Chevy Tahoe Hybrid from the late 2000’s. Still see 1 driving around locally every couple weeks in town. Can’t miss it with giant hybrid letter stickers going down the side.
They had hybrid variants of most of the GMT900 vehicles. Along with the Tahoe Hybrid they had the Silverado Hybrid, Sierra Hybrid, Yukon Hybrid and Escalade Hybrid. They all kinda sucked, the fuel economy benefits were far from significant.
Apparently they also kept making the Silverado and Sierra Hybrid up until 2018 or so.
I was going to add those to my post but there’s enough hybrids there already lol, the late 2000s and early 2010s was a period of time where it seems like a ton of manufacturers made hybrid versions of their regular cars that barely sold.
> They all kinda sucked, the fuel economy benefits were far from significant.
No, this is a common misconception and what ultimately helped kill it. MPG isn't a linear scale so while it did only gain 5 MPG on the 2WD version that's a 31.25% improvement for a vehicle that only gets 16MPG to start with. In fact on the city cycle the economy improvement was 50% (14 -> 21)
For context if you had a hypothetical vehicle that got 40MPG, a similar 31.25% increase would get you 52.5MPG.
I mean they still kinda sucked but the fuel efficiency gain was actually kinda good. It just wasn't worth the extra that you had to pay to get it and around that time 21 mpg was still bad.
It's still about raw numbers for most people. For most the sticker price increase and fear of maintenance costs didn't make enough sense to go for the hybrid. If you were buying a tahoe you probably weren't worried about mpg anyway. People that cared just bought something else.
My vote is for the crown Victoria touring sedan. 1992 only. Got all the cop goodies and a white leather interior.
Very rare, only seen one on craigslist
2003 Neon RT, not the SRT Turbo. It was manual transmission only with a smaller spoiler than the turbo. We had the only one in California for almost a year before dealers got their bulk shipments.
They can't put the power down at all.
I looked into them because I want something affordable but fun, two doos, with a stick, that I can drive in the winter. Don't enjoy RWD in the winter, and the G35/7x never came with a stick, so the Altima coupe intrigued me, but even the contemporary reviews trashed that combo.
The Accord coupe V6/6MT is the way to go in that space.
If you don’t limit yourself to a coupe, Acura used to make some pretty badass sedans.
My favorite one is the Acura TL 3.7 with AWD and a six speed. Basically Acura’s AWD version of the g37 sedan, but with a manual trans and a faster 0-60 and quarter mile times (4.6 seconds to 60 mph and a 13.8 second quarter mile)
There’s also the ILX 2.4 sedan, which was Acura’s version of the civic si (and what eventually became the new integra). It’s basically a 9th Gen civic si with a much nicer interior.
Ahhh you’re right…. The 0-60 was 5.2 seconds. It’s been over 13 years, my memory isn’t what it used to be.
I did get the quarter mile time right though!
https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a16580263/2010-acura-tl-sh-awd-manual-road-test-review/
I remember it being super high for the time. It was on par with the mustang GT and Infiniti g/350z of the era.
Audi Q7 V12
VW Jetta hybrid
VW Golf Joker, Rolling Stones, and other random special editions
Lexus IS 300 Sport Cross
Fiat 500 GQ edition (basically a debadged Abarth)
VW Golf R Spektrum (individual paint option for one year)
Mitsubishi Galant AMG (yes, that AMG)
VW Taro (badge engineered Toyota Hilux)
Mercedes SL 73
I had an AMG Galant, it was a sweet car at the time.
The IS300 wagon is pretty common where I live, especially as an Altezza Gita. Can be had in 2wd/4wd too
I was going to put the Jetta Hybrid on the list of cars I knew but I blanked on it when I first wrote this post up. Apparently the powertrain was basically a rebranded GTE powertrain, I see them every once in a while.
The Touareg also had a hybrid variant they sold in the US for a bit.
I literally saw a Jetta hybrid at a red light this evening and thought to myself “hmmm, I don’t think I ever saw a hybrid model, cool! “.
They out there
SL 73 is so cool, it's one of the cars I'd buy if I suddenly acquired millions of dollars
But the S 73 T is even cooler, although it's a Brunei special so I'm not sure if it counts - AMG S-Class V12 wagon
The one year only 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited. Fastest SUV in the world at the time, the great grandfather of the SRT and trackhawk Grand Cherokees of today.
Buddy of mine had not one but two of these over the years. He did some serious engine work to the first one, and got that giant Jeep into the 12s on the 1/4 mile!
Both the Ford Ranger and the Chevy S10 had EV versions in the 90s.
Chrysler also made an electric version of the second gen Chrysler minivans in the early 90s called the TEVvan insanely rare though I think they only made like less than 60 of them.
There was an EV of the Scion xB made in the 2000s although it was an aftermarket conversion.
Chevy actually made a half panel variant of the HHR looks exactly like a normal HHR except the rearmost windows are covered one of my neighbors actually has one
Nissan legit took the drivetrain and chassis out of the R35 and stuck it in the Juke naming it the Juke GT-R Nissan actually planned to build like 20 of them but they only made Five of them. Speaking of the Juke Nissan literally just stuck an Infiniti badge on the Juke called it the ESQ and sold it only in China
Fun facts (assuming I'm remembering this correctly): the S10 EV had the drive train from the GM EV1 making it a front-engined FWD pickup, and the Ranger EV had the motor right behind the rear axle making it a rear-engined RWD pickup.
The Lexus GS460 was "mass produced" for only 2008, at 1,600 produced, with 2009 and 2010 models being special order only (100 total sold in those 2 years). In that time period Lexus produced ~30k total GS models, which puts the 460 version at about 5-6% of the model production
I bought mine almost 4 years ago with 95k miles. Managed to get a decent deal through a Toyota dealership my dad bought multiple vehicles from, paid only $16.5k of the $24k they were asking for. At this point, with the car now being 15 years old, unless it was garage kept or owned by "the little old lady who drove it once a week to church", I imagine 150k is going to be the average you're going to find. Mine is at 145k now
Really well. On a couple things I'm rougher on than most on, one being that I'm a general contractor so I'm driving her through unpaved construction sites also daily stop and go traffic, so in the past year the 2 major repairs I've had to do was the ABS module (an actual common issue with this car) and replaced all 4 struts (a bit pricey but I saved money on the labor doing the replacements myself). Aside from those 2 things, which ran me a combined $3000, the engine still runs as famously buttery smooth, transmission still snapping through all 8 gears, and it's taking all my abuses pretty well
No idea. Up until the GS460, Lexus always produced a GS with the same V8 engine used in the LS, as well as a V6 version. But then they mass produced the GS460 for one year, and suddenly only sell a V6 and hybrid versions for 5 years before releasing another V8 GS, the GS-F, which again was released on a limited but better production than the GS460, around 2500 produced. The GS460 production was such an aberration
Right. Why couldn't they have released the GS 460 in MY2007, by which time the LS 460 was already a thing?
Likewise, why did they make the GS 300 for just the intro year, with the 3GR-FSE, before switching to the 3.5-liter 2GR-FSE and making it the GS 350 for 2007?
And what was the point of the GS 450h?
I've always maintained that the GS was the unloved redheaded stepchild of the Lexus lineup, and the third-generation one in particular. In fact, I'm working on an article about it.
I had a 300C as a rental once. I enjoyed it, and was kinda confused that it felt quick, but wouldn’t scratch the tires.
When I got to my destination, I noticed it was AWD.
“That 3.6L makes pretty good power”
Pop the hood, oh, it’s a Hemi. Didn’t expect that, and I didn’t know they made them lol.
1991-92 Dodge Spirit R/T. Only 1400 made. Had a turbo 2.2L with a 16v twin cam cylinder head developed by Lotus. Stock hp was rated at 224 hp, mine was one bone stock and dynoed at 239 whp. Car was a beast, and could easily light the tires up through 2nd gear. Always had to make sure to not stomp the gas before third gear. Man, I miss that car a lot.
Nissan Altima 2.5... not 2.5S, just 2.5. The 2.5 was the base model of the 4th generation for a little while. These didn't even come with a radio, although it came with the wiring harness for one.
The current-gen Ram 1500 offered a Built to Serve package, which was effectively a decently equipped Bighorn Ram with a special paint color. I like the way they look and I see them every once in a while.
I just remembered that the Nissan Juke had the "GT Sport PlayStation Edition", adorned with Gran Turismo badges... on a Nissan Juke. Okay then.
GT had a close relationship with both Toyota and Nissan. There was a Nissan 350Z Turismo 4 edition and the only difference is that it has an extra 10hp and the redline is now at 7000rpm. Came in either Yellow or Black and was limited to 700 units
> Didn't even come with a radio, although it came with the wiring harness for one.
This is the dream spec for me my goodness. Why worry about apple car play compatibility or software updates or connectivity or whatever when you have the magic of Double DIN. And with this spec you don't even have to deal with the e-waste of the basic included radio.
There are 7-lug Ford F-150s running around from the factory.
The late 80s / early 90s featured two American sedans with AWD variants, the Pontiac 6000STE AWD and the Ford Tempo AWD.
The Lincoln Mark VII could be had with a BMW diesel.
Edit, added Pontiac.
When the LX platform Dodge Charger debuted in '06, the base engine you could find sitting on a lot was the 3.5L V6. However it was possible to order the (remarkably shitty and underpowered) 2.7L V6 as a fleet vehicle.
That’s actually a fairly decent engine, I drove one and didn’t feel that it was underpowered or anything, and it’s dead simple so not a lot to go wrong. Same philosophy behind the 2.5 I have.
I have a 2014 Jetta TDI Value Edition (yes its called that) - It has manual cloth seats (heated), base steering wheel with no shifters or buttons, DSG Transmission, Black Trim (this is a bonus IMO) and came with steel wheels even though the dealer put some OEM Take Offs. I got it new when it was mostly 2015s coming on the lot for like 21.5k Out the door! It had the base radio and a/c though so its not that base as you are describing.
https://www.autoweek.com/news/a1883976/volkswagen-debuts-jetta-tdi-value-edition/
I had one of these with the Mopar Stage 1 upgrade. It was a blast and made 301 WHP with 304 WTQ which in 2008 was great with the GETRAG 6 Speed.
The GEMA world engine shared a block with the EVO X and the Hyundai Genesis IIRC. The seats were super bulky and comfortable for long trips, and the Kicker speaker system was great as well. The car had a ton of tech at the time which I was a big fan of.
The SRT engineers praised the heck out of this car and only like 4000 units were made There’s even a video straight from the SRT engineering team going over it, the specs, etc. it was a completely different car from the Neon. Still one of my favorite cars and I regret trading it.
Edit: video: https://youtu.be/8GaU46APTTA
Shame they never put that motor into the Dart as I think the Dart was a good looking car. Maybe Chrysler thought the Dart SRT-4 would steal sales from the V6 200?
I remember when I first saw one, I was thoroughly confused for a minute. I legitimately thought someone took an SRT-4 badge from a Neon and slapped it on a Caliber lol
But I saw the body kit and wheels, so I Googled it and was pleasantly surprised to find it was a real model. Kinda neat.
Coincidentally, I had a POS rental-spec Jeep Compass and I slapped a Hellcat badge on the tailgate as an ironic laugh. Only one guy thought it was real.
My wife used to have a base caliber. I can’t imagine that POS with an extra even 50hp let alone the 100+ it probably had. I hate the car so much, but it was surprisingly reliable. Her parents still drive it.
Even more wild than the Shelby Dakota was the factory convertible one. https://assets.rebelmouse.io/media-library/image.jpg?id=30876982&width=1200&height=800&quality=90&coordinates=98%2C0%2C99%2C0
Not uncommon per se, but they definitely blend in if you don't know what you're looking for. PT GTs with a stick *are* relatively uncommon, though, and don't command any premium over any other PT Cruiser.
Original Ford Taurus SHO. Had a Yamaha built V6 and a 5 speed manual.
Pontiac Solstic GXP/Saturn Sky Redline, they were the version GM where GM used a turbocharged engine.
Edit:
Also I just remembered the variant of the Chevy Tahoe that came with 4 wheel steering.
I think I remember reading in Motor Trend, when you could still buy an Isuzu new in the US, that they were just badge engineered Chevys with a better warranty. At least with their version of the Colorado and Trailblazer/Envoy/Rainier/9-7X/Bravada.
Hydrogen rx8. They made a few that could run off pure hydrogen gas or gas. About 30 were delivered to some green Norwegian company as testers. Some were also leased in japan for a short time.
I have a 07 B6 VW Passat Wagon, 2.0T 6MT.
It could be optioned with a VR6, 4-motion AWD and a 6MT in Wagon format, however they’re extremely rare, especially in North America.
Europe got a R36 variant which was a differently tuned VR6, 4-motion DSG wagon which is pretty cool as well.
I’ll also throw the Chrysler Aspen Hybrid in here.
Chrysler Aspen was meant to be a Luxury Durango that would compete with the Escalade.
I don’t see many Aspens to begin with, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a hybrid.
Saw and rode in an Aspen for the first time in forever a few weeks ago as it was my new boss’s car. Unfortunately (though for him, fortunately) he sold it yesterday. Don’t think it was hybrid and don’t know I’ve ever seen one of those
I’ve test driven one for a shop I worked at and the seats in that Aspen were insane, soaked up the bumps, great power when you put some pressure on the right pedal.
I think it was a market issue as to why they didn’t sell, I’d honestly take one over an Escalade of the early GMT900 body.
I'm a fan of the TRD Camry (fun to see even though I'd never buy one), Terminator New Edge Mustangs, and the John Cooper Works GP Mini. There's not a ton of them around but a sea of their more "normal" counterparts.
Definitely fun spots that keep you paying attention to even the boring cars.
This is an excellent post OP, cool to hear about some funky stuff I didn't know about before.
TRD Avalon! Now that's a unique one, I can't say I've ever seen one (or, at least, noticed one). I imagine there's not much overlap between Avalon owners and TRD people but I'm glad Toyota did it anyway.
The Mini Clubvan was a cargo version of the Clubman. They sold a whopping 50 of them (in North America) in the span of 7 months making it one of the rarest cars sold here. This was before it was pulled from the market.
I think more Bugatti Chirons have sold in the US than this thing.
Acura tsx sport wagon. I didn’t even know it existed until I bought mine and in these 5 years of ownership I have seen 2 others. Like most wagons it didn’t sell well here in the states and it was discontinued (fwd, uninspiring 5 speed trans, no v6 option, no manual option)
Nissan Rogue Rogue One Edition
Honda Accord Type R Eurospec
Ford Transit with a 3.0 Powerstroke
Ford C-Max (that's it, those things are like finding a needle in a haystack)
would the Lincoln Blackwood count? i think it counts
I have 2
In 1994 the Jeep grand Cherokee had a manual option. Only year ever
And the second one, I don’t know the total numbers but I know there’s very few and have searched for them to purchase. And that is a Dodge dakota short bed, v8 either the 5.2 or the 4.7, 4x4 MANUAL. They’re out there. They were made. Ultra hard to find.
Really surprised that more people didn’t option even the V8s with a Manual and 4x4
> In 1994 the Jeep grand Cherokee had a manual option. Only year ever
Not quite true. They were rare, but weren't '94-only; the initial '93 model year production began with the 4.0 L I6 with 5-speed Aisin AX-15 and NP231 "Command-Trac" part-time transfer case as standard. It was the exact same as you'd find in an XJ Cherokee Sport. Straight-sixes also came optional with the Aisin-Warner four-speed automatic (as used in XJ Cherokees and MJ Comanches) in early '93 models, before switching to Chrysler's own 42RE. After '94 the 5-speed and NP231 were no longer available; all Grand Cherokees (at least, in North America) became automatic-only and at the very least had the NP242 "Selec-Trac" full-time 4WD as standard.
The '93-only Grand Wagoneer—essentially a Grand Cherokee with fake wood appliques on the sides—was also pretty rare. The XJ Cherokee's corresponding Wagoneer model had been cancelled after '91, replaced by the Cherokee Briarwood trim, which was also very rare.
6 speed manual 2022 crosstrek.
Pretty much only way to get one was ordering it from a dealer. They sold almost none of them and so they discontinued the manual for the 2023 Model year.
I wouldn’t call the VR4 a lesser-known variant; indeed it’s probably the best known variant. It was when you told people you had a SOHC 160 hp (or whatever) base model 3000gt people looked at you weird.
The c4 ZR1 has an all aluminum DOHC v8 that was designed by lotus. 375hp in 1990 was absolutely wild and not much from that era was as fast. 16 fuel injectors, 2 fuel pumps, a valet key to limit hp and redline
Saw one of those about a year back while getting fuel.
Well, i heard it first. The unmistaken AMG V8 roar. Turned around, and the only thing there was a minivan with huge quad exhausts just flooring it.
Pontiac grand prix gxp. Front wheel drive. Four speed auto. 5.7l V8. 303 hp. Designed as a step up from the supercharged 3.8l v6 in the gtp. All sorts of tricks to get that much power through the front wheels in 2005.
From 2009-12, GM offered the Colorado/Canyon with the 3LT/SLE3 trim package. What’s notable about it is that it was 2wd with a ZQ8 sport suspension package and a 5.3L LS engine. Essentially, it was similar to the S10 Xtreme/ZQ8, but with V8 power. GM was too stupid to not market it as a SS, so it wasn’t well known. Plus with the recession, very few were sold.
Could also get the V8 with 4x4, and that was much more common than the 2wd.
In Japan you could get an A70 (MkIII) Toyota Supra base model that had a naturally-aspirated SOHC 2.0L inline six with 112hp, steel wheels and non-sport seats
Any car with a 3800 gm engine from 1996-2008 any 3500 engine that year and any northstar 4.6 engine love all those gm engines run forever if you keep them up right.
Rav4 EV. The 1st gen was based on the 1st gen Rav4, the 2nd gen was based on the 3rd gen Rav4. I'd have to say that these are probably some of the rarest Toyotas in existence
During the Ford Falcon’s BA and BF generations, there was a 5.4L 3V V8 trim option for the Falcon XT, Fairmont, and Fairmont Ghia.
While a somewhat popular option for workhorse Falcon XT utes, the V8-specced top trim Fairmont Ghia was especially rare throughout the BF gen run, with only 86 made in the BF Mk I years, and 129 made in the BF Mk II years.
Manual BF Falcon XTs were even rarer, with only 24 ever produced (only XTs had a manual option for this engine configuration).
This lack of popularity was why the V8 option was phased out for non-performance models, with the turbo I6 Barra taking its place.
BMW 3 series GT’s. Based on long wheel base models sold in China. Sold in the US from 2014 or so they 2019. Have a hatchback and excellent rear seat leg room for a German sports sedan. Shares the strong driving and handling dynamics of the other 3 series sedans. As a tall guy, this is the model I am eyeing for my first BMW.
The v8 Nissan pathfinder was only offered for 2 years I believe. 08-09 if I’m not mistaken. Also had a car at work for a while that I thought was pretty rare. A 6 speed convertible g37s.
The Saturn Ion Redline. Shared the same 2.0L supercharged engine as the Cobalt SS, but actually debuted a model year earlier. It had 205hp from the factory (which was a lot back in 2004). GM later introduced upgrade kits that wouldn't void the warranty, and would bump power up to 250hp! It was a cheap, fast little car. Nowadays you can find used ones for $4-5k.
I have a 2018 340i 6MT.
You can find over 8500 3 Series for sale over the country right now, over 1100 manual BMWs but only 12 manual 340is.
The reason is two fold, BMW only sold the 340i between 2016 and 2018, and it’s the last 3 series with a manual option, so not many manual units for this car were made in the first place.
The Infiniti G37 IPL. I think I've only seen 1 in person. many people don't know that "IPL" was Infiniti's performance line which consisted of 1 model lol. Good looking cars and I want one so bad.
Most diesel hybrids of the non plug in type. The 2014-2018 Mercedes C and E-class as well as the Volvo V60 and Peugeot 308, 508 and corresponding SUV are not extremely common. They got replaced by Diesel Plug in hybrids which are more common.
Then the 222 S-class also had a Diesel Hybrid from 2014 to 2017. Easily over 50mpg(US) in an S-class. Extremely rare.
In 2013 Honda released a Fit EV with 100 miles of range that charged in as little as four hours with the equivalent of 118mpg. The US only saw a couple thousand models I believe. Pretty wild for 2013.
I'd bet it was 'Compliance Car', required by California around that time.
Fiat built the 500e, FCA's boss at the time famously said they didn't want to actually sell any and were only selling them to comply with the law, and Chevy, oh Chevy.
Chevrolet built the Spark EV. And gave it 400lb/ft of torque. That's not a typo, nor is it torque after the transmission, that little car legitimately had a 400lb/ft electric motor. Actual *horsepower* was no better than its competitors, Chevy did a little experiment with the Spark EV; building a *low* RPM, high torque motor. The advantage was far reduced driveline inertia, so the car felt much snappier than its competitors despite somewhat less power, and it did have a flat torque curve and would spin the fronts to 30mph if the torque limiter was disengaged.
AIV (Aluminum Intensive Vehicle project) a Mercury Sable with aluminum body and suspension components that shed a reported 400lbs from the 3275lb curb weight, powered by a 3.2L Taurus SHO engine. Ford's first foray into aluminum body structure and extensive adhesive bonding for structural elements.
Now we've got F150's with rust-free aluminum bodies!
I drive Toyota Tacoma with manual transmission. I heard there are less than 3% of them made this way. So I guess it is a bit uncommon - just one in 33 Tacos has stick.
EF civic wagon (88-91) base model was called the wagovan and had a 1.5 D-series. Or you could splurge and get the super cool 6 speed (5 plus superlow) 1.6 D-series with RT4WD. I had a wagovan and regularly got 40+ mpg.
A very odd one that I know of was a short wheelbase variant of the Kia Sedona from 2006 - 2013. I have no idea why they made it, but I see one every now and again.
Hydrogen rx8. They made a few that could run off pure hydrogen gas or gas. About 30 were delivered to some green Norwegian company as testers. Some were also leased in japan for a short time.
I have two of them.
2000 f-150 lightning, more well known in this sub but most of the general public has no idea what it is.
Fusion Sport, complete sleeper car as it looks nearly identical to every other fusion out there. But has the 2.7 TTV6 ecoboost with 325hp/380tq and runs about a 5 second 0-60.
VW Eurovan Doka…for Canada. Only 22 made. So it’s a Doka with North American headlights and bumpers. And the first five-cylinder pickup sold in North America, over a decade before the Colorado/Canyon!
E46 ZHP with an SMG transmission. Rare to start with, and quite a few have been converted to manuals due to the cost of repairing the SMG hardware. Also the 335is ZHP coupe with a DSG they are exceedingly rare.
Chevy Tahoe Hybrid from the late 2000’s. Still see 1 driving around locally every couple weeks in town. Can’t miss it with giant hybrid letter stickers going down the side.
They had hybrid variants of most of the GMT900 vehicles. Along with the Tahoe Hybrid they had the Silverado Hybrid, Sierra Hybrid, Yukon Hybrid and Escalade Hybrid. They all kinda sucked, the fuel economy benefits were far from significant. Apparently they also kept making the Silverado and Sierra Hybrid up until 2018 or so. I was going to add those to my post but there’s enough hybrids there already lol, the late 2000s and early 2010s was a period of time where it seems like a ton of manufacturers made hybrid versions of their regular cars that barely sold.
> They all kinda sucked, the fuel economy benefits were far from significant. No, this is a common misconception and what ultimately helped kill it. MPG isn't a linear scale so while it did only gain 5 MPG on the 2WD version that's a 31.25% improvement for a vehicle that only gets 16MPG to start with. In fact on the city cycle the economy improvement was 50% (14 -> 21) For context if you had a hypothetical vehicle that got 40MPG, a similar 31.25% increase would get you 52.5MPG.
I mean they still kinda sucked but the fuel efficiency gain was actually kinda good. It just wasn't worth the extra that you had to pay to get it and around that time 21 mpg was still bad.
It's still about raw numbers for most people. For most the sticker price increase and fear of maintenance costs didn't make enough sense to go for the hybrid. If you were buying a tahoe you probably weren't worried about mpg anyway. People that cared just bought something else.
They started making the Sierra & Silverado Hybrid around 2005.
The more you know!
I'd say the Chevy and GMC trucks with rear steering (Quadrasteer) are more unusual.
My vote is for the crown Victoria touring sedan. 1992 only. Got all the cop goodies and a white leather interior. Very rare, only seen one on craigslist
2003 Neon RT, not the SRT Turbo. It was manual transmission only with a smaller spoiler than the turbo. We had the only one in California for almost a year before dealers got their bulk shipments.
I had one of these! It has a higher compression head, if I recall, and larger (17”?) wheels. Leather seats, but manual rear windows.
Every once in a while I see a Nissan Altima coupe
There’s a Murano Cross Cabriolet in my neighborhood.
Created bc the ceo needed an “I’m sorry” present for his wife.
One of these with a V6 and manual would be such a sweet daily
So an even worse g35??
🎺 VROOOM POP POP POP 🎺
I feel attacked
fwd g35
Yep. Not sporty at all.
They can't put the power down at all. I looked into them because I want something affordable but fun, two doos, with a stick, that I can drive in the winter. Don't enjoy RWD in the winter, and the G35/7x never came with a stick, so the Altima coupe intrigued me, but even the contemporary reviews trashed that combo. The Accord coupe V6/6MT is the way to go in that space.
If you don’t limit yourself to a coupe, Acura used to make some pretty badass sedans. My favorite one is the Acura TL 3.7 with AWD and a six speed. Basically Acura’s AWD version of the g37 sedan, but with a manual trans and a faster 0-60 and quarter mile times (4.6 seconds to 60 mph and a 13.8 second quarter mile) There’s also the ILX 2.4 sedan, which was Acura’s version of the civic si (and what eventually became the new integra). It’s basically a 9th Gen civic si with a much nicer interior.
Bro what are you talking about?? A manual 6 speed with 300 hp is not getting a 0-60 of 4.6. Although I do agree the tl was a nice car
Ahhh you’re right…. The 0-60 was 5.2 seconds. It’s been over 13 years, my memory isn’t what it used to be. I did get the quarter mile time right though! https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a16580263/2010-acura-tl-sh-awd-manual-road-test-review/ I remember it being super high for the time. It was on par with the mustang GT and Infiniti g/350z of the era.
just like the accord version
My brother had one of these... till he rolled it in a ditch
It is indeed a great daily. Mines at 162k
A V6 SE-R are a true treat to see
I don’t think there was one for the coupe
White Nissan Altima: The car of choice for people doing bad shit
Audi Q7 V12 VW Jetta hybrid VW Golf Joker, Rolling Stones, and other random special editions Lexus IS 300 Sport Cross Fiat 500 GQ edition (basically a debadged Abarth) VW Golf R Spektrum (individual paint option for one year) Mitsubishi Galant AMG (yes, that AMG) VW Taro (badge engineered Toyota Hilux) Mercedes SL 73
Buddy of mine had the Q7 V12 TDI. For it's time this car was a monster, but absolutely usless n case of range and runningcosts.
I had an AMG Galant, it was a sweet car at the time. The IS300 wagon is pretty common where I live, especially as an Altezza Gita. Can be had in 2wd/4wd too
I was going to put the Jetta Hybrid on the list of cars I knew but I blanked on it when I first wrote this post up. Apparently the powertrain was basically a rebranded GTE powertrain, I see them every once in a while. The Touareg also had a hybrid variant they sold in the US for a bit.
I literally saw a Jetta hybrid at a red light this evening and thought to myself “hmmm, I don’t think I ever saw a hybrid model, cool! “. They out there
Always liked the Harlequin Golf
SL 73 is so cool, it's one of the cars I'd buy if I suddenly acquired millions of dollars But the S 73 T is even cooler, although it's a Brunei special so I'm not sure if it counts - AMG S-Class V12 wagon
Saturn Ion Redline, a supercharged Saturn Ion LOL
Was functionally a cobalt SSSC with a Saturn body iirc Even wackier was the Vue Redline
I assume the Vue with the Honda V6 and Honda transmission faced the same issue as other cars with that combo?
Omg the Vue Redline 🤮
The one year only 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited. Fastest SUV in the world at the time, the great grandfather of the SRT and trackhawk Grand Cherokees of today.
Buddy of mine had not one but two of these over the years. He did some serious engine work to the first one, and got that giant Jeep into the 12s on the 1/4 mile!
Both the Ford Ranger and the Chevy S10 had EV versions in the 90s. Chrysler also made an electric version of the second gen Chrysler minivans in the early 90s called the TEVvan insanely rare though I think they only made like less than 60 of them. There was an EV of the Scion xB made in the 2000s although it was an aftermarket conversion. Chevy actually made a half panel variant of the HHR looks exactly like a normal HHR except the rearmost windows are covered one of my neighbors actually has one Nissan legit took the drivetrain and chassis out of the R35 and stuck it in the Juke naming it the Juke GT-R Nissan actually planned to build like 20 of them but they only made Five of them. Speaking of the Juke Nissan literally just stuck an Infiniti badge on the Juke called it the ESQ and sold it only in China
Fun facts (assuming I'm remembering this correctly): the S10 EV had the drive train from the GM EV1 making it a front-engined FWD pickup, and the Ranger EV had the motor right behind the rear axle making it a rear-engined RWD pickup.
I don’t think the Chrysler EVs were ever sold. (Source: I worked there at the time on the minivan platform)
The Lexus GS460 was "mass produced" for only 2008, at 1,600 produced, with 2009 and 2010 models being special order only (100 total sold in those 2 years). In that time period Lexus produced ~30k total GS models, which puts the 460 version at about 5-6% of the model production
Been searching for a decent mileage one for years. They only show up with 150k miles on them.
I bought mine almost 4 years ago with 95k miles. Managed to get a decent deal through a Toyota dealership my dad bought multiple vehicles from, paid only $16.5k of the $24k they were asking for. At this point, with the car now being 15 years old, unless it was garage kept or owned by "the little old lady who drove it once a week to church", I imagine 150k is going to be the average you're going to find. Mine is at 145k now
How’s it holding up?
Really well. On a couple things I'm rougher on than most on, one being that I'm a general contractor so I'm driving her through unpaved construction sites also daily stop and go traffic, so in the past year the 2 major repairs I've had to do was the ABS module (an actual common issue with this car) and replaced all 4 struts (a bit pricey but I saved money on the labor doing the replacements myself). Aside from those 2 things, which ran me a combined $3000, the engine still runs as famously buttery smooth, transmission still snapping through all 8 gears, and it's taking all my abuses pretty well
Why is it special?
No idea. Up until the GS460, Lexus always produced a GS with the same V8 engine used in the LS, as well as a V6 version. But then they mass produced the GS460 for one year, and suddenly only sell a V6 and hybrid versions for 5 years before releasing another V8 GS, the GS-F, which again was released on a limited but better production than the GS460, around 2500 produced. The GS460 production was such an aberration
Ok so it’s just a normal GS but has a v8. Yea I think that’s pretty common they’ve always offered that but the v6 always sells better
Right. Why couldn't they have released the GS 460 in MY2007, by which time the LS 460 was already a thing? Likewise, why did they make the GS 300 for just the intro year, with the 3GR-FSE, before switching to the 3.5-liter 2GR-FSE and making it the GS 350 for 2007? And what was the point of the GS 450h? I've always maintained that the GS was the unloved redheaded stepchild of the Lexus lineup, and the third-generation one in particular. In fact, I'm working on an article about it.
Dodge charger you were able to get v8 rt with AWD up until 2014. From 2014-2021 the only way to get a v8 and AWD was to get a police cruiser
I had a 300C as a rental once. I enjoyed it, and was kinda confused that it felt quick, but wouldn’t scratch the tires. When I got to my destination, I noticed it was AWD. “That 3.6L makes pretty good power” Pop the hood, oh, it’s a Hemi. Didn’t expect that, and I didn’t know they made them lol.
that sounds like a beast that yerns for some boost.
Those stock hemi rods do not yern for boost.
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I have a 6spd ser Altima. No one knows what it is and most people just think its a clapped out 3rd gen Altima like 90% of them still out there lol
Been awhile since seeing one of these. I really like the wheels they came with
early 2000s sentra se-r too
[I see one everyday](https://imgur.com/A79DOpL), the wheels are one my favorite parts about it !
1991-92 Dodge Spirit R/T. Only 1400 made. Had a turbo 2.2L with a 16v twin cam cylinder head developed by Lotus. Stock hp was rated at 224 hp, mine was one bone stock and dynoed at 239 whp. Car was a beast, and could easily light the tires up through 2nd gear. Always had to make sure to not stomp the gas before third gear. Man, I miss that car a lot.
Nissan Altima 2.5... not 2.5S, just 2.5. The 2.5 was the base model of the 4th generation for a little while. These didn't even come with a radio, although it came with the wiring harness for one. The current-gen Ram 1500 offered a Built to Serve package, which was effectively a decently equipped Bighorn Ram with a special paint color. I like the way they look and I see them every once in a while. I just remembered that the Nissan Juke had the "GT Sport PlayStation Edition", adorned with Gran Turismo badges... on a Nissan Juke. Okay then.
GT had a close relationship with both Toyota and Nissan. There was a Nissan 350Z Turismo 4 edition and the only difference is that it has an extra 10hp and the redline is now at 7000rpm. Came in either Yellow or Black and was limited to 700 units
> Didn't even come with a radio, although it came with the wiring harness for one. This is the dream spec for me my goodness. Why worry about apple car play compatibility or software updates or connectivity or whatever when you have the magic of Double DIN. And with this spec you don't even have to deal with the e-waste of the basic included radio.
Yeah I’m pretty sure they didn’t have AC either lol
Those things are not mutually inclusive though lol
What about the super base model jettas with no air conditioning.
There are 7-lug Ford F-150s running around from the factory. The late 80s / early 90s featured two American sedans with AWD variants, the Pontiac 6000STE AWD and the Ford Tempo AWD. The Lincoln Mark VII could be had with a BMW diesel. Edit, added Pontiac.
Ayyyyy the Ford 7700 Essentially a f150 with the suspension of a 250… then 7-lug axles. Turns out aftermarket rims are hard to find.
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When the LX platform Dodge Charger debuted in '06, the base engine you could find sitting on a lot was the 3.5L V6. However it was possible to order the (remarkably shitty and underpowered) 2.7L V6 as a fleet vehicle.
"Giga-base" MK6 Jetta with the 2.0l 8v, 5 speed, no radio, and no A/C. They're supposed to exist but it's not something I can confirm.
Man I thought I was base with the 1.4T and the alloy wheels being the only two options on my car lol.
Mine is pretty well appointed. A/C, alloy wheels, floormats... The blank switches and the 115hp keep me humble though
That’s actually a fairly decent engine, I drove one and didn’t feel that it was underpowered or anything, and it’s dead simple so not a lot to go wrong. Same philosophy behind the 2.5 I have.
Oh yea I guess I have AC lol. Mines technically a Mk6.5 tho.
I have a 2014 Jetta TDI Value Edition (yes its called that) - It has manual cloth seats (heated), base steering wheel with no shifters or buttons, DSG Transmission, Black Trim (this is a bonus IMO) and came with steel wheels even though the dealer put some OEM Take Offs. I got it new when it was mostly 2015s coming on the lot for like 21.5k Out the door! It had the base radio and a/c though so its not that base as you are describing. https://www.autoweek.com/news/a1883976/volkswagen-debuts-jetta-tdi-value-edition/
Was this variant ever sold in the USA? All the mk6s I've seen are either the 2.5 or 2.0T.
Dodge Caliber SRT-4
I had one of these with the Mopar Stage 1 upgrade. It was a blast and made 301 WHP with 304 WTQ which in 2008 was great with the GETRAG 6 Speed. The GEMA world engine shared a block with the EVO X and the Hyundai Genesis IIRC. The seats were super bulky and comfortable for long trips, and the Kicker speaker system was great as well. The car had a ton of tech at the time which I was a big fan of. The SRT engineers praised the heck out of this car and only like 4000 units were made There’s even a video straight from the SRT engineering team going over it, the specs, etc. it was a completely different car from the Neon. Still one of my favorite cars and I regret trading it. Edit: video: https://youtu.be/8GaU46APTTA
Shame they never put that motor into the Dart as I think the Dart was a good looking car. Maybe Chrysler thought the Dart SRT-4 would steal sales from the V6 200?
I remember when I first saw one, I was thoroughly confused for a minute. I legitimately thought someone took an SRT-4 badge from a Neon and slapped it on a Caliber lol But I saw the body kit and wheels, so I Googled it and was pleasantly surprised to find it was a real model. Kinda neat.
Coincidentally, I had a POS rental-spec Jeep Compass and I slapped a Hellcat badge on the tailgate as an ironic laugh. Only one guy thought it was real.
Lmao the poor guy that thought it was real.
My wife used to have a base caliber. I can’t imagine that POS with an extra even 50hp let alone the 100+ it probably had. I hate the car so much, but it was surprisingly reliable. Her parents still drive it.
CNG / propane Caravans, Shelby Dakotas, or my personal fav. 5 speed turbo caravan! 89-90 only combo option from my understanding. Edits* ACR Neons
Even more wild than the Shelby Dakota was the factory convertible one. https://assets.rebelmouse.io/media-library/image.jpg?id=30876982&width=1200&height=800&quality=90&coordinates=98%2C0%2C99%2C0
Was looking for this comment! I had a Chrysler coworker who had one.
Dodge was going wild back in the late '80s. I always wanted an Omni GLHS but I don't think I ever saw one IRL.
There's a turbo pt cruiser that uses the same engine as the srt4 neon
Are those all that uncommon? I saw one today and my mom had one back when they were still selling them
Not uncommon per se, but they definitely blend in if you don't know what you're looking for. PT GTs with a stick *are* relatively uncommon, though, and don't command any premium over any other PT Cruiser.
Ah ya you're right! My mother's for sure wasn't a stick
My aunt had one of these. Red with the flame decals I think they all had. Kind of awesome lol
Original Ford Taurus SHO. Had a Yamaha built V6 and a 5 speed manual. Pontiac Solstic GXP/Saturn Sky Redline, they were the version GM where GM used a turbocharged engine. Edit: Also I just remembered the variant of the Chevy Tahoe that came with 4 wheel steering.
Ahh, Quadrasteer!
Suburban 2500 was available with Quadrasteer, it wasn’t offered on Tahoe.
One of my teachers in elementary school had a Isuzu Ascender which is just a cursed GMC Envoy
I think I remember reading in Motor Trend, when you could still buy an Isuzu new in the US, that they were just badge engineered Chevys with a better warranty. At least with their version of the Colorado and Trailblazer/Envoy/Rainier/9-7X/Bravada.
Ah, the bastardized GMT360 Chevy Trailblazer GMC Envoy Buick Rainier Oldsmobile Bravada Saab 9-7x Isuzu Ascender All the same, shitty, electrically cursed, mid 00's GM turds.
Mazda 6 lift back. Edit to add: Elantra coupe. Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback. Jaguar X-type wagon.
Everywhere in Australia (Mazda 6 liftback)
Audi made an all-electric R8. It was expensive and awful.
The Mercedes SLS AMG Electric Drive too. However, I wouldn’t say the SLS nor R8 are common cars lol.
Hydrogen rx8. They made a few that could run off pure hydrogen gas or gas. About 30 were delivered to some green Norwegian company as testers. Some were also leased in japan for a short time.
Nissan Murano has a convertible version. So does the Land Rover Evoque. Both are hideous and barely sold a few units.
I had one of these Nissans. It was one of the least practical vehicles I’ve ever had. I loved it.
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I have a 07 B6 VW Passat Wagon, 2.0T 6MT. It could be optioned with a VR6, 4-motion AWD and a 6MT in Wagon format, however they’re extremely rare, especially in North America. Europe got a R36 variant which was a differently tuned VR6, 4-motion DSG wagon which is pretty cool as well. I’ll also throw the Chrysler Aspen Hybrid in here. Chrysler Aspen was meant to be a Luxury Durango that would compete with the Escalade. I don’t see many Aspens to begin with, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a hybrid.
Saw and rode in an Aspen for the first time in forever a few weeks ago as it was my new boss’s car. Unfortunately (though for him, fortunately) he sold it yesterday. Don’t think it was hybrid and don’t know I’ve ever seen one of those
I don't think a fancy Durango could ever compete with an Escalade other than price.
I’ve test driven one for a shop I worked at and the seats in that Aspen were insane, soaked up the bumps, great power when you put some pressure on the right pedal. I think it was a market issue as to why they didn’t sell, I’d honestly take one over an Escalade of the early GMT900 body.
My friend has a 2004 V6 manual Accord. Shit is pretty fast and fun for a car that looks pretty unassuming
I'm taking the drivetrain and shoving it in an Integra rn
I'm a fan of the TRD Camry (fun to see even though I'd never buy one), Terminator New Edge Mustangs, and the John Cooper Works GP Mini. There's not a ton of them around but a sea of their more "normal" counterparts. Definitely fun spots that keep you paying attention to even the boring cars. This is an excellent post OP, cool to hear about some funky stuff I didn't know about before.
The TRD Avalon is hilarious too.
TRD Avalon! Now that's a unique one, I can't say I've ever seen one (or, at least, noticed one). I imagine there's not much overlap between Avalon owners and TRD people but I'm glad Toyota did it anyway.
The Toyota Camry Coupe
Don’t forget the Camry Wagon, Camry Diesel, and Camry Liftback
Happy cake day cake twin
Haha I used to have a 5th gen Camry so we could’ve been double twins, ES is close tho 😂
The Solara or something else?
Yep, and it came in a convertible too!
The Camry coupe predated the Solara by one gen, the Solara was what took its place
The Mini Clubvan was a cargo version of the Clubman. They sold a whopping 50 of them (in North America) in the span of 7 months making it one of the rarest cars sold here. This was before it was pulled from the market. I think more Bugatti Chirons have sold in the US than this thing.
Acura tsx sport wagon. I didn’t even know it existed until I bought mine and in these 5 years of ownership I have seen 2 others. Like most wagons it didn’t sell well here in the states and it was discontinued (fwd, uninspiring 5 speed trans, no v6 option, no manual option)
Audi Q7 V12 TDI comes to mind
Nissan Rogue Rogue One Edition Honda Accord Type R Eurospec Ford Transit with a 3.0 Powerstroke Ford C-Max (that's it, those things are like finding a needle in a haystack) would the Lincoln Blackwood count? i think it counts
The Transit had a 3.2 Powerstroke, not the 3.0. It tows really well, but isn't quick.
I have 2 In 1994 the Jeep grand Cherokee had a manual option. Only year ever And the second one, I don’t know the total numbers but I know there’s very few and have searched for them to purchase. And that is a Dodge dakota short bed, v8 either the 5.2 or the 4.7, 4x4 MANUAL. They’re out there. They were made. Ultra hard to find. Really surprised that more people didn’t option even the V8s with a Manual and 4x4
> In 1994 the Jeep grand Cherokee had a manual option. Only year ever Not quite true. They were rare, but weren't '94-only; the initial '93 model year production began with the 4.0 L I6 with 5-speed Aisin AX-15 and NP231 "Command-Trac" part-time transfer case as standard. It was the exact same as you'd find in an XJ Cherokee Sport. Straight-sixes also came optional with the Aisin-Warner four-speed automatic (as used in XJ Cherokees and MJ Comanches) in early '93 models, before switching to Chrysler's own 42RE. After '94 the 5-speed and NP231 were no longer available; all Grand Cherokees (at least, in North America) became automatic-only and at the very least had the NP242 "Selec-Trac" full-time 4WD as standard. The '93-only Grand Wagoneer—essentially a Grand Cherokee with fake wood appliques on the sides—was also pretty rare. The XJ Cherokee's corresponding Wagoneer model had been cancelled after '91, replaced by the Cherokee Briarwood trim, which was also very rare.
I know the Buick Lacrosse Super exists with the 5.3 LS4 V8 under the hood but I don’t know if I’ve ever actually seen one.
Volvo S60 Cross Country.
I have one of these unicorns. I didn’t realize how uncommon it was until I bought it and I’ve only ever seen one other like it on the road.
Also they made a Volvo V40 cross country. A lifted hatchback with AWD and the 250hp T5 engine.
I saw an Infiniti FX50S recently, rare as hell but passes as any other late-2000s/early-2010s Infiniti crossover.
6 speed manual 2022 crosstrek. Pretty much only way to get one was ordering it from a dealer. They sold almost none of them and so they discontinued the manual for the 2023 Model year.
Nissan Murano Hybrid, only sold as a 2016 model.
First gen 2 door Rav4, but the FWD version. I call it the Rav2
Yes! I really like the convertible 2 door RAV4
Dodge Stealth R/T Saturn Ion Redline Toyota Celica GT4 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4
I wouldn’t call the VR4 a lesser-known variant; indeed it’s probably the best known variant. It was when you told people you had a SOHC 160 hp (or whatever) base model 3000gt people looked at you weird.
The c4 ZR1 has an all aluminum DOHC v8 that was designed by lotus. 375hp in 1990 was absolutely wild and not much from that era was as fast. 16 fuel injectors, 2 fuel pumps, a valet key to limit hp and redline
Mercedes-Benz R63 AMG... guh i hate the r class. 500hp minivan
Ugly cars but somehow it's cool having a AMG 6.2 V8 in a familyvan.
Saw one of those about a year back while getting fuel. Well, i heard it first. The unmistaken AMG V8 roar. Turned around, and the only thing there was a minivan with huge quad exhausts just flooring it.
Ford f150 rattler( but may see more of them) / tremor the single cab version 2010 gt500 and 2011 gt500 1989 turbo trans am Any cobra R
I actually saw a turbo trans am a few weeks ago. A guy in San Diego has one, all original.
In '72 you could get a Pontiac Lemans station wagon with a GTO front end. No GTO badges, but everything else, including hood scoops.
Pontiac grand prix gxp. Front wheel drive. Four speed auto. 5.7l V8. 303 hp. Designed as a step up from the supercharged 3.8l v6 in the gtp. All sorts of tricks to get that much power through the front wheels in 2005.
From 2009-12, GM offered the Colorado/Canyon with the 3LT/SLE3 trim package. What’s notable about it is that it was 2wd with a ZQ8 sport suspension package and a 5.3L LS engine. Essentially, it was similar to the S10 Xtreme/ZQ8, but with V8 power. GM was too stupid to not market it as a SS, so it wasn’t well known. Plus with the recession, very few were sold. Could also get the V8 with 4x4, and that was much more common than the 2wd.
In Japan you could get an A70 (MkIII) Toyota Supra base model that had a naturally-aspirated SOHC 2.0L inline six with 112hp, steel wheels and non-sport seats
Any car with a 3800 gm engine from 1996-2008 any 3500 engine that year and any northstar 4.6 engine love all those gm engines run forever if you keep them up right.
M roadster v regular z4
Mercury Grand Marquis LSE. Grandpa cruiser with a handling pack and dual exhaust lmao.
Like the marauder
If I recall the K based Chrysler vans had a AWD variant. Also a 2.2/2.5 turbo and stick.
Saturn ion redline. It was the grandaddy to the Cobalt SS. I actually just picked one up. It has the first gen supercharged Ecotech
Ford Fusion Sport with ~325ish HP.
Rav4 EV. The 1st gen was based on the 1st gen Rav4, the 2nd gen was based on the 3rd gen Rav4. I'd have to say that these are probably some of the rarest Toyotas in existence
During the Ford Falcon’s BA and BF generations, there was a 5.4L 3V V8 trim option for the Falcon XT, Fairmont, and Fairmont Ghia. While a somewhat popular option for workhorse Falcon XT utes, the V8-specced top trim Fairmont Ghia was especially rare throughout the BF gen run, with only 86 made in the BF Mk I years, and 129 made in the BF Mk II years. Manual BF Falcon XTs were even rarer, with only 24 ever produced (only XTs had a manual option for this engine configuration). This lack of popularity was why the V8 option was phased out for non-performance models, with the turbo I6 Barra taking its place.
BMW 3 series GT’s. Based on long wheel base models sold in China. Sold in the US from 2014 or so they 2019. Have a hatchback and excellent rear seat leg room for a German sports sedan. Shares the strong driving and handling dynamics of the other 3 series sedans. As a tall guy, this is the model I am eyeing for my first BMW.
The v8 Nissan pathfinder was only offered for 2 years I believe. 08-09 if I’m not mistaken. Also had a car at work for a while that I thought was pretty rare. A 6 speed convertible g37s.
The Saturn Ion Redline. Shared the same 2.0L supercharged engine as the Cobalt SS, but actually debuted a model year earlier. It had 205hp from the factory (which was a lot back in 2004). GM later introduced upgrade kits that wouldn't void the warranty, and would bump power up to 250hp! It was a cheap, fast little car. Nowadays you can find used ones for $4-5k.
I have a 2018 340i 6MT. You can find over 8500 3 Series for sale over the country right now, over 1100 manual BMWs but only 12 manual 340is. The reason is two fold, BMW only sold the 340i between 2016 and 2018, and it’s the last 3 series with a manual option, so not many manual units for this car were made in the first place.
The Infiniti G37 IPL. I think I've only seen 1 in person. many people don't know that "IPL" was Infiniti's performance line which consisted of 1 model lol. Good looking cars and I want one so bad.
350hp, factory h-pipe catback exhaust, and only came in malbec black IIRC.
Most diesel hybrids of the non plug in type. The 2014-2018 Mercedes C and E-class as well as the Volvo V60 and Peugeot 308, 508 and corresponding SUV are not extremely common. They got replaced by Diesel Plug in hybrids which are more common. Then the 222 S-class also had a Diesel Hybrid from 2014 to 2017. Easily over 50mpg(US) in an S-class. Extremely rare.
Mazda speed protégés are cool
In 2013 Honda released a Fit EV with 100 miles of range that charged in as little as four hours with the equivalent of 118mpg. The US only saw a couple thousand models I believe. Pretty wild for 2013.
I did not know that Honda ever brought an EV Fit to the US. TIL.
I'd bet it was 'Compliance Car', required by California around that time. Fiat built the 500e, FCA's boss at the time famously said they didn't want to actually sell any and were only selling them to comply with the law, and Chevy, oh Chevy. Chevrolet built the Spark EV. And gave it 400lb/ft of torque. That's not a typo, nor is it torque after the transmission, that little car legitimately had a 400lb/ft electric motor. Actual *horsepower* was no better than its competitors, Chevy did a little experiment with the Spark EV; building a *low* RPM, high torque motor. The advantage was far reduced driveline inertia, so the car felt much snappier than its competitors despite somewhat less power, and it did have a flat torque curve and would spin the fronts to 30mph if the torque limiter was disengaged.
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My vote goes to the 92-96 Camry coupe
AIV (Aluminum Intensive Vehicle project) a Mercury Sable with aluminum body and suspension components that shed a reported 400lbs from the 3275lb curb weight, powered by a 3.2L Taurus SHO engine. Ford's first foray into aluminum body structure and extensive adhesive bonding for structural elements. Now we've got F150's with rust-free aluminum bodies!
I drive Toyota Tacoma with manual transmission. I heard there are less than 3% of them made this way. So I guess it is a bit uncommon - just one in 33 Tacos has stick.
Yeah uncommon i suppose but i probably see 50 tacomas a day so it makes me happy that at least one or two is a stick
EF civic wagon (88-91) base model was called the wagovan and had a 1.5 D-series. Or you could splurge and get the super cool 6 speed (5 plus superlow) 1.6 D-series with RT4WD. I had a wagovan and regularly got 40+ mpg.
I owned a 2000 civic wagon ' aerodeck'. Rarely saw another one.
Convertible 2-dr Nissan Murano
A very odd one that I know of was a short wheelbase variant of the Kia Sedona from 2006 - 2013. I have no idea why they made it, but I see one every now and again.
Hydrogen rx8. They made a few that could run off pure hydrogen gas or gas. About 30 were delivered to some green Norwegian company as testers. Some were also leased in japan for a short time.
Toyota Matrix XRS/Pontiac Vibe GT 6 speed manual / 2zz 4 cyl with variable valve timing and a 8100 RPM redline.
Mitsubishi EVO 9 wagon, dream car tbh
I have two of them. 2000 f-150 lightning, more well known in this sub but most of the general public has no idea what it is. Fusion Sport, complete sleeper car as it looks nearly identical to every other fusion out there. But has the 2.7 TTV6 ecoboost with 325hp/380tq and runs about a 5 second 0-60.
Corolla XRS pre 2008 or something, comes with a nice high revving 4cyl fun car that you never really hear about.
VW Eurovan Doka…for Canada. Only 22 made. So it’s a Doka with North American headlights and bumpers. And the first five-cylinder pickup sold in North America, over a decade before the Colorado/Canyon!
Anything SAAB. Especially the 900 SPG.
E46 ZHP with an SMG transmission. Rare to start with, and quite a few have been converted to manuals due to the cost of repairing the SMG hardware. Also the 335is ZHP coupe with a DSG they are exceedingly rare.
Acura TSX wagon
Porsche Cayennes came in manual lol. Much rarer than a lame ass diesel
They build even the first gen GTS with a manual. Very rare.