In a world focused on speed and power, it’s intriguing to explore the opposite end of the spectrum, the slowest cars. These vehicles offer a unique experience where rushing becomes impossible. So, let’s discover the world’s slowest cars, some even holding Guinness records for their slowness.
- Axiam Coupe
- Renault Twizy
- Fox E-Mobility MIA
- Tata Nano
- Ambassador 1.5 DSZ
- Chevrolet CMV
- Citroen AX Electrique
- Reliant Robin LX
- Fiat Qubo Natural Power 1.4
- BMW Isetta 250
Axiam Coupe
Aixam Coupe is one of the slowest cars globally, a lightweight two seater coupe. Surprisingly, in few of the European Countries, drivers do not require a driver’s license to drive it. Instead, they must pass a test to navigate the streets.
It is equipped with a 2 cc 400 cylinder diesel engine. Moreover, this car boasts a maximum power of around 5.6 HP and a top speed of approximately 48 km/h.
Renault Twizy
Renault Twizy, an electric microcar marketed by Renault. It is classified as a light quadricycle and features a 4kW (5.4 bhp) electric motor with a top speed of 45 kph or 28 mph. Additionally, there is a Twizy 80 model classified as a heavy quadricycle, offering 13kW (12bhp) for the 80 models.
Initially showcased as a concept car at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, it was officially released in 2012 in the French market, with prices ranging from $8600 to $9200. Despite its ultra compact size of only 2.32 meters, the Twizy’s electric engine provides a motor power of just 4 kW, making it eligible for driving by 14 year olds in most European countries with a special license.
Fox E-Mobility MIA
MIA is a plug in electric vehicle that offers more space compared to the previous model. It was primarily designed for urban use. It is considered one of the slowest cars globally and features three seats. With a full charge time of approximately 3 hours, it boasts a range of around 120 km.
Notably, it holds the record for the slowest acceleration times from 0 to 100 km/h, taking over half a minute to achieve this speed.
Tata Nano
Tata Nano, a compact city car designed in India, aims to offer an affordable rear engine hatchback option for motorcycle and scooter users. It reaches a top speed of 65mph or 105kph and features an engine power of 37bhp at 5500 RPM.
The Nano’s economical price stems from its minimalist features and the limited utilization of steel in its manufacturing. This positioning led to its promotion as “The People’s Car.”
Hindustan Ambassador 1.5 DSZ
The Hindustan Ambassador, a classic car in India, achieves a relatively faster speed, taking an “impressive” 28 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. However, it still belongs to the category of the slowest cars worldwide. The Ambassador 1.5 DSZ features a 2 liter Isuzu diesel engine that delivers slightly over 50 horsepower.
Chevrolet CMV
Chevrolet designed the CMV as a commercial pick up to cater to budget conscious workers requiring a vehicle for urban deliveries. The CMV features a small three cylinder engine with a capacity of approximately 0.8 liters or 796 cc.
The engine produces a maximum power of around 37 horsepower, enabling the vehicle to achieve an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 27 seconds without any load.
Citroen AX Electrique
Citroen launched the AX Electrique, one of the slowest vehicles worldwide, in France in 1993. It features an 11hw DC electric motor and achieves a top speed of 57mph or 91kph. Moreover, this vehicle played a significant role as one of the early large scale productions for electric vehicles, offering a range of 50 miles on a full charge.
Its various components rely on a conventional 12 volt battery, paving the way for future electric vehicles such as the Citroen Saco Electrique, which made its debut in 1996.
Reliant Robin LX
The iconic Reliant Robin comes with a single tire at the front and two at the rear. It reaches its top speed of 60mph or 100kph in 15.2 seconds. It was manufactured in England. Various models have been manufactured over a span of 30 years.
Additionally, the LX model was introduced in 1989, featuring a refreshed appearance and becoming part of the SLX, BRG, and Royale models. Despite its size resembling a conventional smaller car, the Robin’s official mass below 450 kg or 992 lb allowed holders of a lower category driving license in the UK to operate it.
Fiat Qubo Natural Power 1.4
The Fiat Quabo claims the title of the fastest car among the slowest cars in the world. In particular, the Natural Power 1.4 model distinguishes itself as one of Europe’s slowest car productions. It relies on a Fiat FIRE series gasoline engine, delivering around 76 horsepower. The car achieves the 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 17.7 seconds.
BMW Isetta 250
The Isetta 250, famously known as the bubble car, holds a special place in BMW’s history. During the 1950s, when the company teetered on the edge of bankruptcy, this vehicle revolutionized their fortunes.
The Isetta 250 earned its spot among the slowest cars due to its low production cost, which compromised its speed. Its 236cc engine empowers it to reach a top speed of 53mph or 85 kph, an unimpressive figure by today’s standards. Nevertheless, it served as an affordable transportation option for numerous families during that era.
A variation of the bubble car featured a 300cc engine with 13bhp, but both versions were constrained to the same top speed.
The slowest cars in the world offer a unique charm and cater to specific needs. From compact city cars to quirky three wheelers, these vehicles prioritize affordability, convenience, and a different driving experience. They remind us that not everything is about speed, but rather enjoying the journey at a more relaxed pace.
