So many fantastic things are from the 1980s. It was a time of blockbuster films, some of the most memorable music, and fashion trends that people are still replicating today. But one of the most iconic things from this fantastic decade were the vehicles. So here are five of the coolest classic cars from the 1980s.
Ferrari Testarossa
When you hear the words “cool car”, one word that pops into many people’s heads is “Ferrari”. The Testarossa graced posters on the wall of an entire generation for a reason. Sporting a flat-12 engine, sleek design, and vibrant color options, this car lives up to the iconic Ferrari name. The Testarossa impacted pop culture through shows like Miami Vice and arcade classics like Sega’s OutRun.
Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
While talking about classic cars making memorable TV appearances, there’s no denying the impact of K.I.T.T. from Knight Rider. Of course, Hasselhoff looks cool catching bad guys in that smooth-looking modified black Pontiac Firebird. For many classic car fans, Firebird is one of the biggest names when discussing cool, classic sport and muscle cars—and with the Firebird’s F-body build, it’s not hard to see why. The Firebird debuted in the 1960s, but the third generation steps things up from the iconic ‘70s icon.
Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z
Chevy’s Camaro came out in the 1960s too, but the IROC-Z made an infamous and lasting impression in the world of classic cars. The International Race of Champions brought in racers driving vehicles from all over. When the Camaro won this competition twelve years in a row, that attracted many people to the IROC-Z. Not that it needed the extra help—Chevrolet was already drawing people to the 215-horsepower engine, fantastic handling, well-constructed exterior, and iconic sports car red paint.
Vector W8
Though many car aficionados have forgotten one of the last cars of the ’80s, the Vector W8 made a big splash in 1989. The Vector W8 sported a 6.0 L Rodeck twin-turbocharged V8 engine and scissor doors. Its compact wedge-like exterior designs were borrowed from fighter jets and came in various colors, including a mesmerizing dark purple. The W8 may not have the most pedigree behind it or the most lasting appeal today, but it stands out as a great-looking sports car of its era.
Acura Integra
Honda isn’t a name that comes to mind when discussing classic cars, but in 1986, this Japanese car manufacturer brought out the Acura Integra. The idea behind it was to create a quality and reliable sports car that wouldn’t break the bank. Honda’s dedication to speed, form, and function paid off as the 2023 Integra continues to win people over with a striking look and high-horsepower engine to add extra excitement to drivers’ daily commutes.
Of course, there was no shortage of iconic cars in the 1980s. It’s why people still take such good care of these rides today. But these were five of the coolest classic cars from the 1980s that have managed to make their mark on the history of automobiles.
Pinstripe Magazine Staff
Online Men’s Lifestyle Magazine on Gear, Grooming, Girls, Gadgets
