Seven Four-Cylinder Cars That Defy Supercar Conventions
Jalopnik highlights seven four-cylinder vehicles, ranging from the 1960s ASA 1000 GT to the 2024 Lotus Emira, that achieve supercar-level performance through lightweight construction, turbocharging, or advanced engineering. These models challenge the traditional definition of supercars, which typically requires V8, V10, or V12 engines. Key examples include the Lotus Esprit, which reached 170 mph with a 300 hp four-cylinder, and the Alfa Romeo 4C, which uses a carbon-fiber monocoque to achieve a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds with just 237 hp. The list also features rare homologation specials like the Porsche 968 Turbo S and the single-seater BAC Mono, demonstrating that cylinder count is not the sole determinant of high performance.