Cars can be like movies: Some achieve blockbuster status while others, despite their incredible performance and unique features, are left in the shadows, quietly admired by a select few. Here’s a toast to those hidden automotive gems that deserve a cult following. Buckle up for a ride through the quirky, the underestimated, and the downright cool!
Mazda MX-6
Remember when the Mazda MX-6 and the Ford Probe were the dynamic duo of the 90s? No? Well, that’s because the MX-6 has always been in the shadows. Produced from 1987 to 1997, the car was a sleek and sporty coupe known for its aerodynamic design and advanced engineering. The first-generation MX-6, introduced in 1987, featured pop-up headlights, smooth lines, and a drag coefficient of 0.31, making it one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars of its time. Powered by a V6 engine that purred like a contented cat, this car deserved more love than it got.
Saab 900 Turbo
Saab might be more famous for their fighter jets, but the Saab 900 Turbo was an under-the-radar beast. It featured a wraparound windshield and a steeply raked rear window, enhancing visibility and reducing drag. Under the hood, the 900 Turbo housed a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produced up to 160 horsepower, delivering impressive performance and fuel efficiency. Turbocharged before it was cool, this car offered thrilling acceleration wrapped in a quirky, unconventional package. It’s the Swedish meatball at a pizza party – unusual yet delightful.
Ford Maverick
Often overshadowed by the Mustang, the Ford Maverick was the humble, reliable friend you could always count on. The Maverick featured a unibody design with a long hood and short rear deck, reflecting popular styling trends of the era. Initially available as a two-door sedan, a four-door version was added in 1971. Engine options included a 170 cubic-inch inline-six and a 302 cubic-inch V8, catering to various performance preferences. Its simple, solid design and respectable power made it the perfect budget muscle car. Think of it as the Clark Kent to the Mustang’s Superman – unassuming but surprisingly strong.
Volkswagen Corrado
The Volkswagen Corrado was like the high school athlete who peaked after graduation. Styled by Herbert Schäfer, the Corrado features a low-slung profile and a rear spoiler that automatically adjusts at speeds above 45 mph. It was available with several engines, including the notable 1.8-liter supercharged G60 and the 2.9-liter VR6, providing robust performance. Based on the Volkswagen Group A2 platform, the Corrado’s chassis offered excellent handling and stability. Its supercharged engine and later VR6 variant were engineering marvels, offering an exhilarating drive. It’s a wonder this car never got the standing ovation it deserved.
Toyota MR2
Toyota’s MR2 is often overlooked, but this mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive wonder was a blast. The MR2’s name is “Midship Runabout 2-seater,” reflecting its unique configuration. The first-generation MR2 (1984-1989) featured sharp, angular lines and pop-up headlights, emphasizing its sporty nature. It was lightweight, with a curb weight of around 2,200 pounds, and offered a supercharged version for enhanced performance. The car’s lightweight and sharp handling made it feel like a budget-friendly supercar. It’s like finding out your mild-mannered neighbor is secretly a ninja.
Alfa Romeo GTV6
While Ferrari and Lamborghini hog the limelight, the Alfa Romeo GTV6 was the Italian sports car that quietly stole hearts. It was powered by a 2.5-liter SOHC V6 engine, known for its smooth power delivery and distinctive exhaust note. The car’s De Dion rear suspension and 50:50 weight distribution contribute to its balanced handling and driving dynamics. With a throaty engine and sexy curves, it was like the alluring stranger at a masquerade ball—mysterious and unforgettable.
AMC Javelin
The AMC Javelin was the muscle car you forgot to invite to the muscle car showdown. Styled by Dick Teague, the Javelin featured a long hood, short rear deck, and pronounced “Coke-bottle” fenders, giving it a sleek and aerodynamic profile. The front end boasted a recessed grille flanked by dual headlights, while the rear showcased a unique full-width taillight design. With its aggressive styling and powerful engines, it had all the right moves. It was that one-hit-wonder band you can’t believe didn’t make it big.
Mitsubishi 3000GT
The Mitsubishi 3000GT was ahead of its time with all-wheel drive, active aerodynamics, and a twin-turbo V6. Introduced in 1990, it’s a quintessential example of 1990s Japanese sports car engineering. It was designed to compete with other high-performance models of its era and featured a sleek body with a low, aggressive stance. It was like the nerdy kid in class who grew up to be a tech billionaire – full of hidden talents and surprises.
Porsche 944
The Porsche 944 is the Rodney Dangerfield of sports cars – it gets no respect! Powered by a 2.5-liter inline-four engine, the 944 offered a blend of performance and efficiency, with later models upgrading to a 2.7-liter or 3.0-liter variant. Its design included a distinctive integrated bumper, wide wheel arches, and a well-appointed interior. With its balanced handling and respectable power, it was an affordable entry into the world of Porsche. Think of it as the ultimate underdog story in a German accent.
Datsun 510
The Datsun 510 was Japan’s answer to the BMW 2002. Designed by the Nissan Motor Company, it featured a simple, angular profile with a flat roof, straight lines, and a sharp front end. Its functional design was driven by a focus on practicality and performance rather than luxury. Its boxy design belied its rally prowess and agile handling. This car was like the chess club member who could secretly bench press twice their weight—full of unexpected strength.
Subaru SVX
The Subaru SVX was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro and featured a unique “window within a window” design due to its large side windows and integrated quarter windows, which aimed at improving visibility. The car was powered by a 3.3-liter flat-six engine producing 230 horsepower and a four-speed automatic transmission. It’s the car equivalent of the quirky character actor who steals every scene – weird but wonderful.
Chevrolet Corvair
The Chevrolet Corvair got a bad rap thanks to Ralph Nader’s “Unsafe at Any Speed,” but it was a revolutionary car with its rear-engine layout and independent suspension. Early models were praised for their innovative design, but the car faced controversy and criticism, notably from Ralph Nader’s book Unsafe at Any Speed, which highlighted safety concerns. Despite this, the Corvair remains an iconic example of unconventional automotive engineering, with its unique design and engineering elements continuing to attract classic car enthusiasts.
Volvo 850 T-5R
Volvo’s 850 T-5R was the car that put the “fun” in functional. Featuring a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-five engine, it delivered 240 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft of torque, propelling the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. The T-5R was distinguished by its aggressive styling, including a unique front bumper, side skirts, and a rear spoiler, setting it apart from the standard 850 model. This turbocharged wagon could haul groceries and haul ass. Known for its balanced ride and solid build, the 850 T-5R remains a revered example of Volvo’s performance engineering.
14 Cars with a Reputation for Running Forever and Why They Outperform the Rest
In the dynamic world of automobiles, some cars stand out for their remarkable longevity and enduring performance. These road warriors have earned a reputation for running seemingly forever, outpacing their counterparts. This article will explore 14 such vehicles and the reasons behind their legendary durability.
14 Cars With A Reputation For Running Forever And Why They Outperform The Rest
