The search for speed demons started in the early 1960s with ‘streamliner’ vehicles that could glide through the air. However, manufacturers didn’t know how to keep them from lifting at high speed. Thankfully, Lotus Formula One engineers tested airplane wings and discovered they helped them move faster at sharp bends. This revelation marked the birth of winged automobiles and aerodynamics. While hundreds of car models have massive wings, these 15 are stunning classics with the most appealing looks.
De Tomaso Pantera (1971-’92)
The Pantera was a perfect combination of American muscle and Italian design, thanks to the legendary designer Tom Tjaarda. This exotic supercar had pop-up headlights for style, a low-slung profile for aerodynamics, and Ford V8s that emphasized its power. At that time, it was one of the ideal options for those who wanted a sports car they could drive daily.
Porsche 911 Carrera RS (1973-’74)
This iconic piece wasn’t just about good looks; it was a force to be reckoned with on the racetrack. The now-famous “ducktail” spoiler wasn’t just for aesthetics. Its excellent downforce quality gave drivers better handling, allowing them to turn sharp corners even at top speeds. They also loved how the Carrera had larger brakes, wider rear tires, and a flat-six engine that gave 210HP.
Lamborghini Countach (1974-’90)
By 1973, the Miura, which had already been around for seven years, was getting frequently outclassed by the newer models of their arch-rivals, Ferrari. So when the Countach finally came along, it was every teenager’s dream car. Despite being released in the ’70s, Lamborghini still used the model to create the special edition that was used to mark their 25th anniversary. Thanks to the designer, Marcello Gandini, who gave it a shape that could stand the test of time.
Dodge Viper ACR (2008)
Having beat the Porsche 918 Spyder at Laguna Seca, it’s safe to say that this 2008 model is rightly named after American Club Racing (ACR). The Viper is now the fifth fastest car according to the Nürburgring lap record list and also holds the most records for a production car. This monster packs an 8.4-liter V10 with a massive wing and carbon fiber body, providing the force needed to dominate the track.
Ford Sierra RS Cosworth (1986-’92)
Don’t let the boxy look of the Cosworth fool you into thinking it was just another family car. This powerful car with a racing pedigree was created for speed; however, Ford had to add a wide wing to keep it planted on the ground. Although it was a beast on the tarmac, it was popular among corporate workers who gave it the nickname “Cossie.”
BMW 3.0 CSL (1972-’74)
This lightweight champion was specially designed for racing in the European Touring Car Championship, seeing as the “L” in its name means leicht (light) in German. Nicknamed the “Batmobile” for its giant back wings, many people believed that they were made to grab attention, but it was fitted for a more important reason. They were required to generate enough pull to keep the car glued to the track.
Porsche 911 (993) GT2 (1993-’98)
Porsche was clear about its intentions to build a special machine that would meet racing regulations for the FIA GT2 class and Le Mans. Although they never released an official production number, the 911 is a rare classic due to the cap on road-legal models. In addition to its looks, the suspension, brakes, and bodywork were all extensively reworked to create a monster.
Subaru Impreza RB5 (1999)
The Japanese automobile company created the Impreza RB5 to celebrate their new driver, Richard Burns, after their former rider, Colin McRae, left them for Ford. In 2001, Burns proved them right years later after he bested McRae, who was a former World Rally Championship star. They built less than 450 units, so this vintage vehicle with an insane four-wheel-drive system is also a rare collector’s item.
Ferrari F40 (1987-’92)
The Ferrari F40 wasn’t another vehicle; this brutal, high-performance beast was created for Ferrari’s 40th anniversary. You can’t expect less from the final car overseen by Enzo Ferrari, the famous Italian race car driver and entrepreneur. It could cruise at 200mph due to a powerful twin-turbo V8 engine. Therefore, the wide rear wasn’t there for show; it was needed to tame this stallion and keep things stable.
Toyota Supra (1993-’96)
When Autocar pitted the Supra against others of its kind, including the BMW M3 and Porsche 911 Carrera, it emerged as the fastest point-to-point car. Considering its twin-turbocharged engine that produced 320HP, you could say this fourth-generation model is one of the greatest Japanese sports cars ever. In 2001, it appeared in a popular film franchise, “Fast and Furious,” due to its power and sleek look.
Plymouth Superbird (1970)
You could tell that the Superbird’s outrageous design came from the fierce competition between manufacturers looking for the fastest machine. Its wing was to keep the tires planted on the ground while its extended nose cone increased airflow over the car and reduced drag. After winning several races in the 1970 season, its run ended when aerodynamic aids like its wing were banned in 1971.
Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II (1990-’93)
One of the most noticeable features of the Evo II was its aggressive body kit. It had a large rear wing, wider fenders, and a more prominent front splitter. Surprisingly, it was designed by a professor at the University of Stuttgart and developed to compete in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM). It was a formidable competitor because of the Cosworth-developed 16-valve inline-four engine under its hood.
Ford Escort Cosworth (1992-’96)
Somehow, Ford managed to blur the line between family cars and rally machines. Despite the prominent wing of the Escort Cosworth, it had the same appearance as an average everyday vehicle. Nevertheless, it still dominated both grassroots club rallies and World Rally Championships.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI (1999-2001)
From 1999 to 2001, Mitsubishi produced a legendary sports sedan that became one of the best of its era. It sold well due to the company’s dominance in the World Rally Championship and because many people could afford it. Unfortunately, the Lancer’s downside was that it needed servicing every 4,500 miles, especially if driven at a stretch.
Ford Sierra XR4i (1983-’85)
Since Ford had the XR2 and XR3i as its dedicated speedsters, it was only ideal to make the XR4i a grand tourer. Unlike others on this list, this Sierra had two prominent wings. As expected, the advertising campaign for this three-door hatchback primarily focused on speed, performance, and aerodynamics.
