Stealth Fail: 21 Cars That Attract the Most Attention

Some cars just seem to scream, “Pull me over!” If you drive one of these models, you might want to keep an eye on your speedometer and your rearview mirror.

1. Subaru WRX

The Subaru WRX is practically a poster child for speed-related traffic stops. With its turbocharged engine and rally car looks, it’s a favorite among enthusiasts—and cops, too. According to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), WRX drivers are 50% more likely to get pulled over than the average driver.

2. Dodge Charger

The Dodge Charger, especially the Hellcat variant, is a beast of a car with a reputation for power and speed. Unfortunately, this aggressive muscle car also has a reputation for attracting law enforcement, often due to its loud exhaust and tendency to push the speed limits.

3. Volkswagen GTI

The Volkswagen GTI’s combination of zippy performance and hot-hatch looks makes it a favorite among spirited drivers. However, that same appeal can also make it a frequent target for traffic stops, particularly in areas where speeding tickets are a big source of revenue.

4. Ford Mustang

Few cars symbolize American muscle like the Ford Mustang, but that also makes it a magnet for police attention. Whether it’s a V8-powered GT or a turbocharged EcoBoost, Mustangs are often caught breaking the speed limit or getting involved in reckless driving.

5. Chevrolet Camaro

Another classic American muscle car, the Chevrolet Camaro, isn’t shy about showing off its power. But with great horsepower comes great responsibility—or, for many Camaro drivers, a great number of traffic tickets.

6. Mercedes-Benz C-Class

You wouldn’t think a luxury sedan would be a cop magnet, but the Mercedes-Benz C-Class finds itself in that category. It’s likely due to its blend of high performance and sleek looks, which tempt drivers to push the limits a bit too often.

7. Dodge Ram 1500

Surprisingly, even pickup trucks like the Dodge Ram 1500 can attract unwanted attention from law enforcement. The combination of aggressive driving behavior and sheer numbers on the road puts this popular truck high on the list of vehicles that get pulled over.

8. Nissan 350Z

The Nissan 350Z is a beloved sports car for its affordability and performance. Unfortunately, its sporty design also draws attention from the police, especially in urban areas where street racing is a concern.

9. Audi A4

While it may be known for its refined European luxury, the Audi A4 also sees its fair share of traffic stops. Its sleek design and powerful turbocharged engines encourage spirited driving, which can lead to extra scrutiny from law enforcement.

10. Infiniti G37

The Infiniti G37 is another luxury car that often finds itself on the receiving end of a speeding ticket. Its combination of sharp handling and a powerful V6 engine makes it easy to speed, and police seem to notice.

11. Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler may be built for off-roading, but on the streets, it can attract some unwanted attention. Police often target Wranglers for equipment violations, especially when drivers modify their rigs with oversized tires and aftermarket lighting.

12. Toyota Tacoma

You might not think of the Toyota Tacoma as a ticket magnet, but this popular midsize truck makes the list. Its strong presence on the road and tendency for modifications mean it often catches a cop’s eye.

13. BMW 3 Series

BMW drivers have a reputation for aggressive driving, and the 3 Series is no exception. With its tight handling and powerful engines, this luxury car is a frequent target for speeding tickets and other traffic violations.

14. Mitsubishi Lancer

The Mitsubishi Lancer, particularly the Evolution model, has long been associated with rally driving and street racing culture. Unfortunately, that association means it often gets pulled over, even when it’s not speeding.

15. Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Mazda Miata may be small and fun to drive, but it’s also a frequent target for police. Its sporty appearance and agile handling can make it easy to push past the speed limit without even realizing it.

16. Cadillac Escalade

The Cadillac Escalade is a big, flashy SUV that commands attention—and not always the good kind. Its imposing size and high-end appeal make it a frequent target for traffic stops, especially for speeding or other reckless driving behaviors.

17. Acura TL

The Acura TL may look like a responsible sedan, but it’s been known to attract its fair share of traffic stops. With a V6 engine and sporty design, this luxury sedan often ends up on a cop’s radar.

18. Chrysler 300

The Chrysler 300’s bold styling and powerful engines make it a standout on the road, and not just to car enthusiasts. Police often pull over this full-size sedan, particularly when it’s customized with flashy aftermarket modifications.

19. Tesla Model S

The Tesla Model S might be the future of electric vehicles, but it still attracts plenty of police attention. With its instant torque and silent acceleration, it’s easy to see why Tesla drivers can sometimes forget just how fast they’re going.

20. Subaru BRZ

The Subaru BRZ is a small, lightweight sports car that’s perfect for spirited driving. But that same driving style often leads to encounters with the police, making it a frequent target for speeding tickets.

21. Hyundai Genesis Coupe

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe offers affordable performance, which makes it a popular choice among younger drivers. Unfortunately, that also makes it a common sight in a police officer’s rearview mirror, especially in areas with a high rate of street racing.

The Fine Line 

Driving a car that turns heads can be a thrill, but it often comes with a price—extra attention from law enforcement. If you own one of these vehicles, consider driving a bit more cautiously, unless you’re looking to contribute to the local ticket quota. After all, there’s a difference between showing off your ride and showing up in court.

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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Gabriel Nica.

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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.