The 1960s and 1970s were dynamic decades for the automotive industry, marked by significant innovation, cultural shifts, and the rise of iconic designs. However, not all cars from this period lived up to expectations. Among the gems, several models fell short due to poor design, unreliable mechanics, or lackluster performance. This listicle points out some of the worst cars that failed to leave a positive mark, according to Brake For It and MotorTrend. 

Ford Maverick

The 1970 Ford Maverick was an affordable, compact vehicle intended to compete with the growing popularity of small, imported cars. However, the Maverick quickly garnered criticism for its subpar build quality and lack of refinement. Consumers found the interior cheap and uncomfortable, and the car’s performance left much to be desired. 

Morris Marina 

Throughout its production life, the Morris Marina gained a reputation as one of the most boring cars ever made. It was a British compact car designed to compete with the Ford Cortina and Vauxhall Viva. Still, its poor handling, unreliable mechanics, and lackluster driving experience made it an unpopular choice. The build quality was inconsistent, leading to frequent breakdowns, maintenance issues, and a body prone to rusting. 

Subaru 360

Although the Subaru 360 was introduced earlier, its impact on the American market during the late 1960s and early 1970s was notable. This tiny car was designed as an economical and practical vehicle for post-war Japan, fitting into the kei car category with its lightweight construction and small engine. Nevertheless, it faced significant backlash as its 25-horsepower engine struggled to meet the demands of American roads. 

Buick Riviera

The Buick Riviera, introduced in 1963, was initially celebrated for its stylish design and powerful performance. However, the Riviera underwent a significant transformation in the mid-1970s that was not well-received. People didn’t like the 1974-1976 models, with their exaggerated, ungainly design. The overly large and heavy body resulted in poor handling and reduced fuel efficiency. 

Chevrolet Corvair 

General Motors made a bold entry into the compact car market with the Corvair. Featuring a rear-mounted, air-cooled engine, the Corvair was designed to compete with European imports like the Volkswagen Beetle. Unfortunately, the Corvair soon faced severe criticism, most notably from consumer advocate Ralph Nader, who highlighted the Corvair’s tendency for dangerous handling due to its swing-axle suspension.

AMC Gremlin 

AMC probably had high hopes when it launched the Gremlin in 1970. It was America’s first subcompact car, aimed at providing a small, fuel-efficient alternative when compact imports were gaining traction. Unfortunately, the Gremlin was met with widespread criticism for its awkward styling, poor build quality, and substandard reliability. 

Porsche 914

Unlike other Porsches, the 914 failed to reach its potential. Introduced in 1969 as a collaborative effort between Porsche and Volkswagen, it intended to be an affordable sports car accessible to a broader audience. However, while functional, the 914’s design was considered unattractive and lacked the elegance associated with Porsche’s brand. Performance was another issue, with the base model’s VW-sourced engine delivering underwhelming power.

AMC Pacer

Despite its innovative design intentions, this car symbolized automotive oddity and failure. The AMC Pacer was envisioned as a futuristic, wide-bodied compact car offering unprecedented interior space and comfort. However, the car’s unconventional appearance was polarizing, with many finding it unattractive and awkward. Its wide body, intended to enhance interior space, led to poor aerodynamics and subpar fuel efficiency, and the Pacer was discontinued in 1980.

Bricklin SV-1 

Marketed as a safe and innovative sports car, the SV-1 quickly became infamous for its numerous shortcomings. The car’s build quality was poor, with doors that frequently malfunctioned and a fiberglass body prone to cracking. The negative reception and mounting financial losses forced Bricklin to cease production in 1976, with fewer than 3000 cars built. 

Plymouth Valiant Wagon

As part of the broader Valiant lineup introduced in 1960, the Plymouth Valiant Wagon was designed as a practical family vehicle, combining the benefits of a compact car with the utility of a larger station wagon. Yet, early models were criticized for their awkward styling and lack of refinement. Mechanical issues, particularly with the car’s transmission and suspension, were common, leading to frequent repairs and maintenance headaches for owners. 

Chevrolet Vega 

With the oil crisis on the horizon, General Motors introduced the economical Chevrolet Vega. But despite its initial promise, it quickly earned a reputation for poor reliability. The aluminum engine was prone to overheating and oil leaks, leading to premature engine failure. Rust was another significant issue, with many cars showing severe corrosion within just a few years of use. 

Saab Sonett III 

The Saab Sonett III was a compact sports car featuring a distinctive design and fiberglass body. It was a sporty and affordable alternative to more mainstream options. However, this vehicle struggled to find success for several reasons. Many found the design ridiculous, adding unnecessary weight to the car. The disproportionate dimensions affected handling, ending the car’s production in 1974, with 8,368 cars made. 

Ford Thunderbird

Ford is famous for creating muscle cars that changed the automotive industry. However, the Thunderbird is a vehicle that failed to meet expectations. The car was first introduced in 1955 as a stylish two-seat convertible, but by the late 1970s, it had transformed drastically, becoming overly large and cumbersome. The car’s bloated design led to poor fuel efficiency and lackluster handling, making it less appealing. 

Rambler Marlin 

The Rambler Marlin was designed to offer a unique and stylish alternative to more conventional sedans. Featuring a distinctive fastback roofline and upscale interior appointments, the car’s styling was considered polarizing, with many finding the fastback roofline unattractive and awkward. Moreover, its performance and handling were also criticized, falling short of the expectations set by its sporty appearance. 

Chrysler Cordoba 

Chrysler introduced the Cordoba as a personal luxury car that offers a more affordable alternative to higher-end luxury vehicles. But it was often criticized for its uninspiring performance and handling. The car’s heavy weight and lack of powerful engine options led to sluggish acceleration and poor fuel economy. Build quality was another issue, with many owners reporting problems with fit and finish.