33 Underrated Cars Of The 1960s That Deserve More Recognition
The 1960s gave the world some of the most celebrated cars in history, but not every model got the love it deserved.
While muscle car giants and refined European exotics stole the spotlight, others quietly impressed those lucky enough to drive them.
A neighbor once had an old Mercury Comet that looked unassuming, but when he fired it up, the rumble told a different story.
Some cars were ahead of their time, others simply overshadowed by flashier competition, but all had something special under the hood or in their design.
1. AMC Rambler Marlin
I remember the first time I saw an AMC Rambler Marlin – its fastback design was like nothing I’d ever seen before.
I was at a car show with my dad, and he told me how this car was AMC’s answer to the sporty coupes of the era.
The Marlin’s unique styling set it apart, and it was packed with features like reclining seats and a roomy interior.
Interestingly, it was one of the first cars to target the emerging “personal car” market. Who knew such a bold design would be so overlooked?
2. Studebaker Avanti
The Studebaker Avanti was an engineering marvel. Designed with a fiberglass body and powered by a potent V8 engine, it boasted impressive performance capabilities.
Its futuristic design, with a low-slung profile and smooth lines, made it a standout. The interior was equally ahead of its time, featuring an aviation-inspired dashboard.
Like a precision instrument, the Avanti was built for speed, yet it never garnered the fame it deserved, making it an unsung hero of its era.
3. Chevrolet Corvair Monza
Back in the day, the Chevrolet Corvair Monza was quite the conversation starter. It was the only American-built car with a rear-mounted, air-cooled engine, which sparked debates about safety and innovation.
Despite its controversies, the Corvair Monza offered a driving experience like no other. Its agile handling and compact size made it a joy to drive.
With all its innovation, one can’t help but wonder: was it ahead of its time or just misunderstood?
4. Mercury Comet Cyclone
When you think of muscle cars, the Mercury Comet Cyclone might not be the first to come to mind. Yet, it shared the same era and spirit as the Mustang, offering robust performance and an amazing design.
Though overshadowed by its more famous peers, the Comet Cyclone had features like a powerful V8 engine and sporty trim. Its understated elegance and performance credentials make it a hidden gem.
In a world of Mustangs, the Comet Cyclone stands as a testament to the diversity of 1960s muscle cars.
5. Dodge Dart GT
I stumbled upon an old photo of my uncle with his Dodge Dart GT, and it brought back tales of road trips and adventures. The Dart GT was known for its reliability and sporty demeanor.
Its compact size and punchy engine made it a favorite among those who wanted spirited driving on a budget.
One fascinating tidbit: the Dart GT was one of the first cars to offer an optional vinyl roof, adding a touch of flair to its personality.
6. Plymouth Valiant Signet
The Plymouth Valiant Signet was more than just a compact car; it was a statement of elegance. With its refined chrome accents and refined lines, it offered a taste of luxury without the hefty price tag.
Under the hood, it packed a surprisingly potent engine for its class, delivering both efficiency and power.
Think of it as the gentleman of small cars, offering sophistication and performance in a neatly wrapped package, much like a finely tailored suit.
7. Buick Skylark GS 400
The legend of the Buick Skylark GS 400 is one filled with power and prowess. Known for its mighty V8 engine, it was a force on the street, loved by those who craved speed.
Yet, it lived in the shadows of more renowned muscle cars, despite its impressive performance and design.
With such a powerful heart, one must wonder if the Skylark GS 400 was the unsung hero among its peers, deserving more recognition than it received.
8. Oldsmobile Jetstar I
While many gravitated towards the Cadillac, the Oldsmobile Jetstar I was quietly making its mark. With its luxurious interior and powerful engine, it offered a Cadillac experience without the Cadillac price.
Its smooth ride and elegant design caught the attention of those with an eye for understated luxury.
Though it never achieved the fame of its rivals, the Jetstar I remains a testament to Oldsmobile’s commitment to quality and style.
9. Ford Fairlane 500
I vividly recall my first drive in a Ford Fairlane 500. The wide, open road and the powerful roar of its engine made for an unforgettable experience.
It was built for comfort and performance, making it a popular choice for families and gearheads alike.
Interestingly, the Fairlane 500 was one of the first to offer a “Sports Coupe” version. Isn’t it fascinating how it managed to blend practicality with flair?
10. Pontiac Tempest Le Mans
The Pontiac Tempest Le Mans was a masterclass in engineering and design. It boasted a unibody construction and a clever transaxle setup, offering both innovation and style.
Its sporty lines and powerful engine made it a favorite among enthusiasts who craved performance without compromise.
Like a well-tuned instrument, the Tempest Le Mans delivered precision and power, yet it remains an often-overlooked gem in Pontiac’s storied lineup.
11. Chrysler 300F
The Chrysler 300F has a legacy that speaks of luxury and power. Known for its powerful engine and plush interiors, it was the epitome of a grand touring car.
Despite its prowess, it often played second fiddle to other luxury brands of the time.
With such an impressive pedigree, one might question why the 300F didn’t capture the spotlight it deserved. Was it simply overshadowed by its contemporaries?
12. Dodge Polara 500
In the realm of full-sized sedans, the Dodge Polara 500 stood its ground against the likes of the Ford Galaxie. With its powerful V8 engine and distinctive styling, it was a contender in the muscle car arena.
Its spacious interior and smooth ride made it a favorite for long drives.
Though not as celebrated as some of its peers, the Polara 500 remains a symbol of Dodge’s bold approach to design and performance.
13. Renault R8 Gordini
I’ll never forget the thrill of driving a Renault R8 Gordini through winding roads. Its nimble handling and spirited engine made every twist and turn a joy.
This little powerhouse was more than just a car; it was a rally legend, with a history of victories in motorsport.
Interestingly, it was one of the first mass-produced cars to feature disc brakes all around. Who knew such a small package could pack such a punch?
14. Saab 96
The Saab 96 was a unique blend of style and substance. Its teardrop shape and robust construction made it a favorite in snowy climates.
Powered by a two-stroke engine, the Saab 96 was known for its reliability and quirky charm. It handled like a dream on icy roads, earning it a cult following.
Think of it as the snowshoe of cars, providing both style and surefootedness in challenging conditions. Its legacy is one of innovation and resilience.
15. Simca 1000
Whenever I see a Simca 1000, I’m reminded of its reputation as an urban warrior. This compact car was perfect for navigating busy city streets and tight parking spots.
Despite its modest size, it offered a surprisingly spacious interior, making it a practical choice for city dwellers.
With its quirky charm and functional design, could the Simca 1000 be considered a pioneer of the urban mobility trend?
16. NSU Prinz
It never had the flash of Italian rivals or the reach of VW, but NSU was ambitious. The Prinz used an air-cooled twin-cylinder engine and eventually evolved into the Wankel-powered Spider.
Compared to the Fiat 600, the Prinz felt more purposeful and over-engineered.
It was Germany’s underdog economy car, and while it didn’t win in sales, it paved the way for NSU’s experimental future—one that would influence Audi decades later.
17. Lancia Fulvia Coupe
The day I first laid eyes on a Lancia Fulvia Coupe, I was smitten. Its elegant lines and Italian craftsmanship were a sight to behold.
Underneath its beautiful exterior was a capable machine, known for its rallying success and agile handling.
One interesting fact: the Fulvia’s engine was tilted at an angle to improve aerodynamics, reflecting the clever design choices that set it apart.
18. Fiat 2300S Coupe
The Fiat 2300S Coupe was a masterclass in Italian elegance. Its graceful design and luxurious interior made it a standout choice for those seeking sophistication.
Equipped with a powerful six-cylinder engine, it offered both performance and style. The interior featured plush seating and exquisite detailing.
Like a finely crafted piece of art, the 2300S Coupe balanced beauty with functionality, a testament to Fiat’s prowess in automotive design.
19. Toyota Sports 800
The legacy of the Toyota Sports 800 is one wrapped in innovation and charm. As Toyota’s first production sports car, it paved the way for future models with its lightweight design and efficient engine.
Its compact size and unique styling make it a delight for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
With such a pioneering spirit, one wonders if the Sports 800 was the unsung hero of Toyota’s impressive lineup. Could it have been more than just a stepping stone?
20. Datsun Bluebird 410
Before the 510, there was the 410. Compared to the Toyota Corona of the same era, the Bluebird offered more modern styling and similar mechanical simplicity.
It helped establish Nissan’s export credibility with Americans in search of small, reliable sedans.
The 410 didn’t win races—but it didn’t need to. It won buyers. And in doing so, it laid the path for a generation of compact imports.
21. Mazda Carol
I recall the first time I encountered a Mazda Carol – its charming design immediately caught my attention. As a kei car, it was perfect for Japan’s bustling urban environment.
The Carol’s efficient engine and compact size made it economical and easy to maneuver through tight spaces.
One fascinating fact is that it was among the first kei cars to feature a four-stroke engine. Isn’t it amazing how such a tiny car packed so much innovation?
22. Peugeot 404 Coupé
Designed by Pininfarina, the 404 Coupé was more than just a French family car in a tuxedo. It had Bosch mechanical injection, a rigid chassis, and elegant proportions.
Compared to the Citroën DS, it was conventional—but far from boring. Understated, competent, and quietly beautiful, it offered European charm without drama.
Like a French watch with a Swiss movement, it worked better than it was credited for.
23. BMW 700
The company was nearly bankrupt when it came out. It had a rear-mounted motorcycle engine and a funky coupe shape. But it sold. And it saved BMW.
The 700 had solid handling and became a surprising motorsports success in its class. Yet outside of BMW diehards, it’s largely forgotten. How do you overlook the car that literally kept the brand alive?
24. Hillman Imp
Compared to the Mini, the Hillman Imp was more advanced—aluminum engine, rear-mounted design, independent suspension.
Yet it didn’t capture the same magic. It was plagued by early reliability issues and a rough launch. But over time, tuners and racers realized its potential.
The Imp was clever and compact but always fighting from behind. If not for its rocky start, would we be talking about it in the same breath as the Mini?
25. Triumph Vitesse
I drove a Vitesse once in the UK, top down, and couldn’t believe how eager it was. It took the Herald’s bones and added a straight-six. It wasn’t refined, but it had character—and a surprisingly composed ride.
It lived in the shadows of the Spitfire and TR series. But it offered rear seats, a folding roof, and real punch. A sports car with a practical streak that never got its moment.
26. Sunbeam Rapier Series V
Compared to the Ford Cortina GT or Triumph 2000, the Rapier Series V offered similar performance with more flair. Rootes Group gave it dual carbs, rally credentials, and a distinct hardtop look.
It wasn’t a volume car, but it earned loyalty through motorsport success and sharp styling. The Rapier lived in the middle of many things—sport and comfort, speed and subtlety. That may be why it’s so often overlooked.
27. Ford Taunus 17M
In Germany, it was a staple of the midrange market, offering more size than a Beetle but less flash than a Mercedes.
The 17M introduced smooth styling, modern suspension, and comfort that Ford rarely gets credit for.
It was solid, practical, and everywhere—but too common to collect and too well-built to fuss over. How do you celebrate a car that simply did its job so well that no one noticed?
28. Opel Rekord C Coupe
In the world of European coupes, the Opel Rekord C Coupe was a worthy counterpart to the Ford Capri. With its amazing design and powerful engine options, it was a stylish choice for those seeking performance.
The Rekord C Coupe offered a comfortable ride and ample interior space, making it practical for everyday use.
Though it never reached the iconic status of some rivals, the Rekord C Coupe remains a testament to Opel’s dedication to innovation and style during a vibrant era for European automobiles.
29. Iso Rivolta IR 300
The Iso Rivolta IR 300 is a car that commands attention. I’ll never forget the first time I saw one at a classic car show; its presence was undeniable.
With a powerful V8 engine and luxurious interior, it was a car built for both speed and comfort. The attention to detail in its design was impeccable.
One interesting fact is that the Iso Rivolta was one of the few Italian cars to feature American powertrains. Isn’t it fascinating how it blended the best of both worlds?
30. Glas 1700 GT
The Glas 1700 GT was a masterstroke of German engineering. Its sleek coupe design and robust engine made it a favorite among those seeking performance and style.
With its sporty handling and distinctive looks, it stood out in the world of 1960s sports cars. The interior was equally impressive, with a focus on driver comfort and control.
Like a finely crafted watch, the 1700 GT was a testament to precision and quality, a remarkable example of what German automakers could achieve.
31. Hino Contessa 1300 Coupe
It was rear-engined, Italian-styled, and incredibly obscure. Based on designs by Michelotti, the Contessa 1300 Coupe tried to merge style and practicality in a compact layout.
It wasn’t fast, but it had presence. It faded quickly after Toyota took over Hino’s car division. How do you remember something that never got the chance to really begin?
32. Checker Marathon
In the world of iconic taxis, the Checker Marathon was second to none, competing with the likes of the London black cab. Known for its durability and roomy interior, it became synonymous with New York City.
The Marathon was built to last, with a design that prioritized practicality and passenger comfort.
Though primarily used as a taxi, the Checker Marathon’s unique charm and reliability have earned it a place in automotive history as a beloved classic.
33. Mitsubishi Debonair
I remember hearing stories about the Mitsubishi Debonair, a car that was the epitome of Japanese luxury in its time. My grandfather owned one, and he always spoke of its comfort and elegance.
With its spacious interior and refined design, the Debonair was a car that exuded class. It was Mitsubishi’s flagship model, known for its smooth ride and advanced features.
Did you know that it was one of the first Japanese cars to offer power windows? Quite the innovation, don’t you think?