How Fast Can F1 Cars Go? Comparisons With MotoGP, IndyCAR, NASCAR and Formula E

Without a doubt, F1 has always been the pinnacle of motorsport. However, it is not the only racing series in the world and some other machines are just as fast, if not faster. For instance, there is MotoGP, which is considered the pinnacle of two-wheel racing. Across the pond, there are IndyCar and NASCAR, and those cars are reasonably quick. Finally, there is Formula E, the fairly new kid on the block.

So, how does F1 speed compare to other motorsports?

Let’s find out!

Formula E

If we’re being honest, Formula E will be the slowest on this list, as electric motors may not be as quick as a petrol engine. However, it is worth mentioning that the Gen2 cars have a respectable top speed of 280km/h. Admittedly, it is still slower than most top-tier single-seater racing series.

However, the FE cars are designed to race on tight street circuits, so comparison with an F1 car was always going to be difficult. On the bright side, these cars enjoy an acceleration speed of 0-100km/h in 2.8 seconds.

NASCAR

In terms of speed, NASCAR cars have a top speed of 321km/h. However, it is worth mentioning that the sport has been placing ceilings on top speed since the 1980s.

This was largely seen as a safety measure, owing to several accidents that injured or killed spectators and/or drivers. Additionally, the cars’ weight is also a factor that lowers its top speed. Finally, NASCAR cars also have an acceleration speed of 3.4 seconds to go from 0-100km/h.

MotoGP

In terms of top speed, MotoGP bikes are also extremely fast. In fact, the top recorded speed in an official session is 362km/h. Of course, MotoGP is divided into three classes, with the 250cc Moto3 bikes, the 765cc Moto2 bikes and 1000cc MotoGP bikes. The Moto2 bike’s top speed is 300km/h and the Moto3 bike has a top speed of 248km/h.

MotoGP bikes have the ability to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in around 2.6 seconds. However, it is noteworthy that it takes 11/8 seconds to reach 300 km/h from a standstill.

F1

Without a doubt, F1 cars are quick and boast of a top speed of 372 km/h. In addition to that, F1 cars enjoy an acceleration speed of 2.6 seconds from 0-100 km/h. Admittedly, the cars’ aerodynamics do play a role in adding to the speed.

It is worth mentioning that Honda took its RA106 to the Bonneville Salt Flats in the US. This is an area that is famous for attempts to break top-speed runs. Here, the manufacturer attempted to breach the 400km/h barrier, but could only muster 397km/h.

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IndyCar

Finally, there are the IndyCar cars. Out of all the aforementioned racing disciplines, IndyCar is the fastest in terms of top speed. This is because these car can reach up to 380km/h. However, this is offset by the fact that an IndyCar car’s acceleration is slower than an F1 car.

READ MORE: NASCAR vs IndyCar vs F1 vs MotoGP: Which Racing Series Holds the Most Impressive Track Record at COTA?