Classic cars have escaped their reputation as delicate museum pieces only suitable for dry summer weekends. Indeed the definition of ‘classic’ vehicle has been undergoing a significant and rather radical shift. Many nations now define a historic vehicle as any car over 40 years of age, thus ensuring certain prestige amongst collectors and petrolheads alike. By the time 2025 comes, a generation of 1985 models will have qualified, and will surely have the world’s attention firmly planted upon one of the most interesting eras in car history.

The mid 80s was a time of great experimentation in the car industry. Sharp styling, turbocharged engines, digital dashboards, high-tech engine management and future-primitive performance tech were being dreamt up by manufacturers. Sports car manufacturers experimented with wedge shaped cars, with digital cockpits and aerodynamic forms borrowed from the racing world. From bedroom poster wall classics and sophisticated tourers, to robust daily drivers that held secrets under their sharp suit, cars from this time represent a diverse spectrum of automotive development.

The great appeal of this generation is the vast range of styles, performance characteristics and engineering solutions that were being introduced. Sports cars, saloons, hatchbacks, grand tourers and rally-bred brutes have all aged remarkably well and many have been increasing sharply in value on the collector market. The following twelve models from 1985, just under forty years later, are concrete evidence that it was a seminal year indeed.

1. BMW M5 (E28)

The BMW M5 E28 basically revolutionized the industry as well as forging an entirely new segment in the world of performance cars. Until that point a driver had generally been forced to make a trade-off between having luxury or having speed. BMW’s engineers were determined to debunk that notion and showed a luxury exec sedan could offer serious sports car ability. They paved the way for all the super saloons that followed.

What Made the E28 M5 Revolutionary:

• Combined luxury with serious performance
• Used an engine derived from the BMW M1
• Became the fastest four-door sedan of its era
• Delivered understated yet aggressive styling
• Influenced every modern performance saloon

The engine itself was a superb 3.5-litre inline-six and was derived from the famous M1 supercar. With nearly 286bhp it was also the fastest four-door production car that you could buy in Britain during the mid-1980s. At 156mph it was the fastest available family car and was significantly quicker than even many focused sports cars back then.

Where the E28 M5 differed from other super-fast sports cars of its day was that it did not make any conspicuous demands for attention unlike most exotica and instead had a remarkably stealthy appearance whilst being faster than many much more expensive performance cars. It provided a truly effective blend of comfort and speed for use in day-to-day situations as well as on long journeys. Today it is often hailed as perhaps the ultimate performance saloon and used models are only set to increase in value further.

2. Ferrari 328

The 328 arrived as the successor to the 308 which had sold like hotcakes, rather than completely redoing everything Ferrari chose to improve almost every feature on the car. The result was a sports car that carried the distinctive Ferrari characteristics but improved on the reliability, driveability, and smoothness while remaining the same character of sports car and fast became one of the biggest sports car icons of the eighties.

Why the Ferrari 328 Became an ’80s Icon:

• Refined evolution of the Ferrari 308
• Naturally aspirated 3.2-litre V8 performance
• Elegant styling by Pininfarina
• Available as both coupe and targa models
• Balanced exotic performance with usability

Engine’s power was around 266hp from the 3.2L normally aspirated V8. In these times, the 328 was capable of completing a 0-62mph acceleration in about 5.5sec and had a top speed in the region of 166mph, which was a great performance for an 80’s sportscar and is even a great performance today. This V8 unit developed its power in a smooth and response way which was also very satisfying. It fitted perfectly with the car’s well-balanced chassis and elegant character.

The 328, drawn from the hand of the famous Italian firm Pininfarina, was made of sleek body curves mixed with crisp, aerodynamic features which embodied the characteristics of this era. In this model customers had the choice of a GTB coupe or a drop-top GTS, which proved quite popular with enthusiasts, among all thanks to the removable roof section. The Ferrari 328 continues to be a much loved car to this day, largely because it still offers the authentic Ferrari experience without some of the rather daunting maintenance bills which are typically associated with earlier exotic sports cars.

3. Lancia Delta S4

Lancia’s Delta S4 arose from the untamed legend that was Group B rallying-the era still revered as among the wildest days in motorsport history. Despite bearing the well-known Delta badge, the S4 bore scant resemblance to its conventional, roadgoing hatchback cousin; hidden under its svelte bodywork was primarily a purpose-built racing machine built to excel in the top-flight international rally arena.

What Made the Delta S4 a Group B Legend:

• Built specifically for Group B rallying
• Combined turbocharging with supercharging
• Produced extreme power for its era
• Featured lightweight race-focused construction
• Created in limited homologation numbers

Perhaps the most incredible thing about the Delta S4 was its complex twin-charging system; its 1.8 litre engine employed the assistance of both super and turbocharger to dramatically eliminate turbo lag while creating furious bursts of acceleration throughout the entire range. Fully-loaded to full rally specification the engine produced in the region of 500bhp which meant that on tarmac, snow, gravel and mud stages, the S4 was terrifyingly fast, as indeed was only offered by a small number of rally cars during the mid-80s through its combination of agility and power.

As a prerequisite for Group B racing, Lancia produced a series of road-legal Stradale cars available to the general public; These cars featured a multitude of lightweight composite body panels, extreme aerodynamics and an extremely clever space-frame chassis resulting in a body that had a distinctly functional and aggressive edge. The Delta S4 is now renowned as arguably the most iconic rally inspired vehicle of all time and, being representative of the awesome, and dangerous, age of Group B, has consequently become one of the most exclusive, and valuable, cars on the planet today.

4. Porsche 944 Turbo

The Porsche 944 Turbo took over where the well regarded normal 944 left off. The ‘normal’ 944 was already highly respected, being praised for its handling, practicality and ease of everyday use. By 1985 the Turbo had been introduced, a far more serious performance car, but still with the refinement and tractability the standard car was loved for.

Why the Porsche 944 Turbo Earned Cult Status:

• Turbocharged performance with everyday usability
• Excellent front-to-rear weight balance
• Stable and predictable high-speed handling
• Powerful Brembo braking system
• Increasing recognition among collectors

The engine is a turbocharged 2.5-litre 4 cylinder that produced circa 220 hp in the original car, it got even more power later. The 944 Turbo also has a very uncommon front engine, rear trans-axle design which gives the car’s weight distribution almost the ideal balance. The weight balance gives the 944 Turbo supreme stability at speed and with a very direct steering setup and the powerful Brembo brakes inspires confidence of another dimension.

For many years the 944 Turbo was overlooked a little compared to the rear-engined 911 legends that Porsche produces. However, over the last few years people are starting to really understand just how good these cars are and that, due to the performance, handling and usability, are quite sought after in good condition.

5. Alfa Romeo 75

The Alfa Romeo 75 represents the last significant Alfa Romeo of this period. The car was produced to commemorate Alfa Romeo’s 75th anniversary and combined striking Italian design with mechanical technology not commonly found in an 80’s executive saloon. One of Alfa Romeo’s most iconic, individual and characterful saloons.

What Made the Alfa Romeo 75 So Memorable:

• Celebrated Alfa Romeo’s 75th anniversary
• Featured near-perfect weight distribution
• Sharp wedge-shaped 1980s styling
• Offered engaging handling dynamics
• Famous for its charismatic V6 engine

It certainly looks the part; the aggressive wedge shape, sharp lines, and menacing looking grille were all very much in tune with the styling sensibilities of the era. But underneath the surface of the 75 was even more interesting stuff. Its ‘transaxle’ setup put the gearbox in the back to help achieve virtually 50/50 weight distribution. Add to this trick suspension design and in-board brakes at the rear and you got an unusually well-balanced and great handling practical four-door. 

The particularly performance models, equipped with the sonorous and potent Alfa Romeo V6, became a particular favourite of Alfa enthusiasts, thanks to the distinctive sound, sweet delivery and emotional nature of the motor, giving the car the distinctly ‘Italian’ feel that buyers loved. The 75 is today a cult classic to anyone who values distinctive style, engineering prowess, and real charisma in a car.

6. Bentley Turbo R

It was with the Turbo R that Bentley wanted to prove to the world that the luxury full size saloon could also be exciting and perform well on the road. The old Bentleys concentrated on being comfortable and easy to cruise in, and this Bentley, although retaining the craftsmanship expected of the brand, offered more nimble handling, better road manners and a much more sporting experience.

Why the Bentley Turbo R Stood Out in the 1980s:

• Combined luxury with serious performance
• Massive turbocharged 6.8-litre V8 engine
• Improved suspension and chassis dynamics
• Handcrafted traditional Bentley interior
• Developed a strong enthusiast following

Under the bonnet was the colossal 6.8-litre turbocharged V8 that could deliver stacks of torque and a feeling of almost effortless propulsion. The Bentley engineers also spent much effort on the suspension and chassis setup and in particular, the car exhibited a distinct reduction in body roll and a greater stability at high speed. These changes gave the large, luxury saloon a completely different driving experience to most would have suspected from a car of its dimensions and mass. 

Although the Turbo R was an absolutely colossal car for its day it very quickly gained a fan club as one of the only ways to achieve Bentley comfort, craftsmanship and impressive levels of performance. The interior was, of course, exquisitely hand-crafted and all the hallmarks of Bentley motorcars, including the distinctive presence on the road were present. Today, the Turbo R is a testament to Bentley’s new found love of the high-performance, luxury car and a more ‘accessible’ version of 1980s Bentley characteristics.

7. Ford Escort RS Turbo

More than almost any other performance car of the 1980s, the Ford Escort RS Turbo was the epitome of exciting and naughty. Produced under the homologation rules of the era, the car offered a potent combination of muscular styling, torquey turbo performance and light-weight handling that guaranteed its place as one of the hottest hatchbacks of its time.

Why the Escort RS Turbo Became an ’80s Performance Icon:

• Turbocharged excitement in a lightweight hatchback
• Developed during the homologation performance era
• Distinctive aggressive styling and body kit
• Famous for its dramatic turbocharged character
• Strong collector demand for early models

Derived from the Escort XR3i, the RS Turbo used a Garrett T3 turbocharger which gave around 132 horsepower, not the highest of figures to today’s standards, however in the compact and relatively lightweight Escort, this meant for a surprisingly quick car in the mid 80s and a considerable turbo lag that added to the overall drama. The feeling was unpredictable, energetic and addictive for the right type of driver.

Styling wise, the Escort RS Turbo instantly differentiated itself from its humble Escort origins with an outrageous body kit, distinctive alloy wheels, and a large rear spoiler which clearly established its sporting credentials. Its ties to 1980’s styling and the performance cult scene meant that a huge following was quickly established in the UK and throughout Europe, and the demand continues today especially for the scarce early Series 1 examples. As the love of a good old hot hatch is once again firmly re-established within the collecting community, original Escort RS Turbos remain highly sought after and are continually gaining value.

8. Ford RS200

One of the most distinct symbols of the exhilarating but very, very short period of Group B rallying was the Ford RS200. While other homologation specials grew from humble production cars Ford practically built the RS200 from a blank piece of paper purely for competition use, a machine built purely to win races on the rally stages, when motor sport stretched the limits to the absolute edge.

What Made the Ford RS200 a Group B Masterpiece:

• Designed specifically for Group B rallying
• Mid-engine layout with four-wheel drive
• Lightweight construction for maximum agility
• Turbocharged Cosworth performance
• Extremely rare and highly collectible today

The RS200 had a complex mid-engine setup, sophisticated 4-wheel drive system and lightweight composite construction that all contributed to its superb balance and traction. At its heart was a turbocharged Cosworth engine, which provided spectacular performance and thumping acceleration. Even as a road-legal machine the RS200 seemed more like a road race car than sports car, with an aggressive, direct handling feel which was difficult to match in any production car of the era.

Compact dimensions, extreme aerodynamics and aggressive looks, ensured that the RS200 had an equally aggressive road presence, unlike almost any other car on the road in the 1980s. Although Ford’s involvement in Group B rallying was short, the RS200 soon gained legend status, through its limited production numbers and high level of engineering, that links it to one of rallying’s greatest eras. So few were ever made and cars that remain are now worth a considerable amount. In the eyes of collectors and rally fans, the RS200 is one of the most adored cars of the Group B era.

9. Renault 5 GT Turbo

The Renault 5 GT Turbo demonstrated that lightweight engineering and clever tuning could create an exciting performance car without relying on massive horsepower figures. Renault built the GT Turbo to feel lively, agile, and accessible, giving younger enthusiasts an affordable hot hatchback packed with character and driving excitement.

Why the Renault 5 GT Turbo Became a Hot Hatch Favorite:

• Lightweight design with energetic performance
• Turbocharged engine in a compact chassis
• Sharp and playful front-wheel-drive handling
• Distinctive 1980s styling details
• Cult following among classic hot hatch enthusiasts

Power came from a turbocharged 1.4-litre engine producing approximately 115 horsepower. While that number may seem modest today, it felt genuinely quick in a car weighing just over 800 kilograms. The combination of low weight, rapid acceleration, and highly responsive handling made the GT Turbo one of the most entertaining front-wheel-drive performance cars of its era. Its lively personality and eager turbocharged power delivery gave the car an exciting and engaging character that enthusiasts quickly embraced.

The Renault 5 GT Turbo also stood out visually thanks to its sporty body kit, lowered suspension, bold graphics, and signature yellow fog lights that perfectly captured the styling trends of the 1980s. Although some rival hot hatchbacks receive more mainstream attention today, the GT Turbo continues to maintain a loyal fanbase among enthusiasts who appreciate its raw, lightweight, and highly energetic driving experience. For many fans of classic hot hatches, it remains one of the purest examples of affordable turbocharged fun from the decade.

10. Peugeot 309

The Peugeot 309 may have carried a French badge, but its development story included surprisingly strong British influences. Originally planned as a model for the Talbot brand, the project eventually evolved into a Peugeot before finally entering production. This unusual background helped give the 309 a distinct identity within Peugeot’s lineup during the 1980s.

Why the Peugeot 309 Earned Respect Among Enthusiasts:

• Developed from the Peugeot 205 platform
• Excellent steering and handling balance
• Practical size with sporty driving dynamics
• GTi version shared the famous 205 GTi engine
• Increasing recognition as an underrated classic

Built on an extended version of the highly regarded Peugeot 205 platform, the 309 offered more cabin and cargo space while still maintaining impressive agility and driving precision. Automotive reviewers consistently praised the car for its balanced chassis, responsive steering feel, and enjoyable road manners. The later GTi version became especially respected after receiving the same 1.9-litre engine found in the legendary 205 GTi, giving it strong performance alongside its practical design.

For many years, the Peugeot 309 lived somewhat in the shadow of its smaller and more famous sibling, the 205 GTi. However, many enthusiasts eventually came to believe that the 309 GTi was actually the more mature, stable, and usable performance car overall. As interest in classic hot hatchbacks continues to rise, collectors and enthusiasts have finally started giving the Peugeot 309 the appreciation it long deserved after decades of being overlooked.

11. Toyota MR2

The Toyota MR2 surprised the automotive industry when it arrived because very few people expected a Japanese manufacturer to produce an affordable mid-engined sports car for everyday drivers. Toyota successfully combined the exotic layout typically associated with high-end supercars with the reliability, practicality, and usability that made Japanese cars so appealing during the 1980s.

Why the Toyota MR2 Became a Japanese Sports Car Icon:

• Affordable mid-engine sports car layout
• Lightweight and highly agile chassis
• Reliable everyday usability
• Excellent balance on winding roads
• Helped shape Toyota’s sporty reputation

The MR2 featured a lightweight chassis paired with a responsive 1.6-litre engine, creating a driving experience that felt far more exciting and sophisticated than its price suggested. Its compact dimensions, balanced weight distribution, and sharp steering made the car especially enjoyable on twisty roads, where its agility and quick reactions truly stood out. Drivers appreciated how the MR2 delivered genuine sports car dynamics without the high ownership costs often associated with exotic performance vehicles.

Later versions introduced removable roof panels, adding open-air driving excitement and expanding the car’s appeal even further. The MR2’s success played a major role in strengthening Toyota’s reputation for producing engaging and enthusiast-focused sports cars during the 1980s and beyond. Today, the MR2 remains one of the most respected and beloved Japanese performance classics from the era, admired for its innovative design, playful handling, and accessible sports car character.

12. Subaru XT

The Subaru XT looked less like a traditional production car and more like a futuristic concept vehicle that somehow reached public roads unchanged. Its dramatic wedge-shaped styling, hidden design elements, and advanced technology made it one of the most distinctive and unconventional automobiles of the 1980s.

What Made the Subaru XT So Far Ahead of Its Time:

• Futuristic wedge-shaped aerodynamic design
• Hidden features like pop-up headlights and concealed wipers
• Advanced digital technology and controls
• Available on-demand all-wheel-drive system
• Increasing rarity and collector interest today

Aerodynamics played a central role in the XT’s development, helping it achieve one of the lowest drag coefficients among production cars sold in the United States during its launch period. Features such as pop-up headlights, flush body surfaces, concealed windshield wipers, and an extremely low front profile all contributed to its sleek and futuristic appearance. The result was a car that looked radically different from nearly everything else on the road at the time.

Inside, the XT continued its futuristic theme with an impressive range of advanced technology. Adjustable suspension systems, on-demand all-wheel drive, digital instrumentation, and computer-controlled functions gave the car a personality that felt years ahead of many competitors. Subaru aimed to combine innovation, efficiency, and sporty character into one package, creating a vehicle unlike anything else in its lineup. Because relatively few examples survive today, the Subaru XT has become an increasingly fascinating and collectible piece of 1980s automotive history admired by enthusiasts who appreciate unusual and forward-thinking design.