Quick Links
Grand Theft Auto 3 is a big game, but not quite as big as the other titles in the franchise. All the same, there is a lot to do even by modern gaming standards. There are a ton of vehicles to find and steal either on the map or from people just driving by.
The following list will tell you where to find the best cars on the map. Most of the cars here are easy to find, but some have to be unlocked first. Even from the start of the game, you can already pick up a couple of these to help with the early missions.
The Banshee - Car Dealership In Portland
Until you reach Staunton Island, the Banshee is easily the fastest car you can find in Portland. You have to be careful with it, though, because it blows up easily. It is not recommended to take on missions where people might be shooting at the vehicle.
It will come in handy for those missions that need you to get somewhere quick. You can find it in the car dealership next to the gas station, in front of 8-Ball's shop.
Borgnine - Harwood In Portland
This cab takes a little effort to unlock, but it is worth it if you want an extremely durable and easy-to-handle car. The Borgnine is a reference to Ernest Borgnine and his role in Escape From New York. To unlock it, you have to first complete 100 fares of the taxi mission.
Though it takes a while, it is a worthwhile endeavor. If you do plan on doing these missions, we recommend doing it right away, because later on some gangs become hostile towards you and it becomes harder to drive safely through certain neighborhoods.
Mafia Sentinel - Salvatore's Mansion In Portland
When it comes to a mixture of durability and speed, the Mafia Sentinel is a good fit. Though some mafia members simply drive around in them, you can always find a couple in front of Salvatore Leone's mansion in the northeast part of Portland.
Yakuza Stinger - Asuka's Apartment In Staunton Island
This car is simple to see once you reach Staunton Island. One is always parked outside of Asuka's apartment (where you first take missions from her). They are also driving around the city, but you can always count on one being here.
Patriot - In The Garage After Completing Marked Man
The last mission for Ray Machowski sees you driving him to the airport where he runs away from Liberty City. As a parting gift, he gives you the location to a garage where the Patriot waits for you. This car is particularly helpful because it is bulletproof. We recommend bringing it along for the last couple of missions. The car does not regenerate, so be sure not to flip it over and lose it.
Rhino - In Phil's Army Surplus Store After Beating The Game
The Rhino can be captured after obtaining a six-star wanted level, but surviving that is quite the ordeal. Alternatively, you can simply beat the game and then find the tank available at Phil's store in Staunton Island. It is always there, but you cannot get into it and drive around until after beating the game.