40 Legendary Cars That Deserve a Comeback
Most cars leave the market quietly, but some leave behind a legacy that enthusiasts can't forget. There are a number of beloved cars that left us too soon. While some lost appeal due to changing trends, others got axed due to stricter regulations or corporate decisions.
Today, we will have a look at 40 of such unfortunate cars. These cars stood out for their design, performance, and personality and are very much alive in the hearts of the gearheads hoping for their eventual comeback. So, let’s revisit these discontinued icons.
Dodge Viper (1991–2010, 2013–17)
One of the most iconic sports cars ever, the Dodge Viper spanned five generations and ended production in 2017, after failing to meet crash standards without costly redesigns. The Viper's legacy peaked with the ACR model, which generated a whopping 645 hp and did 0-60 in just 3.3 seconds!
Jaguar XJS (1975–1996)
The Jaguar XJS succeeded the E-Type as a luxury grand tourer. It was known for its lavish interior, smooth ride and powerful V12. Early pre-HE models had 5.3L V12 engines producing 285 hp and 294 lb-ft of torque. Later models were not just more powerful, but also more fuel efficient.
Ferrari Mondial (1980–1993)
Often hailed as the "worst Ferrari ever" due to its underwhelming powertrain, the Mondial is a highly misunderstood car. It arrived in the post oil crisis-era, but still packed enough power to outperform the Ferrari 208 GTB and base Porsche 911s of the early 80s. Also, critics often forget that it was meant to be a GT, and not a supercar!
BMW Z8 (1999–2003)
This modern classic roadster blended retro styling with high-performance engineering. It had an all-aluminum chassis and body, housing a 4.9L S62 V8 from the E39 M5, producing 400 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. With perfect 50/50 weight distribution, it sprinted from 0-60 mph in just 4.2 seconds, outpacing the Ferrari 360 Modena.
Porsche 928 (1978–1995)
This front-engine rear-wheel-drive luxury GT car featured lightweight aluminum body panels, unique pop-up headlights, and a rounded fastback design. It was powered by a 4.5L water-cooled V8, but by the time production ended, the displacement had increased to 5.4L. A total of 61,056 units were produced.
Lexus LFA (2010-2012)
This legendary supercar was known for its remarkable performance and precision engineering. It had a 552-hp 4.8L V10 enabling a 0-60 time of just 3.6 seconds and a redline hitting 9,000 rpm. The LFA was made of carbon fiber for weight reduction, had a luxurious interior, and emitted an exotic exhaust note. Just 500 units were made.
Porsche 914
This mid-engine sports car was born from a Volkswagen-Porsche collaboration. The base trim had 1.7L flat-four making 80 hp, while the higher 914/6 trim had a 2.0L flat-six generating 110 hp. The car was known for its lightweight, balanced chassis that made it remarkably agile and extremely fun to drive.
Mazda RX-7 (1978–2002)
Mazda's first true mass-market sports car, the RX-7 weighed just over 1,000 kg, had a rotary engine behind the front axle, and was remarkably agile. With 811,634 units sold, it remains the best-selling rotary vehicle and is widely regarded as one of the most iconic sports cars ever.
Jaguar XK (1997–2015)
This luxurious grand tourer, offered both as a coupe and convertible, was known for its elegant design and powerful performance. It debuted with a 4.0L V8 engine, but performance kept improving with time. The top-of-line variant, the XKR-S launched in 2012, notably had a 0-60 time of just 4.4 seconds.
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG (2010–2015)
The first car built entirely by Mercedes-Benz's high-performance division, the SLS AMG was known for its stylish looks, luxurious cabin, aluminum space frame, iconic gullwing doors, and handbuilt 6.2L V8. The engine delivered 563 hp, 479 lb-ft of torque, and had a 0-60 mph time of 3.7 seconds.
Toyota MR2 (1984–2007)
The Toyota MR2 was designed as an affordable, lightweight sports car with a transversely mounted four-cylinder engine and fully independent suspension. It was Japan's first mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive production car and remains highly regarded for its sharp handling and engaging driving experience. With Toyota reviving the Supra and 86, a new MR2 would be a welcome addition.
Mitsubishi Starion (1983–1989)
This turbocharged RWD car was Mitsubishi's answer to the Nissan Z, Toyota Supra, and Mazda RX-7. The car’s name was a combination of 'Star' and 'Arion,’ with the latter referring to Hercules' horse in Greek mythology. The Starion was one of the earliest Japanese sports cars to feature electronic fuel injection.
Mazda RX-8 (2003–2012)
You either loved or hated it. The RX-8 featured a 1.3L Renesis rotary engine with 232 hp and a 9,000 rpm redline in manual models. It had rear-hinged "freestyle" doors for better rear-seat access, and was known for its razor-sharp handling. The car was discontinued after failing to meet stricter emissions standards.
Lotus Elan (1962–1975)
Setting a benchmark for roadsters, the Lotus Elan had an incredible power-to-weight ratio, precise steering, and razor-sharp handling, thanks to its fiberglass body, steel backbone chassis, and potent 1.6L twin-cam engine. Even today, its pure driving experience and timeless design keep it among the most revered British sports cars.
Porsche 924 (1976–1988)
The Porsche 924 was the brand's first water-cooled, front-engine car, replacing the 914 2.0 and 912E. Its 2.0L Audi-sourced 4-cylinder engine initially made 94 hp, but power output increased in later models. The 1979 924 Turbo boosted output to 143 hp. Known for its stylish persona and remarkable handling, the 924 remains an underrated gem.
Volvo P1800 (1961–1973)
The Volvo P1800 blended the looks of a Ferrari with the reliability of a Volvo. It was a front-engine rear-drive sports car, but was marketed as a grand tourer... and despite being a top-of-the-range niche product, it had accessible pricing. Even today, its timeless design and solid engineering make it a highly desirable classic.
Toyota Celica (1971–2006)
The Celica is one of Toyota's most iconic cars with a rich rally heritage and a reputation for affordable performance. Spanning seven generations, it evolved from a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe to a powerful front-wheel-drive car. Luckily, Toyota is reviving it with a mid-engined 400-hp 2.0-liter turbo engine, a rally-bred chassis, and all-wheel drive.
Pontiac Fiero (1984–1988)
The first mid-engine sports car mass-produced by an American brand, the Fiero was initially launched as an economical commuter car with thrifty 4- and 6-cylinder engines. Pontiac later improved its handling and power, moving it closer to its sports car potential. A total of 370,168 units were made. Even though Pontiac is no more, GM can still totally bring it back.
Volvo C70 Convertible (1997-2013)
The Volvo C70 Convertible debuted with a soft top, but the second generation had a retractable hardtop. The car offered a plush interior with comfortable seating, luxurious materials, a premium audio system and advanced climate control. It also had advanced safety features, including side airbags and a robust rollover protection system.
Porsche 944 (1982–1991)
With over 163,000 units produced, the 944 was Porsche's best-selling model until the Boxster and 997 Carrera. Thanks to a rear transaxle balancing out the engine in the front, it boasted a nearly even front to rear weight distribution, resulting in exceptional handling. The 944 was eventually succeeded by the Porsche 968 in 1992.
Chevrolet El Camino (1959–1960, 1964–1987)
The Chevrolet El Camino blended muscle car performance with pickup utility. Despite its truck-like appearance and capabilities, it handled like a car. In fact, it was a blast to drive with its rear-wheel drive and powerful engines, especially in SS trim that had a monstrous 454 cu-in V8 under the hood.
Volkswagen Eos (2006-2015)
This versatile convertible had a 200-hp 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a lavish interior featuring leatherette upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and a premium audio system. The Eos also had an innovative five-piece folding hardtop roof, which also included an integrated sunroof. The car was named after Eos, the Greek goddess of the dawn.
Mazda Cosmo (1967–1996)
This stylish sports car holds the honor of boasting Mazda's first-ever rotary engine, a 110-hp 982cc two-rotor engine capable of rocketing it to 115 mph. The Cosmo, as the name suggests, had a space-inspired design with covered headlights and pointed nose. It also borrowed some styling cues from the Jaguar E-Type.
Subaru BRAT (1978–1994)
The Subaru Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter, or BRAT, was a quirky El Camino-style pickup based on the Subaru Leone. Designed for the US market, it featured rear-facing seats in the bed to avoid restrictions on imported trucks. With its four-wheel drive, funky decals, and unusual design, it became an icon of 1970s-80s Subaru eccentricity and remains one of the brand's coolest classics.
Jaguar XJ220 (1992–1994)
The Jaguar XJ220 was a record-breaking supercar that redefined performance in the early '90s, with its 3.5L twin-turbo V6 producing 542 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. With a top speed of 217 mph, it was the world's fastest production car at the time. Just 275 units were produced.
Volkswagen Scirocco (1974–1992, 2008–2017)
The Volkswagen Scirocco is a sport compact hatchback produced in three generations. The third generation that debuted in 2008 featured 158-hp 1.4L and 197-hp 2.0L petrol engines and a 168-hp 2.0L diesel engine. Despite its impressive performance and striking looks, the Scirocco was discontinued in 2017.
Ford Focus RS (2002-03, 2009-11, 2016-18)
The Focus RS was a high-performance version of the Focus. It debuted with a 2.0-litre turbo Duratec RS engine and a number of enhancements, including limited-slip differential, Brembo brakes, and Ford's 'Revo-knuckle’ front suspension strut system. The fiery hatchback was discontinued in North America in 2018 as Ford prioritized SUVs and trucks.
Buick Regal (1973-2020)
The Buick Regal has had a great run. It evolved from a midsize luxury sedan known for its upscale features and smooth ride to include Sportback and TourX wagon variants in its last iteration. While the Sportback blended features of a sedan and hatchback, the TourX wagon was perfect for adventure with its high ground clearance and AWD.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (1992–2016)
Famously known as the "Evo," this high-performance sedan spanned ten generations, with each featuring a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four engine and all-wheel drive. The car was originally built for the World Rally Championship, and had various performance-oriented features, including active yaw control and active center differential for enhanced cornering capabilities.
Alfa Romeo Montreal (1970–1977)
The Alfa Romeo Montreal concept debuted with a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine, but the production model featured a 2.6L cross-plane V8 engine derived from Alfa's racing program. Despite its performance potential and charming looks, the Montreal remained overlooked throughout its 7-year production run.
Ford Taurus (1986–2019)
The Taurus revolutionized American family cars by setting new standards of comfort, performance, and innovation when it was launched in 1986. It also forced Toyota and Honda to respond with better sedans. Unfortunately, its sales declined from 400,000 in 1992 to 36,000 in 2018. Ford discontinued the vehicle next year.
Lotus Excel (1982–1992)
The Excel featured a 2.2L Lotus 912 slant-four engine churning out 160 hp. It sourced numerous components from Toyota, including the driveshafts, rear differential, and W58 manual transmission. The car was never sold in the U.S. due to emissions regulations, but was highly sought after in Europe.
Honda S2000 (1999–2009)
This high-revving roadster was built to celebrate Honda’s 50th anniversary. It featured a 2.0L VTEC engine capable of screaming up to 9,000 rpm and producing 237 hp (the highest specific output of any naturally aspirated engine at the time). The S2000’s front-mid engine layout, perfect 50/50 weight distribution, and double-wishbone suspension made it a favorite among purists. Just 110,673 units were made.
Nissan 240SX (1990–1998)
This lightweight, rear-wheel-drive coupe powered by a 2.4L inline-four engine became an icon in drifting and tuner culture. The 240SX was closely related to the Japanese Silvia and 180SX, and gained a cult following for its balanced chassis, nimble handling, affordable tag, and lively performance.
Alfa Romeo GTV6 (1981–1987)
The Alfa Romeo GTV6 was the ultimate evolution of the Alfetta GT/GTV coupe, launched in 1972. The GTV6 featured a 2.5L V6, producing 160 hp with a glorious exhaust note. Its rear transaxle and de Dion suspension provided exceptional handling, and its legendary V6 outlived the model, powering Alfas for decades.
Porsche 918 Spyder (2013-2015)
The Porsche 918 Spyder is a plug-in hybrid hypercar featuring a 4.6L V8 paired with two electric motors, delivering a staggering 887 hp and 944 lb-ft of torque. This setup enabled a top speed of 214 mph, and a 0-60 mph time of just 2.5 seconds. Production was limited to just 918 units.
Ford Fiesta (1978–2019)
With over 22 million units produced, the Fiesta remains Ford's second best-selling nameplate. The subcompact hatchback was known for its affordability, practicality, and fun-to-drive nature. Its compact size, well-equipped interior, and efficient engines made it an ideal daily driver for small families. The later generations had sedan variants as well.
Cadillac CTS-V (2004–19)
The Cadillac CTS-V debuted with a 5.7L LS6 V8 producing 400 hp. This output only increased, with the third-gen model churning out 640 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque from its 6.2L supercharged V8, making it Cadillac's most powerful car ever. The CTS-V remains a beloved executive muscle car today.
Honda CR-Z (2011–2016)
The CR-Z sold 11,000+ units in its first year. It quickly earned a reputation for its bold styling, sporty handling, and its unique six-speed manual hybrid setup. However, its 1.5L powertrain produced just 130 hp. This underwhelming performance ultimately sealed the fate of this ambitious sport hybrid coupe.
Buick LaCrosse (2005-2019)
The Buick LaCrosse quickly earned a place in the premium sedan market with its blend of luxury, comfort, and technology. It delivered a truly upscale driving experience with a smooth ride, refined handling, and a perfectly quiet cabin. Unfortunately, the growing popularity of crossovers in the US led to its discontinuation.
