Rev Up Your Engines: 15 Cool Cars You May Be Interested In

The world of cars is filled with both iconic legends and hidden gems, and the latter often get overshadowed by their more famous counterparts. If you think you know everything about cars, prepare to have your mind blown by some incredible vehicles that have somehow managed to slip under the radar.

1. **Allard J2**: When you think of classic roadsters, names like the 356 and 300SL pop into your mind, but let’s shine a spotlight on the Allard J2. This British beauty, produced between 1950 and 1951, was powered by a potent 3.6-liter flathead or a 4.4-liter Mercury V8. The result? A thrilling mix of British engineering and American muscle. Despite being a dangerous ride with its narrow wheelbase and absurd power-to-weight ratio, it managed to secure a podium finish at Le Mans in 1950. Only 90 units were ever made, making it a rare sight indeed!

2. **Shelby Cobra Daytona**: Ah, Carroll Shelby – the name is synonymous with speed and performance. While many know about his Cobras, the Cobra Daytona is often overlooked. Built to take down Ferrari, it did just that in 1965 by winning the FIA World Sportscar Championship. Sadly, only six Daytonas were ever constructed, and they now fetch a staggering price tag of up to $4 million among collectors. Its story is a testament to the passion and ingenuity that defined American motorsport in the 1960s.

3. **Dodge Omni GLH-S**: The Dodge Omni may not be a stunner on the outside, but under the hood, it was anything but ordinary. With a name that stands for ‘Goes Like Hell,’ the GLH-S variant, modified by Carroll Shelby himself, was powered by a turbocharged 2.2-liter engine that delivered a punchy 175 horsepower. It could sprint down the quarter mile in the low 14-second range, and with a few modifications, that dropped to the low 13s. This little hatchback was a true sleeper, proving that good things come in unassuming packages.

4. **1999 Mercedes-Benz SL73 AMG**: Mercedes-Benz’s AMG division is known for extraordinary performance vehicles, but the SL73 holds a special place. This beast packed a 7.3-liter V12 engine, producing an astounding 518 horsepower. With only 90 units made, including a rumored 50 for a Sultan of Brunei, the SL73 remains an elusive gem that showcases the heights of engineering and luxury in the late 90s.

5. **Jaguar XJ220**: The Jaguar XJ220 was supposed to be the ultimate supercar, boasting a potentially mind-bending V12 engine and all-wheel drive. But when it hit production, it came with a twin-turbo V6 instead, leading to a massive backlash from those who had already placed deposits on the concept. Despite its troubled history, the XJ220 was the fastest production car of its time, reaching over 200 mph. It’s a classic case of ‘what could have been’ in the automotive world.

6. **Cizeta-Moroder V16T**: You might not have heard of the Cizeta-Moroder V16T, and that’s a shame because it was a true masterpiece. Designed by Marcello Gandini, who also penned the Lamborghini Diablo, the V16T featured a bizarre V16 engine made up of two mated V8s, producing around 550 horsepower. Despite its stunning design and performance capabilities, it failed to gain traction due to its high price and the perception that it was merely a Lambo knockoff.

7. **Chevrolet Corvair Yenko Stinger**: The Corvair is often remembered for its quirky design and safety issues, but the Yenko Stinger variant is a different beast altogether. With performance tweaks that allowed it to boast anywhere from 160 to 240 horsepower, it became a proud contender in motorsports. Despite the Corvair’s negative reputation, only 115 Yenko Stingers were ever manufactured, making this car a fascinating piece of automotive history that many enthusiasts are still looking for.

Each of these cars represents a unique chapter in automotive lore, filled with impressive engineering, passionate stories, and the thrill of the quest for speed. So the next time you think you’ve seen every cool car imaginable, remember that there’s a whole world of automotive wonders waiting to be discovered, just like these hidden gems! Buckle up, because there’s more to come in the next part of our list!

8. **1967 Trident Clipper**: If you’ve never heard of the Trident Clipper, you’re in for a treat! This stunning sports GT was born during a tumultuous time for British automaker TVR. Designed by Trevor Frost, the Clipper showcased an aluminum body and was powered by a robust Ford V8 engine. With its sleek lines and sharp aesthetic, it made waves at the Geneva auto show before being rebranded under its own name. Despite its allure, only 39 units were produced between 1966 and 1977, making it a rare gem among collectors.

9. **1952-1953 Allstate**: Imagine ordering a car from a catalog like you would a new couch. Well, that’s exactly what customers could do with the Allstate, a unique offering from Sears Roebuck in partnership with Kaiser-Frazer. This rebadged Henry J was an affordable option for those seeking a vehicle for everyday use, with production limited to just 2,363 examples. Though not particularly flashy, the Allstate serves as a fascinating piece of automotive history, showcasing how retail giants once dabbled in the car business.

10. **1964-1968 De Tomaso Vallelunga**: Now, let’s talk about the De Tomaso Vallelunga, an exotic beauty that might just make your heart race! This was the first car to bear the De Tomaso name and it did not disappoint. With a mid-mounted engine that produced 104 horsepower, the Vallelunga was lightweight and agile, weighing in at just 1,600 pounds. Only 58 of these beauties were ever made, making it a coveted piece for collectors. Its Italian charm and understated elegance make it one of the coolest cars you probably never knew existed.

11. **1968-1974 LMX Sirex 2300 HCS**: Here’s one for the true enthusiasts! The LMX Sirex 2300 HCS is often overlooked, but its elegant lines and unique design are sure to impress. This Italian grand tourer was produced in very limited numbers, estimated between 50 and 70 units. Its fiberglass body housed a 2.3-liter Ford V6 engine, embracing both style and performance. Though it never gained mainstream popularity, it remains a beloved secret among collectors.

12. **1964-1967 Gordon-Keeble**: The Gordon-Keeble is a classic example of British craftsmanship combined with American muscle. With a captivating design by Giorgetto Giugiaro, this 2+2 coupe was equipped with a Chevrolet V8 engine, offering fantastic reliability and performance. Despite its stunning visuals, only about 100 units were produced, making it a rare find. The Gordon-Keeble’s elegant presence is sure to turn heads and spark conversations at any car gathering!

13. **Arnolt-Aston**: The Arnolt-Aston is a true rarity that embodies the spirit of collaboration in the automotive world. Crafted by Chicago industrialist Stanley H. Arnolt, this vehicle combined Aston Martin’s luxury with distinctive coachwork by Bertone. Only seven units were produced, making it a coveted collector’s item. Its elegant curves and unique styling make it stand out in any collection, showcasing a fascinating chapter in automotive history.

14. **Autech Zagato Stelvio AZ1**: Stepping into the realm of Japanese cars, the Autech Zagato Stelvio AZ1 deserves a spotlight. This rare Japanese model features a stunning design that blends Italian flair with Japanese engineering. With a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, it produces 280 horsepower, offering an exhilarating driving experience. Only 104 units were built, making the Stelvio AZ1 an incredible find for any car enthusiast looking to own a piece of automotive art.

15. **Tramontana**: Last but certainly not least, the Tramontana is a Spanish supercar that demands attention. With only 12 units produced each year, this street-legal beast can go from 0 to 62 mph in fewer than four seconds. Its striking design, featuring exposed wheels and an aerodynamic silhouette, sets it apart from the crowd. Owning a Tramontana is like being part of an exclusive club reserved for only the most passionate car aficionados.

Next time you’re on the hunt for unique automotive treasures, keep an eye out for these hidden wonders. They might just surprise you with their charm, performance, and the stories they carry. There’s a whole world of cool cars waiting to be discovered – so buckle up and enjoy the ride!

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