The automotive world is full of iconic vehicles that have caught the imaginations of both enthusiasts and casual drivers. However, history is replete with cars that, for various reasons, were not given the respect they deserved at the time. These vehicles frequently featured new technology, excellent performance, or distinctive styling but were eclipsed by their more famous counterparts. Here are the 10 most underestimated cars in automotive history.
AMC AMX (1968-1970)
The AMC AMX was a revolutionary vehicle from American Motors Corporation, a company not typically associated with performance cars. The AMX was a two-seat sports car that combined muscle car power with a lightweight design. It featured a variety of powerful V8 engines, including a 390 cubic inch option producing 315 horsepower. Despite its performance credentials, the AMX struggled to compete with cars like the Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Mustang. However, it remains a favorite among collectors today for its unique blend of performance and rarity.
Mazda RX-7 (1978-2002)
The Mazda RX-7 is a great sports car from Japan, yet it often gets overlooked compared to the Nissan 300ZX and Toyota Supra. The RX-7’s defining feature was its rotary engine, which allowed for a high-revving, lightweight powerplant with an exhilarating driving experience. Over three generations, the RX-7 has evolved into a competent sports car with exceptional handling and performance. The third generation, in particular, is revered for its sleek design and turbocharged rotary engine, yet it has yet to achieve the same mainstream popularity as some of its peers.
Saab 900 Turbo (1978-1993)
Saab’s 900 Turbo was a car ahead of its time, featuring advanced turbocharging technology that offered impressive performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency. It was also one of the first cars to feature a cabin air filter, highlighting Saab’s commitment to driver and passenger comfort. Despite its innovative features and unique design, the 900 Turbo never quite broke into the mainstream market, overshadowed by more conventional European sedans. Today, it is celebrated for its quirkiness and engineering ingenuity.
Porsche 914 (1969-1976)
The Porsche 914 is often seen as the black sheep of the Porsche family, mainly due to its unconventional design and the fact that it was a collaboration with Volkswagen. However, the 914 offered an accessible entry point to Porsche ownership, featuring mid-engine balance and handling dynamics ahead of its time. The car had four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, providing a more spirited performance. Though it wasn’t a commercial success then, the 914 has gained a cult following for its driving characteristics and unique place in Porsche’s history.
Datsun 510 (1968-1973)
The Datsun 510 is often called the “poor man’s BMW,” offering performance and handling that rival European sports sedans at a fraction of the cost. With its boxy design, independent rear suspension, and reliable four-cylinder engine, the 510 was a formidable competitor in racing circuits and a favorite among tuners. Despite its capabilities, it achieved a different level of recognition than other Japanese imports of the era, such as the Toyota Corolla. Nevertheless, it remains a beloved classic for those in the know.
Buick GNX (1987)
In the 1980s, the Buick GNX was a beacon of American muscle, boasting a turbocharged V6 engine that produced 276 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. This made it one of the fastest production cars of its time, capable of outpacing many contemporary sports cars. Despite its impressive performance, the GNX’s relatively plain appearance and the Buick brand’s reputation for building sedate cars meant it didn’t receive the acclaim it deserved. Today, the GNX is a highly sought-after collector’s item, celebrated for its sleeper status and raw power.
Toyota MR2 (1984-2007)
The Toyota MR2 was a mid-engine sports car that offered superb handling and driving enjoyment at an affordable price. It went through three generations, each improving on the last in terms of performance and design. The second generation, in particular, is often compared to more expensive sports cars for its handling prowess. However, the MR2 was often overshadowed by the Toyota Supra and other Japanese sports cars. Despite this, it remains a favorite among driving enthusiasts for its balance and fun-to-drive nature.
Volvo P1800 (1961-1973)
The Volvo P1800 is best known for the TV series “The Saint,” driven by Roger Moore. Beyond its on-screen fame, the P1800 was a stylish and reliable sports coupe that offered a unique blend of Swedish engineering and Italian design. Its long production run and robust build quality have led to many examples still being on the road today. Despite its good looks and reliability, it achieved a different level of recognition than other European sports cars of the era. Today, it is appreciated for its classic design and durability.
Alfa Romeo GTV6 (1980-1986)
The Alfa Romeo GTV6 epitomizes the Italian automaker’s blend of style and performance. With its sleek design, rear-wheel-drive layout, and sonorous V6 engine, the GTV6 offered an engaging driving experience. It was also successful in motorsport, including winning the European Touring Car Championship. However, Alfa Romeo’s reputation for less-than-stellar build quality and reliability issues overshadowed the GTV6’s virtues. Recently, it has gained recognition as a classic with character and charm, appealing to those who appreciate its unique qualities.
Chevrolet Corvair (1960-1969)
The Chevrolet Corvair is one of the most controversial cars in American automotive history. Its rear-engine design was revolutionary for an American car, and it offered a range of innovative features, including a turbocharged engine option. However, Corvair’s reputation was tarnished by Ralph Nader’s book Unsafe at Any Speed, which criticized its handling characteristics. Despite the negative publicity, many enthusiasts have come to appreciate the Corvair for its unique engineering and the driving experience it offers. It is a testament to Chevrolet’s willingness to take risks and innovate.
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
