Introduction
If you’re a GTA 5 fan who plays on both PS4 and PS5, you may have noticed a surprising difference in car performance. While maps, missions, and vehicles may look almost identical across consoles, driving feels entirely different. Some cars feel lightning-fast on PS5 but sluggish on PS4, while others handle corners in a way that seems almost impossible on older hardware. This raises a burning question among players: which console truly has the fastest cars in GTA 5?
In this article, we dive deep into the Fastest PS4 Cars vs PS5 Cars Speed Test, breaking down real-world comparisons, acceleration, top speed, and handling differences. We’ll explore the fastest car in GTA 5 Story Mode, the fastest car in GTA 5 Online 2025, and special models like the Bravado Banshee GTS and fastest car in GTA 5 without HSW.
We’ll also provide expert tips, common mistakes to avoid, and FAQs so that both casual and competitive players can choose the right vehicle and dominate races.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which cars shine on each console, how upgrades like HSW transform gameplay, and which rides give you the edge in high-speed GTA 5 challenges.
Table of Contents
Fastest PS4 Cars vs PS5 Cars Speed Test Why PS4 and PS5 Cars Perform Differently
While GTA 5 is fundamentally the same across consoles, the way cars perform is surprisingly different between PS4 and PS5. This is mainly due to hardware improvements, upgraded physics engines, and new features like HSW upgrades that only exist on the next-gen platform.
The Impact of 60 FPS on Car Handling
One of the biggest changes is frame rate. PS5 supports a smooth 60 FPS (or higher) compared to PS4’s standard 30 FPS. This higher frame rate allows the game to process car physics and player inputs more accurately and consistently.
- Steering feels more responsive, making it easier to navigate tight corners.
- Vehicles react faster to acceleration and braking, especially at high speeds.
- Drifting is smoother, letting players maintain control during long turns.
- Consistent frame rates reduce unexpected slips or wobbling, improving overall stability.
The result is that PS5 vehicles often shave seconds off lap times compared to their PS4 counterparts, making even familiar cars feel entirely new.
The Introduction of HSW Upgrades on PS5
HSW upgrades are exclusive to PS5 and dramatically change a vehicle’s capabilities. Once applied, acceleration, top speed, and cornering improve significantly.
- Cars that were already fast on PS4 become unstoppable speed machines.
- Players can achieve top speeds that are impossible on older hardware.
- Certain vehicles rise to the top of the Top 10 fastest cars in GTA 5 ranking only because of HSW upgrades.
Even casual players notice these upgrades, as small differences in acceleration and handling can make or break a race.
Improved Vehicle Physics on PS5
PS5 also features more advanced physics simulations. Weight distribution, suspension, and traction are more precise, creating realistic behavior at high speeds.
- Cars stick to the road better in corners.
- Sudden turns or collisions are more predictable.
- Players can push vehicles closer to their limits without losing control.
- This makes races more competitive and enjoyable, especially when using high-end sports cars.
These improvements alone often explain why the fastest PS5 cars feel unbeatable compared to PS4 versions.
Speed Test Breakdown: Fastest PS4 Cars vs PS5 Cars Speed Test
To answer which console truly dominates, speed tests consider multiple factors: acceleration, top speed, handling, and how well a vehicle maintains its maximum velocity over time. Here’s what we found in side-by-side comparisons.
Acceleration Test
Acceleration is often the deciding factor in races. PS5 vehicles, especially those with HSW upgrades, have a clear edge.
- PS4 cars accelerate consistently but more slowly, which can be noticeable during short races.
- PS5 cars launch faster and maintain smooth acceleration curves, giving players better control.
- Even cars without HSW on PS5 benefit from improved physics, reacting more naturally to input.
For example, a car that takes 4.5 seconds to reach 60 mph on PS4 may do it in just 3.8 seconds on PS5 with upgrades.
Top Speed Test
Top speed differences are equally impressive. Many PS5 cars reach higher maximum speeds due to both hardware improvements and upgrades.
- The fastest car in GTA 5 Online 2025 on PS5 can surpass 150 mph, while the same model on PS4 struggles to reach 135 mph.
- Vehicles with HSW modifications extend their top speed further, creating a significant advantage in long straightaways.
This makes PS5 cars dominant in races on highways, airports, and straight city streets.
Handling and Stability
Handling is often overlooked, but it determines whether high-speed cars can stay on the track. PS5’s enhanced physics make cornering, braking, and drift control much easier.
- Tight corners are easier to navigate without skidding.
- Cars feel lighter but more predictable, even at top speed.
- Players can maintain faster lap times due to improved control.
Real Speed Example
To illustrate the difference, a high-performance car hitting 130 mph on PS4 might reach 150–160 mph on PS5 with HSW. Acceleration is smoother, cornering is tighter, and braking is more responsive. This combination clearly determines the winner in console-specific speed tests.
Fastest PS4 Cars: Old-Gen Leaders
Despite lacking HSW upgrades, PS4 still has some impressive vehicles. These old-gen cars remain favorites for many players.
1. Ocelot Pariah
- Top speed: ~136 mph
- Acceleration: Fast but not extreme
- Strengths: Balanced cornering and straight-line speed
Even without HSW upgrades, the Pariah consistently outperforms other PS4 vehicles in both Story Mode and Online races.
2. Pfister 811
- Top speed: ~133 mph
- Acceleration: Moderate but smooth
- Strengths: Better balance between speed and control
Many racers choose the Pfister 811 for its predictable handling during high-speed maneuvers.
3. Bravado Banshee GTS
- Top speed: ~131 mph
- Acceleration: Quick for short bursts
- Strengths: Excellent for urban racing, responsive in corners
Its stylish design also makes it a popular choice for players seeking both aesthetics and speed.
4. Itali GTO
- Top speed: ~132 mph
- Acceleration: Good, slightly slower than Pariah
- Strengths: Exceptional lap times due to strong cornering
Even without HSW, this car often outperforms heavier supercars on twisty courses.
Fastest PS5 Cars: New-Gen Speed Monsters
On PS5, the HSW upgrades and advanced physics create a new tier of ultra-fast vehicles.
1. Karin S95 (HSW)
- Top speed: ~155 mph
- Acceleration: Extremely fast with HSW
- Strengths: Perfect for long straightaways and quick lane changes
The S95 becomes a go-to for competitive Online races due to its incredible launch speed.
2. Entity MT (HSW)
- Top speed: ~152 mph
- Acceleration: Fast, stable handling
- Strengths: Reliable in both straight lines and technical courses
Its predictability at high speeds makes it a favorite among PS5 players.
H3: 3. Weaponized Ignus (HSW)
- Top speed: ~150 mph
- Acceleration: Quick, smooth transitions
- Strengths: Strong handling for long tracks and urban races
4. Hakuchou Drag (HSW)
- Top speed: ~160 mph (motorcycle)
- Acceleration: Unmatched in short bursts
- Strengths: Easily beats most cars in straight-line races
Although technically a bike, the Hakuchou Drag dominates speed tests due to its lightning-fast acceleration.
Fastest Car in GTA 5 Story Mode
For Story Mode, certain cars consistently outperform others. The Truffade Adder is widely considered the fastest overall, combining top speed with manageable handling.
Other top Story Mode picks:
- Vapid Bullet: Fast acceleration, excellent cornering
- Progen T20: Balanced top speed and control
- Pegassi Zentorno: Handles well on technical tracks
These vehicles help players complete missions faster and dominate races in single-player mode.
Fastest Car in GTA 5 Online 2025
Online racing introduces a new layer of competition. PS5 players often use HSW upgrades, while PS4 players compete with old-gen limitations.
PS5 Ranking (With HSW)
- Hakuchou Drag – unmatched acceleration and top speed
- Karin S95 – versatile for most race types
- Entity MT – stable and predictable
- Cyclone II – strong handling, competitive top speed
- Weaponized Ignus – powerful all-rounder
PS4 Ranking
- Ocelot Pariah – remains fastest in old-gen
- Pfister 811 – balanced acceleration and top speed
- Itali GTO – excellent for technical tracks
- Banshee 900R – high acceleration in short bursts
- Deveste Eight – strong in straightaways, weaker in corners
This demonstrates why PS5 cars dominate most Online competitions.
Fastest Car in GTA 5 Without HSW
For players avoiding HSW upgrades, the competition looks closer to old-gen rankings.
Top contenders:
- Ocelot Pariah – still a strong all-rounder
- Itali GTO – excels in twisty tracks
- Deveste Eight – high top speed, moderate handling
- Banshee 900R – fast in short bursts
This ensures competitive races even without next-gen enhancements.
10 Expert Tips for How to Choose the Right Fast Car
- Know the race type – Choose high-top-speed cars for straightaways and balanced vehicles for technical courses.
- Check acceleration numbers – Quick launch often wins short races more than top speed alone.
- Avoid heavy vehicles – Lighter cars maintain better control through corners.
- Use full upgrades – HSW and other mods dramatically improve performance on PS5.
- Practice braking points – Braking too late can ruin a perfect lap.
- Tune suspension correctly – Optimal suspension balances speed and control.
- Learn the map – Knowing shortcuts can give more advantage than raw speed.
- Test both PS4 and PS5 versions – Performance differences affect your choice.
- Use internal camera for better reaction time – Helps manage tight turns at high speed.
- Consider non-super classes – Sports and muscle cars can surprisingly beat high-end supercars in certain races.
Common Mistakes and FAQs
Mistake 1: Choosing cars only by top speed
Top speed matters, but acceleration and handling often determine race outcomes. Always consider balance.
Mistake 2: Ignoring HSW upgrades
HSW can completely change a car’s performance on PS5. Not using it puts you at a competitive disadvantage.
Mistake 3: Forgetting PS4 vs PS5 physics
A car that feels perfect on PS4 may feel over-responsive on PS5. Adapt your driving style.
Q 1: What is the fastest PS4 car?
The Ocelot Pariah is still the fastest old-gen option.
Q 2: What is the fastest PS5 car?
The Hakuchou Drag (HSW) leads in acceleration and top speed.
Q 3: Can PS4 and PS5 players race together?
No. Each console has separate Online race categories.
Conclusion
The Fastest PS4 Cars vs PS5 Cars Speed Test proves that PS5 has the upper hand. HSW upgrades, improved frame rates, and advanced physics create a new level of speed, acceleration, and handling. While PS4 cars remain fun and competitive within old-gen limits, PS5 vehicles dominate most competitive scenarios. Choosing the right car for your console, race type, and play style gives a clear advantage.
Which car will you take for your next race, and will you push it to the limit on PS5 or master the classics on PS4?
