When it comes to cars, everyone’s got their favorites. But sometimes, the spotlight misses a few deserving rides. We’re not talking about the usual suspects that get all the love and attention. No, we’re diving into the world of underrated cars. These are the cars that deserve a second look, whether for their performance, design, or sheer cool factor.
Ford Falcon
The Ford Falcon may not get the spotlight like some of its flashier relatives, but don’t let that fool you. This car is like the unsung hero behind a superstar, quietly playing a pivotal role. The Falcon was the basis for the Mustang, and that alone should earn it some serious street cred. If you’re looking for a classic that’s got history and style, the Falcon Futura is a solid choice.
Ford Fiesta ST
Let’s talk about the Ford Fiesta ST. This little hot hatch might not grab headlines, but it packs a punch. We’re talking a turbocharged three-banger cranking out 197 horsepower. That means you can hit 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. The Fiesta ST is a pocket rocket with sharp handling and a suspension that makes it a joy to drive, whether you’re zipping through city traffic or taking on twisty back roads. It’s got the power and agility of a sports car, but in a size that’s perfect for everyday driving.
Fiat Tipo
Remember the Fiat Tipo? This underdog was good enough to snag the European Car of the Year award back in 1989, outshining the likes of the Vauxhall Vectra and VW Passat. The Tipo was a solid competitor against the Escort and Astra back in the day, offering a balanced and affordable package. It even had a performance version that didn’t get enough love. It’s a shame more people didn’t get behind the wheel of this one.
Vauxhall Calibra
Think back to the 90s coupés, and you’ll probably agree that the Vauxhall Calibra has aged like a fine wine. This car might spark some heated discussions, but even the harshest critics can’t deny that the Calibra was a looker. Its sleek design boasted a 0.29 Cd drag coefficient, making it impressively aerodynamic. Sure, its chassis wasn’t its strong suit, but the Calibra’s looks are timeless.
Ferrari 612 Scaglietti
The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti often gets overshadowed by its flashier siblings, but it’s a beast in its own right. It might not win beauty contests, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder, right? Plus, it’s got four seats, so you can share the Ferrari experience with friends or family. Some might say it’s too soft for a Ferrari, but let’s get real – it’s a rear-wheel-drive, V12 supercar. And you could snag one for around $80,000, which is a steal for a car with this much charisma.
Kia Stinger
When the Kia Stinger hit the scene, it turned heads as a sports sedan from a brand not known for such beasts. With a choice of turbocharged engines, including a V-6 belting out 255 horsepower, the Stinger is no slouch. It’s quick, handles like a dream, and doubles as a comfy daily driver. The Stinger breaks the mold, proving that great sports sedans don’t have to come from the usual luxury suspects.
Toyota Land Cruiser
For those in the know, the Toyota Land Cruiser isn’t just a 4×4; it’s the 4×4. This beast is tough as nails – think Dwayne Johnson wearing a suit of armor. It’s the vehicle you’d want for conquering the most challenging terrains without breaking a sweat. The Land Cruiser is the go-to choice for anyone serious about off-roading and adventure.
Jaguar F-Type
The Jaguar F-Type is where British elegance meets pure sports car thrill. It’s got looks that kill and a range of engines that go from exciting to exhilarating. Whether you opt for the V-6 or the V-8, you’re in for a ride that’ll get your heart racing. The F-Type might not be as hyped as some German sports cars, but it stands out with its unique blend of style and performance. It’s the kind of car that makes every drive feel special, especially with that engine purring in the background.
Cadillac Allanté
The Cadillac Allanté’s story is almost more interesting than the car itself. Imagine this: bodies built by Pininfarina in Italy, then flown to Michigan in 747s for assembly. Talk about excess! The Allanté had its issues – it was pricey, had some quality hiccups, and wasn’t the best drive. But it’s still more intriguing than its rival, the Mercedes SL, and that counts for something.
Chevrolet Camaro
The Chevrolet Camaro is a living legend of American muscle. With a range of engines, from efficient four-cylinders to powerful V-6 and V-8 options, there’s a Camaro for every taste. Whether you want a fun daily driver or a track monster, the Camaro’s got you covered. It’s the kind of car that makes every trip an adventure, with power and performance to spare.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
The W168 Mercedes-Benz A-Class was a game-changer when it hit the scene. It stood out for its innovative design, smart packaging, and technical prowess. It’s a shame that it often gets overlooked, because it deserves to be celebrated like the original Mini and Citroën DS. Sure, it might not win any beauty contests, and the quality could’ve been better, but the A-Class is still one of the most underrated cars out there.
Honda Civic Type R
The Honda Civic Type R is a front-wheel-drive force to be reckoned with. It’s got a turbocharged engine that puts out a whopping 306 horsepower, making it a top contender in its class. The Civic Type R is ready for anything, whether you’re tearing up the track or cruising the streets. It’s got a track-tuned suspension, adaptive dampers, and Brembo brakes for top-notch performance. Plus, its bold styling isn’t just for show – it’s a statement maker.
Citroën GS
The Citroën GS might not be as famous as some of its siblings, but it’s a brilliant car in its own right. Winning the European Car of the Year in 1971, it brought the luxury of the DS to a wider audience. It launched just before Britain introduced the less impressive Morris Marina. The GS was like a magic carpet, offering advanced technology and comfort to the masses.
Hyundai Veloster N
Hyundai’s performance division, N, really outdid themselves with the Veloster N. It’s a hot hatch that’s as fun on the track as it is on the street. With a turbocharged engine cranking out up to 275 horsepower, it’s a spirited little machine. The Veloster N nails it with precise steering, a sport-tuned suspension, and an exhaust note that’s music to the ears of car lovers.
Volvo C30
The Volvo C30 was a unique mix of coupé style and family hatchback practicality. It looked like a concept car made real, especially in its pre-facelift form. Not quite on the same level as the Audi TT, but it deserves credit for its bold design. The T5 model, with its 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, was a hidden gem – a smarter alternative to the Ford Focus ST. It’s a shame Volvo never put the C30 Polestar into production.
Nissan 370Z
The Nissan 370Z is a nod to old-school sports car enthusiasts in a world obsessed with the latest tech. It’s powered by a naturally aspirated V-6 engine with 332 horsepower, delivering a raw and engaging driving experience. The 370Z’s rear-wheel drive and manual transmission connect you directly to the road. It might not have all the newest gadgets, but it’s a pure, unadulterated sports car that’s all about the joy of driving.
Vauxhall Carlton
The Vauxhall Carlton is often overshadowed by its Lotus-tweaked sibling, but the regular Carlton deserves its own spotlight. This family sedan, particularly in its 3000 GSi guise, was a solid performer that rarely gets the recognition it deserves. It was more than just a fast car; it was a well-rounded vehicle that could handle family duties and spirited driving with equal aplomb.
Toyota GR Supra
The Toyota GR Supra made a dramatic comeback, reigniting the flame of its legendary name. It packs a turbocharged inline-six engine that churns out 382 horsepower, ensuring a thrilling ride. The GR Supra is a harmonious blend of power, agility, and style, perfectly suited for spirited drives or relaxed cruising. This modern icon pays tribute to its roots while embracing contemporary automotive advancements.
Jensen FF
The Jensen FF was a trailblazer in its time, pioneering features like permanent four-wheel drive and early anti-lock brakes. Powered by a 6276cc V8, it offered exceptional performance in all weather conditions. The Jensen FF was ahead of its time, laying the groundwork for technologies that would become standard in the years to follow.
Porsche 914
The VW-Porsche 914 faced its share of criticism, perhaps due to its boxy design, mid-engined layout, or its association with VW. Despite being relatively expensive, the 914 deserved more credit as the world’s first mid-engined sports car. It was more than just a lesser-known sibling of the 911; it was a genuinely fun and unique driving experience.
Volkswagen Passat
The VW Passat strikes a fine balance between mainstream appeal and premium allure. It’s a car that excels in subtlety, with understated styling, a smart interior, and spacious accommodations. The B5.5 generation epitomizes what makes the Passat great, offering a blend of comfort, practicality, and performance that’s hard to beat.
Subaru WRX STI
The Subaru WRX STI is a rally-inspired legend, offering raw, unfiltered driving pleasure. Its turbocharged flat-four engine delivers 310 horsepower, paired with a symmetrical all-wheel-drive system for superior grip. The WRX STI is a dream for enthusiasts who crave a blend of performance and practicality, with a dash of rally heritage.
Volkswagen Golf Mk3
The Mk3 VW Golf GTI might be the most affordable entry into the Golf GTI lineage. This generation expanded on the Golf’s legacy, offering increased size, safety, and comfort. The VR6 was the pinnacle of the Mk3 range, providing a unique blend of performance and everyday usability.
Buick Gran Sport 455 Stage I
This car might not be the first one that pops into your head when you think of classic muscle, especially with legends like the GTO, Chevelle, and 442 stealing the limelight. But don’t sleep on the GS455. It’s a powerhouse in its own right. Sure, it’s not as flashy as the top-tier GSX, but it’s got some serious grunt under the hood. We’re talking more torque than a 426 Hemi, and it’s even lighter by about 150 pounds.
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- Source: https://teslatale.com/underrated-cars/