Classic cars are vehicles that are more than 30 years old and were once registered for road use, while youngtimer cars are over 20 years old. As few vehicles achieve such a long lifespan, classic cars are coveted collector’s items that are looked after with great care by their owners. In our test, we present 30+ fascinating classic cars: eight from Germany, two from Great Britain, two from Italy, one from Sweden, six from Japan and 21 from the USA. These classics were built between 1955 and the 1990s – among the oldest are the elegant VW Karmann Ghia and the stylish Studebaker Avanti.
1994 Audi Avant
The Audi Avant, better known as the Audi 80 RS2, was an exceptional high-performance station wagon that was produced in limited numbers from 1994 to 1995. Originally 2,200 units were planned, but in the end 2,891 vehicles rolled off the production line – including 180 right-hand drive models for markets such as Great Britain, New Zealand and South Africa. With an impressive 311 hp from a turbocharged five-cylinder engine, the RS2 catapulted from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds and reached a top speed of 262 km/h. The permanent Quattro all-wheel drive ensured maximum traction, while the interior with a fine three-spoke leather steering wheel, sports seats and stylish wood and carbon fiber elements offered maximum driving comfort.
1994 Audi Avant
BMW 325i E30
Between 1982 and 1992, BMW produced over 2.2 million units of the legendary E30 – the second generation of the 3 Series. These compact vehicles with rear-wheel drive are still very popular today, especially the models with the coveted six-cylinder engine. With an output of 170 hp, the E30 offers a dynamic driving experience, while the good availability of spare parts makes maintenance easier. These classic cars are still relatively inexpensive to buy, but their value is likely to increase further in the coming years – a true classic with potential!
BMW 325i E30
1985 Mercedes-Benz 190E
in 1985, Mercedes-Benz ventured into the market for compact sports sedans in the USA, which had been dominated by BMW until then – and presented the 190E. This model was the result of billions invested in research and development and proved to be a serious competitor to the BMW 3 Series, even if more car fans remain loyal to the BMW to this day. With 90 hp, the 190E was not the most powerful, but it impressed with its durability, reliability and smooth running. Even in January 2017, around 64,000 examples were still on the roads, according to the Federal Motor Transport Authority. Although production was discontinued in 1993, the 190E remains a cherished classic among Mercedes enthusiasts.
1985 Mercedes Benz 190E
Mercedes 500E
The Mercedes-Benz 500E, launched in October 1990, is one of the brand’s most sought-after youngtimers. Visually, it differs only subtly from the other models in the 124 model series – with slightly wider fenders, a lowered body and a modified front apron with integrated fog lights. But under the hood is pure power: a 5.0-liter V8 engine with an impressive 326 hp catapults the 500E from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds. The electronically locked top speed of 250 km/h and its sports car-worthy performance make it a true legend among high-performance saloons.
Mercedes 500E
Porsche 914
The Porsche 914, a sporty coupé from the collaboration between Volkswagen and Porsche, was marketed as the VW Porsche from 1969 to 1974. Almost 120,000 units were produced during this period. Powered by a 1.7-liter four-cylinder boxer engine with 80 hp from the VW Type 4, it succeeded the Karmann Ghia. With acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 13.3 seconds and a top speed of 186.5 km/h, the 914 did not offer outstanding performance, but its driving pleasure nevertheless made it a popular model. However, sales figures fell short of expectations and production was discontinued in 1974.
Porsche 914
1978 Porsche 928
The Porsche 928 was originally developed to replace the stagnating Porsche 911 and set new standards as a Gran Turismo coupé with a V8 front engine and rear-wheel drive. Produced from 1977 to 1995, it was characterized by its striking folding headlights and elegantly curved rear end. Its timelessly modern design remained virtually unchanged over the years. With a 4.5-liter V8 and 240 hp, the 928 sprinted from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.2 seconds and reached a top speed of 250 km/h. Its luxurious interior also made it more comfortable than the Porsche 911, making it the ideal touring car for long journeys.
1978 Porsche 928
Volkswagen Karmann Ghia
While the Volkswagen Beetle and the VW Bus achieved cult status, the elegant Karmann Ghia unfortunately fell into oblivion. This stylish model, available as a 2+2 Coupé and Cabriolet, was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cars ever built by Volkswagen. Between 1955 and 1974, its design remained virtually unchanged – a rarity in the automotive world. A total of 443,466 examples were produced, including 362,585 coupés and 80,881 cabriolets. Despite its sporty appearance, the Karmann Ghia was anything but a racing car, with initially only 30 hp and a top speed of 118 km/h. However, its timeless design and driving experience make it a coveted classic to this day.
Volkswagen Karmann Ghia
Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk1
The Volkswagen Golf Mk1, the first generation of the popular compact car, succeeded the legendary Beetle in 1976 and quickly developed into a successful model. With a total of 6.8 million units produced, it set new standards. The GTI version with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and 90 hp was particularly impressive, providing impressive acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9 seconds. The Golf Mk1 was offered as a 3- or 5-door hatchback, 2-door convertible and even as a pickup. in 2004, “Sports Car International” voted it the third best car of the 1980s. Today, this classic is still available for around 8,500 euros and enjoys great popularity among classic car fans.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk1
Jaguar S-Type
The first generation of the Jaguar S-Type, an elegant luxury car, was produced from 1963 to 1968, with around 25,000 units coming off the production line. Buyers could choose between two engine variants: a 3.4-liter with 213 hp and a top speed of 190 km/h or a more powerful 3.8-liter with 223 hp, which reached just over 200 km/h. The interior offered luxurious comfort and was reminiscent of a first-class business lounge. In 1999, Jaguar launched a new model series of the S-Type, which deliberately borrowed its design from the classic original.
Jaguar S Type
Jensen Interceptor
The Jensen Interceptor was a luxurious GT-class sports car produced by the British car manufacturer Jensen between 1966 and 1976. It was available as an estate coupé, coupé and convertible. It was powered by a powerful eight-cylinder engine from Chrysler. The first series had a 6.3-liter V8 with 325 hp, while the second series from 1969 onwards received visual changes but no engine modifications. From 1971, a larger 7.2-liter V8 with 285 hp was installed in the third series. The Interceptor combined British design with American power and is now regarded as a coveted classic.
Jensen Interceptor
Fiat 600
Launched in 1955, the Fiat 600 was a real milestone for the Italian car manufacturer and contributed significantly to Fiat’s success in the 1950s and 1960s. With its water-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine, 23 hp and a top speed of 110 km/h, it may have been small, but it was still revolutionary for its time. this was followed in 1956 by the Fiat 600 Multipla, an unusual but practical six-seater with an extended front end, which was later even offered as a small camper van for adventurous families. Its success was so great that it was licensed worldwide and produced in Spain as the Seat 600, in Yugoslavia as the Zastava 750 and in Germany as the NSU Fiat Jagst with a fabric sliding roof – proof that small cars can have a big impact.
Fiat 600
Maserati 222 BiTurbo
The Maserati 222, an elegant two-door notchback coupé, was produced from 1988 to 1990 and was largely based on the Biturbo i, which had already been in production since 1981. However, with its aerodynamically optimized front end, new exterior mirrors and a rear spoiler, it set its own accents. Under the hood was a 2.0-liter six-cylinder engine with fuel injection and two turbochargers, which delivered an impressive 225 hp on the road and reached a top speed of 220 km/h. While Maserati manufactured the powerful engines itself, the bodywork was produced by Innocenti in Lambrate near Milan, a company belonging to the De Tomaso Group. A total of 1156 examples of this exclusive sports coupé were built in just three years.
Maserati 222 BiTurbo
Saab 900 Turbo
The Saab 900 Turbo, a mid-range model from the Swedish manufacturer Saab, was produced in two generations between 1978 and 1998 and was available in several body variants: as a three- and five-door estate car and as a two- or four-door notchback saloon. From fall 1986, an elegant convertible was added to the model range. At a time when turbochargers were still a rarity, the Saab 900 was one of the few non-sports car models with this technology – a truly unique selling point that made it particularly desirable. Its engine capacity ranged from 2.0 to 2.1 liters with an output of 101 to 185 hp. A total of 908,810 units of this legendary model were produced.
Saab 900 Turbo
Datsun 240Z
The Datsun 240Z, a legendary sports car from the Japanese manufacturer Nissan, was produced from 1969 to 1978 and sold primarily for export under the name Datsun. With an impressive 500,000 units sold, it became a huge success for the company. Equipped with 2.0 to 2.8 liter petrol engines and an output of 126 to 160 hp, the 240Z reached the 100 km/h mark in just 7.8 seconds and even outperformed the Porsche 911 and the Jaguar E-Type with its top speed. It was particularly popular in the USA – not only because of its sporty performance, but also because of its striking design, eye-catching colors and attractive price.
Datsun 240Z
Honda CRX
The Honda CRX, a sporty coupé from the Japanese manufacturer Honda, was developed from 1983 to 1998 on the basis of the Honda Civic. In times of the oil crisis, Honda relied on a clever combination of small displacement, high performance and low fuel consumption to provide a sporty driving experience. The CRX was offered with 1.5-liter gasoline engines that produced between 101 and 125 hp – at first glance not much for a sports coupe, but with a weight of only 816 kg, the CRX was surprisingly agile. Lightweight construction played a decisive role here: 38 percent of the body was made of plastic, while the engine was made of light metal, which not only made the vehicle faster, but also more efficient.
Honda CRX
Mazda RX-7
The Mazda RX-7, a legendary sports car from the Japanese manufacturer Mazda, was produced from 1978 to 2002 and is considered the most successful vehicle with a Wankel engine. Its striking folding headlights and the innovative 2-rotor Wankel engine made it a real eye-catcher. In its first generation, the RX-7 achieved an output of 150 hp, accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and reached a top speed of 210 km/h. Thanks to its compact and lightweight engine, which was positioned behind the front axle, the RX-7 offered almost perfect weight distribution and outstanding handling. During its 25-year production run, a total of 811,000 vehicles were built, cementing its status as an icon of the sports car world.
Mazda RX 7
1978-1992 Toyota Cressida
The Toyota Cressida was an elegant upper mid-size sedan produced from 1973 to 1992. Originally only available in Japan, it was a more luxurious version of the Corona Mark II. From 1977, the Cressida also conquered the European and North American markets, where it was offered in various body styles – as a sedan, station wagon and coupé. Its standard equipment set standards in its class and included air conditioning, automatic transmission, power steering and a heated rear window. Under the hood, Toyota offered a wide range of engines: from economical 1.8-liter petrol engines with 88 hp to powerful 2.6-liter variants with 140 hp. A 2.2-liter diesel engine with 72 hp was also available. Thanks to its high-quality workmanship and reliability, the Cressida quickly became a popular choice for discerning drivers worldwide.
1978 1992 Toyota Cressida
Toyota MR2
The Toyota MR2 was a compact, two-seater sports car with a mid-engine that was produced in three model generations from 1984 to 2007. While the design changed considerably over the years, the mid-engine and rear-wheel drive remained the trademark. The first two generations in particular were known for their folding headlights, which gave the car a sporty character. In Europe, the MR2 was withdrawn from the range in 2005. The first generation offered engines with a displacement of 1.5 to 1.6 liters and an output of 83 to 144 hp. In the second generation, more powerful 2.0-liter engines with 128 to 245 hp were used. The third and final generation was produced exclusively as a roadster and focused on a purist driving experience with low weight and agile handling.
Toyota MR2
Subaru SVX
The Subaru SVX was a sporty coupé with a choice of all-wheel or front-wheel drive that was produced by Fuji Heavy Industries between 1991 and 1997. With its striking, futuristic design and unusual window construction, it stood out from the competition. Demand was particularly moderate in the USA, with 14,257 units sold, while only around 25,000 vehicles were sold worldwide – including 854 in Germany. The SVX was powered by a 3.3-liter boxer engine with six cylinders and 230 hp, which enabled a top speed of 249 km/h and accelerated the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds. Despite its technical sophistication, it was not a success, so Subaru discontinued production in 1997.
Subaru SVX
1970 AMC Rebel Machine
The AMC Rebel, known as the Rambler Rebel until 1967, was a mid-size car produced by American Motors Corporation from 1967 to 1970. It was available in various body styles, including sedan, station wagon, coupe and convertible. Under the hood, the Rebel offered a wide range of engine options – from 3.8-liter inline six-cylinder engines with up to 155 hp to powerful V8 engines with up to 325 hp from 6.4 liters of displacement. The AMC Rebel Machine, a high-performance variant with an aggressive design, was particularly sought-after and only 2,236 of these were built in 1970.
1970 AMC Rebel Machine
1971 AMC Hornet SC/360
The AMC Hornet, produced by the American Motors Corporation from 1969 to 1977, was a compact vehicle that replaced the Rambler American and marked the end of the Rambler brand in the US and Canadian markets. It was available as a sedan, station wagon or sporty station wagon-coupe and offered a range of engines from 3.3 to 5.9 liters with an output between 88 and 245 hp. One of the most exciting variants was the Hornet SC/360 introduced in 1971, a limited-edition muscle car with a 5.9-liter V8 engine and 248 hp – only 784 of these were built. in 1977, the Hornet was finally redesigned and relaunched as the Concord.
1971 AMC Hornet SC/360
Buick Gran Sport 455
The Buick Gran Sport 455, a genuine muscle car from Buick, part of the General Motors family, succeeded the Gran Sport 400 in 1970. With an impressive 7.5-liter V8 engine and 354 hp under the hood, it accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds. in 1972, it was named “Competition Car of the Year” by the renowned “Hot Rod Magazine”. Despite tough competition from heavyweights such as the Chevrolet Chevelle and the Pontiac GTO, the Gran Sport 455 fought valiantly for its place among the best muscle cars of its time.
Buick Gran Sport 455
1970 Buick Wildcat
The Buick Wildcat, an elegant powerhouse of the upper middle class, was produced from 1962 to 1970 as the successor to the Invicta. Listed as a sub-series of the Invicta in its first year, the two-door hardtop coupé impressed with a powerful V8 engine and 325 hp. From 1963, the Wildcat developed into an independent series, while the Invicta was discontinued. It was available in various body variants such as saloon, estate, coupé and convertible and offered engines between 6.5 and 7.5 liters with an output of 280 to 370 hp. in 1970, the Wildcat received its most powerful engine – the mighty 7.5-liter Buick V8 with 370 hp. In the same year, the model was only offered as a “Custom” before being replaced by the Centurion in 1971.
1970 Buick Wildcat
1967-1970 Cadillac Eldorado
The Cadillac Eldorado of the model years 1967 to 1970 was the epitome of luxury and innovation in American automobile construction. As the first upper-class coupé with front-wheel drive, it set new standards and gave the Eldorado series an independent identity. Under the hood, powerful eight-cylinder engines provided impressive performance: a 7.0-litre V8 with 340 hp in the first model year, followed by a 7.7-litre version with 375 hp and finally a mighty 8.2-litre V8 with 400 hp in 1970. Production increased continuously – from 18,000 units in the premiere year 1967 to 28,842 vehicles in 1970, underlining the success of this luxurious muscle coupé.
1967 1970 Cadillac Eldorado
Chevrolet Corvette C4
The Chevrolet Corvette C4, which was produced from 1983 to 1996, marked the fourth generation of the legendary sports car series and brought with it a completely new design language. With its slimmer body, the extremely flat 64-degree windshield and a futuristic cockpit with LCD displays, it was ahead of its time – but not necessarily to the delight of everyone. Under the hood, powerful 5.7-liter petrol engines with 194 to 411 hp ensured breathtaking performance. From March 1983 to the end of 1996, a total of 358,180 units were built, including 74,651 convertibles. At the beginning of 1997, the Corvette C5 took over the legacy of this innovative sports car.
Chevrolet Corvette C4
1969 Chevrolet Kingswood 427
The 1969 Chevrolet Kingswood 427 was more than just an ordinary family station wagon – it was a true road rocket in a camouflage suit. Equipped with a powerful 390 hp V8 engine, it not only attracted attention with its sheer size, but also surprised with its impressive performance. While at first glance it looked like a typical family car, it could take the children to school in record time – and then drive straight on to the racetrack. This vehicle proved that practicality and high performance did not have to be opposites.
1969 Chevrolet Kingswood 427
Chevy Impala of the mid-1990s
The 1994 to 1996 Chevrolet Impala SS was a real powerhouse in sedan form. Manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand, it was offered exclusively as a four-door sedan and was initially only available in black in 1994. From 1995, two more exclusive colors were added: “Dark Cherry Metallic” and “Dark Green Gray Metallic”. Under the hood was a powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine with 264 hp, combined with a four-speed automatic transmission. Until production was discontinued on December 13, 1996, numerous enthusiasts were thrilled by this model – including the famous Chevrolet collector M. G. “Pinky” Randall, who was able to call the last example produced his own.
Chevy Impala Of The Mid 1990s
1970 Chrysler Hurst 300
The Chrysler Hurst 300 is a real rarity – only 501 examples were produced in total, including two exclusive convertibles that were used exclusively for advertising purposes. Anyone who owns one of these vehicles has a real gem in their collection. The striking design with an absurdly long front and rear section and the unique white and gold paintwork was particularly eye-catching. Under the hood was a powerful 7.2-liter V8 engine with 375 hp, which catapulted the Hurst 300 from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.1 seconds. Power was transmitted via a TorqueFlite automatic gearbox, while the 2.2-tonne vehicle remained stable on the road even at high speeds thanks to an impressive wheelbase of 3.15 m.
1970 Chrysler Hurst 300
Dodge Magnum
The first generation of the Dodge Magnum was produced from 1977 to 1979 as a luxury car and succeeded the Dodge Charger. In terms of technology and bodywork, the Magnum was very similar to its predecessor, but its distinctive front end with rectangular instead of round headlights made it unmistakable. The Magnum XE model appeared from 1978 to 1979 as an elegant notchback coupé and was offered with powerful 5.2 to 6.6-liter petrol engines that produced between 141 and 199 hp. In addition to the XE version, there was also a sporty GT variant with wider tires, special rims and widened wheel arches. A total of 85,785 units of the Dodge Magnum were built during its short production run.
Dodge Magnum
1992 Dodge Daytona
The Dodge Daytona, a sporty hatchback coupe with front-wheel drive, was produced by Dodge from 1984 to 1993. The 1992 model in particular received a striking facelift with exposed headlights and revised sill skirts, while the engine range was expanded to include a powerful 227 hp turbo variant. In total, the Daytona was offered with 2.2- to 3.0-liter petrol engines, delivering between 98 and 227 hp. Its K-chassis provided a solid basis, even if the model did not age particularly well. But its performance was remarkable – it offered similar power to a Ford Mustang, but at a lower price, making it an attractive alternative.
1992 Dodge Daytona
Ford Mustang SVT Cobra
The Ford Mustang SVT Cobra, built by Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) between 1993 and 2004, was the ultimate high-performance version of the legendary Mustang – a true muscle car that combined power and exclusivity. With its 4.9-liter V8 engine, it put a whopping 235 hp on the road and catapulted itself from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds. The limited SVT Cobra R-Edition, which was produced three times in exclusive numbers, was particularly sought-after. The 1993 Cobra was not only powerful, but also a visual highlight: available in red, vibrant red, petrol metallic and black, with an interior in elegant opal gray or classic black – optionally in fabric or leather.
Ford Mustang SVT Cobra
Ford Ranchero
The Ford Ranchero, an iconic pick-up truck from the US automotive group Ford, was produced over seven generations from 1957 to 1979 and combined the comfort of a passenger car with the functionality of a utility vehicle. With a spacious three-seater bench seat and an open loading area, it offered versatility for work and leisure. Under the hood, there was a choice of numerous engine variants – from the 3.7-liter straight-six to the powerful 5.8-liter V8. Ford offered the Ranchero both as a robust basic version for everyday work and as a high-quality equipped Custom. Later generations brought additional variants such as the 500, Squire and GT. A total of 508,355 Rancheros rolled off the production line, including 50,203 Custom models of the first and third generation – an impressive legacy of a unique vehicle concept.
Ford Ranchero
1993 GMC Typhoon
The GMC Typhoon was a real powerhouse among SUVs – built by GMC between 1991 and 1993, it combined performance and exclusivity in a seemingly inconspicuous design. Under the hood was a 4.3-liter LB4 V6 engine with an impressive 284 hp, which catapulted the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds – faster than a Ferrari 348 from the same era. With only 4,697 examples produced, the Typhoon remains a rare collector’s item. Each model year brought new color combinations, but black dominated the streetscape. No wonder celebrities such as Clint Eastwood, John F. Kennedy Jr. and Bob Seger were among the proud owners of this high-performance SUV.
1993 GMC Typhoon
1971 GMC Spring SP 454
The GMC Sprint, a unique mix of coupe and pick-up, was produced by GMC between 1971 and 1977 before continuing under the Caballero name from 1973 and rolling off the production line until 1987. Under the hood, it offered a wide range of engines – from an OHV inline six-cylinder to small-block V8s and powerful big-block V8s with up to 365 hp. Visually, it shared many features with the Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu and El Camino, including cloth and vinyl bench seats and luxurious deep twist carpeting. Optional all-vinyl Strato bucket seats with center console were available. The 1971 models were characterized by their distinctive design with twin parking lamps, twin high performance headlamps and a horizontally split front grille – a successful blend of power, style and versatility.
1971 GMC Spring SP 454
Jeep Gladiator
The Jeep Gladiator, a rugged flatbed truck from AMC Jeep, was produced from 1962 to 1988 and was available with both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive. Its versatility made it a popular choice – whether as a chassis with cab, tow truck, flatbed or even with a camper body. Under the hood was a 2.8-liter four-cylinder common-rail turbodiesel engine with 163 hp, combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Its off-road capability was underlined by features such as a fabric roof, a folding windshield, unhinged doors and an extendable flatbed. No wonder the US Army used it as an off-road vehicle. The Gladiator also cut a legendary figure in the cult series “Daktari” with its striking black and white zebra paintwork. For the average consumer, it was a rare sight to see such a powerful vehicle off the beaten track.
Jeep Gladiator
Mercury Cougar
The Mercury Cougar, the elegant counterpart to the Ford Mustang, was produced in nine generations by Mercury, a brand of the Ford Motor Company, from 1967 to 2002. The first generation (1967/68) was only available as a coupé and proved that there was a great demand for sportily designed vehicles in the USA. The Cougar was powered exclusively by powerful V8 engines. From the second generation (1969/70), Mercury expanded the range to include a convertible version, and the Cougar continued to develop in the following years – available as a saloon, estate coupé and convertible. In the ninth generation (1998-2002), Mercury launched a completely new concept: a more compact, lighter sports coupé that took the Cougar into a new era.
Mercury Cougar
1970 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser 442
The Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser, a stylish upper mid-size station wagon, was produced by Oldsmobile, a General Motors brand, from 1964 to 1977. The 1970 Vista Cruiser 442 was particularly legendary with a powerful V8 engine and 310 hp – even with 325 hp on request. With its manual four-speed gearbox and two exhaust systems, it was far more than just an ordinary family estate car. In 14 years, a total of 361,759 units rolled off the production line. Its popularity grew beyond the streets when it played an iconic role in the cult sitcom The Wild Seventies as Eric Forman’s car, in the movie The Flashy Four on the Road and in the classic The Second Breath (1966) with Lino Ventura.
1970 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser 442
1965 Pontiac 2+2
The Pontiac 2+2, produced by General Motors from 1964 to 1967, was a sporty 2-door coupe or convertible with a designation that referred to its seating arrangement – two in the front, two in the back. Powered by a mighty 6.9-liter V8 engine with 376 hp, the 2+2 offered a true race car feel, enhanced by bucket seats and an optional Hurst gearshift. With acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h, it was a force to be reckoned with on the road. The 1965 Pontiac 2+2 received some distinctive upgrades, including slats in the body, high-performance springs and shock absorbers, and a dual exhaust system that emphasized its powerful appearance.
1965 Pontiac 2+2
1971 Plymouth Duster 340
The Plymouth Duster, a sporty hatchback variant of the Valiant, was produced by Chrysler under the Plymouth brand between 1970 and 1976. As a mid-range coupé, it offered an impressive variety of versions – from economical models to high-performance versions. Depending on the focus, it had names such as Feather Duster (economical), Gold Duster (comfortable), Space Duster (practical) or Duster Twister (sporty). in 1971, the Duster was launched in two versions: the standard Duster and the powerful Duster 340. Only a few visual changes were made in this year – the “Valiant” lettering and the “Plymouth” emblem on the radiator grille were removed. The Duster 340 was equipped with engines ranging from 3.7 to 5.9 liters and sold an impressive 217,182 units in 1971.
1971 Plymouth Duster 340
1963 Studebaker Avanti
The Studebaker Avanti, an innovative sports coupé, was produced by the Studebaker Corporation from 1962 to 1963 and set new standards with its futuristic design by French industrial designer Raymond Loewy. The basic version of the 1963 Avanti was equipped with a 4.7-liter R1 engine and 240 hp, while the R2 version with 289 hp provided even more power. Together with racing driver Andy Granatelli, Studebaker also developed the R3 engine, which produced an impressive 335 hp. Despite its technical sophistication, the Avanti was only produced 4,643 times. As a special detail, the Studebaker employees enclosed a letter with the last model produced, informing the future owner of the historical value of their vehicle.
1963 Studebaker Avanti