The term “classic car” is one often used when a vehicle has a certain look; beautiful curves and great proportions or stunning, classic styling can all become a factor. However the real gems are when something completely different emerges; the type of car that stops people in their tracks and gets them to ask “what on earth is that?” rather than “now isn’t she a beaut?”.

Cars have always relied on people with imagination in the automotive world to shape their design and functionality, from designers who focused on practicality to stylists who created vehicles which defied accepted fashion norms. This has led to a range of cars that may not have always been appreciated in their prime but later became very popular because of their character.

It is not necessarily conventional beauty which makes these cars famous, but their character. Unique proportions, ingenious engineering or designs which dared to be different has resulted in classic cars that have proved that appeal can take many forms.

1. 1948 Citroën 2CV

By 1948, the Citron 2CV came to perfectly embody the unorthodox approach to cars which was typical of Citron. Instead of conforming to the expectations of the motoring industry, they pursued practical transportation alternatives, and where other Citrons came to be known for futurist style, the 2CV came to be known for it’s simplicity. It was design that was inherently unorthodox.

Designed for Practical Purpose:

• Unconventional Citroën engineering philosophy
• Focus on everyday transportation
• Simplicity over styling trends
• Unique automotive design approach
• Distinctive identity from launch

The 2CV was not originally created to be a flashy, sophisticated luxury vehicle; on the contrary, it was built to provide rural populations with inexpensive and durable transport. As an outcome of this design intention, functionality was consistently put before aesthetics at every stage of development. As a result, the design ensured that occupants would ride over the roughest roads and would travel in comfort. 

All its engineering was dedicated to its fundamental and practical purpose. In time, the eccentric attributes it was given became part of its appeal: its forgiving ride and minimalist construction inspired awe among car lovers globally. Its instantly recognizable form helped it develop a distinct and iconic character. Instead of adhering to style trends, the 2CV was to develop an image all its own, and is now one of Citron’s most loved models.

2. 1959 Chevrolet El Camino

Perhaps no vehicle is more strange for its era than the 1959 Chevrolet El Camino. This is because it was basically two different types of vehicles, the passenger car, and the pickup truck. Automotive enthusiasts were either thrilled or horrified by the very concept, though I suspect the first few years attracted attention mostly on account of the styling.

A Unique Car-Truck Combination:

• Passenger car and pickup blend
• Unconventional vehicle category concept
• Distinctive late-1950s styling approach
• Practicality combined with elegance
• Memorable automotive design experiment

The first generation El Camino was a great representation of the spirit of optimism and inventiveness of the late 1950s. Huge tail fins, copious amounts of chrome, and stylish, sloping body lines made it look spectacular. The truck bed blended right into the body styling, making the overall shape both a practical vehicle and also very fashionable. It had a look that was both larger than life and impossible to ignore. 

The styling might not be to everyone’s taste, but it is a wonderful automobile. It captured a time of innovation where designers were given free reign to invent totally new vehicles. Its outrageous design truly was a snapshot of the aspirations and styles of the era.

3. 1959 Daimler SP250

The Daimler SP250 arrived in 1959 at a time when the British sportscar scene was going great guns all around the world. Daimler were not slow to see the potential in the sportscar and produced a model which was intended to turn a few heads and produce thrills on the road, utilizing a quick, punchy, V8 motor producing power at a level well ahead of other models at the time, the SP250 being particularly intended to satisfy the wants of customers in the States.

Bold British Sports Car Vision:

• Designed for performance enthusiasts
• Powered by a lively V8
• Targeted American market buyers
• Unique approach to sports cars
• Ambitious postwar automotive project

The car, with an impressive mechanical layout for its day was let down by its looks. The design, with its rear fins and slightly eccentric proportions did not look much like the other sports cars being produced at the time; it was a very distinct looking motor car but one which was not to everyone’s taste. The car was also blighted by its handling on early chassis configurations, and these factors ensured that it did not take the motoring world by storm.

It was not a particularly high sales success but the SP250 remains an intriguing chapter in Britain’s motoring history, the unusual design and engineering concepts ensuring that it has an image all of its own; an image which those who admire individuality now look upon with affection. It proves there are still manufacturers willing to take the odd bit of design risk.

4. 1961 Amphicar

The 1961 Amphicar was built for an incredibly difficult purpose: to serve on land and in the water simultaneously. Building an amphibious vehicle required engineers and designers to engineer it like no car before. In addition to its intended purpose, it demanded that its engineers design it as uniquely as possible; in many ways this looked like styling that would make most ordinary cars seem very mundane. All of its features made themselves apparent in its shape, and the shape was that of a vehicle that would function as a water car.

Built for Land and Water:

• Dual-purpose amphibious vehicle design
• Unique engineering and functionality
• Designed for road travel
• Capable of water navigation
• Unconventional automotive appearance

In relation to the shape, it looks very much like a small boat rather than a traditional passenger car. In order to make it work on water, its body has to be raised, hence creating a boat-like shape. It creates a very noticeable image which is unlike anything that can be found on the street. Although this design looks odd on land, it is actually functional and that is what matters.

With an engine that is based on the original Triumph automobile engine it can run on roads until it has to get into the water. You don’t have to change vehicles to go on land and get on to water. This was very revolutionary at the time and it is the first mass produced civilian amphibious car which we still have today and have to recognize as a piece of unique engineering.

5. 1965 AMC Rambler Marlin

This AMC Rambler Marlin was developed for the individual that desired sport-coupe styling but did not wish to compromise daily utility. The strategy for AMC to market a vehicle that offered luxury in the personal vehicle that was equally suitable for the family positioned the Marlin apart from most vehicles on the market. The Marlin provided a unique package of luxury, styling, and space.

A Blend of Style and Practicality:

• Sporty design with practicality
• Personal luxury coupe concept
• Spacious family-friendly interior
• Unique market positioning strategy
• Distinctive automotive identity

However, the 1965-67 Marlin is known by one thing, its dramatic fast back roofline. Its elongated rear section gave it an unmistakably recognizable silhouette on the street, and differentiated itself from many others from its era. Some people found its dimensions somewhat strange or odd, whereas other people loved that AMC tried something new. 

The Marlin itself was one of Dick Teague’s many design triumphs and the success of its looks prove AMC’s unique, and often quirky, design tendencies. Though it was never a huge success, the Marlin enjoyed popularity with car fanatics and that distinctive appearance is its greatest known attribute; to this day it is lauded for being different.

6. 1965 Lancia Fulvia Sport Zagato

The 1965 Lancia Fulvia Sport Zagato marked a dramatic departure from the conventional Fulvia model. The standard Fulvia was known for its beauty but the Zagato was styling designed to turn heads. It was designed as to oppose common ideals of Italian design for automobiles and was characterized by its strong styling cues. This allowed it to carve a distinct niche in the sports car arena.

Distinctive Italian Design Philosophy:

• Unconventional Italian sports car styling
• Bold and experimental appearance
• Unique design house influence
• Aerodynamic body shape focus
• Strong visual individuality appeal

While at first the Fulvia Sport Zagato looks quirky with its flat, square front and weird proportions. This is actually very deceiving, the car has been very skillfully styled. The sloping tail helps with its aerodynamic nature and gives it a balanced feel. Every curve reflects a particular imagination that seems to have run free when it comes to the Zagato look and it’s not hard to see why many over the years have warmed to it.

7. 1966 Lotus Europa

1966LotusEuropa embodies founder Colin Chapman’s design ethos of light weight and superior handling. Forget comfort or everyday practicality, the goal with the Europa was driver enjoyment. It brought mid-engine performance to a much wider audience at an age where most were exclusive to top-line exotic sports cars, hence the Lotus Europa became simultaneously revolutionary and affordable. Its design was primarily dictated by performance concerns.

Engineering-Driven Sports Car Design:

• Lightweight construction philosophy applied
• Mid-engine layout for performance
• Focus on exceptional handling
• Innovative sports car concept
• Function prioritized over luxury

The appearance of the Europa, to a large extent, was derived from a functional engineering necessity. Low stance and unusual rear deck enabled the use of the mid mounted engine. All this was in opposition to most sports cars of that era, and the shape is peculiar, if nothing else. The Europa was a machine designed for purpose; its shape entirely reflecting its function. Drivers would soon realize that on the road it provided a much more than unusual form with ability that surpassed even its most promising appearance, giving its occupants one of the finest balance, nimbleness and response available with the lighter chassis encouraging and facilitating truly engaging driving.

8. 1969 Porsche 914

It was a joint effort between Volkswagen and Porsche that created the 1969 914. Taking advantage of the combined talents and experience that each company possessed they created a sports car none of them could have produced alone. It featured a mid-engine configuration for optimal handling balance and driving pleasure. The exotic idea of an automobile that came from neither brand alone made it rather a unique subject to consider. Even in concept it was certainly revolutionary.

A Unique Joint Venture:

• Porsche and Volkswagen collaboration
• Mid-engine sports car design
• Distinctive automotive engineering approach
• Different from previous models
• Innovative performance-focused concept

Thestyling of the 914 was immediately controversial, with its sharp body lines, strange proportions, and a targa-like roof panel making it stand out from typical cars. Most long-time Porsche fans found the looks hard to stomach due to the significant departure from Porsche’s traditional design language, while Volkswagen enthusiasts simply felt it was a wholly different vehicle to anything produced by VW. In many ways, the unique design became one of the model’s greatest selling points.

However, controversy over the design was overlooked due to the handling characteristics of the 914. The mid-engine design offered perfect balance and road holding, and the serious performance-minded drivers immediately recognized what was lurking beneath the unconventional bodywork. The six cylinder versions offered a tremendous amount of fun behind the wheel, and the handling of the 914 has gained well-deserved admiration over the years.

9. 1970 Bond Bug

The 1970 Bond Bug really seemed to exemplify the frivolous and experimental mood of the decade. Available in bold colors with a wedge-shaped and futuristic body shape, it seemed to bear little resemblance to anything else on the road. With its unconventional three-wheel set-up it quickly earned itself a unique identity and a definite “wow-factor”. The Bond Bug seemed more like a futuristic spaceship than a regular car. This really contributed to its uniqueness and ability to define the look of the 1970s.

Bold and Playful Styling:

• Futuristic wedge-shaped body design
• Distinctive three-wheeled configuration
• Bright and eye-catching appearance
• Unique automotive personality appeal
• Memorable 1970s design icon

In an effort to keep production costs down, the Bond Bug used fiberglass. It also made for the peculiar, contemporary design. Because of its small size, it was ideal for zipping through crowded city streets. The odd styling was another step toward distinguishing the vehicle and the unusual proportions made for another unique feature. Altogether, the Bond Bug was a unique ride.

While the Bond Bug never achieved the status of a mainstream commercial vehicle, it has gained quite a cult following. As the vehicle has aged, it has only become more appealing due to its relative rarity. Both owners and collectors alike admire its individuality, bright personality, and the bold ingenuity that it represents from the 1970s and one of the most distinctive designs from that era.

10. 1970 Ford Pinto

The 1970 Ford Pinto was introduced during a period of significant change for the automotive industry. Rising economic pressures and shifting consumer preferences encouraged manufacturers to rethink traditional vehicle designs. Ford responded by developing a compact car aimed at competing with increasingly popular imported models. The Pinto was designed to provide affordable and practical transportation. Its introduction reflected the industry’s efforts to adapt to new market demands.

Designed for Changing Times:

• Compact car market focus
• Response to consumer demand
• Affordable transportation solution offered
• Competition with imported models
• Adaptation to industry changes

The Pinto’s styling emphasized simplicity and practicality rather than visual extravagance. Unlike many larger American cars of the era, it avoided excessive decoration and focused on efficiency. Its compact dimensions made it more suitable for buyers seeking economical transportation. The design reflected changing priorities within the automotive market. Functionality became more important than size and ornamentation.

Over time, public perception of the Pinto became heavily influenced by safety-related controversies. These issues often overshadowed other aspects of the vehicle’s development and purpose. However, the model also represented an important transition in American automotive design. It highlighted the industry’s move toward smaller and more efficient vehicles. Today, the Pinto remains a notable example of a car shaped by a period of major change.

11. 1975 Triumph TR7

The 1975 Triumph TR7 was introduced during a time when fuel efficiency concerns and new regulations were changing the sports-car market. Triumph developed the model with a strong focus on American buyers, who represented an important customer base. The car reflected a modern approach that balanced driving enjoyment with practicality. Its design and engineering were intended to meet evolving market expectations. This made the TR7 significantly different from many earlier British sports cars.

A Modern Sports Car Direction:

• Developed for American buyers
• Focus on practicality and performance
• Response to changing regulations
• Modern sports car philosophy
• Adaptation to market demands

The TR7’s wedge-shaped profile immediately attracted attention and sparked strong opinions. Sharp angles and futuristic lines created a dramatic contrast with the rounded styling of previous British sports cars. Many enthusiasts either admired or disliked the design from the moment it appeared. The bold appearance helped distinguish the model from its competitors. Its styling became one of its most talked-about characteristics.

Over time, attitudes toward the TR7’s design began to change. What once seemed controversial gradually came to be viewed as distinctive and forward-thinking. Modern enthusiasts often appreciate the confidence behind its unconventional styling choices. The vehicle now stands as an example of a manufacturer willing to embrace new ideas. Its unique appearance continues to contribute to its lasting appeal among collectors and enthusiasts.

12. 1978 Saab 900

The 1978 Saab 900 became a popular choice for drivers seeking something different from mainstream luxury and performance vehicles. Saab combined innovative engineering, advanced safety features, and a distinctive character into a single package. The car offered a unique alternative to more conventional competitors of the era. Its individuality helped it stand out in a crowded market. This approach earned the model a loyal and enthusiastic following.

Engineering with Individuality:

• Unique alternative to mainstream
• Strong focus on safety
• Innovative engineering solutions applied
• Distinctive automotive character developed
• Loyal enthusiast following created

The Saab 900’s design was shaped by functional requirements rather than changing fashion trends. Its steep windshield, upright cabin, and distinctive front-end styling created an instantly recognizable appearance. Every element of the vehicle reflected Saab’s practical engineering philosophy. The design prioritized usability, visibility, and efficiency. As a result, the car developed a strong visual identity.

Whether considered unusual or attractive, the Saab 900 remains one of the most distinctive automobiles ever produced. Its willingness to challenge conventional design standards helped separate it from competing models. Enthusiasts appreciated the car’s originality and engineering-focused approach. Over time, its reputation continued to grow among collectors and fans. Today, the Saab 900 is celebrated as an enduring symbol of automotive individuality.