The automotive world is a wild, ever-changing landscape, constantly churning out new innovations and designs that grab our attention. What’s hot and cutting-edge one day can feel like a relic the next, as technology surges forward and consumer tastes evolve. We all love a good trend, especially for the cars we drive, which are often judged not just for performance, but also for critical factors like affordability, fuel efficiency, reliability, and that all-important resale value.
It’s a bittersweet reality that some vehicles, once darlings of the road and symbols of a particular era, just can’t keep up. They start as attractive, affordable options, but over time, they lose their sparkle, getting overshadowed by sleeker, more advanced alternatives. This isn’t always about outright failure; sometimes, it’s a perfect storm of rising costs, maintenance headaches, or simply a design that hasn’t aged gracefully amidst newer, more competitive offerings.
Today, we’re taking a deep dive into 15 such vehicles – rides that were once at the top of their game, cruising high on waves of trendiness, but have since seen their appeal dip. We’ll explore what made them desirable, what led to their decline, and why, for many enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, they’re just not the “must-haves” they once were. Get ready to reminisce, and perhaps even nod along as we uncover these fascinating automotive tales.
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1. **Toyota FJ60**Before the era of sleek, urban SUVs, the Toyota FJ60 stood as a testament to rugged utility and go-anywhere capability. These iconic Land Cruisers were built like tanks, revered for their durability, simple mechanics, and legendary off-road prowess. For decades, they were the preferred choice for adventurers and farmers, needing a vehicle that could tackle the toughest terrains without complaint, embodying a spirit of unpretentious reliability.
Yet, just like the 240SX, the FJ60 has experienced a radical shift in its market value. A user remembers a time, “15 years ago, we were scrapping FJ60s and using them as parts donors for 40 series upgrades because they had no value.” This paints a picture of a vehicle once considered disposable, a workhorse whose utility was its primary selling point. They were plentiful, and their rough-and-tumble existence meant many were simply used up and discarded.
However, that perception has flipped entirely. Today, the landscape for these vintage off-roaders is dramatically different. If you’re looking for “a nice but restored FJ60,” be prepared to spend anywhere from “$30-$40k.” This incredible appreciation reflects a growing nostalgia for authentic, classic SUVs and a recognition of their enduring build quality. What was once a no-value vehicle has now become a prized possession, commanding significant investment.
This transformation, while great for sellers, means the FJ60 has largely lost its appeal as an affordable, utilitarian vehicle. Its current status as a collector’s item or a high-end restoration project moves it far beyond the reach of casual buyers or those seeking a cost-effective off-roader. The charm of its rugged simplicity remains, but the ease of acquiring and maintaining one without a substantial financial commitment has definitely faded into history.
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2. **NA/NB Mazda Miata**When the NA and NB generations of the Mazda Miata first hit the streets, they were a revelation. These 80s models captured hearts by delivering pure driving joy in an incredibly affordable package. People adored them because they were not only cheap to buy and maintain, but also delightfully easy to repair, often requiring just a few basic tools. It was the quintessential accessible sports car, proving that fun didn’t have to come with a prohibitive price tag.
The Miata’s widespread appeal stemmed from its perfect blend of lightweight design, agile handling, and the sheer joy of a convertible top for open-air motoring. It championed the philosophy of “driving pleasure through lightness” and created an entire generation of enthusiasts. This meant that for years, if you wanted a reliable, fun, two-seater without draining your bank account, the Miata was almost always the go-to recommendation, a true automotive sweetheart.
But sadly, the days of the ultra-cheap Miata are quickly vanishing into the rearview mirror. The rising costs have drastically reshaped their market, seeing them “change from being the $2k car to $10-15k.” This price surge is a tough pill to swallow for many, especially those who remember them as a readily available and budget-friendly option. What was once a no-brainer purchase for aspiring gearheads now requires a much more significant financial commitment.
The sentiment around these increased prices is palpable among former owners. A former NB Miata owner, who sold his car for $11,000, candidly admitted, “It was my car, and I wouldn’t pay 11 grand for this thing.” This perfectly encapsulates how the inflated market value can detach a car from its inherent perceived worth, making it less appealing even to those who once cherished it. The original Miata’s charm was rooted in its incredible value, a quality that has unfortunately been diluted by its escalating price point.
Car Model Information: 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
Name: Mazda MX-5
Manufacturer: Mazda
Aka: unbulleted indent list
Production: 1989–present
Assembly: Hiroshima
Class: Roadster (car),sports car
Layout: unbulleted indent list
Platform: List of Mazda model codes#Model codes
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating
Summary: The Mazda MX-5 is a lightweight two-seat sports car manufactured and marketed by Mazda. In Japan, it is marketed as the Mazda Roadster or, previously, as the Eunos Roadster. In the United States it is sold as the Mazda Miata (), and it was formerly marketed under the same name in Canada. The name miata derives from Old High German for “reward”.
Produced at Mazda’s Hiroshima plant, the MX-5 debuted in 1989 at the Chicago Auto Show. It was created under the design credo Jinba ittai, meaning “unity of horse and rider”. Noted for its small, light, balanced and minimalist design, the MX-5 has often been described as a successor to the 1950s and 1960s Italian and British roadsters, with the Lotus Elan serving as a design benchmark.
Each generation is identified by a two-letter code, beginning with the first generation NA. The second generation NB launched in 1998, followed by the third generation NC in 2005, and the fourth generation ND in 2015.
More than one million MX-5s have been sold, making it the best-selling two-seat convertible sports car in history.
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Brand: Mazda Model: Miata
Price: $25,597 Mileage: 32,837 mi.
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3. **Toyota MR2 / MR2 Spyder**The Toyota MR2, across its various generations, carved out a distinct niche for itself in the sports car world. The early models, in particular, were lauded for their innovative mid-engine layout, which granted them a “light body yet strong handling and reliability.” They delivered a genuinely engaging driving experience, reminiscent of more exotic European sports cars, but crucially, they were also “an affordable model,” making them accessible to a wider audience of enthusiasts.
However, the market for the original MR2 has taken a sharp turn. Lately, this celebrated sports car “has become remarkably expensive.” Sellers are well aware of its classic status and performance credentials, with some “bragging it offers similar experiences as Porsche and Lotus” to justify escalating price tags. While a testament to its driving dynamics, this shift has undoubtedly pushed it out of the ‘affordable’ category it once championed, alienating a segment of its traditional buyer base.
Adding another layer to the MR2 story is the third-generation, known as the MR2 Spyder. This iteration, though equally mid-engined and lightweight, faced a different set of challenges. It “never achieved mainstream success” with relatively low production numbers. Critics often viewed it as “the low-budget version of high-performance sports cars because while it had sleek looks, it didn’t have a powerful engine.” It offered the open-top experience but lacked the punch many expected.
The divergent fates of the MR2 lineage highlight the fickle nature of automotive appeal. While the earlier, more iconic MR2s are now prohibitively expensive, the MR2 Spyder can still be “found cheap on the used market,” serving as “evidence that it fell off at some point.” This bifurcation means that while one variant has become a high-priced collectible, another struggles with its reputation for being underpowered, illustrating how even a beloved nameplate can lose its consistent market luster.
Car Model Information: 1993 Toyota MR2 Turbo
Name: Toyota MR2
Caption: Second generation MR2
Manufacturer: Central Motors
Aka: Toyota MR (France and Belgium)
Production: 1984–2007
Assembly: Sagamihara, Kanagawa
Class: Sports car
Layout: Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
ModelYears: 1985–2007
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles needing additional references
Summary: The Toyota MR2 is a two-seater sports car which was manufactured and marketed by Toyota from 1984 until 2007 over three generations. It was the first Japanese rear-mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive production car and was sold around the world. The first generation (W10) was produced from 1984 to 1989, the second generation (W20) from 1989 to 1999, and the third generation (W30) from 1999 to 2007.
Conceived as a small, economical and sporty car, the MR2 features a straight-four engine, transversely mounted in front of the rear axle, four-wheel disc brakes, and fully independent coilover suspension with MacPherson struts on each wheel.
The name MR2 stands for either “mid-ship run-about 2-seater” or “mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-seater”. In French-speaking markets, the vehicle was renamed Toyota MR because the abbreviation “MR2” sounds like the profanity “merdeux” when spoken in French.
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Brand: Toyota Model: MR2
Price: $21,499 Mileage: 145,631 mi.
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4. **Nissan Z**The Nissan Z series boasts a storied history, celebrated for delivering compelling sports car performance and iconic styling at a generally attainable price point. From the original Fairlady Z to its modern iterations, these cars have embodied a spirit of spirited driving and engineering prowess, captivating enthusiasts who yearned for a genuine sports car experience without an exorbitant financial commitment. For decades, the Z represented accessible excitement.
However, a growing chorus of enthusiasts is expressing significant “disinterest in the high Nissan Z prices” currently observed in the used market. This sentiment stems from a frustrating reality: many of these cars have been driven hard, reflecting their purpose as driver’s machines. As a poster complains, “You’re literally paying for the owner’s miles and fun, and then you are stuck with the abuse and maintenance,” which means potential headaches and repair costs often accompany the steep purchase price.
This scenario creates a significant dilemma for potential buyers. The allure of a classic or even a modern Z model is dampened by the prospect of inheriting another owner’s wear and tear at a premium cost. This shifts the value proposition dramatically. It leads another user to recommend a different path, stating, “It’s just better to buy a new sports car.” This advice underscores the perceived lack of value in the current used Z market, especially when factoring in potential refurbishment expenses.
Ultimately, the Nissan Z, once a beacon of accessible performance, faces an identity crisis in the used car sphere. Its appeal is diminished when the cost of entry is high, and the subsequent ownership experience promises more financial burden than exhilarating drives. For many, the joy of owning a Z has been overshadowed by the practicalities of its market reality, pushing enthusiasts toward more contemporary or less problematic alternatives.
Car Model Information: 2024 Nissan Z NISMO Auto
Name: Nissan Z-car
Caption: 1970 Datsun 240Z (S30)
Aka: Nissan Fairlady Z (Japan)
Manufacturer: Nissan
Production: October 1969 – present
Assembly: ubl
Class: Sports car,Grand tourer
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout#Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Datsun Sports
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars
Summary: The Nissan Z-series is a model series of sports cars manufactured by Nissan since 1969.
The original Z was first sold on October of 1969 in Japan as the Nissan Fairlady Z (Japanese: 日産・フェアレディZ, Hepburn: Nissan Fearedi Zetto) at Nissan Exhibition dealerships that previously sold the Nissan Bluebird. It was initially marketed as the Datsun 240Z for international customers. Since then, Nissan has manufactured seven generations of Z-cars, with the most recent—simply known as the Nissan Z—in production since 2022.
Main rival cars in the Japanese market included the Toyota Celica, Toyota Supra, Mitsubishi 3000GT and Mazda RX-7.
The earlier models of the Nissan Z were built at the Nissan Shatai plant in Hiratsuka until 2000, while the later models (350Z and 370Z) are built at Oppama (2002–2004) and Tochigi (2004–present). Known for their looks, reliability, performance and affordability, every Z car has been sold in Japan as the Fairlady Z and elsewhere under the names Nissan Fairlady Z (S30), Nissan Fairlady Z (S130), Nissan 300ZX, Nissan 350Z, Nissan 370Z and Nissan Z.
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Brand: Nissan Model: Z
Price: $52,998 Mileage: 509 mi.
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5. **Honda S2000**The Honda S2000 burst onto the scene as a true automotive marvel, revered for its extraordinarily high-revving engine that delivered an exhilarating power band. It wasn’t just a powerful machine; it was also “a cheap, convertible sports car when it came out,” offering open-top motoring thrills and Honda’s renowned reliability in an incredibly attractive package. Car enthusiasts praised its precise handling, slick manual transmission, and the sheer mechanical symphony that resonated from its engine.
For years, the S2000 remained a highly coveted but still relatively attainable dream car for many aspiring performance enthusiasts. Its combination of a unique powertrain, engaging dynamics, and a convertible roof made it stand out from the crowd. It was the kind of car that offered incredible bang for your buck, a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess, and a staple at weekend car meets and track days alike.
However, much like several other icons on our list, the S2000’s affordability has become a thing of the past. Today, this high-revving roadster is “no longer affordable for most buyers,” with price tags that now typically range from “$30-50k.” This dramatic increase has effectively priced out a significant portion of its original fan base, transforming it from an accessible sports car into a premium collectible.
The emotional connection to the S2000 remains strong, but its current market value has undoubtedly diminished its broad appeal. What was once an enthusiastic purchase for a budding gearhead is now a substantial investment, often out of reach for those who loved it for its approachable performance. The Honda S2000 serves as a bittersweet reminder that even the most beloved and well-engineered cars can eventually lose their original charm when scarcity and collector interest drive prices sky-high.
Moving deeper into our exploration of automotive legends that, despite their initial shine, ultimately faded, we now turn our attention to eight more vehicles. These rides faced their own unique challenges, from design choices that didn’t quite hit the mark to reliability woes, or simply being outmaneuvered by the relentless march of innovation. It’s a fascinating look at how swiftly the tides can turn in the fast-paced world of cars, where yesterday’s trendsetter can become tomorrow’s cautionary tale.
Car Model Information: 2002 Honda S2000 Base
Name: Honda S2000
Manufacturer: Honda
Production: 1999–2009 (110,673 produced)
Class: Sports car
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout#Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
BodyStyle: Roadster (automobile)
Designer: Shigeru Uehara
Caption: 2005 Honda S2000 (AP2)
Predecessor: Honda S800
Categories: 2000s cars, All articles lacking reliable references, Articles lacking reliable references from May 2024, Articles with short description, CS1: unfit URL
Summary: The Honda S2000 is a front-mid engine open top sports car that was manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Honda, from 1999 until 2009. First shown as a concept car called the SSM at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, the production version was launched on April 15, 1999, to celebrate the company’s 50th anniversary. The S2000 is named for its engine displacement of two liters, while “S” stood for “sports” carrying on in the tradition of the S500, S600, and S800 roadsters of the 1960s.
Several revisions were made throughout the car’s production life, including changes to the engine, gearbox, suspension, interior and exterior. Officially two variants exist: the initial launch model was given the chassis code AP1; though cosmetically similar, the facelifted version, known as the AP2 in North America and Japan, incorporated significant changes to the drivetrain and suspension. Production of the S2000 ceased on August 19, 2009.
The Honda S2000 was notable for its exceptional specific power output of about 92 kW (124 hp) per liter, or about two horsepower per cubic inch, the highest of any mass production, naturally aspirated car, until 2010.
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Brand: Honda Model: S2000
Price: $35,000 Mileage: 24,000 mi.
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6. **Mazda RX7**The Mazda RX7 holds a special place in automotive history, primarily celebrated for its unique rotary engine and stunning, timeless design. It was a true driver’s car, characterized by its incredibly smooth power delivery, lightweight chassis, and responsive handling that made every twisty road an absolute joy. For enthusiasts, it wasn’t just a car; it was an experience, a symphony of engineering and aesthetics.
From its sleek bodywork to its well-engineered chassis, the RX7 was hailed as a “good-looking and reliable car” that promised excitement. Its distinctive pop-up headlights and flowing lines ensured it always turned heads, embodying a pure sports car spirit. This blend of reliability (for its time) and captivating design made it a highly desirable vehicle for a wide range of buyers.
Yet, like so many other cherished performance machines, the RX7 has fallen victim to the relentless upward climb of market prices. While its inherent qualities remain, its once-accessible dream status has been eroded. The unfortunate reality is that “the price tag pushes them away” from many who would otherwise jump at the chance to own one.
This escalating cost creates a significant barrier to entry, transforming the RX7 from a reasonably attainable sports car into a high-dollar collector’s item. Its enduring beauty and unique powertrain are still admired, but the dream of daily driving or affordable modification has largely vanished, dimming its broad appeal for the masses it once captivated.
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7. **Ford Terminator Cobra**For muscle car aficionados, the Ford Terminator Cobra, specifically the 2003-2004 SVT Mustang Cobra, was an absolute beast. It wasn’t just another Mustang; it was a supercharged, 390-horsepower factory marvel that packed incredible performance into a familiar, aggressive package. This car delivered raw power and a menacing presence, quickly becoming a highly sought-after symbol of American automotive might.
The Terminator Cobra captivated buyers with its exhilarating acceleration and distinct styling cues, including its aggressive hood scoop and unique wheels. It perfectly blended track capability with street cred, proving that Ford could produce a truly potent machine that offered incredible bang for the buck at its release. It was the kind of car that made a statement without needing to shout.
However, the market, as it always does, has spoken loudly about its current value. A striking example illustrates this shift: one poster mentions, “I passed on a sub 10k mile comp orange cobra for $30k in 2018. That car is 50k+ now.” This meteoric rise in price has put it well out of reach for many who might have once considered it an attainable performance car.
The unfortunate truth is that with its current “50k+ now” valuation, the Terminator Cobra has lost its appeal as a practical, accessible performance buy. It’s transformed into a collector’s item, and for those seeking modern thrills at a better value, the context suggests a “GT350 is the better alternative.” The once-thrilling bargain has become a premium investment, altering its place in the enthusiast landscape.
Car Model Information: 2021 Kia Sorento S
Caption: 2004 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra
Name: Ford SVT Mustang Cobra
Manufacturer: Special Vehicle Team
Production: 1993–2004 (79,958 produced)
Assembly: Dearborn, Michigan
Class: Pony car
BodyStyle: 1993:,hatchback,coupe,convertible
Successor: Shelby Mustang#2007.E2.80.932009 Ford Shelby GT500
Platform: Ford Fox platform
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
Categories: 2000s cars, All articles with specifically marked weasel-worded phrases, Articles with short description, Articles with specifically marked weasel-worded phrases from July 2025, Cars introduced in 1993
Summary: The Ford SVT Mustang Cobra (also known as “SVT Mustang Cobra, SVT Cobra,” or simply as “Cobra”) is a pony car that was built by American automobile manufacturer Ford Motor Company’s Special Vehicle Team division (or SVT) for the 1993 to 2004 model years.
The SVT Cobra was a high-performance version of the Ford Mustang and was considered the top-of-the-line variant, being positioned above the Mustang GT and Mach 1 models during its production run. On three occasions, the race-ready, street-legal SVT Cobra R variant was produced in limited numbers.
The SVT Cobra was succeeded by the Mustang Shelby GT500 which was introduced for the 2007 model year.
Get more information about: Ford Mustang SVT Cobra
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Brand: Ford Model: Mustang Cobra
Price: $21,490 Mileage: 58,957 mi.
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8. **Acura RSX Type S**The Acura RSX Type S, produced between 2002 and 2006, was a shining example of Honda/Acura’s commitment to performance in a compact, reliable package. It was lauded for being a “fast, reliable, and good-performance car,” offering an engaging driving experience thanks to its high-revving K20 engine and slick-shifting manual transmission. It perfectly embodied the spirit of affordable Japanese sport compacts, blending daily usability with genuine excitement.
This sporty coupe carved out a significant niche among younger enthusiasts and tuners, providing a fantastic platform for modifications while maintaining Acura’s renowned build quality. Its sharp styling and comfortable interior made it a popular choice for those who wanted a spirited drive without sacrificing practicality or the peace of mind that came with Honda engineering. It was, for many, the ideal blend of fun and sensible.
However, the passage of time and the car’s enduring popularity have pushed its prices into unexpected territory. The days of easily finding a cheap, clean RSX Type S are long gone. As a frustrated enthusiast observes, “any RSX that’s not completely clapped is over $10k now and only going up.” This indicates a stark reality: well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly scarce and, consequently, expensive.
The term “clapped out” perfectly illustrates another challenge: many of these cars were driven hard, modified extensively, or simply neglected, making the hunt for a good one even harder. This combination of escalating prices for clean examples and the prevalence of worn-out units has significantly diminished the RSX Type S’s original appeal as an affordable, reliable sport compact for a new generation of buyers.
Car Model Information: 2002 Acura RSX Base
Name: Acura RSX
Caption: Acura RSX (DC5)
Manufacturer: Honda
Aka: Honda Integra (fourth generation)
Production: July 2001 – August 2006,2026 (to commence)
ModelYears: 2002–2006,2027
Class: unbulleted list
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Categories: 2000s cars, 2020s cars, Acura vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description
Summary: The Acura RSX is an automobile nameplate used by Honda for its upmarket brand Acura. The nameplate has been used for two different car models:
A rebadged Japanese market Honda Integra sold between 2001 and 2006.
A battery electric coupe SUV slated for production in 2026.
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Brand: Acura Model: RSX
Price: $15,975 Mileage: 75,624 mi.
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9. **Fourth-Gen Ford Mustang**After the more angular third generation, Ford took a nostalgic turn with the fourth-gen Mustang, aiming to rekindle the flame of its classic muscle car heritage. They brought back “design elements from the original 1960 models for fans who loved the retro aesthetic,” giving the car a much-needed visual refresh that resonated deeply with purists and new buyers alike. It was a bold move to bridge the past with the present.
This generation of Mustang quickly found its way into popular culture, serving as the “official pace car for the 1994 Indianapolis 500” and even snagging “a cameo appearance in ‘The Fast and the Furious’ movie.” These moments cemented its cool factor and broad appeal, making it a visible and desirable machine that truly captured the essence of American performance. It was a car that screamed ‘cool.’
However, despite its strong visual appeal and pop culture presence, the fourth-gen Mustang suffered from a critical flaw: its powertrain. It “seemed the not-so-powerful engines got the best of them,” meaning the performance often failed to live up to the aggressive looks. This disconnect between style and substance ultimately became its Achilles’ heel.
Over time, this deficiency in raw power, especially compared to its predecessors and increasingly potent competitors, led to a decline in its overall desirability. The context explicitly states, “its appeal has reduced over the years,” indicating that while it might have looked the part, it couldn’t consistently deliver the performance punch that muscle car enthusiasts truly craved, ultimately fading from its trendy status.
Car Model Information: 2016 Ford Mustang GT
Name: Ford Mustang
Caption: 2018 Ford Mustang GT 5.0
Aka: Ford T5 (Germany)
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: March 1964 – present
ModelYears: 1965–present
Class: Unbulleted list
BodyStyle: Unbulleted list
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2+2 coupés, 2000s cars
Summary: The Ford Mustang is an American automobile manufactured and marketed by Ford since 1964, as Ford’s longest nameplate in continuous production. Currently in its seventh generation, it is the fifth-best selling Ford car nameplate. The namesake of the “pony car” automobile segment, the Mustang was developed as a highly styled line of sporty coupes and convertibles derived from existing model lines, initially distinguished by its pronounced “long hood, short deck” proportions.
Originally predicted to sell 100,000 vehicles yearly, the 1965 Mustang became the most successful vehicle launch since the 1927 Model A. Introduced on April 17, 1964 (16 days after the Plymouth Barracuda), over 400,000 units were sold in its first year; the one-millionth Mustang was sold within two years of its launch. In August 2018, Ford produced the 10-millionth Mustang; matching the first 1965 Mustang, the vehicle was a 2019 Wimbledon White convertible with a V8 engine.
The success of the Mustang launch led to multiple competitors from other American manufacturers, including the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird (1967), AMC Javelin (1968), and Dodge Challenger (1970). It also competed with the Plymouth Barracuda, which was launched around the same time. The Mustang also had an effect on designs of coupes worldwide, leading to the marketing of the Toyota Celica and Ford Capri in the United States (the latter, by Lincoln-Mercury). The Mercury Cougar was launched in 1967 as a unique-bodied higher-trim alternative to the Mustang; during the 1970s, it included more features and was marketed as a personal luxury car.
From 1965 until 2004, the Mustang shared chassis commonality with other Ford model lines, staying rear-wheel-drive throughout its production. From 1965 to 1973, the Mustang was derived from the 1960 Ford Falcon compact. From 1974 until 1978, the Mustang (denoted Mustang II) was a longer-wheelbase version of the Ford Pinto. From 1979 until 2004, the Mustang shared its Fox platform chassis with 14 other Ford vehicles (becoming the final one to use the Fox architecture). Since 2005, the Mustang has used the D2C platform, unique to the Mustang.
Through its production, multiple nameplates have been associated with the Ford Mustang series, including GT, Mach 1, Boss 302/429, Cobra (separate from Shelby Cobra), and Bullitt, along with “5.0” fender badging (denoting 4.9 L OHV or 5.0 L DOHC V8 engines).
Get more information about: Ford Mustang
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Brand: Ford Model: Mustang
Price: $29,261 Mileage: 24,710 mi.
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10. **Chrysler Concorde**The Chrysler Concorde emerged as a refreshing departure from the typical boxy sedans that dominated the American market in its era. It embraced a “more modern and aerodynamic design with smooth curves and a flowing body line,” making it stand out with an elegance that defied its price point. It even boasted “almost Aston Martin vibes,” a testament to its forward-thinking aesthetics that promised a touch of luxury for the mainstream.
This full-size vehicle initially captured attention for its innovative “cab-forward” design, which offered a remarkably spacious interior for passengers. It was perceived as a sophisticated and stylish option for families and executives alike, proving that American cars could indeed look sleek and contemporary. The Concorde aimed to redefine the perception of domestic sedans.
Unfortunately, the Concorde’s good looks weren’t enough to sustain its appeal in the long run. Beneath the stylish exterior lay a series of significant issues that plagued owners and ultimately led to its downfall. The car suffered from “engine failure from oil sludge, transmission problems, fading paint, and high fuel consumption,” a laundry list of reliability and ownership headaches.
These persistent mechanical and cosmetic flaws eventually overshadowed any initial appreciation for its design. The cumulative impact of these problems meant that despite its striking appearance, the Concorde “couldn’t keep it in the spotlight,” making it a less desirable choice compared to more reliable or efficient competitors. Its trendiness was ultimately undone by a lack of consistent quality and burdensome maintenance.
Car Model Information: 1999 Chrysler Concorde LX
Name: Chrysler Concorde
Caption: 2002–2004 Concorde LXi
Manufacturer: Chrysler Corporation,DaimlerChrysler
Aka: Chrysler Concorde Limited (2001–2004)
Production: 1992–2003
ModelYears: 1993–2004
Predecessor: Chrysler New Yorker,Chrysler LHS
Successor: Chrysler 300
Class: Full-size car
BodyStyle: sedan (car)
Platform: Chrysler LH platform
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Transmission: Ultradrive#A606/42LE,automatic transmission
Categories: All articles needing additional references, Articles needing additional references from May 2012, Articles with short description, Cars discontinued in 2003, Cars introduced in 1992
Summary: The Chrysler Concorde is a full-size car that was produced by Chrysler from 1992 to 2004. It assumed the C-body Chrysler New Yorker Salon’s position as the entry-level full-size sedan in the Chrysler brand lineup. One of Chrysler’s three original Chrysler LH platform models, it has a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout.
The Concorde was related to the Chrysler/Dodge Intrepid, Eagle Vision, Chrysler 300M, Chrysler LHS, and the eleventh and final generation Chrysler New Yorker.
It was on Car and Driver magazine’s Ten Best list for 1993 and 1994.
Get more information about: Chrysler Concorde
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Brand: Chrysler Model: Concorde
Price: $5,000 Mileage: 39,430 mi.
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The stories of these 15 vehicles serve as a poignant reminder of the dynamic nature of desirability. They tell a tale where groundbreaking design, thrilling performance, or surprising affordability can only carry a car so far before new trends, evolving tastes, or simply the passage of time reshape its destiny. In the fast-paced world of automotive trends, what’s ‘must-have’ today can indeed become a nostalgic memory tomorrow, proving that even the most beloved rides are not immune to the fickle winds of change. It’s a continuous, exhilarating cycle that keeps us all looking forward to what’s next, even as we fondly remember the cars that once ruled the road.
