The automotive industry is full of brands that have come and gone, leaving behind a legacy of memorable vehicles. While some companies faded into obscurity, others created iconic cars that still capture the hearts of enthusiasts. Here’s a look at the best vehicles from 14 defunct car companies.

Studebaker Avanti

The Studebaker Avanti was a groundbreaking vehicle that combined luxury and performance. It set a standard for American sports cars with its sleek design and innovative features, including a fiberglass body and advanced aerodynamics.

Hudson Hornet

Manufactured from 1951 to 1955, this car is remembered for its impressive performance and unique styling. Respected for its powerful inline-six engine, the Hornet dominated NASCAR in the early 1950s. Its speed and elegance made it a favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors.

Oldsmobile 442

This is a classic example of American muscle. Initially a performance package for the F-85 model, the 442 evolved into a standalone model appreciated for its haughty V8 engine and sporty design. The car remains a symbol of Oldsmobile’s rich automotive heritage.

DeLorean DMC-12

Although it faced production challenges, DeLorean’s appearance in the Back to the Future films cemented its status as a cultural icon. The DeLorean DMC-12 was built between 1981 and 1983, with its distinctive gull-wing doors and stainless steel body as its most notable features.

AMC Eagle

Many consider the AMC Eagle the pioneering vehicle that blends the features of a car and an SUV. As one of the first crossovers, it offered four-wheel drive and a spacious interior, appealing to adventurous drivers. Its innovative design undoubtedly paved the way for future crossover models.

Plymouth Barracuda

This iconic vehicle was first introduced in 1964 and quickly gained fame as one of the original muscle cars in American automotive history. The 1969 Barracuda, with its bold and aggressive design, exemplified the raw power and performance that defined an era of American muscle cars.

Mercury Cougar

The Mercury Cougar was initially designed as a luxury pony car. Its combination of elegance and performance made it a popular choice among drivers. The Cougar evolved over the years, but its classic models from the late ’60s and early ’70s remain highly sought after.

Saab 900 Turbo

Famous for its unique design and turbocharged performance with its distinctive hatchback styling and innovative safety features, the 900 Turbo was an instant hit. In the automotive world, it stands out for its combination of practicality and performance.

International Harvester Scout

One of the first true SUVs was the International Harvester Scout, produced from 1961 to 1980. Outdoor enthusiasts loved its rugged design and off-road capabilities. The Scout’s legacy is quite prevalent in modern SUV designs, making it a beloved classic among petrolheads.

Jensen Interceptor

The Interceptor seamlessly blends opulence and power, delivering a driving experience unlike any other. This British grand tourer’s scarcity and unmistakable design have solidified its status as a coveted classic among collectors. Its presence is simply unforgettable.

Pontiac GTO

This is the progenitor of the muscle car era, a.k.a. the 1964 Pontiac GTO. Its intense V8 engine, paired with a surprisingly agile chassis, shattered expectations. Plus, with the aggressive styling that matched its raw power, the GTO became more than just a car; it was a cultural icon.

Tucker Torpedo

It was an innovative vehicle that introduced several groundbreaking features, including a rear-engine layout and safety innovations. Although only 51 units were made, the Torpedo is celebrated for its forward-thinking design and remains a symbol of automotive ingenuity and ambition.

Datsun 240Z

From 1969 to 1978, the Datsun 240Z was produced as a sports car that offered performance and style at a favorable rate. Aside from the competitive price tag, the car’s powerful inline-six engine and noteworthy frame helped it establish Nissan’s reputation in the sports car market.

Fiat Dino

This rare sports car featured a V6 engine co-developed with Ferrari! As far as iconic cars go, the Dino remains a symbol of Fiat’s engineering prowess and Italian automotive heritage. From the build quality to performance, nothing spoke of Italian magnificence like the Dino.