sitting on a 80s well worn couch
TheyVanishRidesAgain@reddit
No car guy is going to see a G-body, running nearly 40 years after manufacture, and assume it's slow.
No_Character_5315@reddit
I dunno people put on hydraulics and stuff on g bodies beside most young people wouldn't know what it was a gran national looks mean and fast.
VanillaRob@reddit
My mom had an 87 Buick Century T-Type in 1994-ish. Thing was an absolute ripper for the time
series-hybrid@reddit
Niiice!
https://www.carscoops.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/1987-buick-regal-limited-turbo-ttype-bat-52.jpg
Hersbird@reddit
Looks just like a grand national but isn't black. Plus past 87 it was at best 175hp and FWD. I do think the 88up t-type did look cool.
zinsser@reddit
I had the sleeper Mercury sable version - fast as a SHO; invisible on the road.
TotosWolf@reddit
You from the 90s bro
liquidsparanoia@reddit
Not only are Ford not making the SHO, they're not making any Taurus, or indeed any cars at all other than the Mustang.
f700es@reddit
Ford Fusion ST
GrandmaForPresident@reddit
They put that motor in waverunners and they are terrifying
Easy_Kill@reddit
That sounds effin amazing.
GrandmaForPresident@reddit
Svho, 255 hp 1.8 liter supercharged, cruise control, brakes, seats 3. Its a beast
KeeganY_SR-UVB76@reddit
Bro, they aren’t even maning the Taurus anymore.
Careless-Trick-5117@reddit
Nope. Very commonly known sleeper.
A much better answer is the Ford Flex, which is an SUV-wagon thing which could be optioned with the same 3.5 V6 as the SHO, and has basically equivalent performance in terms of acceleration.
sveiks01@reddit
First car that I thought of
cheeseypoofs85@reddit
Came to say exactly this
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
I'm going to get laughed out of the room, but I'm going to say it anyway:
For a true budget sleeper:
2009 Saturn Aura, Chevy Malibu or Pontiac G6 with the 3.6L V6 and the six-speed transmission.
These are generally regarded as dogshit vehicles due to the reliability of the V6 (timing chain stretches if oil changes are frequent) and the inevitable failure of the 3-5-R waveplate in the transmission, but they are cheap as chips and if you can find one that has had regular oil changes and had the transmission fix (either 2010+ or warranty fix) then you have a sub-6 second, 252hp sedan for $1,000 - $2,000.
succ_ubus@reddit
You could've picked literally any v6 midsize from the time and it's likely faster and w/o a ticking time bomb of a drivetrain; Nissan Altima, Camry, accord, fusion sport from 1 year later, Mazda6 you name it. And as a bonus they don't have the tacky bodywork the g6 ft had(kinda nullifying the sleeper aspect)
SniperAssassin123@reddit
Man my mother got a 2017 Acadia on lease, back before I really knew anything about the 3.6. I took it for a spin and floored it. I said "holy shit" out loud. That thing was WAY quicker than I expected.
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
Out yeah, I totally forgot the GMC Acadia, Saturn Vue and Saturn Outlook.
The Acadia and the Outlook XR had the most powerful version of the 3.6 tuned to 288hp. Soccer Mom sleeper!
Andyman1973@reddit
First Gen Saturn Vue Redline came with a Honda 3.5l V6, rated at 250hp. The refresh came with the GM 3.6l V6.
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
Awesome trivia, I didn’t realize that. Thank you!
Andyman1973@reddit
One of my coworkers bought the first one offered at a local dealer, and was super proud of that Honda power.
TormentDubz_EDM@reddit
The newest 3.6 has 300-310 hp, seen in the Lacrosse and Regal GS
SniperAssassin123@reddit
Back in the day the 3.8 equipped mini vans were quick off the line too.
I never got the chance to drive a supercharged 3.8, but those were true sleepers for sure. Especially in a Buick.
ChoochieReturns@reddit
05ish Saturn Vue with the V6 was a surprisingly peppy little car. Even with the AWD package. I think it had a Honda drivetrain maybe?
Andyman1973@reddit
Yep, 250hp Honda 3.5l V6.
hellobluepuppy@reddit
Had the g6 from age 16-22 and it was a tough bitch, I put it through a lot, my dad still talks about what a great car it was. Also surprisingly well equipped, sunroof, heated cloth seats, remote start. Finally gave it up when it began to look a little ghetto.
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
My Aura XR is totally out of place in most of the places I park and I’m probably going to start getting pulled over soon in my own town because it’s very out of place with the average vehicle here (Audis, BMWs, Volvos).
Facetiousgeneral42@reddit
My mom had an '07 Aura XR when I was in middle/high school, and teenage me thought that thing was a beast. Dark grey paint with a black leather interior and quicker than it had any right to be. Between mom, myself and my younger sister, it had about 210,000 miles on the clock at the time that I sold it in 2016; it was still running perfectly. The timing chains were replaced under the recall and the trans had been fixed at some point later in its life. I felt more melancholy that I'd have expected when I came across it in a local junkyard a few months ago. Would highly recommend.
gmlubetech@reddit
Another similar GM sleeper from this era is the 2012-2013 Impalas with the 3.6. These got the LFX direct injected 3.6 that makes 300hp and they all had the updated timing chains and the updated 3-5-R waveplate from factory.
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
I need to look this up. I’ve totally overlooked the Impala. 300hp is awesome.
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
Love this. For a budget car they were surprisingly well equipped in the XR trims.
The engine feels weird at first. They’re lacking up to about 2,000 rpm and then they rip and keep on ripping.
I’ve rescued an XR (had to repair the transmission) and I just picked up an immaculate Chevy Malibu LTZ with the same transmission issue, which I’m going to repair. Not bad for $500 and a but if time.
Final-Possession-814@reddit
You want to watch someone else really get laughed out of the room? Chrysler 200S with the 3.6L V6 Pentastar. Maintain that shit and you'll be flying faster than you think.
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
Hah I love that. Remember, I’m the guy buying $500 Malibu’s so I’m not in a position to judge anyone. I also love the idea of keeping old vehicles going.
A 3.6 in the 200S must absolutely fly. What sort of 0-60s are we talking?
Final-Possession-814@reddit
Haven't really timed it off the line, I just know ive caught myself hitting 85 on the highway without realizing it. Just had the trans lines done, it runs like it just came off the assembly line in 2011.
DetectiveNarrow@reddit
I’ve always liked those G6s. They move with a V6
DarkRyuujin@reddit
You like a G6?
Like a G6?
Like a G6?
Mean_Median_0201@reddit
Now I'm feelin' so fly like a G6
GolfandSales@reddit
My girlfriend always thought that song was about a Pontiac. She was floored when I brought her up to speed and she learned it was about a Gulfstream.
Wanksters_Paradise@reddit
🍾 🧊 ❄️
ZombieMode@reddit
like a blizzard
ingodwetryst@reddit
why would people laugh at these?
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
If you google or Youtube the GM 3.6 the results aren’t flattering because of the timing chain stretch and the transmission issue.
They were also commuter cars and both pontiac and saturn are dead brands so you don’t see or hear much about them. They are true ‘budget sleepers’ in the sense that they are faster than they deserve to be but no one is queuing up to buy them and a lot of folks are want a sleeper that is more recent. For those that do, there are some other great suggestions here including the Ford Flex with the ecoboost and some of the Volvos.
Zonotical@reddit
do they have the alloytech engines? same as v6 commodores in Australia just the first gm v6 with timing chain issues i can think of lol
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
Yep mate - a version of these was available in VE Commodore and had the same timing chain issues unfortunately.
Zonotical@reddit
just a worse vq lol
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
lol i was a ford guy growing up so I’m biased, but I feel like the Commodores always did better with the V8s and were never suited to the V6s Ford’s V6s were stout and the XR6 Turbos are legendary
ThePooksters@reddit
Changing a timing chain isn’t so bad? Or are you saying if it’s loose enough to warrant changing then there’s inevitably internal damage to the engine?
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
I’ve never done a timing chain so it’s still daunting to me, but from what I’ve seen/heard it’s a pain, particularly as it’s a transverse mounted engine and access is tight.
If I remember correctly GM’s warranty hours for a GM technician were 12 hours, which means its going to take the average Joe a lot longer.
TormentDubz_EDM@reddit
I miss my G6 GXP
jvd0928@reddit
Is that the Honda V6? Great engine.
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
No, it’s the GM High Feature 3.6L V6. There were a number of variants. This one, the LY7 made up to 275hp and some of the later variants made over 300hp.
It has a bad reputation because GM recommended oil changes every 10,000 miles and if you did that, there were oil clogging issues which could lead to a stretched timing chain and a 12 hour repair or potentially a grenaded engine. Generally speaking, if you did you oil changes at more sensible intervals (3,000 - 5,000 miles) using synthetic, you wouldn’t have the issue. It made good power for an N/A V6 of its time.
The Honda V6 is in a league of its own though!
Wittness21021@reddit
I had the g6 gxp. I loved that car and yes. Very fast.
elementarydeardata@reddit
This is a weird one, but Kia EV6 GT. Car guys don't know it's fast because a lot of them are either very dismissive of EV's or don't know much about them. It has like 640 hp and takes off like a bat outta hell. Also, it's a Kia, and it looks pretty similar to a normal EV6.
This probably isn't the answer your're looking for, but this is the kind of car that is very high performance but car people have a blind spot for, which is basically what a sleeper is.
ThePurplePenetator@reddit
I wouldn’t call an EV a sleeper. People know exactly what an is capable of in terms of acceleration
M_V_Agrippa@reddit
I'm not convinced most people, and especially most car guys do understand how much faster EVs are.
ThePurplePenetator@reddit
Genuinely feel like that’s such an odd thing to say. At least for here in the UK, that’s absolutely not the impression I get at all
insidious_thinker@reddit
The huge brakes on these are what tipped me off, looked them up after noticing that. Oh, 640hp. I guess it does need those.
i_hate_budget_tyres@reddit
Could say this about a lot of EV’s because they aren’t on car guys’ radars.
BYD Sealion dual motor does 0-62mph in 4.5s for instance.
slow12s@reddit
This is what i was going to say. I have an EV6 GT. 0-60 in 3.1 and 1/4 mile in 11.3. The first motorcycle I raced was shocked. Almost nobody knows what it is and it’s faster than 99% of the cars on the road.
__slamallama__@reddit
Man I still remember the first mid-11 car I rode in like 15 years ago. It felt like a racecar. Now a stock electric Kia would have it by a few tenths
Gunk_Olgidar@reddit
That's quick!
Crayondetailnstuff@reddit
The Buick regal gs from 2012, not sure how other years are but my 2012 was comically quick for what it is. Note: not fast it’ll get up to 162 allegedly but still not a fast car just got off the line good for a fwd and was fun to drive hard enough to rotate.
milolai@reddit
any volvo with the T8 powertrain. 455h and 533 lbs of torque.
Peanutbuttersnadwich@reddit
Yea the t8s are nutty. Even the old s60Rs and atuff just look like any ol regular s60 or v70 and those are 300hp and awd. They boogie. Puts your civics to shame thats for sure.
insidious_thinker@reddit
It's too bad volvo could bever figure out an AWD system that wasn't made of glass. They all eat angle gears at stock power levels.
Crayondetailnstuff@reddit
🤔🧐 that’s strange I thought my mazdaspeed6 shared some parts with the Volvo awd cars of that era and those are fairly bulletproof.
mechapoitier@reddit
The most fun car to launch in the rain I’ve ever had was my lightly modified V70R manual. Slip the clutch just right while feeding throttle in and the boost would hit and that thing just f’ing ripped. It was mental.
Vimto1@reddit
I'm so old I remember when Volvo cleaned up in British Touring Cars with the 850 t5r estate (station wagon), rare as hens teeth nowadays. According to official figures there are only 83 left of which, only 21 are on the road.
Call me weird but I love a Volvo 🤣
Andyman1973@reddit
Check out “Volvette” on YT. There’s 2 good videos. One shows the Volvette running with a Corvette. But the better video is of the Volvo wagon walking off a Yamaha R1(cam vehicle), at over 180mph plus.
While it’s been a long time, I did see this Volvo wagon a few times, as I commuted the same stretch of highway in the video, daily.
35gli@reddit
Buddy had a viggen, thing ripped. Felt very mechanical
MaccoSauce@reddit
Top speed is also not bad at Mach 2.1
thehuskymermaid@reddit
Surprised I had to go this far for Volvo to show up. Absolutely amazing experience and everyone just thinks the safe reputation makes them boring.
Tjallaballa@reddit
I mean in my opinion the SPA cars are indeed boring af. Even the high power variants.
milolai@reddit
the T8 is monster fast. people dont realize it. 0-60 in the low 4's for a mom suv.
Future_Ice3335@reddit
Love my xc90 T8 polestar
Due_Guitar8964@reddit
XC60 T6 AWD with polestar tuning. I raced an SRT-10 and we came alongside at a light. The guy sitting shotgun leaned out of the window to tell me they couldn't believe Volvos were that fast. Took me off when the light turned but it's hard to compete with a V10.
Rickenbacker69@reddit
I just bought a Volvo like that, and yeah, it's a little more than I really need. I'm very happy with it. :D
Old_man_Opie@reddit
A man I used to do odd jobs for had an old Volvo station wagon with a Saleen v8 transplanted into it. That car opened my eyes to all sorts of things. I currently drive a XC90 T8 and it's a great family battlewagon.
the_atomicpunk@reddit
This is the correct answer! Why I bought my Volvo.
ralphiooo0@reddit
Went on a trip to Munich and rented a car. Gave us a Volvo and thought oh yawn.
Was one of those 450hp ones. Was fun on the Autobarn.
Bit of a bitch to park once we got to Italy though as it had such a long nose.
AhamYodha@reddit
Lmao. A forester XT ?
milolai@reddit
The question wasn't 'What car is as good as an F1 car'.
It was what car surprises people with it's speed. The Forester XT was very quick for its time. They even had an ad campaign where they bragged it was quicker than the 350z.
https://www.reddit.com/r/subaru/comments/evnl8i/this_is_a_real_ad/
scantd@reddit
What specific year and model for the t8?
milolai@reddit
before 2022 they were 400 hp
after 2022 they are 455 hp and 533 lbs of torque
scantd@reddit
Thanks👍
No_Introduction_9355@reddit
Paul Neuman had a pretty neat Volvo sleeper - swapped engines from a Grand National - https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a43301223/paul-newman-volvo-wagon-bring-a-trailer-auction/
shrunkenhead041@reddit
I have a XC60 T8 with about 400 HP and it is a rush. Electric off the line, then you distinctly feel the supercharger, then the TC kick in. The Polestar version is another 50+ hp, reportedly about 4.2 sec 0-60. You don't expect it from a Volvo, at all.
milolai@reddit
the 2022.5+ is 455hp now
BondGoldBond007@reddit
The Forrest XT is way slower than I expected. My 274hp turbo Optima felt way faster.
Tragic_fall@reddit
I have a gray 2016 Volvo wagon that came from the factory with 325hp and 354tq. You would absolutely never know looking at it, and even my car guy friends are surprised by it.
BobbSaccamano@reddit
Came here to say the S60 T8, it’s blazingly fast as well as being unbelievably comfortable. When I first got it I’d catch myself on the highway going 100 thinking I was doing 70 because it rides so smooth.
Careless-Trick-5117@reddit
Volvos are so quick, nearly M3 power in a car no one would ever suspect. And some of them are twin charged, just so cool
Elwoodpdowd87@reddit
Forester XTs could fucken scoot, especially if you gave them a little love
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
Great suggestions
RantingRanter0@reddit
BMW M140i
Short wheelbase hathback that kinda looks boring but can launch 0-60 in 4,3 secs
disgruntledarmadillo@reddit
They look quite different from a regular one series though
RantingRanter0@reddit
Except for the dual exhaust, there isnt a big difference looks-wise from a normal f20 with just the m-sport package
disgruntledarmadillo@reddit
Just had to Google to double check, and you're right. I'm just so used to seeing them full Birmingham spec
w1ldSeraph@reddit
As a fellow Midlands resident, I understand that completely - metallic or matte wrap and a pop bang tune.
Free-Constant999@reddit
09-12 Hyundai Genesis sedan V6 had nearly 300hp and the V8 almost 400hp. I call them the poor man's merc
scdiputs@reddit
Mercedes E55
bigcee42@reddit
The Chrysler 200 with the 300 hp V6.
Looks like a shitty rental car, but that engine it is a quick car.
Amblydoper@reddit
I have this car. I love it. 295hp 3.6L V6.
Elwoodpdowd87@reddit
It's a fast shitty rental car, which is respectable
35gli@reddit
Yea the tiger shark engine is pretty decent
dlmiller936@reddit
Tiger shark was the 4 cyl IIRC. The V6 was a smaller version of the pentastar like in the Jeep Cherokee (not Grand)
FaithlessnessNo5347@reddit
Besides the north american brands. Some JDMs like the Toyota crown comes with a combined drive system with its hybrid battery.
The 3.5L v6 already makes 296hp but add the battery to it the car can make close to 500hp with a ECU flash.
lots of jdm commuter cars make an insane amount of power for no reason at all, and they’re cheap and doesnt scream performance.
WalrusOld512@reddit
An LS engine swapped genesis coupe with stock exterior.
dugas12672@reddit
My 2019 MKZ 3.0 twin turbo awd. Completely stock. 400hp/400tq. All while enjoying heated/ cooled massaging seats and a panoramic roof. lol.
drinkdrinkshoesgone@reddit
A lot of minivans.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
There was a 2.5L turbo 5spd manual Dodge Caravan for a couple years in early 90's.
One of our local rednecks did 12 second quarter miles with the seats out and shag carpet. Wood paneling too. This was the early 90's when Ferraris ran 13's. That guy fucked for sure.
Y'all were probably still in Dad's balls so lemme tell you, ya really missed out on all the stupid 90's turbo shitboxes.
Andyman1973@reddit
Those were the days!! MOPAR turboed a lot of vehicles. Those Mitsubishi sourced turbo engines were definitely something! Early ‘90s Dodge Spirit RT was the top of that experiment!
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
When they didn't care about gas mileage they would put 7.5:1 compression in those turbo cars.
With today's turbos and head designs you could have run 35psi of boost on those things!
Andyman1973@reddit
For sure!! Still trips me out to think about a turbo K car, lol!
Moto302@reddit
What is the only mid-engine, supercharged, AWD car to have been sold in the US?
The Toyota Previa, of course. Not that it was a sleeper with only 160hp.
5050logic@reddit
One showed up on BaT the other day. I almost bought it out of pure curiosity.
v0rfreude@reddit
Best car ever made 🫡
Secure-Advice-6414@reddit
My Odyssey had a 3.5 L vtec v6 its no rocketship but it really moved
gorogergo@reddit
You may enjoy this https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/articles/soccer-moms-revenge/
Secure-Advice-6414@reddit
🙏 beautiful
redruss99@reddit
I still drive a 2004 Honda Odyssey with 278k miles. The engine is still smooth and powerful. I will probably never get rid of it.
esuranme@reddit
I had an MDX with the same J35A5. The AWD was pretty awesome too, lock the center & rear diff with t/c off and it could get rowdy off-road.
HenryLoggins@reddit
Funny you say this… But we had one years ago, and it was always fun to mess with the ricer Civics at the stoplight. Unless one of them had really in-depth engine work, or a huge turbo, they could not beat the Odyssey.
goranlepuz@reddit
Racer Civics, right...? I'm not missing any lingo...?
Ltlfilms@reddit
You are missing lingo
Mobile-Ice-7261@reddit
No no, ricer civics
Delrin@reddit
We use Honda J35's in high dollar rock crawlers. Great engines!
ThumpAndSplash@reddit
And I bet it was comfy as hell too
No-War-8840@reddit
BisMoto modded an odyssey to 700hp
Busterlimes@reddit
LOL
Hold my beer
No-War-8840@reddit
Niiiice....Dax Shepard has a SC mid 90s caprice wagon as a kid hauler
Busterlimes@reddit
I remember HRM coming out with a coverstory on one of the earliest TTLS builds in the early 2000s. Dude put it in a SS Impala. Might have been the first 1000hp LS and dude put it in a grocery getter LOL
No-War-8840@reddit
I'd like to put a built n/a Godzilla in a late 60s early 70s Tbird . 6-700 hp should make em scoot
ZephyrStudios686@reddit
My coworker has a 550 hp flex.
A 550hp flex.
Canadiannewcomer@reddit
What year is this?
sovereignpancakes@reddit
That's a weird flex
GeneralBurg@reddit
I’d upvote this 10 times if I could
drinkdrinkshoesgone@reddit
Nice one, dad.
haus11@reddit
Damm, he must be in the gallons per mile range, I have the ecoboost flex and that thing is thirsty. I have wondered though if I could have someone mess with the computer to tune D more like the NA Flex so maybe I get over 20mpg, but then have S be the 450+ hp tune for when I need to give it some gas.
doingthethrowaways@reddit
I had a 2013. It was lowered but not slammed, a few bolt ons and a nasty tune and was getting 16 in town 18 on the highway. 12ish when really beating on it. Dynoed at 470 something and fuck that thing was fun. We called it "The Soccer Rocket"
I never looked into tune on the fly or anything, but I can ask the guy who did my tune about the feasibility of it.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Lmao. I want one
haus11@reddit
Yeah I figure if drive and sport already change parameters it would just be a matter of adjusting those. I’m probably trading it in soon so I haven’t put any actual effort into finding out.
K_Linkmaster@reddit
4 mpg 5.4 3 valve, 18 lbs of boost. Mileage can be a lot worse than expected. At 8lbs I was getting 8 mpg.
NumberOneBacon@reddit
Turbo fridge lmao
Old_Pipe_2288@reddit
Lmaooooo cackled and was sad I could tell my wife why I cackled but she wouldn’t get it lol
screzzy@reddit
Literally, if it has the second row fridge option.
ZephyrStudios686@reddit
It do.
XCCO@reddit
There are some really fast Ford SUVs that I see at the drag strip where I live. It was pretty fun to watch those big machines hustle down the lane.
BigPimpin91@reddit
Livernois has an unassuming Explorer ST running high-10s with minimal work. Dusting off a 10.9x in the mom mobile. 👀
Gone-Z0@reddit
Livernois has too many horror stories on multiple platforms. Any platform they touch has a better tuner to work with. But yeah the Explorer STs can get in the 11s with some bolt one and e blend tune.
SaltLakeBear@reddit
This is goals for me.
Gandgareth@reddit
Sounds like a flex.
tomfromakron@reddit
I'm sorry, what did you just say?
PurdueGuvna@reddit
Honda Odyssey has a true 280 hp with a 10 speed auto, that will beat many muscle cars, handle better, has a warranty and starts and runs just fine in all weather conditions. 0-60min 6.5 second, 15 second quarter mile, which makes it faster than late 70s and early 80s Camaros and mustangs. Cars have come a long way.
Inconsequentialish@reddit
Those autos with a lotta gears often have some lower ratios that will get you across the intersection and down to the next stoplight with surprising authority.
G-III-@reddit
And a nearly twenty year old xv40 v6 Camry is even faster lol
Inconsequentialish@reddit
Yup, a lot of V6 minivans have close to 300 hp, and will flat MOVE when you give them the boot.
Absolutely no one ever does, so it's doubly startling.
Also, let's put some respect on the V6 Camry(s) with the same 285-300hp engine as the Sienna minivan. They can in fact haul a surprising amount of ass as well as asses. Again, 99% of these have never once seen over 60% throttle, so it's downright startling when they get frisky.
airmantharp@reddit
Have a Pacifica rental, was spinning the tires while gunning it on wet uphill asphalt.
I was laughing and going on about the apparently nonexistent traction control, my wife didn’t find it funny.
HuckleCatt1@reddit
Had the same experience recently. Was stunned by the amount of horsepower it had.
Had never really driven a minivan before so was doubly shocked.
Omnivirus@reddit
This was the case with a lot of the family midsizers of the 2000s. Altimas with the VQ were screamers too.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
The Toyota Avalon is dummy fast for being a grandma car. Probably responsible for 90% of the cars driven through a 7/11
Why_am_here_plz@reddit
I drive my Sienna at full throttle a great deal, and at 350k miles it still hustles pretty good.
KMFDM781@reddit
Those TRD Camry's look good too.
Buckeyebornandbred@reddit
Wife and I used to have a Sienna and Camry respectively with the same V6 engine. Made oil changes and filter changes pretty easy lol. Oh, also I drove that Camry at full throttle on the highway. It sounded good.
HuckleCatt1@reddit
I recently rented a Chrysler Minivan on a family trip and was completely shocked by how much horsepower it had.
(Had never really drove a minivan before)
Technical-Turn-3906@reddit
One time a flex sent me to gapplebees in my FBO G37s will never forget the day
ProfessorDayta@reddit
The flex was never sold where I live, which is a shame because if I was looking for a large SUV that would be at the top of my list.
nemam111@reddit
Oh yeah. Had a 96 Nissan quest. Took the seats out, that thing was flying
therealfogo@reddit
I had a V6 odyssey with a nitrous express 150 shot kit on it. Shit moved.
DANIMAL06@reddit
I remember my teen years racing people in the caravan and a Montana. They generally handled well and would come with a large engine.
drinkdrinkshoesgone@reddit
They've got to haul around a family of 7 and all their luggage while still keeping up with other cars on the highway and go up hills/mountain passes. They have to have a lot of power.
The Toyota Sienna has more power than my Toyota Tacoma, and for good reason.
BlitzShooter@reddit
Drove my bosses and had absolutely no idea how quick it was until it was trying to torque steer me into a median
tjcaustin@reddit
So many basic family fords had that 3.5TT and AWD stuffed in them to no fanfare
Andyman1973@reddit
2017-2020 Lincoln Continental w/400hp 3.0tt V6.
Watpotfaa@reddit
Nissan Maxima back when it was stickshift.
han-so-low@reddit
I had an 89 Maxima with a 6 speed manual. Super fuckin fun.
SatelliteSebring@reddit
I had the same car. Mine - white with blue interior. 190 hp out of that very, very smooth 3.0 liter VQ engine, and the 5 sp. manual was very good. It was a bit of a sleeper, not so much off the line but everywhere else was plenty quick.
Watpotfaa@reddit
4 door sports car! Shame they rusted so easily, they were legendary for their time.
dont_be_that_guy_29@reddit
They had the same engine as the Z 🤘
Biggie_Robs@reddit
I had a manual 90 Se. Loved that car
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
The 1994-1999 Nissan Maxima was the fastest Japanese Sedan available in US till 2003.
6.6 second 0-60. Faster than the Mustang GT of the same vintage
Andyman1973@reddit
Can you imaging swapping in a VH45DE from a Q45?
DetectiveNarrow@reddit
Boy if those modern ones came with a six speed.
_HeWho_@reddit
I had an 07 Altima VQ 6sp. It definitely took some people by surprise and was pretty fun. 270hp and 3300lbs.
DetectiveNarrow@reddit
I have the exact car but a 2012 and a coupe. It’s like the perfect car for me, fast enough, reliable as heck, wasn’t too expensive, not terrible gas mileage and runs on regular.
_HeWho_@reddit
Yeah I actually really liked mine. The main two downsides for me were weight distribution and looks. The coupe looks better though
Watpotfaa@reddit
Next best thing is swap the newer motor into the older chassis. 2002 6spd with a 2014 motor, full bolt ons and a tune has me near 300wph 👹
Roid-a-holic_ReX@reddit
Had an Altima with the v6. 2 door 6 speed. It was supposed to have close to 300 hp but living up in the mountains im sure I had a lot less. Still fun to drive and didn’t really care if it got beat up.
DetectiveNarrow@reddit
Have the same car took it to the mountains a couple times. Handles curves a lot better than one would expect
Good_Independence403@reddit
I got mine up to 145mph with friends in the car. I still regret it to this day. Just dumb young man shit
nirbenvana@reddit
I often miss my 97 5 speed maxima. Can't believe I'm not dead or in jail after having that as a teenager.
Cold_Specialist_3656@reddit
Faster than the Mustang GT of same vintage. Was an insane car for its time. The fastest Japanese sedan in North America for many years
Watpotfaa@reddit
I have a fully worked 02’ 6spd now but before that I had a 99’ and a 96’ maxima, the 96’ was my baby. The one I have now is objectively better in every way but man the way those 4th gens drove was something else.
driventolegend@reddit
Don’t a lot of them have the VQ motors from the 350Z/G35?
Wanksters_Paradise@reddit
Had an ‘03 Maxima GLE, 3.5 v6. Absolutely hauled ass.
drunkenhonky@reddit
Is that what that Hispanic dude has in the iconic clip of him giving it hell down a strip whooping some ass
hankypankywankydanky@reddit
My '04 Maxima 6spd was a highway machine, but so much wheel spin and torque steer off the line.
Ch4rlie_G@reddit
Yeah. I loved mine but highway only. Not a stoplight car.
wolfpack_57@reddit
A friend of mine raced MkIV NA supras in Chump car a while ago and I remember them complaining that they couldn’t do anything to 90s 3.5 Maxima on the straights
TheBugSmith@reddit
I had a 92 and got that bitch going way faster than is recommended by the "law"
tclark2006@reddit
https://youtu.be/ChZ_GvP_fkQ never forget.
Watpotfaa@reddit
Didnt even have to click to know this was the famous mexican maxima 😂
quiksi@reddit
RAV4 V6 - was the fastest car in Toyota’s lineup for a while
Andyman1973@reddit
And the hybrid V6 was faster still!
CrunchMcMannis@reddit
We had an 09 Rav 4 sport w the v6. I think it was the first year it was available and had like 270hp. That thing was scary how powerful and squirrelly it was. Sadly had a ton of issues and we dumped it after a few years.
DoneByForty@reddit
I was hoping I'd see this answer somewhere in the comments. It's not even that fast per se, just so much faster than you'd expect. The AWD helps.
TheyVanishRidesAgain@reddit
It had a power:weight ratio startlingly close to its contemporary Mustang GT.
__slamallama__@reddit
When I was way into e36s in the early 2010s the running joke was your car is only fast if you can beat a new v6 Camry from a roll
The punchline of the joke was most couldn't. They were like 270hp lol they kinda scoot
TheyVanishRidesAgain@reddit
cries in WRX owner
WhitebeltAF@reddit
Can confirm. I had a 2012 and I regret the hell out of selling it. It was super fun when I lived in the mountains in Northern Nevada. Small, AWD, and a V6 that made decent power for what it was.
quiksi@reddit
“Decent”!? I had a 2010 and it was beyond “decent”. The RAV4 of that generation isn’t the comfortable Camry-platformed car the RAV is today which can reasonably handle 300hp. Back then, the crazies at Toyota stuffed the 2GR V6 in a freaking COROLLA platform. That thing was straight up overengined and the chassis couldn’t keep up at all.
DiegoThePython@reddit
There's no legroom up front at all though
ArtAndCars@reddit
This is what I drive. It’s pushing 20 years old, looks like every other boring old suv on the road, but it absolutely rips when I step on it. When I took my wife for a ride in it the day I bought it and put the peddle down she let out a nice “WHAT THE FUCK??!” And it still gets decent gas mileage, is super reliable, seats 5, has awd, tons of cargo space and a roof rack. I love it!
GreenHairyMartian@reddit
My 2007 is one of my favorite cars I've ever owned.
Reliable as hell, fast, super useful, AWD, like, perfect vehicle for me.
OHMEGA_SEVEN@reddit
2GR FTW
jabroni4545@reddit
The rav4 plug in hybrid was also their fastest vehicle before the supra.
Lordofpineapples@reddit
Supra ain’t even a Toyota it’s a BMW
Careless-Trick-5117@reddit
How original!
Lordofpineapples@reddit
Love mine. 6 seconds flat 0-60 can smoke a lot of cars on the road
bungy2323@reddit
Ford Fusion Sport is always my answer
18436572_V8@reddit
I wish they would have done a SVT version of that car.
Andyman1973@reddit
Well, the 3.0tt powered MKZ could be a spiritual SVT model.
1MTBRider@reddit
I took my older 2010-2012 era Fusion Sport to a local autocross and surprised a ton of people. It doesn’t have that straight line speed of the new sports but with a pair of sticky tires it holds its own.
AGCAce@reddit
I was surprised to see how quick those things are. Considered getting one as a daily
SaltLakeBear@reddit
A build I'd like to build is a Fusion with a Taurus SHO/Flex 3.5 EcoBoost and drivetrain.
JAVACHIP1738@reddit
Thought I would be biased if I said this. I get a lot of compliments on it too from regular people. But it definitely hauls enough to beat 90/95 percent of cars on the road. Trans kind of blows tho. Already had to get it replaced before like 60k miles luckily had a warranty.
LongjumpingRespect96@reddit
Only those made 2017 or later. 325 HP, 380 lb-ft torque and AWD. A true sleeper car, few people knew about them. I had a 2017 for four years.
bungy2323@reddit
Correct. I’m going to buy another one sometime.
Brew-Tang-Clan@reddit
100% nobody knows this car exists and how quick it is. Also the MKZ ecoboost.
equityorasset@reddit
had one and its amazing, now got the lincoln version, even more of a sleeper IMO
Serious_Lettuce6716@reddit
RAV4 V6.
The_World_Is_A_Slum@reddit
The last true sleeper in my mind was the Regal T-Type. Instead of looking like Dart Vader’s whip, it looked like your chain smoking aunt’s Buick.
My favorite sleepers were 427 Biscaynes and 440 Polaras. Both were taxi-spec full size cars with low options and the big muscle engines.
Honorable mention to the 69 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ 428. Looked like a sporty luxury type of car, but was faster than any GTO but a RAIV.
Can’t think of too many modern sleepers. Even crossovers have some performance styling.
5050logic@reddit
I used to surprise muscle car drivers all the time in my Golf R. IYKYK.
Ye_Yuan@reddit
Plain Jane Garage Kept 1988 Chevy Caprice. A grandma’s vehicle. God I miss that thing. Drive like a tank and held fuel like one too. 😂
Any body know where I can buy one of those for cheap? Unmodified?
CitizeM@reddit
SAAB Turbo X
Particular_Fox1823@reddit
Current shape Toyota Hiace with the v6 and manual transmission. Discontinued in Australia around 2021 but I think it was the last rwd na manual v6 you could get here. 280hp and nothing over the rear wheels.
ScubaSteve7886@reddit
Ford Fusion Spot (twin turbo V6)
Available-Ad-7330@reddit
The first version of the bmw x1. N55 OPTION AND a real tune, not just a piggy back, and a muffler. Installed one once. Like 450hp awd wagon. Yes please
Tranter156@reddit
A lot of electric family vehicles can leave ICE cars in the dust without breaking a sweat.
Beautiful_Guess7131@reddit
For the first 800 feet
Tranter156@reddit
That’s stock. Getting to be some electric speed shops that can build monsters. Still very expensive but gets cheaper every year. They just wait for the ICE guys to come smoking and rumbling up to the charger and leave em in the dust again
Beautiful_Guess7131@reddit
Yeah that car at Goodwood was pretty insane. Speirling I think
Tranter156@reddit
I was thinking singer like the old sewing machines but need more zeros in my bank account before getting in the drivers seat.
jruss666@reddit
My wife loved the ride in a Blazer EV, but when the driver showed off the 0-60, she’s like: “I’d get so many speeding tickets.”
Tranter156@reddit
Yes they really need to be limited to normal mode. My problem was pulling out of the dealer and not rear ending the car in front. Scared the heck out of me. I’m really surprised these car guys aren’t customizing these things. An extra battery pack and maybe a bigger motor would be the ultimate sleeper car
Willietrailblaze@reddit
I drove a rwd model 3 on Michelin pilot 4s and it was remarkably good.
equityorasset@reddit
then they gotta charge 5 minutes later lol, its a neat little short term gimmick, then your battery is done
Tranter156@reddit
Many people are afraid of change
Mrofcourse@reddit
Forester XT. Some year models are pretty much a wrx with a small suv body. There are even wrx/sti bolt ons.
theonecalledwade@reddit
My 2001 Outback with the 3.0 H6 would dog walk a lot of the tuners and v6 "sports cars" in my area.
Wreckingass@reddit
I knew someone who clapped out the 2.5XT and was running about 550bhp. This same person was also running an '04 STI with about 900bhp. Just bonkers fucking stupid cars.
Willing_Ad876@reddit
Evo IX MR. GT42R turbo running 110 octane. Take the wing off, nice little 1,100 hp sleeper
Wreckingass@reddit
Yes.
LawfulnessHeavy8168@reddit
Are they not just the wrx engine in a forester?
Hope1355@reddit
Yes, the same engine as WRX. Most of STI parts are bolt on. Except for brakes and wheels, you need ones from older STI.
jghall00@reddit
Yes, the Forester XT had a turbo. Not sure if that trim still exists.
Mrofcourse@reddit
2018 was the last year they had it
LawfulnessHeavy8168@reddit
I know it had a turbo, I think it was just a wrx engine. But I’m not positive.
Mrofcourse@reddit
Not sure on every year but most are same engine turbo and platform. Earlier ones have the same manual transmission.
swollen_foreskin@reddit
I had a 08 model with the giant scoop. 7 years later I still regret selling it…it was so thirsty though, and something broke all the time
Hersbird@reddit
There is also a Saab version of the WRX that would fool a lot of people.
hankenator1@reddit
I owned one, very few people realized it was a Saab as it looks 100% like a Subaru.
35gli@reddit
You mean the saabaru
theonecalledwade@reddit
Pontiac Bonneville SSEI
SoundMedal@reddit
Kia Soul
eight47pm@reddit
The 90s Buick Regal GS springs to mind, 3.5 supercharged V6 in a car that’s as granda spec as it comes. The most recent Regal GS as well which as far as I know (I may be wrong here) is a badge engineered Opel Insignia OPC and those are quick.
Volvo V70R, big estate car which a 2.5 turbo and again is a bit granda spec
BMW 335D, take the 335 badge off and it looks the same as a 320D but with a map will blow the doors off a lot of cars
The Forster XTs with the EJ25 (that we didn’t get in my country at all) and can have all the STI bits you want
BairyHalsack@reddit
2008 rav4 V6. Same engine as the Sienna, 268hp and 248ft-lb. Easily upgraded, turbocharged or supercharged, built internals. Already pretty quick stock for what it is
TheGarp@reddit
Taurus SHO! I have had 6 !
Triplygood@reddit
Excellent choice! A fine daily driver and when you want to have a little fun it is quite ready and willing to go.
TheGarp@reddit
My first one, a 1991 SHO+, got it to 143 on the interstate when I was young and dumb. The later ones were computer limited to 141.
Ok-Subject1296@reddit
I was sitting in the 7-eleven parking lot enjoying my coffee and cigarette. The ground shook and I looked up from my phone and I saw a Durango with the hellcat emblem on the side no other badging. Talk about a sleeper
howlifyoulovewolves@reddit
My buddy had a 2001 all road 2.7t with rs6 turbos that threw down 500whp with a manual gearbox. Very boring looking wagon with an incredible amount of power with the Quattro awd. They sound beautiful
Zippo963087@reddit
An actual car guy will know a sleeper
DetectiveNarrow@reddit
Infiniti FX45 and the rare FX50. Lotta car guys don’t even know the FX50 basically has a detuned race car engine under the hood and you can ONLY get that VK50 in a FX50. Not terribly fast for today’s standards, but nothing to scoff at for sure. I catch a lot of people by surprise in my 45
IRENE420@reddit
I have a GS460 as my daily and I looove it. But if it ever gets totaled I would love to experience the FX50. Similar characteristics. The GS is kinda soft but has adjustable suspension. I figure the FX50 would be the same but more practical.
Careless-Trick-5117@reddit
To he honest I think most Infiniti sedans quality for this, since even the other ones have 300+ hp and a lot of them are on VQs.
DisastrousSell3153@reddit
The only problem with infinity is that everyone immediately knows you’re a duck when they see you driving one
Jahstin@reddit
Ha interesting. My dad had an fx45 and I always thought that was rare over the 35. Had no idea they made a 50
eSsEnCe_Of_EcLiPsE@reddit
Sounds like a future phaeton problem
DetectiveNarrow@reddit
Not as much you think. My FX45 has 230k miles it doesn’t make me buy parts for it often. The newest FX50 is over 10 years old now, and I don’t think there’s a single one left with less than 100k miles. They are stupidly reliable. I’m in groups and some owners are pushing 250k with ease. From what I see it’s a problem if you live in the rust belt and need suspension parts, especially on the S models. Other wise yeah, you blow up the 5.0 you’ll have fun finding another, but you gotta be a real idiot to blow a Nissan V8 up. Even when something does go wrong the engine bay has plenty room and the engine is pretty straight forward. Did my valve cover gaskets without even YouTubing the job just straight up looking at the bolts and such.
YetisNotReal@reddit
Toyota Previa S/C LoL
IRENE420@reddit
Lexus GS 460
truterps@reddit
Ford ranger single cab 2wd 4.0l.
StepEfficient864@reddit
Subaru WRX
BitchStewie_@reddit
Toyota Solara with the 3.3L V6. Small car big engine.
Living_Implement_169@reddit
1995 Oldsmobile cultass supreme. I smoked people in that for now reason.
GoldAvant@reddit
2.7 T V6 in the 2021 - 2023 Lincoln Nautilus. These are real sleepers low key luxury
hellobluepuppy@reddit
Had the g6 from age 16-22 and it was a tough bitch, I put it through a lot, my dad still talks about what a great car it was. Also surprisingly well equipped, sunroof, heated cloth seats, remote start. Finally gave it up when it began to look a little ghetto.
Jumpy_Friend480@reddit
White BMW M340ix
AllAboutTheBoognish@reddit
2005-era Subaru Legacy, 0-60 in 5.2s, stock plain-looking family sedan.
Snoo78959@reddit
Tesla Model S Plaid. Will eat anything on the street today.
nafsta@reddit
Is500 in a non flashy color
redditforwhenIwasbad@reddit
My 04 Hyundai Sonata is a sleeper, but in comfort instead of speed. Could fall asleep just driving around town. Literal sleeper.
TurtlePLAYSTYLE@reddit
4 cylinders?
IllMasterpiece5610@reddit
Volkswagen Westfalia. It’s real easy to sleep in.
sweetrobna@reddit
Rav4 prime. 0-60 5.5s. It's faster than you would expect from a compact suv. Not fast by sports car standards
swiftie-42069@reddit
White F150 XL with a Whipple.
lasvegassmitty@reddit
1991 GMC Syclone Truck
1992-1993 GMC Typhoon SUV
My college roommate had a Typhoon and it was the most ridiculous thing ever built.
Looked like a Jimmy with a bad body kit. Smoked everything in a city setting
Unexpected_Cheddar-@reddit
The original Audi S4 (which at the time was the performance version of the A6). It really didn’t look any different than the regular model, but in 1992 that was one of the hottest sleepers out there!
FewRub8526@reddit
Didn’t Honda make an AWD CRV with a V-Tec? I’d imagine with the same set ups everyone runs with the civics would make those pretty nasty. Or if u body swap a civic onto its platform an AWD 2,000 pound big turbo civic would be crazy. And the AWD Escalades from the GMT800 era. Nice cam, forced induction of ur choice, drag pack and corn juice would make one of those pretty scary to be next to at a red light
clmixon@reddit
Need to add the Lexus GS 350 AWD...306 HP and 277 Torque. Absolutely invisible car in traffic, but very quick, handles well. 0-60 in 5.8 for the AWD versus 5-6 to 5.7 for the RWD, but the handling difference is worth it.
Rollingzeppelin@reddit
5.9 Durango or Dakota.
Educational-Fish4266@reddit
EX30 twin motor
That_Trapper_guy@reddit
Nissan Frontier. Hear me out. The VK56 is a known performer, with That Ricer John making over 2000 RWHP on a stock block and crank. It was also a factory option in the Pathfinder for several years. Which means it bolts right into a Frontier with no problems. C3 trans adaptor to throw 4L80 behind it and 9" out back. Boom
Ill_Dragonfruit_3547@reddit
My debadged Genesis GV70 3.5TT is one 😏
altsex2025@reddit
The Chevy SS looks so much like a Malibu though, you really have to look twice unless the owners have swapped out the badges to Holden
Affectionate-Bite109@reddit
Accord 2.0t with a few discreet bolt ons and some corn in the tank will run mid 12’s all day. True sleeper.
Llg4e@reddit
Which discreet bolt ons. I bought a 2019 for the way it looked. Love 2.0T sport mode.
Affectionate-Bite109@reddit
Intake, tune, intercooler, ethanol fuel kit.
Add a new turbo and matching exhaust and you’re in high 11’s.
I have a 2020 2.0t. Dm me and I’ll even give you part numbers. Basically everything you need is sold by PRL and Axion.
Llg4e@reddit
That would be great
V57M91M@reddit
GR Corolla Core package , if you don't know what you're looking at, 99% of the people believe it's just a Corolla Hatch
No_Field1529@reddit
The SS are high theft cars for those who use them in sideshows and burn up their own motors.
GolfandSales@reddit
2009-11 BMW 335d tuned and deleted. Easy to keep them looking bone stock. Will gap 99% of cars on the road.
ButterscotchShot1753@reddit
Oldsmobile Aleros and Aurora. I had a 2001 alero when I was 18 because I love my mom’s 2001 Aurora. They were both fast as hell.
Responsible_Law_6359@reddit
Hot take alert:
Given enough knowledge on cars, no car is a sleeper. Because usually sleepers exist in the context of roll races, and if you know the cars and mods involved you can accurately predict 90% of them.
LargeBreadfruit2553@reddit
90% of people don't know shit about fuck. So sleepers will always exist because most people can't be bothered to learn about anything outside of their immediate eyesight.
ChuckoRuckus@reddit
You’re ignoring the context…. “Given enough knowledge about cars”, which is the premise of the OP (car guys knowledge of sleepers). In that context, it doesn’t matter if the other 90% don’t know shit about fuck.
LargeBreadfruit2553@reddit
You're ignoring the reality that even 90% of car guys don't know shit about fuck.
KMFDM781@reddit
Truth
metpharaoh@reddit
Seriously as soon as I read a Chevy ss “doesn’t count as I sleeper” I’m not even going to try to jump through the hoops required for an op acceptable answer
keithrc@reddit
That's still 10% you can't. That's where the sleepers sleep. 😀
Responsible_Law_6359@reddit
The 10% is more referring to freak accidents; transmissions blown, driver asleep at the wheel, missed shifts. That kind of thing.
If you get accurate information about both cars, you can determine the outcome of a roll race with the same accuracy as the information.
ShatterProofDick@reddit
Until you run into some mad scientist that Daza swapped VW Alltrack.
My local shop tech has one. You wouldn't see it coming, then it says 'okay byeeee!'
throwaway11229887@reddit
There’s a Prius in my hometown that I’ve seen on the road twice, sounds like it’s engine swapped. Dying to see what they’ve done with it
ShatterProofDick@reddit
I had a VW cabriolet with a big turbo GTI engine. It has a hilarious monstrosity that actively tried to kill you with torque steer.
No one expects to get dusted by the bitch basket.
ChuckoRuckus@reddit
The problem with your premise is “most car guys” know about many of the trims that are sleepers. Whether it be things like the SS or RS7 or the SHO/Flex, car guys typically know about them.
Hot_Willow_5179@reddit
grzesi00@reddit
MB W213 E400d - looks like ordinary diesel but it goes 0-60 less than 5s and 100-200kmph faster than 4door AMG-GT 43
dumbname0192837465@reddit
Paul's minivan
lucky_wears_the_hat@reddit
Anytime I see the M stripes on a bmw. I also had a little teal Mazda Protege watt back that would take almost anything in a 1/4 mile. Probably because it only weighed about 1,000 lbs.
waldcha@reddit
Hand fits are great in the corners when stock but only have 90-130hp depending on the year. It is however a great platform for a k-swap.
Hgh-Cls-Waffle-House@reddit
Any fast Volvo for sure. Your might notice how it's a bit more handsome. But for the most part it's just t5 or t6 on the trunk
freezies1234@reddit
You can order a reg cab f150 in work spec with a 5.0 and supercharged at the dealer. Good for over 700 hp. No badging, steel wheels.
Seems pretty sleepery to me
djdoesntcare53@reddit
2003-2006 Mercedes CLK55 AMG. Cheap as hell and don’t look like much, especially in the gold/silver color. In 2003 when it came out it was the fastest production car Mercedes had ever built.
M8NSMAN@reddit
Early 2000s Lexus GS430
Die-No-Might69420@reddit
I owned a Acura CL Type S 2003. I would call that a sleeper. Looked unassuming but get after it if you knew how.
EscapeNo2936@reddit
Chevy cavalier
Due_Platform_5327@reddit
The best sleepers are the ones you build. I saw a guy smoke the doors off a Hellcat in a 90s era Honda civic.
_Phail_@reddit
There's a very limited number of the Ford Territory that's been worked up a little bit by FPV; it's got the 4L straight six and a turbo and a tune. You can only really tell by the stickers... And the fact that it's hauling ass
Zestyclose-Victory92@reddit
I have a bmw x3 m40i. Looks like you’re typical grocery getter yet it dynos over 400hp. Same thing as the 3.0L supras
OreganoJones72@reddit
Infiniti Q50S Hybrid. I don’t care about letting everyone know about this car anymore, because I can’t seem to find one under 100K miles, with a new hybrid motor, or that doesn’t have a rebuilt title. I had brown one, which was beautiful btw, and I did 0-60 in 4.5 and when I drove on the highway, got 32 mpg. Big brakes stock. Sold it because the cost of a replacement battery scared me at 120K. Go out and find one with a replaced hybrid battery and thank me for the experience.
DinoTh3Dinosaur@reddit
Tesla Model 3. Even the long range (not performance) model has 500hp to all 4 wheels. Instantly
metamodern-mess@reddit
I got surprised by an ecoboost f150 that I nearly couldn’t get by.
dumpster-muffin-95@reddit
Honda Odyssey minivan with a V6
threedemonbag@reddit
Cyclone
Outside_Assistance50@reddit
Lotus Carlton/Omega is an obvious one.
Outside_Assistance50@reddit
Subaru Legacy B4 RSK. Looks like any other Scooby NPC sedan/saloon, has twin-turbo EJ. Same goes for the Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 or maybe the Legnum VR-4 estate/wagon even more so thanks to bi-turbo V6.
NukeSnicks@reddit
Surprised no one has said the Chevy Trailblazer with the Vortec 4200 4.2L Inline 6, Aka the Ameribarra. This engine can put down close to Supra numbers on stock internals and no one talks about it. Nivlac57 on YouTube has a whole channel dedicated to the engine and he consistently uses it in drag racing builds. Can't remember his specific quarter mile times but I do remember them being pretty impressive.
YinzerInEurope@reddit
RS3. Those things can rip with a tune.
hurricanePopsicles@reddit
Any Audi with an RS badge is not a sleeper.
JiveXP@reddit
It's an RS3..
Wissyp0098@reddit
Volvo V70R, around 250 brake from factory
ShatterProofDick@reddit
Lincoln MKZ 3.0 looks like grandpa's car, 400 hp. Can be tuned for more.
equityorasset@reddit
just got this car, cant wait to tune it, any recommendations, was thinking of doing a dyno vs the ones you can buy online
ShatterProofDick@reddit
Never owned one. I'm a German car guy. It was on my short list of cars I was considering the last time I purchased. Wound up with an Audi wagon with 3 pedals and tuned it out.
I'll say this, most canned tunes are good, safe, and thoroughly tested.
Some dyno tuners, unless you specifically ask for a conservative map, could risk going over what is considered safe for daily driving.
equityorasset@reddit
thank you, yeah luckily i have a ford specialists by me who's very trusted and experienced and goes over your goals with you, and i do want a canned tune, everyone says it's user friendly, but im nervous to be messing with my cars engine and computer when i got no experience
Hersbird@reddit
I had a 2018 400hp version. It was quick but not like 5.0 mustang quick. I do think it was much better for snow country than say a WRX which is why I bought it.
Sudden_Brush7494@reddit
Love this
hemibearcuda@reddit
Going way back:
Dodge Omni turbo, I wanna say late 80's the first time I came across one. This was before the tuner crowd hit the scene .
Also, I worked at a shop at the time, early 90's. I had to test drive a compact Pontiac I had just done brakes on. It was another 4cyl turbo car with a manual tranny.
I can't remember now, but whatever that car was it was quicker 0-60 than my friends foxbody 5.0. once the boost came on in 2nd gear, it would still spin the tires.
Both cars looked like every other compact econobox that you saw everywhere those days. True sleepers.
vtec_go_brrr16@reddit
Might get laughed at for this but I had a 04 Nissan maxima, 3.5L if I’m not mistaken and it had 260hp stock. If I’d modded it it could’ve done 300, fast little grandma car lol
JDub-866@reddit
Lexus ISF. Everyone thinks it is just a 4 comfortable luxury sedan....then they find out it really has a V8 and they are looking at the tail lights.
JiveXP@reddit
As much of a sleeper as an M3 or C63 lol
JDub-866@reddit
🤣🤣🤣 yeah right
FallenLlama@reddit
The Volvo EVs. They are much faster than people expect.
Opposite-Control8682@reddit
Audi S6 V8
Faranocks@reddit
2006 accord 3.0 V6 6 speed. Looks like any old accord, 244hp with a sub 6s 0-60 and sub 14.5s 1/4.
Omnivirus@reddit
Infiniti G20
SilentUniversity1304@reddit
The V70R just looks like a normal old wagon, but that thing can pull hard and handle surprisingly well for what it is. The Flex is another one that people sleep on.
baldw1n12345@reddit
Gold 2008 Camry SE with the V6
JuliusBacchus@reddit
BMW-Alpina B5 Touring with no Alpina markings. Looks not much different than the standard family 5 Touring but with 610hp and 325 km/h top speed it’s an Autobahn rocket.
Beautiful_Guess7131@reddit
1993 dodge shadow v6
No-Distance-2124@reddit
My old SLK350 was a bit of a sleeper. 0-60 in under 6 seconds and looks like a true hairdresser’s car.
snowandrocks2@reddit
Rav4 prime or phev.
Everyone sees a boring slow hybrid SUV but it actually has over 300bhp and will do 60 in 5.5s. My wife wanted one and I genuinely laughed out loud when I put my foot down on the test drive.
bandley3@reddit
Mazda5 6MT.
International-Sir160@reddit
10th Gen Accord 2.0T. They move. 276 HP from only 2 liters.
delta8425@reddit
R63 AMG
chasing_losses@reddit
Ford Edge Sport or ST
iambobgrange@reddit
My last car was a BMW M550i. De-badged, so just looked like a nicely spec’d 5 series. Only tell was the big rectangular exhausts, and the satin finish wing mirrors if you know what to look for. That was a great sleeper.
HanlonsKnight@reddit
grand prix gtp gxp and bonneville ssei and gxp
1864Fox@reddit
The only real sleepers imo are heavily modified cars that do not look like it. Stock exterior, stock looking wheels, stock interior, but built engine, drivetrain, suspension.
A RS7 or any Audi RS model along with any Mercedes AMG or BMW M model are not sleepers because you can easily tell they are fast by looking at the exterior styling and the badges.
But imagine a 2004 Audi A4. Not a S4, not even S-line. Wheels looking stock, but wider to fit wider tires. It looks like an absolute base model A4, maybe even with the original engine badging on the back. "2.0 FSI" or something. Maybe it even has a little rust in places. But then you look inside and you see a little boost gauge and a little oil temp gauge hidden under the dash, basically only visible to the driver. Then you open the hood and there's this massive V8 engine with twin turbos underneath, probably making 500 hp or more. Basically the whole powertrain and suspension has been replaced to make the thing a weapon on the track, but from the outside, it looks like a used A4 that's 20 years old. That's what I consider a sleeper.
userb55@reddit
That's right. Like turbo volvo... that's a sleeper.
IncidentCodenameM1A2@reddit
What if I told you that you could get one of the higher trim 1st gen Chevy cavaliers with a 3.1 or 2.8 V6 and that there was a company that makes forged bottom end rebuilds of those motors along with an adapter for the m90 supercharger that gm used on the 3800 V6 a ton.
RazerMaker77@reddit
Honestly I’ve been able to leave a good number of muscle cars in the dust with a dodge journey and I’ve been able to easily push 110 in a Chevy Tahoe so there’s a lot of vehicles that are pretty shocking with their speed. Acceleration-wise, I was driving a 2004 Ford Taurus SES and it had pretty solid acceleration. Like 0-40 in about 4-5 seconds. It’s not bad especially for being 21 years old
Just_Ad_1211@reddit
W140 S600
Beautiful_Ad_4813@reddit
2007 Audi S8
Unless you’re right up on it, you’ll never know it’s got a V10 with 444HP
Rapom613@reddit
I own a D4 V8TT S8 and can confirm, it’s invisible
Rapom613@reddit
Audi S8. Aside from the small S8 badge and the quad exhaust, it looks like any other big sedan, hell a lot of people don’t even know what an S8 is
However it has the same drivetrain as the RS7 with a quiet exhaust. Tune only mine runs 10.6 at 130mph. More than enough to embarrass a lot of things a full size sedan with massage seats has no business picking on
tjcaustin@reddit
A lot of the ford sedans and CUV that came with the 3.5 eco boost and AWD. I think it was in the Taurus, flex, fusion, explorer, and edge at one point.
ibonek_naw_ibo@reddit
Don't forget the various Lincolns.
Secksualinnuendo@reddit
Do performance Teslas count? They look the same as any other Tesla but will blow the doors off most things on the road at a stop light. I assume most Teslas are the long range variant.
oldsoul6465@reddit
2009 Cobalt SS Turbo and 1965 Chevy Nova SS with a 283. That one was surprisingly fast.
broke_saturn@reddit
The old 1980s Chrysler minivans with the 2.2 turbo and a 5 speed manual. Yes you read that right. With some mods those things can be fast as fuck and you’ll confuse practically everybody. Guy that used to go to the local track near me had one that would run low 11s
Zealousideal-Youth67@reddit
I read right. But you got the engine displacement wrong.
broke_saturn@reddit
Ah crap, I did. It was the 2.5 turbo in the vans. Thanks for pointing out the mistake
Crafty-Blood3145@reddit
My 2016 escalade can 0-60 in 5.7 seconds. Pretty good for a boxy tank.
Fit-Ad-8881@reddit
All AWD E-GMP based korean electric cars. They look like (and mostly are) nice grocery getters, but run the 1/4 mile in low 13s, with 0-60 being 4.4-4.5-ish.
SYDNEYpoker@reddit
Audi S4 B5 with an A4 badge. 2.7L V6 twin turbo AWD
TwitchCaptain@reddit
'05 Buick Regal GS w/ a few upgrades
Loud_Key_3865@reddit
Any Honda or Acura S-Type
FreddyGotFD@reddit
It kinda happened by accident when the turbo shit the fan in my completely stock 08 Saab 9-5 linear 2.3 biopower, but now it's pushing 400+hp
ArtAndCars@reddit
Not super insane, but I drive a 3rd gen rav4 with the 3.5 v6 and it can fucking boogie. It has 269 hp, so over 100 more than the 4 banger that most rav4’s have and it only weighs like 3500lbs.
GlitteringPen3949@reddit
2017 Honda Accord coup with the V6 and the six speed manual. They had near 300hp at the wheels and even more torque. .
sorryimadeanalt@reddit
Whippled 5.0 short cab f150
Turbo k swap any grandma car
Ford explorer st
Honda odyssey v6
pbcig@reddit
Accord V6 6MT
ThePooksters@reddit
GNX. Buicks were seen as old people’s luxury cars (and still are) but the GNX is an absolute monster.
Honorable mention: Lincoln MKZ. Got one as a rental, made it to 130mph (and climbing) before I got scared and slowed down. Super fun car.
Decent_Study_8460@reddit
M340i without the badge it looks just like a regulator 3 series
trailtoy1993@reddit
What year was the v6 rav4 that was the fastest car that Toyota made that year? Something like 2011?
Beers4Fears@reddit
To normies most 4 door sedans or wagons on ride height.
dL_EVO@reddit
Cobalt SS Ion Redline Sky Redline Solstice GXP Taurus SHO
E400wagon@reddit
Acura RLX sport hybrid. Stodgy look, ugly beak grill, 377 hp and under 5sec 0-60
thefavoredsole@reddit
I was considering one while shopping around lately. I just worry about long-term reliability and cost of repair with the hybrid system, as I usually run my cars until 3-400k miles. I ended up with a TSX wagon, but I really wish I could've justified the RLX
Mammoth_Mixture4735@reddit
2003 Golf vr6 6 speed i was kinda in shock how quick it was
Cultural_Bison_6306@reddit
Any supercharged 3800 series GM sedan Any of the fast German Wagons Subaru Forester XT (with a tune) Ford Taurus SHO and Flex (with a tune) Chevrolet Caprice PPV Chevrolet Cavalier Z24 Mitsubishi Galant VR4 Volkswagen Golf R V8 Lexus sedan V8 Volvo sedans.
nightmareFluffy@reddit
I agree with most of that list, but I'm pretty sure most car people know about the German wagons, Taurus, and the Golf R.
Cultural_Bison_6306@reddit
Maybe the BMW M Touring and the Audi S Avants, but even most car people wouldn't give a 550i touring a second look, despite the twin turbo V8 under the hood. The stealthiest way for a full sleeper Taurus is a retired police interceptor. Without the push bar and lights it looks like a base Taurus but with the full SHO drive line. Golf R in stock for is pretty stealthy if you can't see the R badge, but I think every golf R ive seen IRL has been slammed on bigger wheels.
Old_Pipe_2288@reddit
Now yeah. But back when I had a mk v gti. People were really aware. I had it lowered and that was it. Looked stock other wise. Putting in over 40k in parts upgrading brake suspension, parts was on clutch #3 etc. Was jogging and walking people an they’d be like wtf.
Feel like by the 2010s people were aware. It was also one of the first that started with the 2.0t. And from there other companies quickly jumped on the bandwagon and started doing 2.0t and even smaller engines with turbo.
AffectionateSpell505@reddit
Dodge Omni GLH
MediumApricot7124@reddit
Camry v6
Sa-SaKeBeltalowda@reddit
Lots of high end non-M BMWs. Like basic remap can get you close to or over 400bhp. Bimmers are considered to be fast in general, but if you see 5 series GT you don’t expect to be fast-fast, unless it’s a remapped 550i GT pushing 450bhp.
Same goes to a lot of VW, Arteon, Passat, even Golf. 2l turbo models with DSG and AWD can be remapped to get close to 300bhp and turbo upgrade will get you close to 400bhp. Passat that outpaces Ferraris and Lambos on a straight like is sight you won’t forget easily.
Mini Clubman - can come with AWD and 2l turbo engine, simple remap gets it to 280bhp. Car is still fairly tiny and light, so it goes fast enough to beat the shit out of typical V8.
Lots of European cars are not considered fast and especially to be race cars, but they are still very capable.
lonerwolf85@reddit
I'd say panther platform Fords. Crown Vic police interceptor, or Mercury Marauder
SunsetAz1@reddit
I have a grand marque there quick but no sleeper. My Mark VIII. That's a sleeper. All factory just remove the limiters and one was clocked at 183 on the flats. It's a cobra with a different body
Grandemestizo@reddit
Those are sweet cars, but they aren’t particularly fast. Not slow either don’t get me wrong but Car and Driver clocked the Marauder at 7.5 seconds to 60 which is about a second too slow to call it a fast car IMO.
lonerwolf85@reddit
The problem with the Marauder is that Ford installed 3.55 rear end gears for fuel economy. Even the SVT engineers said they were supposed to have 4.10 gears originally. They're faster off the line with the correct gears.
Grandemestizo@reddit
I expect they would be. I have always thought a panther platform would be a great platform to modify as a sleeper. 410 gears and a supercharger would make a marauder rip.
lonerwolf85@reddit
A friend of mine owned one. The 4.10 gears make a huge difference.
Eziekiel23_20@reddit
Newer F150 reg cab shortbed V8s. Most people arent aware of how quick they are or can be unless you pay attention to the right sources. Unfortunately theyre not under the radar like they used to be.
Warm-Ice12@reddit
I could see this. My Silverado with the 6.2 v8 can get up and scoot and it’s a crew cab.
SunsetAz1@reddit
Lincoln mark VIII. Remove the limiters and would outrun the same year Corvette and do it in comfort 197 mph I believe was clocked at the salt flats .
Edgar_ZS@reddit
A debadged Golf R or any other brand of car. Or maybe an engine and suspension swapped beater car.
CockroachVarious2761@reddit
The new RAM 1500 Tungsten does 0-60 in mid 4s.
Final_Instance_8542@reddit
The 80s ford ltd 4 door could be a complete sleeper.
charge556@reddit
Chevy SS. Not an ss trim, but a early/mids 2000s sedan named the chevy ss. Four doors, unassuming, and powerful.
To the uninitiated the mercury marauder (early 2000s). Its a blacked out crown vic with a big engine and massive power for its time. Those that know will immediately know. But to the average person it will just look like a mercury sedan. The made (only for one year I think) it in silver. Doesn't look at good as the blacked out one but would look like more of a sleeper.
Misttertee_27@reddit
Mercury Marauder was so badass
H_rusty@reddit
I think real sleepers are overrated nowadays honestly .. ohh you can surprise people with fast acceleration (most EVs can do that anyway nowadays) but at the end of the day, you will be driving a regular boring car with a hefty powertrain.
Most upper trim luxury cars offer high powered variants. A sleeper was rare in the past like in the 90s and early 2000s and therefore was cool back then.
There is a damn good reason car experts applaud and praise things like Miatas, GTIs, BRZs, WRXs , and Type Rs. These cars are more sporty everywhere, and not just "muh blazingly fast acceleration" ... which is easy to access in 2025
liftguy111@reddit
Infinity Q50. For around $35-3800.00 you can get $600 hp. (Nissan GT-R territory)
JiveXP@reddit
where are you finding Q50s for 3800
WhitebeltAF@reddit
I think he’s saying $3,800 in work
Expensive-Steak-5511@reddit
Years ago I bought a beat up primered 87 Turbo T Regal off a car lot for $2500. It looked like Hell but was as fast as a Grand National. I hurt a lot of feelings with that car
PckMan@reddit
The broad answer is that in the US market most cars have much bigger engines than they actually need. A family car doesn't really need more than 120HP or so so when you got regular commuters with 3+ liter engines with V6s and V8s in them just cause, even a simple air filter/exhaust tune combo can get a lot more out of them than they come out of the factory with. In that sense nearly any US car can be a sleeper with a bare minimum amount of modding.
In the European market there used to be a ton of cars that were small and light which made their power to weight really good and they were quicker than people expected them to be as a result but nowadays European brands are only putting out shitty crossovers with 1l turbocharged engines already pushing out about as much as they can so I'm not really sure if there's anything left.
WhitebeltAF@reddit
“in the US market most cars have much bigger engines than they actually need”
Australia enters the chat
equityorasset@reddit
this most be a troll comment, you must not be American if you think 120hp is sufficient
PckMan@reddit
I'm not American but that doesn't change the fact that 120hp is sufficient. Can it carry 4-5 people at highway speeds? Yes. Can it get from A to B? Yes. Why is it insufficient? What's so special about the american family, other than having an average weight of almost a ton, that necessitates more power?
NoChampion2427@reddit
How big are these families? Even with 6 people, they would all have to weigh over 300 lbs or at least a couple of them taking a bigger load. I can't think of a single local family like that.
PckMan@reddit
It's a joke, pointing to the fact that I'm right about that being sufficient power for a regular vehicle. I'm not saying people don't have the right to want a more powerful vehicle, they do. But if we're purely talking about practicality and usability, and the majority of people who just want a car that moves and goes from one place to another, then I'm absolutely right, that is sufficient power.
knot_hk@reddit
He’s european, they don’t know how to do math over there
GearHeadXYZ@reddit
Srt neon.
boy9000@reddit
Toyota aristo. Same twin turbo engine as the Supra Mk4
pessimistoptimist@reddit
The fox body Mercury Capris. Car guys may know what is can do but many people would say it was the 'Wish' version Mustang. It went just as fast.
KMFDM781@reddit
I would say something like a 1980's turbo Chrysler minivan, especially with the manual or the Chrysler turbo K cars. They aren't really quick stock by today's standards, but can be made to be quick little street fighters. Not super hard to get 300 whp or more out of them. I had a woody K wagon that ran 12.2s on slicks with an auto and an '89 Plymouth Voyager turbo that took down it's share of Fox body mustangs and z28s back in the day.
Also the Ford Flex Ecoboost with the 2.7. I had a friend who went low 13s with a tune only. Full interior family hauler.
Another one I can think of is the 2014 Chevy Spark EV. it made like 400 lb/ft that year.
How about the 1999 Lingenfelter Suburban. 9.9L, 500 HP and 600lb/ft. Looks pretty much like a normal Suburban too.
retka@reddit
For a long while, the 8th generation Honda Accord V6 was pretty good. 0-60 in sub 6 seconds and even less on the manual coupe 6MT. Not amazing these days but 260 HP and acceleration was great for 2008.
racerx8518@reddit
Lotus Carlton as seen on most recent Leno’s Garage. True sleeper. Impossible to get though but that wasn’t part of the question
TheRougeGeo@reddit
Any high trim German 4 door from before 2020 just looks the same as base model that barely pushes 200hp. De-badge and I doubt most enthusiasts will even be able to tell that your m3 isn’t a 318d
Dawnraider29@reddit
4 door bmw E90 335i, my one has the same bodykit that the 320i has, no M badges either. Looks like your average 4 door sedan but is hiding a twin turbo straight 6 that makes over 400 horsepower with a tune
LincolnContinnental@reddit
Lincoln MKZ 3.0TT
dustycanuck@reddit
Not a car guy, but I miss my V6 Accord. Maybe 2004? I found it pretty zippy, and it was oh so comfy to drive.
Reasonable-Willow-18@reddit
During a mental health crisis, I went out for a drive. My partner got in my car (Nissan Xterra S 2008) before I drove off. When I pulled on the highway, I went from 45mph to 100+mph in a few seconds. I don't personally remember how quick it was, but afterwards he told me he was amazed with how much power that little SUV had.
brownlawn@reddit
2010 BMW 335d.
### **The E90 BMW 335d: Looks like a 328i, hauls like a freight train.**
Seriously, if you are looking for a car that flies completely under the radar but has a genuinely shocking amount of power, the 2009–2011 BMW 335d is the answer. ---
### **Why it’s the ultimate sleeper:**
1. **The Appearance is Nondescript AF:** It's a standard, slightly dated E90 sedan (or wagon, if you're lucky enough to find one). It looks exactly like the millions of sensible, base model BMWs driven by suburban parents. Zero aggressive aero. Single-tip exhaust (in some markets). Most people just see the 3-Series badge and assume it’s slow.
**The Diesel Deception:** The "d" on the badge is the biggest misdirection. People hear "diesel BMW" and think *slow, reliable commuter*. They picture a cloud of smoke and a tractor engine. They *do not* picture a twin-turbocharged inline-six.
**The Torque is Ludicrous:** This is the secret sauce. The M57 diesel engine churns out a staggering **425 lb-ft of torque**—stock. That is more torque than the contemporary E90 M3. When you punch it, that thing launches with an effortless, silent, brutal thrust that absolutely demolishes most cars in the mid-range (like 30-80 mph).
**The Reaction:** You can be cruising on the highway, minding your business, and then effortlessly slingshot past a car that cost three times as much, leaving them wondering what the hell just happened. There's no dramatic engine sound or flashy looks to give away the punch.
**TL;DR: The 335d is a beige business sedan that can genuinely surprise sports cars on the freeway, all while getting 35+ MPG. Ultimate stealth wealth.**
do2g@reddit
E39 M5
1362313623@reddit
Ford Fusion Sport
hurricanePopsicles@reddit
The Sonata N-Line and Kia K5 GT are way faster than people think. Mid 13’s in the 1/4 mile in a random Kia/Hyundai mid size sedan
handymanshandle@reddit
Can confirm, they're genuine missiles. They don't look like anything but yet another Sonata or K5, until you see the quad exhaust tips.
Careless-Trick-5117@reddit
The N-Line is like today’s version of the Accord 2.0T. Sonata may even be faster since it makes more power.
I’ve actually seen some people who debate between Sonata N-Line and Elantra N and end up with the Sonata.
msams01@reddit
My car… W211 E63 AMG wagon
XuWiiii@reddit
All Honda CRVs have the ability to lean the front seats back and have extended leg room from the middle seats. Just remove the headrest. And you got yourself a true sleeper seat
_no_usernames_avail@reddit
Volvo C30
Saab 9-2x Aero (it’s a WRX)
Mpulsive_Aries@reddit
Lincoln LS V8 Sport package electrical issues but that car drive like a BMW or better.
reberman8@reddit
W12 Phaeton
ThrowRA_nthng@reddit
Cadillac CT5 with the tt 3.0. Wife has one, 90% + of the ones I see are 2.0 4 cyl. The only exterior clue is the badge. 550 vs 350. You don’t even need to debadge , most people don’t know the difference. Hers isn’t even a v series and it’s fast enough to surprise you.
SUFTOP@reddit
SJ Forester XT. it doesn't have a hood scoop. looks like a soccer mom car
Ihatecars@reddit
2012+ Passat vr6 DSG. Same drivetrain as the mk5 R32. In the later years was branded as the Passat GT.
Melodic-Classic391@reddit
3rd generation Toyota Avalon. Might not handle the best but it’ll fly in a straight line
EatonStroker@reddit
Contentious take: miata.
Slow as hell in a straight line and rightfully considered a bit of a joke when it comes to speed. But overdelivers, on what's already high expectations, through the corners. Had to beat in tight twisties.
CuppieWanKenobi@reddit
Going old(er) school here...
BMW E39 540 wagon. Looks exactly like the 6cyl version, except for the wheels.
Also, I had an 02 Passat 1.8T - with an APR tune (stage 1.) That car would genuinely surprise people with just how damned quickly it would make it up to speed, even uphill.
Many days leaving work, people leaving the Lowe's next door would try to turn out into my path, and find themselves doing the "oh shit we're gonna hit if I continue" panic wobble... good times.
I miss driving that car.
Primary-Point-7733@reddit
1.Mercedes E55 amg wagons from around 2005 immediately come to mind
2.Any “R” version of a Volvo
3.biggest IFYKYK: Chrysler Pacifica Minivan
drlawsoniii@reddit
A Chevette with a 350 dropped in it.
TunakTun633@reddit
By n'large, big nonluxury sedans are the key.
The DCT-equipped Arteon, for example, goes from 0-60 in ~4.5 seconds. Stock. But you can get an extra 100 horsepower or so out of it easily enough. I bet you could embarrass the shit out of some much more aggressive cars with enough tire and skill.
Ch4rlie_G@reddit
What’s an arteon?
TunakTun633@reddit
Check it out!
rockdude625@reddit
The E55 AMG. You’d walk past it in a parking lot and never know unless you knew what to look for
Savings-Wallaby7392@reddit
My moms Buick Station wagon way back had a 455 V8
Ch4rlie_G@reddit
My 66 Buick Electra had a 401 that made maybe 180hp!
Substantial-Ad-8575@reddit
Volvo V70R was sleeper back in 2004-2007 in the US.
Its a wagon Its a Volvo Its a safe car
But it’s a hoot to drive. Owned 3 of them since I bought my first in 2004. Still have 06, it’s at our vaca house in Florida.
Grand_Accountant_159@reddit
V6 Rav4's and Camry's , many of them ran 14's with nothing done to them.
racinjason44@reddit
3.5l V6 Rav 4. They made them for about 5 years and they were the quickest Toyota at the time. Not outrageously fast but still a 290 hp AWD vehicle that weighs 3,500 lbs and the most generic exterior a person could imagine.
RoosterzRevenge@reddit
F150 XL 4x4 5.0 with a Whipple.
subfreq111@reddit
Even a RCSB 4x4 without the blower will break some hearts.
RoosterzRevenge@reddit
Yep, had a 24 5.0 XLT 4X4 was pretty quick in sport mode.
Dangeresque2015@reddit
Isn't the El Camino kind of bad ass?
74orangebeetle@reddit
Volvo V60 T8 recharge? It's a hybrid Volvo station wagon. It looks like a Volvo station wagon. It has 455 horsepower. Not the quickest thing on the road, but a lot quicker than it looks.
NothingLift@reddit
Volvo T8 powertrain in v60, s60, xc60
450hp, 0-60 in mid 4s, volvo badge so no one expects it
CleMike69@reddit
Currently EVs are ridiculously fast a little unassuming you think it’s a joke then zoom gone
Bagzthehoney@reddit
First the two cars you classified are definitely not sleepers in the car community an keep up with what most makes are pushing out!
Second cars that a lot people sleep on are the SRT series that dodge has had for some years especially the SRT Neon/Caliber/Crossfire
Honest_Road17@reddit
Everyone sleeps on the PT GT.
ChooseLife1@reddit
Bmw 335i with euro package. It's just a 3 series right? 😄
Deeg16@reddit
Volvo V60 with the 3.0 turbo and polestar tune-325hp. 350+ with a chip tune
Powerful_Toe_3360@reddit
Or just a v60 polestar in sportmode. I get so many confused looks when they hear the straight 6 exhaust
arcticavanger@reddit
Dodge spirt rt
Equal-Jury-875@reddit
Not the fastest. But my 09 Pontiac vibe awd is essentially a Toyota matrix under the hood. I loved that little banger. Never once stuck in the pa snow. The local Harry's u pull only ever has one or two of this model so it's pain when something would need replacement bc you figured out you had to order from Toyota. But great vehicle every direction. It doesn't get any props i feel. Don't know about other year and models but that specific model was tits
Equal-Jury-875@reddit
Reliable I'll chalk her up as
Honest_Road17@reddit
PT Cruiser GT on E85.
No-Nose-478@reddit
Gr Corolla core or premium
Aught_To@reddit
Buick regal with the 3800 supercharged
dieselmilkshake@reddit
YESSSS
eyehatetofu@reddit
True sleeper Buick is the Lacrosse Super. They stuffed a 300 hp 5.3L in those things. I test drove one years back and that thing was quick.
throwaway11229887@reddit
Fast for its time but comparable to a stock Honda Accord hybrid now
Aught_To@reddit
yeah. but back then it would for sure run with much sportier stuff.
Left_Net1841@reddit
My dads company had one and the torque steer was wild lol. Same with the Bonneville SSEi.
BingoDeville@reddit
Pretty sure my mom had one of these. I should know for sure but I don't. Was a Buick gs and the only giveaway was the rear spoiler on the back of a grandma car. When I drove it, it was so fun running redlight to redlight vs the ragged out mustangs and shit.. the look of abject failure on a sure bet was so hilarious. Fun AF sleeper
fleeingpepper@reddit
Yeah, if it was the GS it had that supercharged L67. So fun and unassuming
rankchank@reddit
Speaking of GS the 1970 Skylark GS caught a lot of Hemis by surprise.
Hersbird@reddit
It was fast for 1990 but now a stock Honda minivan is quicker and handles better.
Born4Nothin@reddit
Maybe back in the day. Now not so much.
Aught_To@reddit
Yeah.. still thats a full on grandpa car with some pretty good go
Le-frog6@reddit
When the Honda accord is equipped with a v6 it’s a nice daily with a lot of power and modifiable, even better with a 6 speed manual for the years they made them.
Mammoth-Bike1995@reddit
E39 BMW 540i
Revolutionary_Cry884@reddit
I can get behind an Accord 2.0T because it looked great and was built great, an SHO because they were pretty iconic for Ford to be released and the proper way to do it. Both cars with no stupid boy racer cosmetic BS. Yet talking about these family SUVs and minivans like they are the absolute dream car well…I always marvel at people’s choices.
JasonTheContractor@reddit
2007 Lexus IS350 2wd... 13.3 quarter mile
RobsHereAgain@reddit
There was a Dart GT/GTS variant from the 1960’s. They looked typical until they kicked your butt at the light. lol
OberonsGhost@reddit
They made some of those with 426 Hemis. Extremely rare.
simonjr76@reddit
My father in law had 1 when he was younger. When he was here he used to tell me stories about it. Said it was scary fast.
RobsHereAgain@reddit
Yea and back then you spec them to be plain as hell so a lot of people got slayed in what were thought to be faster cars lol
Bubbaxx1@reddit
my daughter has a Mazda 6 and I am truly amazed at how awesome it is…
wolfpack_57@reddit
Those Ford and Lincoln hybrid SUVs with 450hp+ out of the TT v6. Otherwise, CVTs because car guys will discount them and there’s a reason they used them in F1 pre-ban. I was driving an Ascent and pulled out to pass and accidentally hit 90 without a single change in tone from the engine.
9BALL22@reddit
Pontiac G8
Old_Poetry_1575@reddit
2018-24 Toyota Camry V6
ShoemakerMicah@reddit
Golf R, few people see that level of performance coming. Tuned an easy 450 bhp, AWD, Haldex transmission. It flat out hooks and goes yet it’s almost visually identical to the boring models of VW Golf’s. Short list for my next winter car for sure.
hankenator1@reddit
Mazdaspeed 6. AWD, turbo 4 cylinder, basically a wrx clone without the boy racer body. Totally under the radar of police and the general public.
Scuzzbag@reddit
Nissan bluebird SSS u13
2009impala@reddit
Subaru Crosstrek
capt_jack994@reddit
Lotus Carlton
0pigbenis@reddit
Saturn sky with ls3 or the Mallett Sledgehammer
EducationalBike8090@reddit
1971 Plymouth Valiant Scamp submodel. With the 318 engine, the power to weight ratio made it surprisingly fast. Some tweaks under the hood, left some mouths gaping.
Open_Situation686@reddit
Quite a few tuned diesel 2500/3500 trucks
HotChilliWithButter@reddit
Audi A8 Quattro. The old ones especially, and the extended variant looks really good. It’s got around 400hp v8. But it’s a dangerous car…
_Thorshammer_@reddit
Modern high-end luxury SUVs can have 400-500hp backed by traction control and 8-10 speed transmissions.
They will absolutely eat any muscle car built before about 2015 for lunch.
icanhaztuthless@reddit
BMW X3M
C4PTNK0R34@reddit
For a newer car, the 2013-2015 Buick Verano with its 2.0L Turbocharged engine and 6-speed manual because let's be honest, nobody looks at a new Buick and thinks it's going to be fast.
It made 250hp and had a 0-60 in 6 seconds while looking like something your grandma would drive to church every day.
Middle-Jackfruit-896@reddit
Porsche Panamera Turbo.
Yes, I know people expect a Porsche, especially with a Turbo to be fast. However, I don't think people expect how incredibly fast it is.
0 to 100 kph in 2.6s, 10.9s quarter mile, 196 mph top speed.
I once saw one of these accelerate from a. off ramp on to a highway and was absolutely astonished in how fast it. It's like here in one second, and a speck in the distance before you know it.
Shamrock132@reddit
1996-2002 Camry with the V6 and manual.
idontevenlikespam@reddit
Accord 2.0t
Timewastinloser27@reddit
Amg str6 crossfire A 4'11 chick put bus lengths on my fbo ws6
Sorry-Dig-5588@reddit
Pontiac gto
JiveXP@reddit
The G8 and GTO have loud exhausts and massive vents on the hood lol
CreativeSecretary926@reddit
Chrysler 200 with the v6 and awd. Rare but omg holy hell fast with great driving dynamics
numbersev@reddit
Lexus is 500
Kinetic_Silverwolf@reddit
Respectfully, that's about 3 generations too late to be considered a sleeper. The 2000-2005 Lexus IS300, GS300, and SC300 all had the legendary Toyota 2JZ engine in them.
So when you're driving home at 3am trying to merge onto the interstate and some guy driving a Fair Lady doesn't want to let you merge, and you floor it in your sedentary looking four-door sedan that vaguely resembles a Camry and watch him turn beet red as he yells at you, that's when you know you're in a sleeper. 😉
JiveXP@reddit
The 2JZ GE, stock, is a slow engine. It barely makes 250 horsepower in all of the cars that it's in. The SC300 is the fastest car that it's in and it hits 60 in barely below 7 seconds. It's reliable, sure, and it can make good power on the stock block (only the non VVTI one in the SC300 and first gen GS300, you're on borrowed time at over 400 on the VVTI), but in stock form? From the factory? It's not fast.
The GTE is the legendary one.
spmpop75@reddit
Ford fusion sport awd
Pezking4@reddit
1992-1994 SE 5 speed Maximas, and all 1995-1999 5 speeds. The ultimate version was the 02 and 03 3.5L 6 speeds. But they did start to appear faster by then. A 1992 SE 5 speed looked like an 80s grocery getter but did low 15 sec 1/4 mile.
007AU1@reddit
Jaguar XJL SUPERSPORT
jaymansi@reddit
2013 Honda Accord with the 3.5 V6. Handles like crap but in a straight line can really scoot.
dodiddle1987@reddit
A supercharged crew cab f-150 with stock wheels. No one would ever expect it to
Unable_Pepper_5924@reddit
1989 turbo caravan. Can pump the boost up on them easily.
Ebomi@reddit
Surprisingly, the Saturn Ion Redline. Wife did an accidental burn out in front of a cop and they pulled over the ricer that was right next to her :) The bros in the ricer were not happy lol.
OolongGeer@reddit
Probably none.
You might catch some young and dumb ones who wouldn't know what a 1988 BMW M5 can do since they look so much like a 535.
mykepagan@reddit
Ford Taurus SHO
No-Enthusiasm3579@reddit
My LS2 powered Saab, almost nobody knows what it is, the cold start results in confused looks
nvm206@reddit
A tuned golf. Enthusiasts will know but the avg driver will have no idea. With the DCT it’s a sub 4 sec 0-100 kmh car.
Element_905@reddit
Buick Regal GS from the late 90s early oughts
Double_Dime@reddit
Chevy SS is a 4 door corvette that looks like a Malibu
itsaczech@reddit
I’ve got a 2018 SQ5 with APR stage one it definitely surprises a lot of people
CarelessPackage1982@reddit
Crown vics all day long, or even better 90's Mercury Courgar xr-7 that 5.0 V8
The late 80's one had a super charged v6's.
The later one's I saw everyone mod them heavily. What a sled, but man some mods that thing was brutally fast.
TotosWolf@reddit
Car guys will know good lord
cuffs98@reddit
Stock ford Taurus, Buick anything (older) Most of those “grandpa cars” usually hauled ass.
Do-it-with-Adam@reddit
the police interceptor model of the crown vic.
eyehatetofu@reddit
The 4V 4.6L equipped Mercury Marauder is faster. Looks like a high school kid modded his grandpa's hand me down Grand Marquis. They were pretty bad ass cars.
Medium_Pause_832@reddit
An LS swapped Buick
eyehatetofu@reddit
No swap needed if you get the LaCrosse Super. Came with a stock 5.3L.
humanjunkshow@reddit
I've been quietly (so the wife doesn't find out) on the hunt for a Volvo V70R wagon.
RandomSteam20@reddit
1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue Ultra w/ the Supercharged 3800 series 2 V6 (240 hp) and the 1999-2001 Chrysler LHS w/ its 24 valve 3.5 V6 (253 hp) Refined American land yatch’s and capable of reaching 150+ mph with just the governors removed.
TooMuchPJ@reddit
Lotus Carlton.
icameforgold@reddit
Doesn't matter when from a "sleeper" to supercar, Tesla blows them all out of the water.
Ultimate_Driving@reddit
BMW and Mercedes sedans. Literally nobody believes me when I tell them that my F10 535i makes almost 300 horsepower.
FLDJF713@reddit
Honestly, most Jags of any year. You see them and you expect to see an old white guy driving them at a leisurely pace (at least in the US). Jaguar is known as a British Buick in the USA and you wont likely find folks really ripping them.
Over in the UK, more normal to see them as what they are; performance comfy cars.
VanHam17@reddit
The Subaru Outback 3.6R cylinder has great kickdown with AWD. Much different than its 4cyl sibling.
oldjunk73@reddit
If I tell you they won't be sleepers.
Grandemestizo@reddit
Ford Explorer, 2020-present. The base engine has 300 HP and 310 Ft-Lbs of torque, which give it a 0-60 of only 6 seconds and the handling is way better than it ought to be for such a big car. The ST does 0-60 in only 5 seconds but car guys would see the ST badge and know what it means. If you get a platinum trim with the 3.0 V6 from the ST, that’s definitely a sleeper.
_ED-E_@reddit
Explorers are quick.
I’ve got an expedition with the timberline package, which came with the 3.5 h.o. Stock was 440 hp and 510 tq. I put a JB4 on it, and can consistently hit 0-60 in about 5.3 seconds with all terrain tires and just mashing the pedal to the floor. It’s not fast by today’s standards, but for a vehicle that size I think it’s pretty good.
NeuroguyNC@reddit
1969 Plymouth Valiant with the 225 slant six.
I could beat a mid to late '70s Camaro off the line up to about 45-50 mph.
Of course it was much lighter than when it was new due to all the rust causing a lot of metal to fall off the car. 😛
GreenTeachy@reddit
Accord V6 with the manual transmission.
Also V6 Camry. They have a 0-60 of like less than 5 seconds
one2manyhobbies@reddit
I drove a B5 Passat wagon (I think V6) a while back and was surprised by how it merged on the highway. Pretty quick.
VW Alltracks when you slap a tune on them are QUICK also and most people don't know how fast they can be
cptn_zippy@reddit
Early 2000’s Nissan Maxima with a manual transmission.
MarkVII88@reddit
Basically any Camry or Accord V6.
TheAntiRAFO@reddit
RS7 is absolutely a Sleeper. It looks like a normal Audi to a vast majority of people. If you had a conveyer line of cars with a single Rs7, you likely would miss it.
Your definition of Sleeper is basing off of the minority of people who can identify cars and know their history, performance, and look
Pimp_Daddy_Patty@reddit
True sleepers are the ones you build yourself.
thatdevilyouknow@reddit
Once knew of a guy with a tow yard and dealership that poured his money into a Saab 9-3 Viggen. I’d see him do some practice runs and with that thing and it was insanely quick. My guess was that he was running E85 or something but the way he still got traction and it clung to the road it just didn’t seem possible.
PurpleSausage77@reddit
I don’t even want to say, I like prices where they are for them. Let me collect a few of them first.
Some of these mentioned so far also look expensive and timeless/modern even 10-15 years later. IYKYK it’s just a certain “staying power”, the right amount of understated, they are at a sweet spot in their depreciation curve, and shocking performance.
IsisTruck@reddit
2008ish Toyota RAV4 with the optional V6 engine. 260ish hp in a relatively lightweight package.
seb66666@reddit
Bitsaremissing Magna!
throwaway11229887@reddit
Someone in my hometown has an engine swapped Prius. IDK what he’s put in it but it sounds awesome and I bet it’s fast as hell.
LeatherEmployee3694@reddit
Malibu 2.0T , V6 Accord, V6 Taurus.
Serialtorrenter@reddit
6-speed Nissan Altima with the 3.5L V6. As if regular Altima drivers weren't scary enough....
waterbat2@reddit
I've always thought the G8 was better looking than the Chevy SS, but I've had several people tell me they thought it was the same as the G6 or some type of refresh. Absolutely nobody seems to believe it shares an engine/transmission with the corvette.
My personal pick for a sleeper that surprised me would be the Kia Borrego. 4.6L V8 in a boring looking crossover, only sold for one model year
Oc34ne@reddit
I mean if you're into cars enough this list gets pretty short. People slept on my last "sleeper" 2006 S55 AMG. It's one of those iykyk kind of cars. Factory supercharged 5.4L long wheelbase limo missile. Most people just thought it was an older S Class, not a space shuttle.
halsoy@reddit
I think it depends how you define "fast" as well. Theres quite a few hot hatches that comes to mind that are significantly faster than anything else in their family that you wouldn't know about without, well... Knowledge.
Things like the Focus and Fiesta ST, 206/207 RC, Golf R etc. From any kind of distance they all appear normal. There's only subtle giveaways for most of them until you either try and follow them through corners, or any "standard" car of their time tried to race them.
funkthew0rld@reddit
The Saturn vue with the 3.5L Honda J35 engine.
Weird combo. I bet they boogie.
Objective-Deal8745@reddit
Saturn made a RedLine version of the VUE suv with a V6, AWD, and 300hp.
The Pontiac G8 GXP, it looked like a normal G8 event for an inverted hood scoop. 415hp and a 6-spd stick.
Chrysler Cross Fire SRT-6. Nobody knows about them, they only made a few. But god they hustled! 330hp supercharged v6.
Volvo S60-R badging was minimal and they came with a stick shift.
Cadillac made a STS-V for 2009 only. 469hp.
Mercury Marauder, it was a Crown Victoria with a Mercury Badge and a Mustang Cobra 4.6 V-8 stock.
Saleen Ford Explorer
AbbreviationsNo9609@reddit
Lexus GS series. The 430’s and 450h’s both are fast grandma looking cars
benmillerdata@reddit
The 2004 Subaru Forester 2.5XT got to 60mph in around 5.3s. That's a true sleeper
KokoTouch@reddit
The CT4-V Blackwing always surprises people
Careless-Trick-5117@reddit
Isn’t every car guy on the face of the planet aware of the Blackwing, and even more so of any Cadillac V in general?
Jahstin@reddit
Chevy SS is always my answer
Isamu29@reddit
A lot of people think Chevy SS are Malibus before they get smoked.
AlteredStateReality@reddit
Going to put down an S600 w221. You have to drive out to really understand. O-60 is sub 5 and I've you get to 60, it starts showing it's true form.
Practical-Play-5077@reddit
We had a Caddy CT6 PHEV and that thing was a lead sled. It would but 130 like a rocket ship. It was S-Class roomy, but handled great and was faster than damnit. No one expected it.
08legacygt@reddit
Subaru legacy gt 4th gen. Most wrx and Sti bros still don’t know about them
SotetBarom@reddit
3rd gen lexus gs450h
IDK_WTF_TRA@reddit
Cobalt SS/TC
hotrods1970@reddit
Ford Fairmmont/Futura/Merc. Zepher are undercover FOX Mustangs. Ford Granada, Merc. Monarch, Lincoln Versailles all 1st gen Mustangs under the skin. When they came with the V8 options they could all be modified just like the Mustang, and most Mustang parts would fit them.
Available-Tension-76@reddit
As an owner of one, forester xt
Old-guy64@reddit
I used to drive my father’s 1970 Ford country Squire wagon. Roof rack, trailer hitch, wood panel sides, single exhaust.
Under the hood was a 429 Super Cobra Jet with a factory Holley 1050cfm carburetor.
It also had a Posi rear end and 2.73 final drive.
It would barely burn rubber. But it would get to 106mph in second gear. With a quickness.
Only two things it couldn’t pass? The CHP, and a gas station.
Gunk_Olgidar@reddit
Dodge Omni Shelby GLHS Turbo 2.2 was quite the little sleeper ... if you can find one.
Those candles burnt real bright and didn't last very long.
Peanutbuttersnadwich@reddit
Mercedes ml63 amgs or a lot of the newer volvos the 6.2L v8 in the amg is a missile and without any amg badging on em they look just like any other benz suv but under hood you got 500hp. Ans the v60 polestars and atuff are like a 450hp hybrid and take off like a rocket from a dig. Puts a lotta entry level cars to shame. Can party with some of the big boys too with em. Also honda odyssey vans with the v6s are disturbingly fast
jalx98@reddit
Not car but truck, a cummins with a tune can make wonders lol
doesnotexist2@reddit
It's truly amazing how fast modern diesels are! Both with and without tunes. And they're pretty fast to non car guys, but to car-guys who are used to diesels being slow H-F-S!
ramdmc@reddit
VW Touareg V10 TDI or an Audi Q7 V12 TDI
sovereignpancakes@reddit
Ford Fusion Sport with the Ecoboost 2.7 Ford Flex w/Ecoboost 3.5 Chevy Caprice PPV with the 6.2 Various JDM vehicles with hotter engines than sold in this market, like the Toyota Aristo (Lexus GS300 with the 2JZ-GTE)
spetsnazK@reddit
My father-in-law with an E34 540, a beautiful sedan you might say, but ordinary people just saw a big road car, and yet it was harsh when exiting the toll booth.
dagobertamp@reddit
Mercury Marauder
GeneralJohnStark@reddit
I parked next to a dude in a last gen (2020 or earlier) Escalade shorty. And noticed subtle Calloway badging on it. Said it was pushing 550 horse, i imagine that moves that brick along pretty good.
larrysaysrelax@reddit
Rav4 V6 AWD, also had a 5spd auto so that 1st gear was real fun.
N_ModeVN@reddit
Car guys know which are the true sleepers.
ParticularFar8574@reddit
Ford festiva with 1.8T swap
SailingSpark@reddit
You can get the sleepy looking saab 9-7, a trailblazer SS in a Swedish suit.
The 2007 Range Rover Sport with the supercharger was fast in its day.
MedicalRhubarb7@reddit
Audi Q7 V12 TDI
IPleaseYourWlFE@reddit
most old buicks and mercury sable even in my experience. No idea why they put beefy v6s in some of them but i've been very surprised more often than not. a 6second 0-60 felt like lightning speeds in those things.
FranklinDudley@reddit
Volvo v60 polestar before they became hybrid. 362-hp twin-charged 2.0L four-cylinder engine with a sport-tuned chassis and all-wheel drive and a beast in sport mode.
Fantastic-Stop4410@reddit
1979 Olds Vista Cruiser
KyOatey@reddit
Debadged Mazdaspeed 6.
Elwoodpdowd87@reddit
Torque steer into a fucking tree, giggling the whole time
Slowvia@reddit
I test drove a Speed 6 back when they were new, and I can tell you that it was more fun than I had expected. I feel like they’re overshadowed by the Speed 3, but after driving both, the 6 is the better car. The torque steer on the 3 is wild.
2drumshark@reddit
Stock? MKZ 3.0 is the best answer. 400hp in a car that is typically driven by grandpa's. A lot of car guys don't even know about it.
MelodicNecessary3236@reddit
Tesla y dual motor is pretty quick - handles like a bus but straight line fast
8rings_86k@reddit
This one might be a stretch but from 2011+ Chrysler 300s with hemis are extremely uncommon and there is zero surefire way to tell the difference between a 5.7 and V6 300 at a glance. 5.7 hemi cars in general aren’t fast but it’s still a big V8 in grandma’s church cruiser
MelodicNecessary3236@reddit
Buick grand national
18436572_V8@reddit
Chevy Blazer EV. Lots of crossover EVs actually. Quietly quick. Boring, but quick.
SniperAge05@reddit
Lancia Thema 8.32, Ferrari V8 in a pretty regular car
TheCamoTrooper@reddit
Ford Flex Limited
Boba0514@reddit
A local tuner around here did an overpowered Suzuki Ignis once. That's about as sleeper as it gets
sed922@reddit
2009-2012 Toyota RAV4 with the 3.5L V6.
InfinityChina@reddit
Opel vectra 2.5L V6 192hp ‘family car’ . I remember undercover police using them in eastern EU on motorway as interceptors
Ornery_Ads@reddit
Volvos with the T8 drivetrain
HumblePotato@reddit
There was a little while you could get the Chevy Equinox with AWD and the 2.0T from the base Camaro. It wasnt super fast or sporty, but I rented on for a weekend trip and drove it like one does a rental car, and it kept surprising me with its pretty good 0-60z
HeterochromicKid@reddit
Caprice PPV looks unassuming or like a fleet impala with a V8 under the hood and rwd
FutureHendrixBetter@reddit
V6 rav4 those things were like rockets and they had to discontinue them because they were too fast 😂
Lordofpineapples@reddit
My Sienna and V6 RAV4 smoke a ton of cars on the road because people don’t expect it.
VoidJuiceConcentrate@reddit
The Subaru Legacy B-spec, if I remember correctly. Factory sleepers.
LewisHamtilon@reddit
Vw Polo 2012-2019
Sad_Construction_668@reddit
Tuned and upgraded turbo audi 2.7tt wagon, allroad or S4 avant . Hits 325-350 hp without trying hard .
HenryLoggins@reddit
I don’t know about any modern “sleepers” from the factory. But if you’re talking about modifying something, I think the biggest sleeper out there right now is the single cab F150 5.0. When you put a whipple on it.
gomizzou09@reddit
An early 2010s Toyota Highlander with the V6 was pretty fast in my experience
swakid8@reddit
Mazdaspeed 3
Mazdaspeed 6
SimilarCanary1255@reddit
Any M278 Mercedes with a renntech tune. 700lb ft of torque and 540hp at crank
spider1178@reddit
3rd Gen RAV4 with the 2GR-FE V6. It's no race car, but it will surprise the shit out of someone teasing you about your soccer mom car.
RedditVince@reddit
Pretty much any EV in sport mode.
Impressive_Bison_465@reddit
Accord coupe
aaudiholic@reddit
3.6 Passat
sit_n_survive@reddit
Agreed. While mine is sadly the downtuned 280hp NMS sedan, people that ride in it are always surprised at how much noise it can make. The DSG is super fun too.
series-hybrid@reddit
2008 Pontiac Grand Prix GXP
It did not look like a hot rod, but it was fast in stock trim.
"...In the mid-2000s General Motors built a new version of the LS V8 motor. Called the LS4, the new 303 hp 5.3-liter V8 was designed for front-wheel drive applications, and the company wasn’t shy to use it. Initially installed in the Pontiac Grand Prix GXP, the engine would also serve duty in that car’s corporate siblings, the Buick Lacross Super as well as the Chevrolet Impala SS, and Monte Carlo SS..."
https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/amv-prod-cad-assets/images/media/274710/2008-pontiac-grand-prix-gxp-photo-274869-s-986x603.jpg?crop=1.00xw:0.921xh;0,0.0785xh&resize=1200:*
WarCrimeGaming@reddit
The IS500 is not to distinguishable from a retailer is350 unless you know what you’re looking for. Hood gives it away
stinkydogusa@reddit
I had a 2019 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport that would rip up the pavement and then haul it away. It was quicker than my mustang. I never should’ve traded it.
FIGPUCKERS@reddit
1997 maxima
Left_Warthog_3732@reddit
I have a 2008 Volvo S80 V8. While it's not the fastest car by any means, it's really quick and nobody expects that from a bland looking Volvo sedan...
Aggressive-sponging@reddit
For car guys specifically makes it harder. I surprise a decent amount of people with my Levante gts, but that’s probably only because most of them don’t have the ttv8 shoved in
keithrc@reddit
Some of the Buick Regal T-Type trim level had the Grand National drivetrain in them. Maybe people knew, maybe they didn't...
Houston103@reddit
Any T8 Recharge Volvo. 455 horsepower, 523 lb/ft of torque, and AWD. Only aesthetic difference between a B5/B6 and a T8 is a small rectangular badge on the back. Otherwise they're identical. They.can get to sixty in mid 4s to high 3s, and can get really impressive mpgs.
Hendrixx95@reddit
VW Jettas 2017+
Routine_Breath2557@reddit
Well, mines not a car it’s a bone stock 12 second truck. Ford lightning. 580HP 775TQ. I know it’s not gasoline powered but holy shit when you mash the gas pedal it takes off like a rocket. 12 seconds and weighs 6900lbs
russellsdad@reddit
Chevy SS or caprice PPV
Dry_Pilot_1050@reddit
Gs350
_CodenameV@reddit
Toyota tercel. No one will think its fast. Youre welcome!
Rodeo6a@reddit
I inherited a 10 year old Buick Envision with a turbo engine from my 98 year old Grandmother. That thing is an absolute rocket small SUV.
FaithlessnessRich490@reddit
540 545 550 BMWs
Whack-a-Moole@reddit
Any car can be a sleeper. It's about adding performance without anyone knowing.
You can have a sleeper corvette if you stuff 2000hp under the hood and it still looks and sounds bone stock.
Zheiko@reddit
Mitsubishi Colt CZT
KingFisher300@reddit
3rd gen RAV4 with 3.5 v6
KoenigseggAgera@reddit
400 hp Lincoln MKZ
redditusername1203@reddit
My 92 Buick roadmaster. Looks like something Uncle Junior from the sopranos would roll up in. That 5.7l V8 pulls tho, and i have the year before they put the corvette engine in. I knew it has torque, but i learned what that statement meant last wednesday when i fishtailed down an entire street lol. Dont sleep on old buicks, and try not to hit them either. That car is built like a tank, in texas by texans as the sticker on the window implies
Agile_Session_3660@reddit
Chevy SS was absolutely a sleeper because GM did everything in their power to make it look like a Malibu instead of just bringing it over with the better Holden styling. I owned a 2015 and everyone always thought it was a Malibu. Got a speed ticket written as a Malibu. When I traded it in for a newer car the dealer thought it was a Malibu until they test drove it.
equityorasset@reddit
im a sleeper fan too, there so much fun to own lol
alexlikespizza@reddit
Cars with Honda’s v6
Ok-Leek-1529@reddit
Volvo v70r is one of my favorites
avatar_94@reddit
Probably Volvo 850 with the 5 cylinder engine
PurrfectPitStop@reddit
SRT4 neon.
jmardoxie@reddit
Biscayne with a 454 4 speed.
equityorasset@reddit
I believe its the car I just got last tuesday, Lincoln MKZ 3.0 twin turbo AWD 400hp 400 torque, its incredible. cant imagine how good its going to be with a tune
Tjtod@reddit
ACURA TL AND CL Type S.
MM800@reddit
The 1969 Chevy Camaro COPO ZL-1:
Plain jane 6 cylinder looking cars with no performance badging, steel wheels, dog dish hubcaps, and plain black vinyl interiors, but under the hood was an all aluminum high performance 427 V8, coupled to a close ratio 4 speed transmission or a Turbo 400 automatic. These were the ultimate sleepers:
https://www.onallcylinders.com/2023/09/29/behold-the-mighty-1969-chevy-camaro-copo-zl-1/
FordF150ChicagoFan@reddit
Any Expedition with the 3.5 High Output turbo 6
Silent-Contract-1790@reddit
SAAB 9000 Aero. Would smoke any contemporary BMW of same class.
leftmyrooster@reddit
Audi RSQ8
Grizlyfrontbum@reddit
My kids got an 05 chrysler 300c. looks like grandpas car but that hemi gets it going in a hurry.
ProfessionalMap2581@reddit
Volkswagen Arteon’s last few model years have n America were equipped with the Volkswagen R engine.
miluardo@reddit
Subaru Baja Turbo Manual
D3tsunami@reddit
Toyota Venza with the v6 can absolutely fly. Great road trip car, just floating at 80mph and 1800rpm
Conspicuous_Ruse@reddit
Hyundai Genesis 5.0 R-spec
aigheadish@reddit
It's likely not setting any records but I got a 2.7 f150 a few months ago. Off the line it is screamy fast for how big it is. I haven't gotten used to it yet and don't do any crazy cornering. It'll go.
pooo_pourri@reddit
Tbh the Chevy uhauls will wreck a lot of things in a race. I had a pretty modified rsx back in the day and my brother got one of the uhauls. He didn’t blow me away but it was definitely as fast if not a little faster
Dinky_Rex@reddit
Toyota Aristo. Most people don't know they come with the twin turbo 2JZ that can easily surpass the "Gentlemen's Agreement" with a simple tune.
Daer2121@reddit
Mercury Sable AIV.
Kinetic_Silverwolf@reddit
The 2000-2005 series Lexus IS300band GS300. Nobody at the time, and still a ton of people today, dont realize that those are rolling with the same Toyota 2JZ engine that was in the Supra.
No, not the new (dumb)Toyota/ BMW Supra/Z4, the actual really real Supra from "The Fast and the Furious".
joesnowblade@reddit
1977 Chevette with an LS swap.
Ok-Situation-9199@reddit
skylanemike@reddit
Volvo 740 Turbo Wagon or 850 Turbo Wagon
lowhangingtanks@reddit
Outback XT
Hersbird@reddit
There is a Saab 97x aero that is the same as a Trailblazer SS with the 6.0 is most people don't know about or would look twice at. Drop a turbo kit or a supercharger on that and be making 600hp easy but even stock they are pretty quick.
disgruntledarmadillo@reddit
I don't know what engines were in them but I've come across 2 of the new shape Land Rover Defender that have absolutely shifted
oww_my_liver@reddit
Older, but the 02-03 Maxima SE 6-speed with the LSD. VQ35 like the Z but front wheel drive and packaged as your run of the mill 2000s Nissan sedan. Almost bought one a few years ago and still regret not jumping on it. They had a penchant for burning oil but were otherwise solid, kind of the last of the Old Nissan
InvestedOcelot@reddit
Nothing mass produced or stock seems to make this list since we apparently know them all
gNat_66@reddit
As an owner of a Ford Focus RS I'm going to throw it into the hat. A lot of people just think its a Focus with a body kit or something.
disgruntledarmadillo@reddit
Nah there's nothing subtle about an RS. Cool cars thoughs
therynosaur@reddit
2002 Altima V6 manual. Not kidding. Motor trend tested the fastest fwd car they ever tested at the time.
Veroxzes@reddit
Mercedes AMG R63. Only 200 made.
DJScaryTerry@reddit
That's kind of a dumb statement tbh. You're saying if I've heard of it, that's too common. I've heard of most vehicles that exist. A sleeper is a car that is faster than it looks. A Chevy SS doesn't look fast. It is quite fast. Just because I've heard of it doesn't make it less of a sleeper. That only happens when a car becomes infamous, most people I know have never heard of a Chevy SS. With your rules you'd never have a sleeper again.
No_Mushroom3078@reddit
Mercury LS LSE comes to mind. Mazda had the Mazda Speed line in the mid 2000’s and the Mazda Speed 6 looked nearly identical the regular Mazda 6 (the wheels were different, the headlights were different, hood scoop) they were AWD and had close to 300hp with a 6 speed manual.
For a sleeper you want a boring sedan with either great potential or crazy power from the factory as a limited run.
OberonsGhost@reddit
There was a guy in the town I lived in that had a mid to late 2000's Mercedes E class 4 door coupe. What a lot of people do not realize is that you could order you Mercedes back then with AMG motors and trim. So this guy had an E65 AMG 4 door with what at that time I believe was around a 500 horsepower motor. Who would suspect a 4 door Mercedes would have a motor like that.
pandoraham@reddit
Saab 9-3 Aero or Viggen. Some 9-5s too
VersChorsVers@reddit
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the 5.9
Past_Ad5967@reddit
Volvo XC-90 T8. Car and driver tested it and it was 4.5 seconds 0-60.
IJustWantToWorkOK@reddit
I have a 2003 Kia Sorento, that is surprisingly fast.
PhotographStrong562@reddit
The saabaru. 93x?
Cdn_Nick@reddit
Volvo s60 Polestar.
Smart_History4444@reddit
If you’re a car guy and have good knowledge on most brands. It’s hard to fool them.
It works great on people that don’t know much on the brand and or people who buy cars as a status symbol.
I have a tuned 335i n54. It looks like your normal office guy car. No tints stock grandpa wheels, chrome grills. To someone who doesn’t know about it they genuinely are baffled when it pulls away from them. It’s not the fastest car on the street no. About 400 whp but it definitely throws car people off that don’t know the potential of the n54.
Miller335@reddit
Yup the gen1 and gen2 SHOs.