In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of automotive design, some vehicles transcend mere transportation to become genuine works of art. Cars possess an undeniable visual appeal, an inherent charm that allows them to defy the passage of time. From the sweeping, elegant lines of pre-war masterpieces to the bold, assertive stance of modern-day performance machines, the world of automobiles is a testament to incredible design that is as captivating to behold as it is exhilarating to drive.
Here at MotorTrend, we believe that true automotive excellence is a harmonious blend of engineering prowess and artistic vision. It’s about how a vehicle stirs the senses, how its silhouette tells a story of speed, luxury, or groundbreaking innovation. We’ve delved deep into the archives and surveyed the contemporary scene to bring you a meticulously curated selection of the best-looking cars produced by widely known companies, each demonstrating a unique pinnacle of artistic excellence and ingenuity.
This first segment of our comprehensive exploration takes us on a captivating journey back through time, highlighting seven truly iconic classics. These are the machines that didn’t just move people; they moved paradigms, set new standards for beauty, and continue to inspire generations of designers and enthusiasts alike. Prepare to witness the timeless allure of design that has shaped automotive history, proving that some creations are simply destined for greatness.
1. **Alfa Romeo: 8C 2900 (1935)**
Stunning pieces of pre-war automotive design, Alfa Romeo’s 8C 2900 exemplify curvaceous elegance in a way few others ever have. Its fluid, elongated forms and perfectly proportioned bodywork are a masterclass in early automotive artistry, making it an immediate visual standout. The meticulous craftsmanship visible in every line and panel speaks volumes of an era when cars were sculpted with an artisan’s touch, creating a silhouette that remains breathtaking even today.
Beyond its striking visual beauty, the 8C 2900 is a true quintessence of engineering, embodying the peak of performance for its time. Powering this aesthetic marvel was a strong inline-eight engine, a mechanical heart that was bound to fascinate racing lovers with its sophisticated power delivery and robust capabilities. This car perfectly illustrates how Alfa Romeo seamlessly integrated breathtaking form with formidable function, solidifying its place as a legend that thrilled both on the track and in the showroom.
Car Model Information: 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
Caption: Custom Alfa Romeo 8C (1936)
Name: Alfa Romeo 8C
Manufacturer: Alfa Romeo
Production: 1931–1939
Assembly: Portello (district of Milan)
Class: Luxury car, Sports car, Racing car
Layout: FR layout
Engine: Straight-8
Designer: Vittorio Jano
Categories: 24 Hours of Le Mans race cars, Alfa Romeo sports racing cars, Alfa Romeo vehicles, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 1931
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Brand: Alfa Romeo Model: 8C 2900
Price: $25,680 Mileage: 32,780 mi.
2. **AC: Cobra 289 (1962)**
For many, the AC Cobra 289 is a synonym for a pure, unadulterated sports car, a brilliant fusion of meticulous British engineering and raw American muscle. Its unmistakable low-slung profile, coupled with a wide wheelbase and an aggressive stance, immediately communicates its inherent power. This car looks just as aggressive standing still as it does out on the track, hinting at the blistering performance contained within its muscular physique.
The genius behind the Cobra 289 was its deliberate design as a lightweight body, built to perfectly harness the mighty V8 engine churning underneath. This strategic combination resulted in a vehicle where speed and style were flawlessly embodied in one cohesive package. The Cobra’s no-nonsense aesthetic, born from a focus on performance, has made it an enduring icon, a definitive statement of what a powerful, agile, and supremely stylish sports car should be.
Car Model Information: 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
Caption: AC Cobra 427
Layout: front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
Predecessor: AC Ace
Class: Sports car
Successor: AC MK IV
Wheelbase: 90 in
Abbr: on
Order: flip
Length: 156 in
Width: 68 in
Height: 48 in
Weight: 2355 lb
Categories: 1960s cars, AC vehicles, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from December 2014
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Brand: AC Model: Cobra 289
Price: $25,680 Mileage: 32,780 mi.
3. **Aston Martin: DB4 GT Zagato (1962)**
The Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato stands as an undisputed masterwork of automobile design, a testament to what happens when British elegance meets Italian flair. Its elongated, purposeful nose and sensuously curvaceous body, sculpted with the distinctive Zagato styling, create an image so beautiful and sporty it seems almost otherworldly. The design carries a mythical quality, as if an elven warrior had personally overseen its creation, blending aggression with an ethereal grace.
This exceptional vehicle isn’t just about captivating aesthetics; it is also one of the rarest and most ravishing beauties that collectors worldwide pine for. The scarcity of the DB4 GT Zagato only enhances its legendary status, making every glimpse a privileged moment. It represents a zenith in automotive artistry, a car that flawlessly combines athletic intent with an unparalleled level of visual sophistication, defining true grand touring luxury.
Car Model Information: 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
Name: Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato
Manufacturer: Aston Martin
Production: 1960–1963,(25 produced, inc 4 Sanction II and 2 Sanction III)
Class: Grand tourer
BodyStyle: Coupe
Engine: straight-6
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Wheelbase: 2362 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 4267 mm
Width: 1557 mm
Height: 1270 mm
Weight: 1225 kg
Successor: Aston Martin V8 Zagato
Related: Aston Martin DB4
Designer: Ercole Spada
Sp: uk
Categories: All articles needing additional references, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles needing additional references from April 2018, Articles needing additional references from July 2025, Articles with short description
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Brand: Aston Martin Model: DB4 GT Zagato
Price: $25,680 Mileage: 32,780 mi.
4. **Auburn: Boattail Speedster 851 (1934)**
The Auburn Boattail Speedster 851 is the very epitome of classic design rendered in the captivating Art Deco style, a true showstopper from the golden age of automotive glamour. Its distinctive lines and overall design, paired with an array of luxurious details, combine to form an eye-catching spectacle that commands attention. The sweeping curves of its body, particularly the iconic boat-tail rear, are complemented by elaborate chrome accents, making it unequivocally one of the most beautiful cars to date.
This machine was designed not just for transportation but as a statement of opulence and avant-garde style, capturing the spirit of an era defined by bold artistic expression. Every angle reveals another facet of its meticulously crafted elegance, from the grand grille to the distinctive pontoon fenders. The Boattail Speedster 851 remains a timeless symbol of American luxury and design innovation, a car that continues to evoke awe and admiration decades after its creation.
Car Model Information: 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
Name: Auburn Speedster
Caption: 1935 Auburn Boattail Speedster 851
Manufacturer: Auburn Automobile
Production: 1925–1937
Designer: Gordon Buehrig
BodyStyle: Roadster (automobile)
Engine: Lycoming Engines
Transmission: Three-speed manual with synchromesh on second and third ratios in ‘high’
Length: convert
Width: convert
Weight: convert
Categories: All articles needing additional references, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles needing additional references from August 2012, Articles needing additional references from December 2020, Articles with short description
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Brand: Auburn Model: Boattail Speedster 851
Price: $25,680 Mileage: 32,780 mi.
5. **BMW: 507 (1956)**
The BMW 507 is celebrated as a true masterpiece of elegant automotive design, a quintessential representation of the sophisticated style that characterized the 1950s. Its gracefully sweeping bonnet, the yielding curves that flow seamlessly along its flanks, and that iconic kidney grille — so deeply associated with the BMW brand — collectively establish it as an excellent symbol of elegance within the realm of luxury automobiles. It’s a design that exudes understated power and refined grace.
This exceptionally rare roadster is much more than just a pretty face; it brilliantly combines its striking beauty with the greatest engineering BMW had to offer at the time. The synergy of its sublime aesthetics and advanced mechanics has secured its place as a timeless favorite among discerning collectors. The BMW 507 is a testament to the brand’s early commitment to producing vehicles that are both visually captivating and dynamically accomplished, setting a benchmark for future designs.
6. **Bugatti: Type 57 Atlantic (1938)**
Hands down, the Bugatti Type 57 Atlantic is one of the most stunningly beautiful cars ever conceived, a vehicle that transcends conventional automotive design to become a rolling sculpture. Its lines are exquisitely sophisticated, flowing with an unparalleled fluidity that captivates the eye. The distinguishing element, a prominent riveted dorsal fin that runs the length of the car, adds a unique and iconic touch, showcasing an almost alien level of exquisite craftsmanship for people to admire.
The rarity of the Type 57 Atlantic further elevates its mythical status; only a handful were ever made, making each surviving example a profound symbol of luxury and exclusivity. This car isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about making an artistic statement, an embodiment of automotive perfection that continues to inspire awe. Its visionary design and unparalleled execution secure its place as an undisputed automotive legend, a pinnacle of pre-war artistry.
Car Model Information: 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
Name: Bugatti Type 57
Caption: 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Atalante
Manufacturer: Bugatti
Assembly: Molsheim
Production: 1934–1940,710 produced
Designer: Jean Bugatti
Class: Grand tourer
Engine: DOHC, Straight-8
Predecessor: Bugatti Type 49
Successor: Bugatti Type 101
Categories: 24 Hours of Le Mans race cars, Articles with short description, Bugatti automobiles, CS1 Romanian-language sources (ro), Cars introduced in 1934
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Brand: Bugatti Model: Type 57 Atlantic
Price: $25,680 Mileage: 32,780 mi.
7. **Chevrolet: Corvette Stingray (1963)**
There’s nothing more classic in the American automotive lexicon than the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, a vehicle that epitomized innovative design paired with thrilling performance. Its distinctive slenderness and groundbreaking aerodynamic look were so forward-thinking that they have truly made their way through the ages, remaining fresh and exciting even today. The iconic split rear window, a design flourish unique to this year, further cemented its identity as a definitive symbol of American sports cars.
The Stingray was a revolutionary vehicle that perfectly fused aesthetic appeal with raw power, setting a new standard for American performance. Its aggressive yet elegant lines hinted at the formidable V8 engine beneath the hood, promising an exhilarating driving experience. This potent combination of beauty and inherent power continues to make the 1963 Corvette Stingray a cherished classic, revered by enthusiasts for its timeless appeal and enduring legacy on both road and track.
Having marveled at the foundational classics that carved the very definition of automotive beauty, our journey now steers into an equally captivating realm. We transition from the revered icons of early motoring to a diverse collection of masterpieces that have redefined aesthetics, spanning from sublime European grand tourers to the unexpectedly stunning designs that are shaping the modern automotive landscape. These vehicles represent not just peak performance or luxury, but a profound artistic vision that continues to inspire and captivate, proving that true beauty in design transcends eras and categories.
Car Model Information: 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
Categories: All article disambiguation pages, All disambiguation pages, Disambiguation pages, Short description is different from Wikidata
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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Corvette Stingray
Price: $25,680 Mileage: 32,780 mi.
8. **Mercedes-Benz: 300 SL Gullwing (1954)**
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing isn’t merely a car; it is the very definition of an automobile, a timeless icon that fuses style, performance, and exemplary engineering into an unforgettable package. Its unmistakable gullwing doors, a revolutionary design element at the time, combined with curvaceous lines, instantly set it apart, ensuring its place in history as a monument to mid-century automotive artistry. This vehicle transcends its functional purpose to become a rolling sculpture, a benchmark against which other designs are still measured.
The sheer visual appeal of the 300 SL is matched only by its engineering prowess. Every line, every curve contributes to a sense of aerodynamic efficiency and graceful power, embodying the pinnacle of German automotive thought from the 1950s. It stands as a testament to how meticulous design and advanced mechanics can coalesce to create something truly legendary, a car that continues to inspire designers and enthrall collectors worldwide, reaching a status that few others ever achieve.
Car Model Information: 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
CarName: Mercedes-Benz W194
Category: Endurance racing (motorsport)
Constructor: Mercedes-Benz in Formula One
Team: Mercedes-Benz in Formula One
Designer: Rudolf Uhlenhaut
Categories: All articles needing additional references, Articles needing additional references from January 2019, Articles with short description, Commons category link is on Wikidata, Le Mans winning cars
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Brand: Mercedes-Benz Model: 300 SL Gullwing
Price: $25,680 Mileage: 32,780 mi.
9. **Jaguar: E-Type Series 1 Coupe (1961)**
For a vast number of enthusiasts and critics alike, the Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Coupe holds the esteemed title of the handsomest car ever built, an assertion that is hard to argue with upon first glance. Its long, sensuously sculpted hood, flowing curves that seem to effortlessly guide the eye along its profile, and perfectly integrated headlights create a design that has truly stamped timelessness. This vehicle’s aesthetic is so profoundly perfect, it almost feels impossible to fully capture its allure in mere words, embodying an elegance that transcends era.
The E-Type was not just a visual delight; its performance and style automatically marked it as the starting point for excellence in the automotive world for all things 1960s. It represented an unprecedented blend of speed, sophistication, and affordability that shook the industry. The seamless integration of its athletic stance with a truly luxurious interior cemented its position as a grand touring icon, a vehicle that remains an object of desire and a definitive statement of refined British motoring.
Car Model Information: 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
Sp: uk
Name: Jaguar E-Type
Caption: 1961 E-Type Series 1 3.8-Litre, the first production model of this open two-seater
Aka: Jaguar XK-E, Jaguar V-12
Manufacturer: Jaguar Cars
Production: 1961–1974
Class: Sports car
Predecessor: Jaguar XK150
Related: Jaguar D-Type, Jaguar XJ13
Successor: Jaguar XJS
Layout: FMR layout
Assembly: Coventry, England
Designer: Malcolm Sayer
Categories: 1970s cars, 2+2 coupés, All articles with dead external links, All articles with specifically marked weasel-worded phrases, All articles with unsourced statements
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Brand: Jaguar Model: E-Type Series 1 Coupe
Price: $25,680 Mileage: 32,780 mi.
10. **Lamborghini: Miura (1970)**
Stepping into the realm of truly exotic Italian machinery, the legendary Lamborghini Miura stands as a pivotal moment in automotive design history, known globally for its spectacular design and breathtaking performance. This low-profile supercar, with its aggressive lines and revolutionary mid-engine layout, was more than just a car; it was a symphony of works in automobile engineering. The Miura’s radical silhouette, which positioned the engine directly behind the passenger compartment, opened up new possibilities for balance and aesthetics, pushing boundaries previously unseen.
The Miura’s audacious styling, particularly its iconic “eyelashes” around the headlights and its muscular rear haunches, immediately communicated its high-performance intentions. For its looks and sheer speed, this vehicle had its position carved indelibly in the history of automobiles, becoming the definitive poster car for a generation and beyond. It perfectly encapsulates Lamborghini’s bold spirit, prioritizing dramatic visual impact and exhilarating driving dynamics, cementing its legacy as a true automotive masterpiece.
11. **Citroën: DS (1955)**
The Citroën DS shattered all conventions upon its debut, presenting itself not just as a new car, but as a dramatically new concept that perfectly represented sharp design and cutting-edge engineering. Its futuristic shape, distinct headlights that seemed to peer from another era, and its revolutionary hydropneumatic suspension coalesced to create a rather striking and almost otherworldly appearance. This wasn’t merely a vehicle; it was a statement, a bold declaration of innovation that challenged every established notion of automotive design.
Beyond its radical exterior, the DS was a marvel of interior comfort and technological sophistication. Its ability to glide effortlessly over uneven terrain, thanks to its self-leveling suspension, felt almost magical, solidifying its reputation as a vehicle far ahead of its time. To say this car is beautiful would be an understatement; it is a profound testimony to innovation in automotive design, proving that true aesthetic brilliance can emerge from a fearless pursuit of the unconventional, leaving an enduring legacy of visionary engineering.
12. **Toyota: Prius (2023)**
For years, the mere mention of the Toyota Prius as a “sexy car” was an ironic joke, almost a contradiction in terms, as its design was largely subservient to its pioneering role as the poster child of environmentally friendly automobiles in the early 2000s. It was a vehicle perfectly fit for purpose, thoroughly practical, and extremely cheap to run, a pragmatic choice. While celebrities might have driven it up to the red carpet to make a point about sustainability, that point was about anything but looking good.
However, 2023 marked a stunning paradigm shift, transforming this once-unassuming eco-warrior into a genuinely desirable machine. Now, it’s a simple reality: the new Prius looks undeniably good. As Justin Banner aptly puts it, “The Prius is an absolute turnaround from what it once was, and it’s now a very good-looking car.” Despite contemporary debates where EV purists often bash the eco credentials of the Prius, it continues to sip gas where others chug, all while looking better than just about anything else in traffic. What’s more, it’s not even slow anymore, proving that beauty and efficiency can indeed coexist spectacularly.
Car Model Information: 2019 Toyota Prius XLE
Name: Toyota Prius
Caption: Fifth-generation Prius (XW60)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: December 1997 – present
ModelYears: 2001–present (US)
Class: ubl
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Layout: unbulleted list
Sp: uk
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating
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Brand: Toyota Model: Prius
Price: $22,000 Mileage: 81,730 mi.
13. **Lexus: LC500**
In the competitive arena of luxury grand tourers, style is unequivocally the Lexus LC500’s specialty, elevating it far beyond mere transportation. While it certainly gets rapid when you put your foot down and serves as a devastatingly comfortable road trip machine, these admirable qualities feel almost secondary when confronted with its sheer visual magnetism. The sonorous V-8 engine, good straight-line performance, and the available drop-top motoring are compelling features, but they are also-rans when truly competing with those captivating looks.
The LC’s emphasis on GT-over-sports-car priorities means it isn’t quite as nimble or overtly sporty as its aggressive appearance might suggest, yet this design choice is precisely what gives it such a unique presence. Not many cars invite you to stare into their infinity taillights with such mesmerized admiration, and it stands tall as a testament to bold, distinctive luxury. While it may be incapable of competing with the likes of the Chevrolet Corvette or Porsche Cayman in terms of pure handling dynamics, the Lexus LC500 nonetheless has both mid-engine sports cars soundly beat on style, carving its own niche as a modern design icon.
14. **Lucid: Air**
The Lucid Air often evokes a wide-eyed, whispered “What is that?” from those fortunate enough to witness this wide, low, sleek, world-beating luxury sedan glide by. It possesses an aesthetic that feels like old money from the year 2150, a visionary blend of timeless elegance and advanced futurism. Sharp like a razor’s edge yet as elegant as a pianist’s fingers, the Lucid Air masterfully projects an aura of understated power and refined sophistication, effortlessly captivating onlookers.
What makes its design even more remarkable is how the Lucid Air somehow looks smaller in person than in pictures, despite carrying the undeniable presence only a full-size sedan can command. This vehicle is an all-electric testament to engineering, with its handling, performance, and comfort naturally defining the very top of its class. But ultimately, just seeing one feels akin to witnessing a spaceship, an experience that truly sticks with you, solidifying its status as a groundbreaking and profoundly beautiful modern automotive marvel.
Car Model Information: 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring
Name: Lucid Air
Caption: 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring in Zenith Red
Manufacturer: Lucid Motors
Production: September 2021 – present
ModelYears: 2022–present
Assembly: Casa Grande, Arizona
Designer: Derek Jenkins
Class: Executive car
BodyStyle: Sedan (automobile)
Layout: unbulleted list
Related: Lucid Gravity
Transmission: One-speed fixed gear
Powerout: cvt
Battery: kWh, Lithium-ion battery
ElectricRange: cvt
Charging: unbulleted list
Wheelbase: 2960 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 4975 mm
Width: 1939 mm
Height: 1410 mm
Weight: convert
Sp: us
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2021
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Brand: Lucid Model: Air
Price: $57,997 Mileage: 25,731 mi.
Our exploration through the annals of automotive design, from pre-war masterpieces to the cutting-edge vehicles of today, truly underscores that the pursuit of beauty in car manufacturing is an unending quest. Each of these magnificent machines, whether a classic grand tourer or a surprising modern stunner, tells a unique story of innovation, passion, and artistic endeavor. They stand not just as modes of transport, but as vivid declarations of engineering and design excellence, continuing to inspire awe and setting new benchmarks for what an automobile can truly be. In a world of evolving tastes and technologies, these are the enduring examples of automotive artistry that will undoubtedly continue to turn heads for generations to come.
