I don't really like the teacups, although DD loves them.
I don't mind Cars at all - and DD absolutely loves them too. They are more spinny than the teacups, but maybe its the different way they spin as opposed to the teacups that makes me feel a bit better when I come off Cars?
The cars that you ride in aren't lightning, sally etc, they are generic ones, coloured in red, blue and green (ligtning, sally, flo).
I think its a great ride (too short though), such a shame your little one might not like it.
Elaine