![]() |
![]() |
|
Whenever anybody mentions the top anything in cars, it sparks massive controversy between car enthusiasts. Choosing the top ten cars of the 20th century was far from being easy. These choices are only the opinions of this website. Decide for yourself if you think the selections and order are appropriate. Otherwise, enjoy Idiopathy's first Top Ten!
--
10:
DeLorean DMC-12
Created by ex-GM engineer John Z. DeLorean, the DeLorean DMC-12 burst onto the scene in 1981 to generally good reviews. In the midst of falling sales, as well as a drug trafficking scandal, the last of the Giorgetto Giugiaro designed DMC-12s were rolled off the production line in 1983. It was only two years later that the movie Back To The Future sparked renewed interest in the futuristic-looking car. Of the original 8,583 cars produced, 6,000 are still believed to be road-worthy. Average prices today hover between $20,000 and $50,000 apiece. For its enduring legacy, the DeLorean DMC-12 takes the number ten spot.
9:
Triumph Spitfire
Introduced in 1962, the Triumph Spitfire presented the world with an economical alternative to the pricier British sports cars of the time. Despite the car's relatively short life of eighteen years, the Spitfire still managed to go through five different generations: Mark I through Mark IV, and the 1500. Despite 75 hp engines and frequent electrical problems, the Spitfire managed to remain a popular low-cost choice for consumers. It is for the enduring popularity and unique design that the Triumph Spitfire earns the ninth place spot in The Top Ten.
8:
McLaren F1
Produced only from 1993 to 1998, the McLaren F1 still managed to make a permanent mark in the supercar world. Its BMW-designed V-12 engine produced 627 bhp to propel the car to a top speed of over 230 mph. The F1 was also the first road car to be built with a carbon-fiber chassis. Despite this, the price of the supercar proved to be the reason for its ultimate demise. Prices could exceed half a million dollars. As a result, only 100 were ever built. For outstanding performance and revolutionary technology, the McLaren F1 comes in at number eight!
7:
Ford Thunderbird
In 1955, Ford released its answer to the Chevrolet Corvette: The Ford Thunderbird. Many people look back fondly at the Thunderbird for its sporty-yet-versatile nature. And despite the Thunderbird's popularity, it was discontinued in 1997. As everyone knows, the Thunderbird returned with much fanfare in 2002. The all-new Ford is based on the 1955 model year. It is the first convertible since 1967 and the first two-seater since 1958. Still, Thunderbird fans are split. There are those who would prefer the four-seaters over a two-seater. Despite its new-found controversy, the Ford Thunderbird finds itself at the number seven spot for its enduring legacy.
6:
Chevrolet Camaro
The Ford Mustang was introduced in response to the Chevrolet Corvair Monza. Chevrolet, in turn, introduced the Chevrolet Camaro in 1967. The pony wars had begun. The Camaro would see four different generations over the next 35 years, but eventually lost the race. While the Camaro had retained its performance and sporty appeal, the design made every-day use an uncomfortable choice. The Mustang, meanwhile was both performance oriented as well as roomy. Despite its demise, and the fact its name means "loose bowels" in a foreign language, the Chevrolet Camaro has managed to hold its popularity. For its trend setting ability and heritage, the Chevrolet Camaro chimes in at the number six spot.
5:
Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang, released in 1964, has gone on to be one of the best selling sports cars of all time. Indeed, 1 million cars had already been sold by the end of 1966. The Mustang continues to be highly successful, even as it goes into its fifth generation and fourth styling change. The key to its success? Practicality. Sports cars are typically cramped for space or are difficult to maintain when used as daily drivers. The Mustang manages to be comfortable to drive on a daily basis while retaining its sports car heritage. For its ability to survive all and retain its popularity, the Ford Mustang earns the number five spot on The Top Ten.
4:
Ferrari Testarossa
Produced from 1984 to 1996, the Ferrari Testarossa first captured peoples' attention on the hit show Miami Vice. When enthusiasts saw the style and engineering that made up this classic Italian car, it was no surprise to see its popularity soar. The vehicle's design was updated and improved over its production. In 1991, the Testarossa became the 512TR(5 liter Twelve cylinder Testarossa). The 512TR then became the F512M (Ferrari 5 liter Twelve cylinder Modified) in 1995. This was the fastest iteration of the Testarossa, with a top speed of 195 mph. The Ferrari Testarossa earns the number four spot for its speed, style and innovation!
3:
Porsche 911
The world was introduced to the Porsche 911 in 1964, and enthusiasts have been in love ever since. One of the most recognized sports cars in the world, the 911 has experienced unparalleled success in both the racing and private markets ever since 1973. This was the first 911, the RS 2.7, that was built for GT racing. Although only 125 were built in 1964, 250,000 Porsche 911s have been built since the car's induction. There have been 19 variations of the sports car in all! For its raging popularity and ingenuitive design, the Porsche 911 rightfully takes the number 3 spot on The Top Ten.
2:
Lamborghini Diablo
First introduced in 1990, Marcello Gandini's bold, futuristic design caught the attention of car enthusiasts around the world. The Diablo, named for a late 18th century bull known for its ferocity, was capable of an astounding 202 mph. So powerful is the engine, that the car is capable of highway speeds (65.7 mph) in reverse! This is made possible by the Diablo's 492 bhp V-12 engine. Amazingly, the car is rated for 95 octane unleaded gasoline. Style, power, and notoriety push this super car to the number two spot!
1:
Chevrolet Corvette
Introduced in 1953 and still going strong, the Chevrolet Corvette remains one of the most recognizable, and popular sports cars in the world. The Corvette began its life with a rough start, selling poorly due to a high price tag and an underpowered engine. In addition, the first model was only available as a Polo White two-seater with red interior. The car was greatly improved the following year, leading to an incredible 2000% increase in sales! Going into its sixth generation, the Corvette will not have flip-up lights for the first time in 42 years. There can be little doubt it will be well received, however. For its 50+ year legacy and unending popularity, the Chevrolet Corvette earns the vaunted number one spot on The Top Ten!
|
|
Legal Disclaimer:
Contents of this website are Copyright �2004 John Prescott, unless otherwise noted. Replication of this website in part or in whole without permission is punishable by law. This website is editorial and satirical in nature. The areas of this website that might use the names of companies and/or their products are in non-restricted, public areas that are accessible without payment or compensation. The names of companies and/or their products may be used lawfully for these reasons. Any images used on this website with copyrights other than that of John Prescott will be marked with the proper owner's name and copyright. The owner of an image may contact the owner of this website to have an image removed. The owner agrees to remove the image as soon as possible upon this request.
All makes and models are trademarks of their respective companies.
|