Modern cars come with touchscreens that get smudgy in two seconds, navigation systems, and a lot of tech! On the other hand, classic cars are the rebels of the automotive world. They don’t need automated lane-keeping and artificial exhaust sounds. Some might argue that modern vehicles are more advanced, but the 18 classic cars on this still outshine today’s high-tech machines:
Jaguar E-Type (1961-1975)
Enzo Ferrari himself called the E-Type “the most beautiful car ever made,” and who are we to argue? Designed by Malcolm Sayer, its aerodynamic curves were inspired by Jaguar’s Le Mans-winning D-Type. The E-Type initially featured a 3.8L inline-six (later expanded to 4.2L), followed by a 5.3L V12 in 1971. It also introduced independent rear suspension, a rarity in the 1960s. It was also available as a roadster, coupe, and later, a 2+2, and it was produced in three series before being replaced by the XJ-S.
Porsche 911 (1964-Present, But the Air-Cooled Ones Rule)
Yes, the 911 still exists, but the air-cooled models (pre-1998) hold a special place in the automotive hall of fame. Conceived by Ferdinand “Butzi” Porsche, the 911 replaced the 356, featuring a rear-mounted, air-cooled flat-six engine—a configuration that remains a hallmark of the model. Notable variants also include the 911 Turbo (introduced in 1975 with a legendary “whale tail” spoiler), Carrera RS (a lightweight track beast), and the GT3/GT2 models, which dominate racetracks. Revered for its handling, heritage, and motorsport dominance (with over 24,000 race victories), the 911 remains the benchmark sports car.
Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing (1954-1957)
The Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing (W198), produced from 1954 to 1957, is an automotive icon famed for its distinctive upward-opening doors and groundbreaking performance. Derived from the W194 race car, it was the world’s first production car with fuel injection, boosting its 3.0L inline-six engine to 215 hp, a significant upgrade from the carbureted 175 hp. Plus, with a top speed of 160 mph (depending on gearing), it was the fastest production car of its time.
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (1967)
The 1967 Shelby GT500 was a muscle car before muscle cars became worried about fuel economy and emissions. It had a 428 cubic-inch V8, a thunderous exhaust note, and a presence that made modern pony cars look like timid foals. Distinctive styling included a fiberglass hood with dual scoops, extended nose, rear spoiler, and sequential taillights from a Mercury Cougar. Inside, it had a wood-rimmed steering wheel, racing harnesses, and Stewart-Warner gauges. Plus, only 2,048 units were built. Today, it’s a collector’s dream, with pristine examples fetching over $200,000 at auctions.
Lamborghini Miura (1966-1973)
The Miura basically invented the supercar. Designed by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, it featured scissor-less doors and a sleek, curvaceous body that stunned the automotive world. Underneath, a 4.0L V12 (originally from the 400GT) sat transversely, producing up to 385 hp in the later Miura SV. This enabled a 0–60 mph time of 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 174 mph—blistering for the 1960s. And while modern Lamborghinis may be fast, they lack the mechanical rawness that made the Miura a legend.
Ferrari 250 GTO (1962-1964)
If there’s a car that defines automotive perfection, it’s the Ferrari 250 GTO. It featured a 3.0L Colombo V12 engine, producing 296 hp and a top speed of 174 mph (280 km/h). Also, the lightweight tubular steel frame and wind-tunnel-tested aluminum body, crafted by Scaglietti, enhanced aerodynamics. And, with only 36 ever made, this V12-powered racing machine isn’t just a classic—it’s the classic.
Dodge Charger R/T (1969)
The 1969 Dodge Charger R/T (Road/Track) was a muscle car icon, blending aggressive styling with brute power. It featured a standard 440 cubic-inch Magnum V8, producing 375 hp and 480 lb.-ft of torque, with an optional 426 HEMI V8 cranking out 425 hp. Power was sent through a 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic or an optional 4-speed manual transmission. The R/T trim included heavy-duty suspension, beefier brakes, and a Dana 60 rear axle for HEMI models. While its modern counterparts might have touchscreens and launch control, nothing matches the raw aggression of a properly tuned classic Charger.
Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (1963 Split-Window Coupe)
The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Split-Window Coupe is one of the most iconic American sports cars ever made. Designed by Bill Mitchell and engineered by Zora Arkus-Duntov, it was the first Corvette with a fixed roof, improving aerodynamics and structural rigidity. The controversial split rear window, penned by Larry Shinoda, was a one-year-only feature, later removed in 1964 for better rear visibility. Modern Corvettes are powerful, sure, but they lack the Stingray’s jaw-dropping elegance.
Aston Martin DB5 (1963-1965)
Bond’s car of choice wasn’t just for show. Designed by Carrozzeria Touring, the DB5 featured elegant aluminum bodywork and a luxurious interior stuffed with wool carpets and Connolly leather, making it posh enough for royalty—or spies. James Bond made it legendary in Goldfinger (1964), complete with gadgets like an ejector seat and machine guns (sadly, these were not standard). Only 1,059 DB5s were made, making them rarer than a punctual British train. Today, a pristine example can fetch millions, proving that class, speed, and a dash of espionage never go out of style.
Toyota 2000GT (1967-1970)
The Toyota 2000GT (1967-1970) was Japan’s way of telling the world, “Hey, we can do sexy sports cars too!” Designed in collaboration with Yamaha, this sleek, low-slung beauty had a 2.0L inline-six engine, producing 150 hp—not mind-blowing, but enough to make you grin. It also had a 5-speed manual, four-wheel independent suspension, and pop-up headlights because of the ‘60s. Hand-built, lightweight, and packed with Mahogany & Rosewood trim, it was Japan’s E-Type killer. Only 351 were made, making it far rarer and more desirable than any modern Toyota.
BMW 3.0 CSL (1972-1975)
The BMW 3.0 CSL (1972-1975) wasn’t just a car—it was a Bavarian bullet with a gym membership. Under the hood, it packed a 3.0L inline-six (later bored to 3.2L), churning out up to 206 hp—not mind-blowing today, but in the ‘70s, that was sports car royalty. Oh, and that massive rear wing? It’s illegal for road use, so BMW put it in the trunk and let you install it (cheeky move, huh?). Also nicknamed the “Batmobile” due to its wild aero kit, the CSL is now a legend, with pristine examples selling for over $500,000.
Volkswagen Beetle (1938-2003)
The Volkswagen Beetle (1938–2003) was the little car that could—and did! Conceived by Ferdinand Porsche at the behest of a certain mustachioed dictator (yikes), the “KdF-Wagen” was meant to mobilize the masses. Post-WWII, it got a glow-up and became the beloved “Beetle.” With its rear-mounted, air-cooled engine and a shape that looked like a particularly imaginative child drew it, the Bug was simple, reliable, and oddly adorable. Meanwhile, newer Beetles tried to capture the magic but failed miserably. The original was the only one that genuinely captured hearts worldwide.
Land Rover Series I & II (1948-1971)
Modern SUVs are stuffed with electronic terrain response systems. The original Land Rovers? Just some metal, four wheels, and the sheer willpower to go anywhere. And they still do. Born out of Britain’s post-war steel shortage (but conveniently abundant aluminum supply), the Series I (1948–1958) was essentially a farm tool on wheels. Its 1.6L petrol engine produced a humble 50 hp. Plus, the Series II (1958–1971) brought a wider body, better engines (including a 2.25L petrol option), and slightly improved comfort.
Citroën DS (1955-1975)
Ah, the Citroën DS (1955-1975)—France’s way of proving that cars don’t need to follow the laws of physics or common sense. This futuristic masterpiece looked like it had teleported from a 2050 sci-fi film, but it actually landed at the 1955 Paris Motor Show, where it promptly stole 12,000 orders on day one. Its hydropneumatic suspension made it glide over potholes like a hovercraft, and the self-leveling system meant it always looked elegant—whether fully loaded or missing a wheel (yes, it could drive on three). No modern Citroën has ever recaptured the DS’s effortless grace and innovation.
Mazda RX-7 FD (1992-2002)
The Mazda RX-7 FD was a rotary-powered spaceship disguised as a coupe. It weighed under 1,300 kg, making it a featherweight ninja on corners, thanks to 50:50 weight distribution and a chassis so sharp it could slice bread. Mazda gave it sequential twin turbos, which worked great… when they worked. And, despite questionable fuel economy (8 mpg if you’re having fun), the RX-7 became a JDM legend, starring in movies, video games, and every car enthusiast’s dreams.
Jeep CJ-5 (1954-1983)
Before the Wrangler was the CJ-5—a go-anywhere, no-frills off-roader that laughed at modern crossover SUVs. With engines ranging from the humble 2.2L Hurricane I4 to the beefy 5.0L AMC V8 (because why not?), the CJ-5 was as versatile as it was bouncy. It also had a short 81-inch wheelbase, which meant tight turns and a tendency to make passengers question life choices on rough terrain. The CJ-5 remains a beloved off-road icon, proving that a simple, no-nonsense 4×4 can leave a lasting legacy.
Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow (1965-1980)
The Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow (1965-1980) isn’t just a car; it’s a mobile drawing room wrapped in steel and hand-stitched leather. Powered by a 6.2L or 6.75L V8, its hydraulic self-leveling suspension (licensed from Citroën, no less) ensured the ride was silkier than a valet’s bow. Also, modern cars might boast digital gimmickry, but can they offer coach-built craftsmanship and an ashtray the size of a mansion’s fireplace?
Alfa Romeo Spider (1966-1994)
The Alfa Romeo Spider (1966–1994) was Italy’s long-running love letter to open-top motoring. Under the hood? A range of twin-cam four-cylinder engines (1.3L to 2.0L) that made all the right noises. Handling? Sharp, but with just enough Italian unpredictability to keep drivers entertained (or terrified). Rust? Absolutely! Electronics? Spaghetti. But despite its quirks, the Spider charmed enthusiasts for nearly three decades, outlasting trendier rivals. The Alfa Romeo Spider proved that sometimes, a simple, well-balanced, front-engine, rear-drive roadster is all you need.
18 Budget-Friendly Electric Cars That Last Longer Than Their Loans — Economical Electrics
Electric vehicles are no longer a luxury for the elite—they’re a smart investment for the everyday driver. With manufacturers stepping up to the plate, affordable EVs now deliver on reliability, range, and modern comforts. Here’s a look at 18 economical electric cars engineered to outlast their payment plans.
18 Budget-Friendly Electric Cars That Last Longer Than Their Loans — Economical Electrics
