Explore the captivating blend of automotive design and the animal kingdom in this collection of 15 cars. Each vehicle, named after creatures like the swift Mustang and the cunning Jaguar, mirrors the unique traits of its namesake in elegance, agility, and power.
Nissan Leopard
Nissan’s choice to label its luxury coupe “Leopard” in the 1980s paid homage to the creature’s grace, might, and swiftness. The company aspired to project an image of refinement and unmatched proficiency by linking the make to the leopard, appealing to consumers seeking acceleration and luxurious ride quality.
Dodge Ram
Adopting “Ram” as its moniker in 1981, Dodge aimed to encapsulate the ruggedness and strength of the ram. Renowned in the automotive industry for its durability and leadership, the Ram truck series is engineered to endure demanding tasks and challenging terrains.
Jaguar E-Type
Like the jungle cat, the Jaguar E-Type epitomizes elegance and skill. Blending refined form with unparalleled velocity, it shines as a symbol of luxury. Lauded by Enzo Ferrari as “the most beautiful car ever made” upon its 1961 Geneva debut, its design and functionality have left a lasting legacy in automobile history.
Volkswagen Beetle
Cherished worldwide, Volkswagen’s Beetle is iconic for its unique, rounded shape that echoes the form of the bug that serves as its moniker. The Beetle’s friendly and enduring nature is reflected in the configuration and the driving experience, making it a beloved classic.
Mitsubishi Colt
Mitsubishi drew inspiration from the spirited and energetic nature of young male horses when naming the Colt. Introduced in the 1960s, the Colt was designed to appeal to a dynamic demographic. Offering reliability, vibrant execution, and an engaging driving experience, it reflects the animal’s youthful vigor.
Bill Thomas Cheetah
Though lesser known, Bill Thomas’ Cheetah races with the ferocity of the fastest land animal. Its striking profile and incredible speed make the Cheetah a rare, exotic breed in the market, created to compete with legends such as the Cobra.
Chevrolet Impala
Inspired by the swift African antelope, Chevrolet’s Impala stands for agility and grace. Its smooth ride and chic outline pay homage to the antelope’s elegant speed, symbolizing freedom and efficiency on the road. Drivers appreciate the seamless fusion of potency and style.
Lamborghini Murciélago
The Lamborghini Murciélago, named after a legendary bull known for its exceptional bravery in an 1879 Spanish bullfight, symbolizes both courage and resilience. Maintaining the brand’s legacy through a V12 engine and bold styling, the car channels the fierceness of its muse.
Volkswagen Rabbit
The Volkswagen Rabbit, which jumped onto the scene in 1975, is about practicality and fun. Its playful name perfectly suits this compact car, which is known for its skill and efficient performance. Especially beloved for city driving and spirited rides, it garners admiration from drivers seeking practicality and excitement.
Hillman Husky
Introduced in the 1950s, the petite estate car named “Husky” by Hillman drew its inspiration from the remarkable endurance and capability of the Siberian Husky in harsh conditions. The vehicle, marketed as ideal for families and businesses needing a dependable workhorse, symbolized reliability and proficiency.
Mercury Cougar
Mercury Cougar exudes sophistication and vigor, mirroring the mountain lion’s agility and strength. With its elegant structure and potent engines, this muscle car distinguishes itself for drivers who value luxury as much as performance. The Cougar effortlessly combines these elements, making a bold statement in its category.
Buick Wildcat
Debuted during the 1960s, the Buick Wildcat seamlessly married velocity with opulence, swiftly earning accolades for its vigorous motor and sophisticated profile. Its moniker, suggesting the ferocity and skill of feral felines, appealed to fans of both dependability and aesthetics. Equipped with the Super Turbine automatic gearbox, it redefined expectations for vehicular excellence and ease.
Ford Mustang
Galloping onto the scene with untamed energy, Ford’s Mustang finds influence in the wild horses of the American West and the P-51 Mustang fighter plane. Its name signifies powerful drive, reflecting the adventurous spirit motorists love and epitomizing freedom with an exceptional presence on the road.
De Tomaso Pantera
Italian classiness and capability merge in the De Tomaso Pantera, a designation derived from the graceful yet formidable big cat. This exotic automobile radiates an aura of grandeur and control on the road. Its layout captures the essence of a predator, blending sophistication with the inherent grit of its namesake.
Hyundai Pony
With the launch of the Pony in 1975, Hyundai pioneered its entry into the auto industry. It aimed to highlight the model’s compact size, efficiency, and the spirit of innovation and accessibility. As South Korea’s first mass-produced car, the Pony became a symbol of economic growth and technological advancement.
