The engine, often referred to as the 'heart of the beast,' plays a significant role in the speed and overall performance of a car. There are various types of engines, each contributing uniquely to the car's speed. For instance, some common engine types include the internal combustion engine, electric engine, and hybrid engine. The internal combustion engine, which uses gasoline or diesel, is the most traditional and commonly used. Meanwhile, electric and hybrid engines are gaining popularity due to their efficiency and environmental benefits.

When discussing engine performance and car speed, two key terms are often mentioned: horsepower and torque. Horsepower is the measure of the engine's power, indicating how quickly a car can reach a certain speed. Higher horsepower means a car can accelerate faster and reach higher top speeds. On the other hand, torque refers to the force that propels the car forward. It directly influences the car's acceleration and pulling power.

The design of the engine itself also plays a substantial role in the speed of a car. Engine design encompasses several elements, including the number and arrangement of cylinders, the type of fuel system used, and the engine's cooling mechanism. These factors can significantly affect the engine's efficiency, power output, and, ultimately, the car's speed. For example, a car with a V8 engine (eight cylinders arranged in a V shape) will generally be faster and more powerful than a car with a four-cylinder engine. With the advancements in engine technology, car manufacturers continue to explore innovative designs to enhance car speed and performance.

Aerodynamics plays an essential role in determining a car's speed. It refers to the way air moves around things, and in the context of automobiles, it's all about how smoothly a car can cut through the air. The more aerodynamically designed a vehicle is, the less air resistance it encounters, allowing it to travel faster. Design features such as streamlined shapes, spoilers, and diffusers are used to manipulate airflow, minimizing the effects of drag and lift.

Parallelly, the materials used in constructing a car also significantly impact its speed. Lightweight materials like carbon fiber, aluminum, and high-strength steel are commonly used in fast cars. These materials reduce the car's weight without compromising its strength and safety. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to move, thereby increasing its potential speed.

Therefore, both aerodynamics and the choice of materials are pivotal in enhancing a car's speed. They work in harmony to create the perfect balance between power and weight, ultimately contributing to the car's overall performance.

As we steer into the future, the speed limit of cars is bound to push the boundaries of what we currently know. Several emerging technologies promise to revolutionize the way we perceive speed. Electrification, for instance, is a game-changer. Unlike traditional internal combustion engines, electric motors deliver instant torque, enabling quicker acceleration. Additionally, advancements in battery technology could lead to lighter and more energy-dense power sources, significantly increasing vehicle speed.

In the realm of materials, experts predict a shift towards lighter, stronger materials like carbon fiber composites and advanced alloys, which can greatly reduce a car's weight and increase speed. Another exciting area is the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) for predictive performance modeling. These technologies can optimize driving parameters in real-time for maximum speed and efficiency.

Experts envision a thrilling future for fast cars. Many believe that we'll witness a blend of high-performance electric vehicles with advanced aerodynamic designs, powered by AI-driven systems for optimal performance. Furthermore, the integration of autonomous driving technology could lead to high-speed, precision-controlled racing without human error. However futuristic this might sound, the wheels are already in motion, and the future of fast cars might just be around the corner.