If you’re a classic gearhead, then settle in. We’ve searched high and low, weeding through tons of ‘famous’ cars just to find those that are truly worthy of fame.
There was some debate, a few tears, and even a door or 2 slammed in frustration (hey, people need to express themselves) but we managed to do it. So, without further ado, let’s look at the list and see if you agree with our picks.
1. Tesla. Full stop.
Having made their name as the century’s first ever truly luxury electric car brand, we couldn’t create a list of famous cars without mentioning Tesla. The innovative automaker has gathered quite the cult-like following, in spite of the hefty price tag and inaccessibility in many countries and cities that haven’t jumped on the electric car bandwagon.
Their popularity is generally attributed to their fuel economy, as well as the fact that Tesla models are designed and engineered right from the start to be electric, with none of the compromising you tend to find in other car companies who add EV (electric vehicle) elements into a package that was never intended to host this type of functionality.
2. The 1981 DeLorean DMC-12.
While Tesla is famous for leading cars into the future, we simply can’t resist looking to the past. To be precise, 30 years back into the past, with the 1981 DeLorean DMC-12. AKA ‘the DeLorean’. This sports car was manufactured by the DeLorean Motor Company from 1981-1983, for the American market.
So, what makes the DeLorean famous? Well, its features include gull-wing doors, an innovative fiberglass body structure with a steel backbone chassis, and external brushed stainless-steel body panels. And then Marty McFly brought the DeLorean fame forever by using it as a time-travelling machine in the Back to the Future franchise from 1985.
Want 1? The good news is that while production stopped in 1983, an original DeLorean could be bought for $54,000 at DeLorean.com. Word around the garage is that DMC in Texas announced in 2016 that they would be manufacturing 300-325 replicas, retailing for an estimated $100,000 each.
3. 1948 Ford Studebaker Commander Regal.
The 1948 Ford Studebaker Commander Regal is often overlooked when it comes to famous cars, but this pink beauty, immortalised by the Pink Ladies who ruled Rydell High School, had a big role in cementing the strength and femininity of the various characters.
Yes, we love the 1949 Ford Deluxe that John Travolta made famous with his driving skills and dulcet tones… But let’s give a shout to the sassiest car that rocked the road in the classic hit Grease.
Sure, it only has a cameo role, but it’s the first car to appear in the film. Designed and built by Eddie Paul (legendary movie car maker), the Pink Ladies made a strong statement on their first day of senior high. It’s undeniable pink gloss spoke to its femininity, while its thoroughly clapped out, bulky exterior spoke to its power and strength. With such a car ferrying them about, it was clear to all that these women were no push over.
4. Ford’s Crown Victoria.
Why? After all, the Crown Vic ain’t exactly the prettiest or fastest car around. However, it makes the list because it’s the most commonly-used car in movies and television, with 2,358 appearances (and counting). The long-lived, full-sized sedan has appeared in 361 more movies or television programs than its next closest competitor (Ford Mustang).
Typically, you’ll find the Crown Vic gracing both the big and small screen in some form of law enforcement, taxi cab, or rental car capacity. This is most likely because these fleet regulars are easy to acquire, easy to modify, and easy to recognise.
5. The Queen’s Daimler Majestic.
No list of famous cars is complete without a nod towards the Queen of England’s wheels. The Queen’s State fleet boasts 3 Rolls-Royces, 3 Daimlers, and 2 Bentleys. Among these lurks a motor worthy of fame: the Daimler Majestic 4.0 LWB (Long Wheelbase Saloon).
The Daimler Majestic was built to the Queen’s specifications in order to fulfil a royal request for a luxurious, yet understated, car for royal duties… And Jaguar pulled out all the stops. Starting with a handbag holding tray built into the armrest between the 2 front seats for easy access, a full-size spare wheel, touring suspension, and luxuriously ruched, soft grain trim, they also made adjustments according to what wasn’t required. This included the absence of a rear cigar lighter, ashtrays, and blinds. The cherry on top was 2,500 miles’ worth of testing and debugging to ensure Her Majesty’s ride ‘never failed to proceed’.
The Daimler Majestic reportedly went up for auction for £55,000 in the middle of 2017.
As a car fanatic, you dream of owning something as special, unique, and beloved as these famous models… But you also treasure what you currently drive. Part of looking after your 4-wheeled baby is investing in car insurance so that you can repair or replace any issues if something were to go wrong, like theft, vandalism, or an accident.
If you already have cover and want to see if you’re still getting the best deal or are looking for cover for the first time, then it pays to shop around. Take a few minutes to compare quotes from top insurers, like King Price. The royal insurer made its mark by offering comprehensive car insurance at an affordable price, which still decreases every month as the value of your car depreciates. You can also choose your own excess to suit you, although it’s worth keeping in mind that while a higher excess reduces your premium, you’ll still need to pay that excess if you claim and need to be in a position to afford this amount.
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