20 Discontinued Car Models That Need to Make a Comeback
The automotive industry has seen countless legendary vehicles come and go over the decades. While some cars deserved their trip to the scrapyard, others left us too soon, taking with them unique designs and innovations that modern drivers would absolutely love.
Here is a list of 20 remarkable discontinued cars that deserve another shot at the spotlight in today’s automotive landscape.
Pontiac GTO
The original muscle car changed everything when it first hit American streets in 1964. The GTO combined a powerful V8 engine with the comfort of a family car, creating an entirely new automotive segment.
Pontiac continued producing increasingly powerful versions until 1974, with a brief revival in the 2000s that sadly missed the mark. Modern engine technology and safety features could make a new GTO the perfect blend of classic muscle and contemporary performance.
Plymouth Barracuda
The Barracuda started as Plymouth’s answer to the Ford Mustang but evolved into one of the most sought-after muscle cars ever made. The third-generation model, particularly the 1970-71 HEMI versions, now commands astronomical prices at auctions.
A modern interpretation could capitalize on the current muscle car renaissance while incorporating the original’s distinctive fastback design. The platform sharing between Dodge and Chrysler makes this revival particularly feasible.
Like Go2Tutors’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Toyota MR2
This mid-engine sports car proved that affordable performance didn’t require massive power or a premium badge. The MR2 went through three distinct generations, each offering a unique take on the compact sports car formula.
Toyota’s current focus on hybrid technology could make a modern MR2 an innovative bridge between performance and efficiency. The automotive world desperately needs more affordable mid-engine sports cars.
Mazda RX-7
Mazda’s rotary-powered sports car redefined Japanese performance throughout its three generations. The final FD model remains one of the most beautiful car designs ever created.
With modern materials and engineering, the rotary engine’s traditional reliability issues could finally be solved. The recent development of rotary range extenders shows Mazda hasn’t forgotten about this unique technology.
Chevrolet El Camino
This car-based pickup combines the comfort of a passenger car with genuine utility. The El Camino created a unique niche that remained popular for decades in North America.
Modern unibody pickups like the Honda Ridgeline prove there’s still a market for comfortable, car-like trucks. A new El Camino based on the Camaro platform could offer an exciting alternative to traditional pickups.
Like Go2Tutors’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Subaru Brat
Subaru’s quirky pickup featured rear-facing jump seats in the bed to avoid import tariffs. This clever design made it a favorite among young buyers looking for something different.
Modern safety regulations would require a complete redesign, but the basic concept remains appealing. The success of small pickups like the Ford Maverick shows the time is right for unique truck alternatives.
International Scout
This early SUV competitor to the Jeep CJ offered superior comfort while maintaining serious off-road capability. International built the Scout with agricultural-grade toughness that earned it a dedicated following.
The current premium SUV boom provides the perfect opportunity for a refined yet capable new Scout. Volkswagen’s ownership of the Scout name suggests this comeback might actually happen.
Porsche 928
Porsche’s grand touring flagship combined supercar performance with luxury car comfort. The front-engine V8 layout provided a perfect balance for high-speed cruising.
Modern technology could transform the 928’s ahead-of-its-time features into a true Tesla competitor. The current trend toward electric performance cars makes this the perfect time for a 928 revival.
Like Go2Tutors’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Mercury Cougar
The Cougar offered European-inspired luxury with American muscle car performance. Its combination of style and substance created a unique position in the market.
Modern platform sharing could make a new Cougar an attainable luxury performance car. The success of premium muscle cars shows room for sophisticated alternatives.
Volkswagen Karmann Ghia
This stylish sports car proved that beautiful design didn’t require massive power. The Karmann Ghia’s hand-formed bodywork made each one slightly unique.
Electric powertrains could make a modern version that is both beautiful and environmentally conscious. Volkswagen’s modular electric platform would be perfect for a new design-focused sports car.
Lancia Delta Integrale
This humble hatchback became a rally racing legend through continuous development. Integrale’s sophisticated all-wheel-drive system has influenced performance cars for decades.
Modern electronic controls could make its legendary handling even more accessible. The current hot hatchback market needs more premium alternatives.
Like Go2Tutors’s content? Follow us on MSN.
AMC Eagle
America’s first crossover combined passenger car comfort with genuine off-road capability. The Eagle’s raised ride height and all-wheel-drive system predicted today’s popular crossover segment.
Modern materials could solve the original’s weight and efficiency challenges. The booming crossover market would welcome a distinctive alternative.
Honda S2000
This high-revving sports car demonstrated Honda’s engineering excellence. The S2000’s 9,000 RPM redline and perfect balance made it a driver’s favorite.
Modern hybrid technology could add low-end torque while maintaining the high-rpm excitement. The current sports car market lacks affordable, high-performance alternatives.
Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4
This technological tour de force featured advanced systems years ahead of their time. The VR-4’s adjustable suspension, all-wheel steering, and active aerodynamics remain impressive today.
Modern computing power could make these systems work seamlessly together. The premium sports car market needs more ambitious technical innovation.
Like Go2Tutors’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Ford Ranchero
The original car-based pickup started a trend that lasted decades. The Ranchero proved that trucks didn’t need to sacrifice comfort for utility.
Modern unibody construction could make a new version both efficient and capable. The success of small pickups shows perfect timing for a Ranchero revival.
Datsun 240Z
This affordable sports car changed perceptions of Japanese automobiles forever. The Z-car’s combination of style, performance, and reliability created a winning formula.
While the current Nissan Z continues the legacy, a true entry-level sports car is missing from the market. A modern 240Z could reconnect with the original’s affordable performance mission.
Buick Grand National
This sinister-looking muscle car proved that turbocharging could replace displacement. The Grand National’s all-black appearance and impressive performance created an instant legend.
Modern turbo technology could make a new version even more potent. The luxury performance market needs more distinctive alternatives.
Like Go2Tutors’s content? Follow us on MSN.
BMW M1
BMW’s only mid-engine supercar showcased the company’s engineering capabilities. The M1’s combination of performance and daily usability set new standards.
Modern hybrid technology could make a successor both powerful and efficient. The premium sports car market lacks a true BMW halo model.
DeLorean DMC-12
This stainless steel-bodied sports car became a cultural icon despite its troubled history. The DeLorean’s distinctive design and gull-wing doors captured imaginations worldwide.
Modern engineering could finally deliver the performance the original promised. Electric powertrains could make a new DeLorean truly ahead of its time.
Dodge Magnum SRT-8
This high-performance station wagon brought American muscle to the family car segment. The Magnum combined Hemi V8 power with genuinely useful cargo space and aggressive styling.
Modern cylinder deactivation and fuel management systems could make a new version both powerful and efficient. The current market lacks true performance wagons, especially at accessible price points. A modern Magnum could fill this gap while building on Dodge’s performance heritage.
Like Go2Tutors’s content? Follow us on MSN.
The Future of Automotive Nostalgia
These discontinued models represent more than just transportation – they embody innovation, style, and cultural significance that still resonates today. With modern technology and engineering, these classics could be reimagined to meet contemporary standards while maintaining their unique character.
The automotive industry’s current transformation provides the perfect opportunity to bring back these beloved nameplates with renewed purpose and capability.
More from Go2Tutors!
- 20 Historical Artifacts That Scientists Can’t Explain
- 15 Unforgettable Candy Bars From The 60s and 70’s That Disappeared Too Soon
- 20 Countries That No Longer Exist and What Happened to Them
- 20 Forgotten Fast Food Items From the 80’s That Need to Come Back
- Famous Battles: How Much Do You Really Know About U.S. History?
Like Go2Tutors’s content? Follow us on MSN.
