The 1960s represent a truly golden era for automotive enthusiasts, a decade that wasn’t just about iconic music and cultural shifts, but also a period of unparalleled innovation in the world of automobiles. Amidst the well-known titans and universally celebrated legends, there exists a fascinating stratum of vehicles—limited-production masterpieces born from the daring visions of forgotten innovators.
These are the cars that pushed the boundaries of design and engineering, often pioneering technologies that would not become mainstream for decades. They combined audacious concepts with timeless aesthetic principles, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history and continuing to influence modern car design in subtle yet profound ways.
For the true connoisseur, the discerning collector who looks beyond the most famous badges, these vehicles offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive foresight. We delve into the detailed specifications, design philosophies, and unique characteristics of five such remarkable sports cars from the 1960s, each a testament to a spirit of risk-taking and relentless pursuit of mechanical and visual perfection.
1. **Ferrari Dino 206 GT: A Mid-Engine Revolution in Miniature**In 1968, Ferrari embarked on a fundamental shift in its design philosophy with the introduction of the mid-engined Dino 206 GT. This model was a bold departure, signaling Ferrari’s willingness to explore new configurations beyond its traditional front-engine layout. Its development was a testament to innovative thinking, resulting in a vehicle that, while bearing the Ferrari name, carved out its own unique identity and market segment.
Pininfarina’s masterful hand is evident in every curve of the 206 GT, a car that stood a mere 43.5 inches tall. Each of the just 152 units produced showcased an exquisite masterwork in aluminum, delivering a revolutionary design that effectively “established new parameters for supercar proportions.” This design brilliance ensured that the Dino wasn’t just a car but a sculptural statement, blending aerodynamic efficiency with unparalleled aesthetic appeal.
The interior of the 206 GT perfectly complemented its exterior philosophy, with every element serving a precise purpose. Veglia instruments, meticulously mounted in the aluminum dashboard, provided clear and vital information to the driver. They worked in harmony with a precisely engineered gated shifter mechanism, a hallmark of engaging manual driving.
Further enhancing the driver-centric environment were a classic three-spoke wooden steering wheel and supportive leather bucket seats, all designed to prioritize control and feedback. In an era where some exotic cars sacrificed visibility for style, the 206 GT’s expansive glass ensured excellent sightlines, eliminating blind spots while remarkably maintaining those perfect, flowing exterior lines. Today, these rare beauties command market values between $600,000 to $800,000+, unequivocally proving that such revolutionary design only appreciates with time and recognition.
Car Model Information: 2021 Lexus GX 460 Base
Name: Dino 206 GT,Dino 246 GT and GTS
Caption: Dino 246 GT
Manufacturer: Ferrari
Designer: Pininfarina,Aldo Brovarone,Leonardo Fioravanti (engineer)
Class: Sports car
Layout: Transverse engine,Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: Ferrari Dino engine
Successor: Ferrari GT4
Sp: uk
Categories: All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from September 2018, Cars introduced in 1968, Cars introduced in 1969
Summary: The Dino 206 GT, 246 GT and 246 GTS are V6 mid-engined sports cars produced by Ferrari and sold under the Dino marque between 1967 and 1974.
The Dino 246 was the first automobile manufactured by Ferrari in high numbers. It is lauded by many for its intrinsic driving qualities and groundbreaking design. In 2004, Sports Car International placed the car at number six on its list of Top Sports Cars of the 1970s. Motor Trend Classic placed the 206/246 at number seven in their list of the 10 “Greatest Ferraris of all time”.
Get more information about: Dino 206 GT and 246 GT
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Brand: Ferrari Model: Dino 206 GT
Price: $44,105 Mileage: 50,292 mi.
2. **Lotus Europa: Colin Chapman’s Accessible Mid-Engine Vision**Colin Chapman’s engineering philosophy was famously distilled into the mantra of “simplify, then add lightness.” This principle found its profound expression in the Lotus Europa, which debuted in 1966. Priced at a then-groundbreaking £1,666, the Europa represented a significant milestone, democratizing mid-engine innovation and making high-performance design more accessible to a wider range of enthusiasts.
Central to the Europa’s revolutionary character was its fiberglass body, a material choice that not only contributed to its impressive lightness but also enabled a remarkable 42-inch height while maintaining exceptional structural integrity. The car’s sharp front-end design, coupled with distinctive aerodynamic sail panels, were clear indicators of Chapman’s relentless obsession with efficiency and performance through superior airflow management. These features were not merely stylistic but integral to the vehicle’s dynamic capabilities.
The Europa’s cockpit was a direct demonstration of Chapman’s minimalist philosophy in action, prioritizing functionality and driver engagement. It featured a semi-reclined driving position, carefully engineered to enhance both comfort during long drives and precise control during spirited motoring. Smiths gauges relayed critical information through clear, uncluttered displays, ensuring the driver remained fully informed without distraction.
Further showcasing intelligent design, the Europa proved that sports cars needn’t sacrifice practicality, offering convenient storage spaces beneath the front bonnet and behind the seats. Today, the pioneering mid-engine design remains surprisingly accessible, with market values ranging from $30,000 to $75,000. Series 1 models, particularly coveted for their pure engineering focus, now command premium prices in the collector market, a testament to their enduring appeal and historical significance.
3. **Sunbeam Tiger: The Potent Anglo-American Hybrid**The Sunbeam Tiger, which roared onto the scene in 1964 with an initial price of $3,499, ingeniously solved the perennial question of how to marry sophisticated British handling with raw American power. This innovative collaboration resulted in a car that offered a compelling blend of two distinct automotive cultures, creating a driving experience that was both refined and exhilarating.
Outwardly, the transformation of the gentle curves of the Sunbeam Alpine, upon which the Tiger was based, into purposeful muscle was unmistakable. Distinctive hood bulges and widened wheel arches were not just aesthetic additions; they hinted at the formidable power lurking beneath. These modifications gave the Tiger an aggressive stance, signaling its performance capabilities to anyone who beheld it.
Despite its muscular underpinnings, the Tiger retained a touch of traditional elegance. Wire wheels and gleaming chrome bumpers maintained a classic British aesthetic, providing a visual counterpoint to its brute force. However, the twin exhaust tips, peeking out from the rear, served as a clear, albeit subtle, hint at the powerful Ford V8 engine that lay beneath the bonnet, providing the car with its formidable American heartbeat.
Modern collectors have recognized the unique allure of this Anglo-American hybrid, valuing it today between $80,000 to $150,000. Mark II models, representing the ultimate iteration of the concept, often command even higher prices. The Sunbeam Tiger stands as a significant piece of automotive history, celebrated for its unique cross-continental engineering and its successful execution of a bold performance vision.
Car Model Information: 1967 Sunbeam Tiger
Name: Sunbeam Tiger
Alt: Front left view
Manufacturer: Rootes Group
Production: 1964–1967,7,083 built
Assembly: West Bromwich,England
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: Roadster (automobile)
Related: Sunbeam Alpine
Layout: FR layout
Engine: 260 cuin
Abbr: sfnp
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: 86 in
Length: 156 in
Width: 60.5 in
Height: 51.5 in
Sp: uk
Categories: All articles lacking reliable references, Articles lacking reliable references from January 2020, Articles with short description, Cars discontinued in 1967, Cars introduced in 1964
Summary: The Sunbeam Tiger is a high-performance V8 version of the British Rootes Group’s Sunbeam Alpine roadster, designed in part by American car designer and racing driver Carroll Shelby and produced from 1964 until 1967. Shelby had carried out a similar V8 conversion on the AC Cobra, and hoped to be offered the contract to produce the Tiger at his facility in the United States. Rootes decided instead to contract the assembly work to Jensen at West Bromwich in England, and pay Shelby a royalty on every car produced.
Two major versions of the Tiger were built: the Mark I (1964–1967) was fitted with the 260 cu in (4.3 L) Ford V8; the Mark II, of which only 633 were built in the final year of Tiger production, was fitted with the larger displacement Ford 289 cu in (4.7 L) engine. Two prototype and extensively modified versions of the Mark I competed in the 1964 24 Hours of Le Mans, but neither completed the race. Rootes also entered the Tiger in European rallies with some success, and for two years it was the American Hot Rod Association’s national record holder over a quarter-mile drag strip.
Production ended in 1967 soon after the Rootes Group was taken over by Chrysler, which did not have a suitable engine to replace the Ford V8. Owing to the ease and affordability of modifying the Tiger, there are few remaining cars in standard form.
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Brand: Sunbeam Model: Tiger
Price: $89,000 Mileage: 7 mi.
4. **Datsun 240Z: Redefining Japanese Sports Car Excellence**The arrival of the Datsun 240Z in 1969, priced at $3,526, was a watershed moment that dramatically shattered preconceptions about Japanese sports cars. It offered a compelling combination of style, performance, and reliability that had previously been associated primarily with European marques. The 240Z quickly established Japan as a formidable player in the global sports car arena, demonstrating an impressive leap in automotive design and engineering.
The car’s fastback profile and distinctive “sugar-scoop” headlights were far more than just beautiful design elements; they actively redefined aerodynamic efficiency for its class. The clean body lines and precise panel gaps were a clear demonstration of Japanese engineering prowess, showcasing meticulous attention to detail and high-quality construction. This aesthetic and technical precision set a new benchmark for accessible sports cars.
The interior of the 240Z was equally groundbreaking, setting new standards for ergonomic design in 1969. Deeply hooded instruments and an angled center stack created an aircraft-inspired command center that was remarkably intuitive for the driver. This thoughtful layout ensured that all controls and vital information were easily accessible and legible, enhancing the driving experience.
Adding to its practicality, the vinyl-wrapped seats provided an impressive 8.8 inches of fore-aft adjustment, accommodating a wide range of drivers comfortably. Furthermore, the innovative hatchback configuration offered a substantial 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space. This was a significant advantage over many European GTs of the era that often struggled to accommodate weekend luggage, proving the Z could handle both exhilarating canyon roads and practical airport runs. Early “Series 1” cars now fetch $40,000 to $120,000, underscoring the Z car’s lasting impact on sports car design and its appeal as a cherished collector’s item.
Car Model Information: 1972 Datsun 240Z
Name: Nissan Fairlady Z (Datsun 240Z, 260Z, and 280Z)
Aka: unbulleted list
Manufacturer: Nissan
Production: 1969–1978
Class: Sports car
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Assembly: Hiratsuka, Kanagawa
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Designer: Yoshihiko Matsuo
Predecessor: Datsun Sports
Successor: Nissan Fairlady Z (S130)
Caption: 1970–1973 Nissan Fairlady Z
Categories: 1970s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from February 2021
Summary: The Nissan S30, sold in Japan as the Nissan Fairlady Z but badged as the Datsun 240Z, 260Z, and 280Z for export, are 2-seat sports cars and 2+2 GT cars produced by Nissan from 1969 until 1978. The S30 was conceived of by Yutaka Katayama, the President of Nissan Motor Corporation U.S.A., and designed by a team led by Yoshihiko Matsuo, the head of Nissan’s Sports Car Styling Studio. It is the first car in Nissan’s Z series of sports cars.
The S30 had four-wheel independent suspension and a powerful straight-six engine with an overhead camshaft, features identified with far more expensive premium European sports cars and coupés such as the Jaguar E-Type and BMW 2800 CS, but absent from similarly priced sports cars such as the Alfa Romeo Spider, MGB and Opel GT, which had smaller four-cylinder engines and rear live axles. The S30’s styling, engineering, relatively low price, and impressive performance resonated with the public, received a positive response from both buyers and the motoring press, and immediately generated long waiting lists.
As a halo car, the S30 broadened the acceptance of Japanese carmakers beyond their image as producers of practical and reliable but prosaic and unfashionable economy cars. Datsun’s growing dealer network—compared to limited production imported sports cars manufactured by Jaguar, BMW, Porsche, Alfa Romeo, and Fiat—ensured both easy purchase and ready maintenance.
The S30 was initially sold alongside the smaller four-cylinder Datsun Sports, which was dropped from production in 1970. The S30 240Z is unrelated to the later 240SX, sold as the Silvia in Japan.
Get more information about: Nissan Fairlady Z (S30)
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Brand: Datsun Model: 240Z
Price: $33,999 Mileage: 122,000 mi.
5. **Porsche 914: The Accessible Mid-Engine Innovator**Porsche introduced the 914 in 1969 at a price point of $3,495, making a bold statement by expanding beyond their traditional rear-engine comfort zone. This mid-engine, two-seater sports car, developed in collaboration with Volkswagen, represented a strategic move to broaden Porsche’s market appeal and explore new design and engineering possibilities. It quickly became a significant, albeit sometimes misunderstood, part of the brand’s history.
One of the 914’s most forward-thinking design features was its removable Targa panel. This innovation stowed neatly in the front trunk, offering the exhilarating freedom of open-air motoring without the usual structural compromises or complexities of a full convertible. Integrated bumpers and distinctive pop-up headlights further showcased the car’s modern aesthetic, aligning with emerging design trends of the late 1960s.
Inside, the 914’s cockpit was a testament to Porsche’s focus on driver ergonomics, placing everything exactly where muscle memory expected to find it. A central tachometer, honoring Porsche’s rich racing heritage, dominated the five-gauge cluster, providing immediate feedback without overwhelming the driver. The H-pattern shifter delivered mechanical precision, clicking through gears with satisfying engagement.
High-backed seats were designed to hold occupants securely without undue restriction, contributing to a focused driving experience. In an era when sports cars often forced a choice between performance and practicality, the 914 ingeniously offered both. Its twin storage compartments provided a generous 12.7 cubic feet of cargo space, making the 914 a remarkably viable daily driver. Today’s values, ranging from $30,000 to $75,000, position it as an accessible entry into classic Porsche ownership, while rare 914/6 variants can fetch upwards of $100,000+, highlighting its enduring collector appeal.
Continuing our journey through the hidden gems of 1960s automotive mastery, we now turn our gaze to another quintet of pioneering sports cars. These vehicles, though perhaps not household names, represent the daring spirit of an era when innovation knew no bounds. They championed unique engineering solutions, bold design statements, and continue to captivate the most discerning collectors today, each embodying a distinct facet of automotive history.
Car Model Information: 1970 Porsche 914 914/6
Name: Porsche 914
Caption: 1970 Porsche 914
Manufacturer: Porsche,Karmann
Aka: VW-Porsche 914
Production: 1969–1976,118,978 produced,914/4: 115,646,914/6: 3,332,914/8: 2
Assembly: Stuttgart,Osnabrück
Predecessor: Porsche 912,Volkswagen Karmann Ghia#Type 34 Karmann Ghia
Successor: Porsche 924
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: Targa top
Layout: Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: Volkswagen air-cooled engine#Type 4: 1.7–2.0 litres,Volkswagen air-cooled engine#Type 4: 1.7–2.0 litres,Volkswagen air-cooled engine#Type 4: 1.7–2.0 litres,Porsche flat-six engine
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Related: Porsche 914-6 GT,Porsche Tapiro
Designer: Ferdinand Alexander Porsche
Categories: 1970s cars, 24 Hours of Le Mans race cars, All articles needing additional references, All articles with incomplete citations, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Porsche 914 or VW-Porsche 914 is a mid-engined sports car designed, manufactured and marketed collaboratively by Volkswagen and Porsche from 1969 until 1976. It was available only as a targa-topped two-seat roadster powered by either a flat-4 or flat-six engine.
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Brand: Porsche Model: 914
Price: Not Priced Mileage: 52,111 mi.
6. **TVR Grantura Mark III: Raw British Prowess with Purpose**In 1962, the TVR Grantura Mark III burst onto the scene with a price tag of just £1,567, serving as a powerful testament to the fact that even small manufacturers could deliver groundbreaking innovation. This vehicle was a defiant statement, proving that focused engineering and a clear vision could stand tall against more established marques. It was an embodiment of stripped-down performance, a philosophy that resonated deeply with purist drivers.
Its exterior design was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The wraparound windscreen, a distinctive feature, seamlessly flowed into an aerodynamic roofline, contributing to the car’s impressive efficiency. Fiberglass construction was ingeniously employed, keeping the mass precisely where it mattered most for dynamic handling, a critical factor for spirited driving. Adding to its practical ingenuity, the front-hinged bonnet design offered complete mechanical access, a thoughtful solution to the maintenance challenges often associated with specialized vehicles.
Stepping inside the Grantura, one immediately discerns an interior that speaks the unambiguous language of competition, prioritizing pure function over opulent frills. Leather-covered panels meticulously house the essential Smiths gauges, positioned directly in the driver’s line of sight for immediate feedback. The close-coupled seating position works in harmony with the chassis, forging an intimate connection between driver and machine, making every road input palpable.
Weighted controls further enhance this visceral driving experience, providing immediate feedback that translates into a genuine conversation with the road beneath. While many other British sports cars of the era might have chased after notions of luxury, the Grantura defiantly focused on performance, demonstrating that a brisk 0-60 mph sprint in 8.9 seconds, achieved through simplicity, had its own profound rewards. Today, current market values ranging from $35,000 to $60,000 reflect both their inherent rarity and the satisfying challenge of acquiring a truly well-preserved example.
Car Model Information: 2021 Lexus GX 460 Base
Name: TVR Grantura
Manufacturer: TVR
Production: 1958–1967,796 produced
Class: Sports car
Successor: TVR Vixen
Layout: FR layout
Assembly: Blackpool,England
Caption: 1961 TVR Grantura Mark IIa
Categories: 1960s cars, All articles needing additional references, Articles needing additional references from November 2018, Articles with short description, Cars discontinued in 1967
Summary: The TVR Grantura is the first production model in a long line of TVR cars. It debuted in 1958 and went through a series of developments leading to the Mark I to Mark IV and 1800S models. The last ones were made in September 1967.
These coupés were hand-built at the TVR factory in Blackpool, England with varying mechanical specifications and could be had in kit form. All cars featured a cocktail of Austin-Healey brakes, VW Beetle or Triumph suspension parts and BMC rear axles.
The Grantura bodyshell was made from glass-reinforced plastic and made use of a variety of proprietary components. The bonnet was front hinged. There was no opening at the rear but the boot could be accessed from inside the car – the spare wheel had to be removed through the front doors. Buyers could choose from a range of powerplants which, dependant on the model in question, included a choice of side or overhead valve engines from Ford, a Coventry Climax unit, the engine from the MGA and, ultimately, the 1798cc BMC B-series engine.
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Brand: TVR Model: Grantura Mark III
Price: $44,105 Mileage: 50,292 mi.
7. **Volvo P1800: Where Jet-Age Style Met Swedish Durability**The Volvo P1800, launched in 1961 at $3,995, made a significant statement by boldly departing from Volvo’s traditionally utilitarian design philosophy. It shattered the prevailing myth that Swedish cars couldn’t possess an arresting aesthetic, proving that form and function could coexist in a beautifully sculpted package. This was a car designed to turn heads and challenge perceptions.
The car’s flowing profile is a masterclass in classic design, elegantly incorporating distinctive chrome side strips and an innovative grille that skillfully transforms the hood into a cohesive styling element. Round taillights and seamlessly integrated bumper-mounted exhausts meticulously complete a timeless shape that, remarkably, continues to look fresh and contemporary even today. Its enduring fame was further cemented by its iconic appearance as the ride of Roger Moore in the acclaimed TV series ‘The Saint’.
Inside the P1800, one discovers a brilliant fusion of jet-age style and inherent Swedish common sense. The signature ribbon-style speedometer, a marvel of ergonomic design, set entirely new standards for at-a-glance clarity, minimizing distraction while maximizing information. The brilliantly engineered seats offer an impressive 10.2 inches of travel, accommodating a wide spectrum of drivers in comfort. Furthermore, the practical folding rear bench ingeniously transforms this stylish sports car into a remarkably versatile grand tourer.
While contemporary exotic cars often felt restrictively claustrophobic, the P1800’s airy cabin extended a welcoming embrace to drivers of all sizes, making long journeys a pleasure rather than a chore. Modern valuations, which typically range between $40,000 to $100,000, stand as a testament to the model’s renowned durability and enduring style, with early Jensen-built cars, in particular, commanding premium prices in the discerning collector’s market.
Car Model Information: 1961 Volvo P1800
Name: Volvo P1800
Caption: 1965 Volvo 1800S
Designer: Pelle Petterson
Manufacturer: Volvo Cars
Assembly: West Bromwich,Torslanda,Gothenburg,Arica
Production: 1961–1973,coupé: 39,407,sports estate: 8,077
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Transmission: Volvo M40 transmission,Overdrive_(mechanics)#In_Europe,Borg-Warner 35 transmission
Length: convert
Width: 1700 mm
Abbr: on
Height: convert
Weight: convert
Wheelbase: 2450 mm
Related: Volvo Amazon
Engine: Volvo B18 engine#B18,Volvo B18 engine#B20
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: coupe,shooting brake
Predecessor: Volvo P1900
Categories: 1970s cars, All articles needing additional references, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles needing additional references from March 2018
Summary: The Volvo P1800 (pronounced eighteen-hundred) is a 2+2, front-engine, rear-drive sports car manufactured and marketed by Volvo Cars between 1961 and 1973. Originally a coupé (1961–1972), it was also offered in a shooting brake configuration toward the end of its production (1972–1973). Styling was by Pelle Petterson under the tutelage of Pietro Frua when Frua’s studio was a subsidiary of the Italian carrozzeria Ghia, and the mechanicals were derived from Volvo’s Amazon/122 series.
Marketed as a touring car rather than a sports car, the P1800 became widely known when driven by British actor Roger Moore in the television series The Saint, which aired from 1962 to 1969.
In 1998, an 1800S owned by Irv Gordon (1940–2018) was certified as the highest mileage private vehicle driven by the original owner in non-commercial service—having exceeded 3.25 million miles (over 5.23 million km) as of his death in 2018.
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Brand: Volvo Model: P1800
Price: $114,000 Mileage: 937 mi.
8. **BMW 1800: The Genesis of the Modern Sports Sedan**BMW’s 1800, making its debut in 1963 at 9,485 Deutschmarks, was nothing short of a revelation, effectively creating an entirely new category of automobile. This pioneering vehicle was instrumental in laying the groundwork for what would become the archetypal sports sedan, blending engaging driving dynamics with everyday practicality in an unprecedented manner.
The car’s design language was instantly recognizable and profoundly influential. Its distinctive forward-leaning stance and the now-iconic Hofmeister kink—a counter-angle in the rear pillar—collectively established a visual identity that continues to influence modern BMWs to this very day. Slim pillars and minimal overhangs were not merely stylistic choices; they actively contributed to both the car’s visual balance and its inherent dynamic ability, making it agile and responsive on the road.
Within the 1800’s cabin, the architectural layout is a masterclass in intuitive ergonomics, ensuring every control is positioned precisely where a driver’s muscle memory instinctively expects to find it. Premium vinyl surfaces, thoughtfully complemented by subtle wood accents, craft an environment that feels distinctly special without ever venturing into the realm of being overly precious. The horizontal dashboard layout further enhances this driver-centric philosophy, delivering perfect ergonomics for truly spirited driving sessions.
In an era where many luxury sedans disproportionately focused on sheer straight-line speed, the BMW 1800 championed a more holistic, balanced approach to performance. This nuanced philosophy forged the enduring template for the modern sports sedan, distinguishing it as a truly pioneering vehicle. Though easily one of the more unappreciated models of its time, today’s values of $25,000 to $50,000 render this historic sports sedan an exceptionally attractive entry point into classic BMW ownership, appealing to those who recognize its foundational significance.
Car Model Information: 2020 BMW X3 xDrive30i
Caption: BMW 2000
Name: BMW New Class
Manufacturer: BMW
Production: 1962–1972
Designer: Wilhelm Hofmeister (automobile designer)
Assembly: Munich,Jakarta
BodyStyle: Grand tourer
Related: BMW 02 Series
Successor: BMW 5 Series,BMW E9
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: BMW M10
Categories: 1970s cars, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing German-language text, Articles with dead external links from July 2025
Summary: The BMW New Class (German: Neue Klasse) was a line of sedans and coupes produced by West German automaker BMW between 1962 and 1972. These models ensured BMW’s solvency after the company’s financial crisis of the 1950s and again established the identity of BMW automobiles as luxury sports sedans.
The first New Class vehicle was the 1500, a 4-door compact executive car with the new M10 (at the time called M115) OHC 4-cylinder engine. In 1965, the 2000 C and 2000 CS luxury coupés were added to the range.
Replacement of the New Class models began with the 6-cylinder E9 2800 CS in 1969 replacing the 2000 C and 2000 CS coupés. In 1972 the 4-door sedans were replaced by the larger E12 5 Series.
The New Class coupes introduced the Hofmeister kink, which has been used on most BMW cars since. Another legacy of the New Class is the iconic 02 Series, which are a shortened version of the New Class sedans.
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Brand: BMW Model: 1800
Price: Not Priced Mileage: 77,000 mi.
9. **Triumph TR250: Anglo-American Power with British Character**The Triumph TR250 roared onto the automotive landscape in 1967, offering an enticing blend of British finesse married with raw American muscle at an accessible price of $3,395. This ingenious Anglo-American hybrid took the beloved, traditional TR shape and imbued it with a newfound sense of purpose and aggressive capability, appealing to drivers who craved both elegance and grunt.
Its exterior modifications were subtle yet impactful, transforming its character. Bold side stripes and a raised hood profile were not merely cosmetic additions; they visually declared the car’s enhanced performance. The choice of steel wheels adorned with chrome trim rings struck an impeccable balance between understated flash and functional robustness, perfectly encapsulating its dual heritage of performance and classic style.
Stepping into the TR250’s cockpit is akin to being embraced by the very best of British motoring tradition. Rich walnut veneer beautifully frames the crisp and clear Smiths gauges, creating an inviting, classic environment. The leather-wrapped steering wheel rim provides precise and immediate feedback, fostering an intimate connection with the road. Additionally, the tactile toggle switches, designed with satisfying mechanical precision, click through their positions with a reassuring solidity.
While many other manufacturers during this vibrant era were eagerly chasing after modernity and futuristic designs, the TR250 steadfastly upheld traditional sports car values. Its impressive 0-60 mph dash in a respectable 9.1 seconds underscored that there was still immense appeal and performance to be found in time-honored engineering principles. Modern collectors have recognized the unique allure of these rare models, valuing them today between $35,000 to $70,000. This valuation reflects both their notably limited 2,947-unit production run and their distinctive Anglo-American heritage, making them particularly coveted by enthusiasts.
Car Model Information: 1968 Triumph TR250
Name: Triumph TR5,Triumph TR250
Manufacturer: Triumph Motor Company
Production: 1967–1968
Assembly: Coventry
Designer: Giovanni Michelotti
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: Roadster (automobile)
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: Triumph I6
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2240 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 3902 mm
Width: 1470 mm
Height: 1170 mm
Weight: 1030 kg
Predecessor: Triumph TR4A
Successor: Triumph TR6
Sp: uk
Categories: 1960s cars, Articles with short description, CS1 errors: missing periodical, Cars discontinued in 1968, Cars introduced in 1967
Summary: The Triumph TR5 is a sports car built by the Triumph Motor Company in Coventry, England, between August 1967 and September 1968.
Visually similar to the Michelotti-designed TR4 open two-seater it was derived from, the TR5 replaced Triumph’s 105 bhp (78 kW) SAE Standard inline-four engine with the much more powerful Lucas mechanical fuel-injected 150 bhp (110 kW) Triumph 2.5-litre straight-6. Price pressures and tighter emissions standards in the U.S. resulted in a much less powerful carburetted version, the TR250, being sold on the North American market.
At the time, fuel injection was uncommon in road cars. Triumph claimed in their sales brochure that it was the “First British production sports car with petrol injection”.
Get more information about: Triumph TR5
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Brand: Triumph Model: TR250
Price: $14,750 Mileage: 0 mi.
10. **NSU Spider: A Bold Gamble on the Wankel Revolution**In 1964, NSU launched the Spider at 8,500 Deutschmarks, making a monumental gamble on Felix Wankel’s revolutionary rotary engine. This daring move showcased NSU’s willingness to push the boundaries of automotive engineering, betting on a powerplant that promised unprecedented smoothness and efficiency, fundamentally altering the trajectory of automotive design and performance.
The car’s engineering was marked by clever, integrated solutions. Cooling vents were seamlessly incorporated into the rear deck, a testament to thoughtful design that blended function with form. Extensive wind tunnel testing ensured that every curve and contour of the Spider’s body was shaped with a distinct purpose, contributing to its overall aerodynamic efficiency. Perhaps its most innovative feature was the hardtop, which ingeniously transformed the vehicle from a sleek coupe to an exhilarating roadster in mere minutes, brilliantly solving the age-old convertible compromise without structural integrity issues.
Once inside the Spider’s cockpit, one finds a command center meticulously built around that groundbreaking revolutionary powerplant. The prominent central tachometer, strategically placed, serves as a constant, visual reminder of the unique story of Wankel power, its needle dancing to the engine’s distinct rhythm. Clever engineering also managed to carve out a respectable 6.5 cubic feet of front trunk space, adding a surprising layer of practicality to this avant-garde machine.
With just 2,375 units produced, each surviving NSU Spider stands as a tangible representation of a bold leap into the automotive future. Its sophisticated weight distribution, combined with the Wankel engine’s unprecedented smoothness, continues to impress even today, offering a driving experience unlike any other. Current market values, ranging from $40,000 to $80,000, reflect both the Spider’s immense historical significance and its pioneering embrace of cutting-edge, revolutionary technology, making it a true collector’s delight.
As we conclude our deep dive into these ten remarkable sports cars from the 1960s, it becomes abundantly clear that the decade was not just a period of cultural upheaval, but a veritable golden age for automotive innovation. These vehicles, from their audacious designs to their pioneering engineering, stand as enduring monuments to a time when risks were taken, and boundaries were enthusiastically pushed. For the true collector, these aren’t merely cars; they are artifacts of foresight, passion, and mechanical artistry, each telling a unique story of a decade that reshaped the very essence of driving. Their allure isn’t just in their rarity or their value, but in the profound influence they continue to exert on the automotive world, a legacy that reverberates through every sleek line and powerful engine of today.
