In the ever-changing world of automobiles, certain models push past the boundaries of time and technology, and leave a mark on the auto industry forever. From high-performance sports cars to practical and everyday models, these cars have shaped the way we think about cars. Let’s look at some of the absolute coolest cars to ever exist from the best auto brands.
AC Cobra
AC’s Cobra is a car that redefined what a sports car could be. Devised by Carroll Shelby, the Cobra was a bold combination of AC’s Ace sports car and a powerful Ford V8 engine. Since its inception in 1962, the Cobra has been renowned for its raw power and racing prowess.
Alpine A110
The Alpine A110, initially a modest sports car from the 1960s, evolved into a rally legend, clinching the 1973 World Rally Championship. The modern A110, introduced in 2017, is a testament to Alpine’s commitment to driving pleasure and performance. Loved for its immersive and forgiving chassis, it bridges the gap between its rally roots and contemporary sports car excellence.
Alfa Romeo GTAm
The Alfa Romeo GTAm, a derivative of the GTA coupe, is a standout in racing history. Crafted by Autodelta as a homologation special, the GTAm dominated the European Touring Car racing scene in the early 1970s. Its rarity and racing pedigree makes it one of the coolest models in Alfa Romeo’s history.
Austin Seven
The Austin Seven was Britain’s answer to the Ford Model T. Affordable and simple, it democratized motoring in the UK and beyond. Its impact was huge -BMW’s first car was a licensed Austin Seven. Its legacy continues in the classic car scene, revered for its historical significance and adaptability in racing and record-breaking.
Austin-Healey 3000
The Austin-Healey 3000 was the pinnacle of the ‘big Healey’ series. Blending the charm of British sports cars with amazing performance, the 3000 excelled both as a road car and in the rally scene of the 1960s. Its representation of the ‘hairy-chested’ sports car archetype has cemented its status as an icon.
Bentley Arnage
The Bentley Arnage is a symbol of greatness in the brand’s history. Named after a Le Mans corner, it showcases Bentley’s racing heritage and luxury. The Arnage, powered mostly by the L-Series V8 engine, struck a balance between tradition and modern luxury, embodying the essence of Bentley in the 20th and early 21st centuries.
BMC Mini
The BMC Mini, with its revolutionary design and broad cultural impact, became an icon of British motoring. Its role transcended being just a car; it was a cultural phenomenon, a motorsport champion, and a symbol of the 1960s. The Mini’s popularity went on well past its prime.
BMW M3 E30
The BMW M3 E30, the first in the M3 series, holds a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts. Its four-cylinder engine and exhilarating performance set the standard for performance sedans. Dominant in racing and beloved on the road, the E30 M3’s blend of agility and power remains unmatched.
Buick Riviera (first generation)
The first-generation Buick Riviera is a true classic of American automotive design. Launched in 1962, its bold styling and powerful V8 engine perfectly epitomized the era’s optimism and innovation. With its unique look and powerful performance, the Riviera was a huge high point in Buick’s history.
Cadillac Escalade
The Cadillac Escalade epitomizes a significant shift in luxury vehicle preferences in the 21st century. Despite its notable departure from traditional Cadillac models, the Escalade’s overwhelming success story in the competitive luxury SUV market, combined with its great cultural significance, firmly establish it as a modern icon for the brand.
Chevrolet Corvette
The Chevrolet Corvette is arguably the most successful sports car in automotive history, a true legend. Evolving since 1955, the Corvette has continuously set the standard in its segment, outperforming competitors. The latest mid-engine model proudly continues this storied legacy, skillfully combining cherished tradition with cutting-edge technology to maintain and elevate its iconic status.
Chrysler 300
The Chrysler 300 notably stands out as a defining icon in the modern era, effectively reviving Chrysler’s proud tradition of producing large, rear-wheel-drive sedans. Its powerful Hemi V8 engine and distinctive, bold design make it a contemporary nod to Chrysler’s illustrious past, aptly representing the brand’s enduring appeal and commitment to excellence.
Citroën DS
The Citroën DS, an undeniable automotive masterpiece, significantly pushed the boundaries of innovation and design. Equipped with advanced features like hydropneumatic suspension and pioneering directional headlights, the DS was light-years ahead of its time in automotive engineering.
Datsun 240Z
The Datsun 240Z significantly marked Nissan’s impactful entry into the high-performance coupe segment. Sporting a sleek design and a capable six-cylinder engine, the 240Z impressively demonstrated that Nissan could compete with the best in sports car manufacturing. This pioneering vehicle effectively set the stage for a proud and enduring lineage of Z cars, shaping Nissan’s identity in the sports car market.
De Tomaso Pantera
The De Tomaso Pantera, undeniably the most successful model from Alejandro de Tomaso’s innovative company, skillfully combined exquisite Italian design with raw American power. Boasting a remarkably long production run and impressively balanced performance, the Pantera stands as a shining, exemplary testament to De Tomaso’s unique and visionary approach in the world of automotive design.
Dodge Charger Daytona
The Dodge Charger Daytona, one of the legendary Winged Warriors, notably made a significant mark in NASCAR with its distinctive, groundbreaking aerodynamics and highly impressive racing record. Its unique, eye-catching design and fiercely competitive spirit make it an unforgettable standout highlight and a celebrated chapter in Dodge’s performance history.
Ferrari F40
The Ferrari F40, the last model developed under Enzo Ferrari’s direct supervision, stands as a true hallmark of exceptional performance and innovative design. Featuring racing-inspired aesthetics merged seamlessly with its formidable turbocharged power, the F40 has captivated and captured the imagination of car enthusiasts worldwide. This iconic supercar embodies the very essence of Ferrari, showcasing the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of speed and style, while honoring its rich racing heritage and maintaining its prestigious status in the automotive world.
Fiat Nuova 500
The Fiat Nuova 500 really captured the spirit of post-war Italy, symbolizing the country’s journey towards economic recovery. This little car, with its compact design and wallet-friendly price tag, quickly became a familiar and much-loved sight on Italian streets. It’s a testament to Fiat’s knack for making cars that are not only charming and cute but also practical and affordable for everyday people.
Ford Model T
The Ford Model T holds a special place in our hearts, more than just an iconic Ford; it’s a cornerstone of automotive history. This remarkable car revolutionized manufacturing and mobility, forever changing how we move and live. The Model T’s huge impact on society and the automotive industry is unparalleled, cementing its place as a true icon of the 20th century.
Hillman Imp
The Hillman Imp was a real game-changer, a nice departure from Hillman’s more conventional lineup that introduced innovation and competition success to the brand. This plucky little car, with its rear-mounted engine and zippy performance, really made its mark in motorsport. The Imp was Hillman’s way of showing the world they could do more than just the ordinary, pushing boundaries and experimenting with new ideas.
Hindustan Ambassador
The Hindustan Ambassador, an ever-present fixture on Indian roads, was more than just a car; it was a testament to durability and adaptability. Starting its journey as a Morris Oxford, the Ambassador evolved beautifully to meet local needs, becoming not just a car, but a real symbol resilience.
Holden Maloo
The Holden Maloo, a high-performance ‘ute’, truly embodies Australia’s passion for powerful, sedan-based pickup trucks. It’s the perfect marriage of a truck’s utility and a sports car’s thrill, making the Maloo a one-of-a-kind, much-loved gem in Holden’s lineup. For Aussies and car enthusiasts alike, it’s not just a vehicle; it’s a proud symbol of versatility and power
Honda Civic Type R
The Honda Civic Type R, a thrilling high-performance variant, excels with its exhilarating performance, showcasing Honda’s dedication to engineering prowess and driving exhilaration. Its evolution from a spirited, high-revving naturally aspirated engine to a potent turbocharged powerhouse is a testament to Honda’s unwavering commitment to enhance driving excitement and push the boundaries of automotive engineering.
Hummer H1
The Hummer H1, a civilian adaptation of the military Humvee, epitomizes boldness and excess in automotive design. Its polarizing nature, which combines powerful off-road capability with sweet, luxury features, makes it a big hit in the auto industry. This vehicle serves as a symbol of Hummer’s distinct approach to car-making, catering to those who appreciate a blend of strength and style.
Jaguar E-Type
The Jaguar E-Type, renowned for its stunning beauty and impressive performance, represents a pinnacle in Jaguar’s rich history. Its seamless blend of innovation, raw power, and aesthetic perfection elevates it beyond just being an iconic Jaguar model; it stands as one of the most breathtakingly beautiful cars ever crafted, a testament to Jaguar’s commitment to elegance and engineering excellence.
Lamborghini Countach
The Lamborghini Countach, with its radical design and scissor doors, became the quintessential supercar of the 1970s, defining an entire era of automotive excess. Its futuristic aesthetics, combined with a powerful engine and groundbreaking aerodynamics, set new standards in performance and style. As a dream car for an entire generation, it played a pivotal role in cementing Lamborghini’s reputation as a maker of bold, innovative supercars.
Lancia Stratos
The Lancia Stratos, a purpose-built rally car, fundamentally revolutionized the sport with its innovative mid-engine design and powerful Ferrari engine. By dominating the rally scene in the mid-1970s, including winning the World Rally Championship three consecutive times from 1974 to 1976, the Stratos exemplified Lancia’s pioneering spirit and success in motorsport. This vehicle not only showcased exceptional engineering and design but also marked a significant shift in rally car development, influencing future generations of rally cars with its compact, agile, and powerful build.
Lincoln Continental (1970s)
The 1970s Lincoln Continental epitomized American luxury sedans of its era. Representing opulence and grandeur, it marked the end of an era for large luxury vehicles. Its vast dimensions and traditional design reflected the lavish tastes of the time, making it a pivotal model in Lincoln’s history and a symbol of automotive luxury.
Lotus Elise
The Lotus Elise, embodying Colin Chapman’s principle of ‘simplify, then add lightness,’ revolutionized sports car design with its minimalist approach and agile handling. This model’s influence extends beyond its popularity, as it demonstrates Lotus’s commitment to innovative engineering and a purist approach to driving dynamics, shaping sports car design for years to come.
Mazda MX-5
The Mazda MX-5 breathed new life into the classic roadster formula. It became a sensation for its engaging driving experience and affordability. Its enduring popularity and status as the best-selling two-seater sports car in history attest to Mazda’s ability to create cars that deliver pure driving enjoyment to a wide audience.
Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing
The Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing, with its distinctive gullwing doors and cutting-edge technology, is a masterpiece of automotive innovation. Originating as a race car, its transition to a road car set new standards in performance and design, making it a landmark model in Mercedes-Benz’s storied history and a symbol of automotive elegance.
MG MGB
The MG MGB, known for its unibody construction, marked a significant evolution in MG’s approach to sports car design. The MGB GT V8, in particular, despite its brief production, remains a sought-after classic, embodying the sporting spirit of the brand and representing a high point in MG’s legacy of sports cars.
Mitsubishi Evo
The sweet Mitsubishi Evo, a high-performance iteration of the Lancer, earned acclaim in both rallying and on the road. Its potent combination of turbocharged power and all-wheel drive, coupled with its motorsport success, solidified Mitsubishi’s status in performance engineering, making the Evo a celebrated model in the brand’s performance lineup.
Nissan Skyline GT-R
The Nissan Skyline GT-R stands as a pinnacle achievement for Nissan, showcasing the brand’s highest capabilities in performance and technology. Renowned among car enthusiasts and symbolizing Nissan’s engineering excellence, the Skyline GT-R has become a legendary icon in the automotive world for its advanced technology, formidable power, and enduring legacy.
Opel Manta
The Opel Manta, particularly in its second generation, is notable for its sleek design and rally achievements. As a sporty offshoot of the Ascona, the Manta 400 model epitomized Opel’s capability to produce aesthetically appealing and competitive sports cars, cementing its place as the most iconic model in Opel’s history.
Peugeot 205 GTI
The Peugeot 205 GTI transformed the hot hatch segment with its perfect blend of performance, beauty, and affordability. Its standing as a quintessential driver’s car and its cultural impact have positioned it as the most iconic model in Peugeot’s history, epitomizing the brand’s prowess in creating engaging, accessible performance cars.
Porsche 911
The Porsche 911, with its distinctive silhouette and rear-engine layout, has been the epitome of sports car excellence for over six decades. Its continual evolution while preserving its core identity exemplifies Porsche’s mastery in balancing tradition with innovation, solidifying the 911 as the most iconic model in Porsche’s lineup and a symbol of enduring sports car excellence.
Renault Clio
The Renault Clio, successor to the Renault 5, has become a mainstay in the supermini category. Offering a range of models including high-performance variants, the Clio’s success in various Car of the Year awards solidifies its status as an iconic model within Renault’s lineup, exemplifying the brand’s expertise in creating versatile and popular small cars.
Rolls-Royce Phantom (seventh generation)
The seventh-generation Rolls-Royce Phantom marked a new chapter under BMW’s ownership, epitomizing luxury and heritage. As Rolls-Royce’s flagship model, it combined modern technology with traditional craftsmanship, setting the bar for luxury motoring, and continuing the brand’s legacy of producing the world’s most luxurious, prestigious, and sought-after automobiles.
Rover SD1
The Rover SD1, with its contemporary design and V8 engine, was a radical departure from Rover’s traditional models in the 1970s. As a successful touring car and a break from past designs, the SD1 emerged as a significant model in Rover’s history, marking a transformative period in the brand’s approach to car design and engineering.
Saab 96
The Saab 96, an evolution of Saab’s first car, the 92, bridged the old with the new through its innovative Scandinavian design and engine choices. Its remarkable motorsport success, including victories in iconic rallies, and extended production life highlight its importance in Saab’s history, showcasing the brand’s unwavering commitment to unique engineering solutions and the enduring appeal of its vehicle design.
Seat Ibiza
The Seat Ibiza, following the Seat 600, has been a key component of the brand’s lineup since 1984. Leveraging Volkswagen technology, the Ibiza’s success in the supermini market underlines its status as Seat’s most iconic model, reflecting the brand’s ability to combine practicality with appealing design in a competitive segment.
Studebaker Avanti
The Studebaker Avanti, known for its futuristic design and advanced features, was a bold move to rejuvenate the brand. Its unique styling and performance capabilities make it a standout model in Studebaker’s history, though its production was short-lived, it left a lasting impression as a symbol of innovation and ambition.
Subaru Impreza
The Subaru Impreza, particularly in its turbocharged versions, made a notable impact in rallying and on the road. The combination of a potent flat-four engine, all-wheel drive, and balanced handling underscores its significance in Subaru’s lineup, appealing to discerning driving enthusiasts for its exceptional performance capabilities and distinctive engineering approach.
Tesla Model S
The iconic Tesla Model S marked a turning point in the automotive industry as the first mass-produced electric car with both long-range capability and high performance. Its success established Tesla as a key player in the automotive sector and played a crucial role in the industry’s shift towards electric vehicles.
Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser, with its lengthy history and continual evolution, epitomizes off-road capability, endurance, and durability. Its adaptability to various demands and harsh environments underscores Toyota’s unwavering commitment to creating reliable and rugged vehicles, making the Land Cruiser an enduring symbol of the brand’s dedication to quality and resilience.
Vauxhall Lotus Carlton
The Vauxhall Lotus Carlton, a high-performance variant of the standard Carlton, is notable for its exceptional speed and handling. With a limited production run and remarkable performance capabilities, this model highlights Vauxhall’s ability to create extraordinary vehicles. It stands out as a significant model in the brand’s history, showcasing their dedication to pushing boundaries in the automotive world.
Volkswagen Golf
The Volkswagen Golf, evolving from the iconic Beetle, has become a cornerstone in Volkswagen’s lineup. Offering a diverse range of models, including high-performance variants like the Golf GTI and Golf R, and enjoying widespread popularity across the globe, the Golf exemplifies Volkswagen’s unmatched ability to create versatile vehicles that cater to a broad audience. Its enduring success and adaptability make it a key model in Volkswagen’s rich automotive history.
Volvo 850
The Volvo 850, known for its safety and innovation, marked a turning point for Volvo. Its modern design, front-wheel drive, layout, and introduction of the five-cylinder engine signaled a new era for the brand. The 850’s success, especially in the wagon format, epitomized Volvo’s reputation for building practical, safe, and durable cars, laying the groundwork for future models like the S70 and V70.
