The 1980s. A decade synonymous with bold fashion, iconic music, and groundbreaking movies. But beyond the cultural zeitgeist, the 80s also gifted us some truly remarkable automobiles. From revolutionary hot hatches to dream-worthy supercars, this era was a golden age for automotive innovation and design.
For car enthusiasts, the 80s represent a sweet spot – a time when cars began to embrace modern technology while still retaining a raw, engaging driving experience. If you’re yearning for a dose of automotive nostalgia, look no further. We’ve curated a list of 15 of the best cars from the 1980s that not only defined the decade but continue to captivate car lovers today. Buckle up and let’s take a ride through some of the most iconic metal to emerge from the eighties.
1. Peugeot 205 GTi: The Quintessential Hot Hatch
- Production Run: 1984-1994
- Number Built: Approximately 330,000
- Engine: 1.6 or 1.9-litre petrol
- Estimated Used Price: £10,000 – £30,000
The Peugeot 205 GTi isn’t just one of the best hot hatchbacks of the 80s; many consider it one of the greatest of all time. Bursting onto the scene in 1984, it redefined the hot hatch segment with its playful handling and energetic engines. Automotive journalists of the era were instantly smitten with its agility and responsiveness.
Initially offered with a lively 105hp 1.6-litre petrol engine, Peugeot upped the ante in 1986 with a more potent 130hp 1.9-litre variant. Regardless of engine choice, the 205 GTi promised and delivered pure driving exhilaration, becoming a benchmark for hot hatches for decades to come. Its blend of affordability, practicality, and sheer fun makes it a true icon of the 80s and a sought-after classic today.
2. Ford Capri 2.8 Injection: The Affordable Dream Car
- Production Run: 1981-1986 (2.8 Injection variant)
- Number Built: Approximately 700,000 (MKIII Capri total)
- Engine: 2.8-litre fuel-injected V6
- Estimated Used Price: £10,000 – £40,000
“The car you always promised yourself” – Ford’s marketing slogan for the Capri resonated deeply, especially in the UK. The Ford Capri, since its 1969 debut, captured the hearts of drivers wanting style, performance, and affordability in one package. The MKIII Capri, launched in 1978, continued this legacy, but it was the 1981 Capri 2.8 Injection that truly amplified the appeal.
Equipped with a potent V6 engine borrowed from the Granada, the 2.8 Injection delivered a significant performance boost. For those seeking extra flair, the 2.8 Injection Special offered five-spoke alloy wheels and a Recaro-trimmed interior. The Capri’s journey culminated in 1986 with the 280 Brooklands edition, marking the end of an era for this beloved Ford coupe. The Capri 2.8 Injection remains a symbol of accessible performance and 80s cool.
3. Ferrari F40: The Ultimate 80s Supercar Icon
- Production Run: 1987-1992
- Number Built: 1,315
- Engine: 2.9-litre twin-turbo V8
- Estimated Used Price: Around £1 million and upwards
The Ferrari F40. Just the name evokes images of speed, passion, and 80s excess. More than just an 80s car, the F40 is an automotive icon, period. This raw, unfiltered machine, powered by a mid-mounted, twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V8 engine, was built with one purpose: to be blisteringly fast. It shattered the 200mph barrier for Ferrari, cementing its place in supercar history.
Limited to just 1,315 units, the F40’s exclusivity has only amplified its desirability and value. Stepping inside the F40 is a lesson in minimalism – no plush luxuries here, just pure, unadulterated focus on speed. Its track-focused DNA and visceral driving experience make the F40 the quintessential 80s supercar, a legend that continues to inspire awe and command stratospheric prices.
4. BMW M3 (E30): The Benchmark Sports Saloon
- Production Run: 1986-1991 (E30 M3)
- Number Built: Approximately 18,000
- Engine: 2.3-litre four-cylinder
- Estimated Used Price: £70,000+
The E30 BMW M3 wasn’t just a car; it was the genesis of an icon. Launched in 1986, it established the template for the modern sports saloon, blending racetrack prowess with everyday usability. Born from the world of touring car racing, the E30 M3 dominated championships while simultaneously becoming the must-have performance saloon for discerning drivers on the road.
Distinguished from the standard 3 Series by its flared wheel arches, deeper front bumpers, and other sporty enhancements, the M3 made a bold statement. Inside, the race-inspired “dog leg” gearbox, with first gear where second is typically found, hinted at its performance intentions. The E30 M3 remains a highly sought-after classic, representing the dawn of BMW’s legendary M division and the epitome of 80s performance saloon excellence.
5. Audi Quattro: Rally Legend and Four-Wheel Drive Pioneer
- Production Run: 1980-1991 (Original Quattro)
- Number Built: Approximately 11,500
- Engine: 2.2-litre inline-five cylinder
- Estimated Used Price: £50,000+
“Fire up the Quattro!” – these four words are practically synonymous with 80s car culture, thanks to the iconic Audi Quattro and its starring role in popular culture. But beyond its television fame, the ‘Ur Quattro’ (meaning “the original” in German) was a genuine game-changer. Its primary mission: to conquer the World Rally Championship.
Pioneering a four-wheel-drive system previously unseen in rally competition, the Quattro revolutionized the sport. It racked up an impressive 23 WRC victories, proving the dominance of all-wheel drive in rallying and beyond. For road users, the Quattro offered unparalleled grip and sure-footedness, especially in challenging conditions. The Audi Quattro is more than just an 80s car; it’s a symbol of innovation, rally heritage, and the dawn of all-wheel-drive performance for the masses.
6. Porsche 959: The Technological Tour-de-Force
- Production Run: 1986-1993
- Number Built: 292
- Engine: 2.8-litre flat-six
- Estimated Used Price: £1 Million+
The Porsche 959: the Ferrari F40’s technological nemesis. Conceived as a Group B rally homologation special, the 959 was a showcase of cutting-edge engineering. It boasted features unheard of in supercars at the time, including hydraulically height-adjustable suspension and even a crawler gear – features more akin to off-road vehicles than 200mph machines.
While the demise of Group B rallying curtailed its intended purpose, the 959 found other avenues to prove its capabilities, competing in the grueling Paris to Dakar rally and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Its sophisticated four-wheel-drive system, advanced materials, and twin-turbocharged flat-six engine made it a technological marvel of the 80s, and one of the most technologically advanced supercars ever created. The Porsche 959 remains a highly coveted collector car, representing the pinnacle of 80s automotive innovation.
7. Ford Fiesta XR2: The Fun and Affordable Hot Hatch
- Production Run: 1981-1984 (MK1 XR2)
- Number Built: Approximately 20,000 (MK1 XR2)
- Engine: 1.6-litre petrol
- Estimated Used Price: Around £15,000
The hot hatchback was a defining trend of the 1980s, and the Ford Fiesta XR2 was a prime example of this breed. Though often overshadowed by the Peugeot 205 GTi, the Fiesta XR2 was a formidable contender in its own right, offering a thrilling driving experience on twisty roads.
Powered by a 1.6-litre Crossflow engine producing 94hp, the Fiesta XR2 might not have boasted headline figures, but its lightweight construction (just 840kg) translated to nimble handling and grin-inducing fun behind the wheel. The Fiesta XR2 captured the spirit of the 80s hot hatch – accessible, exciting, and perfect for weekend blasts. It remains a popular classic, offering a nostalgic taste of 80s hot hatch thrills.
8. Alfa Romeo GTV6: Style and Sound to Die For
- Production Run: 1981-1989
- Number Built: 21,700
- Engine: Busso 2.5-litre V6
- Estimated Used Price: £15,000-£30,000
For petrolheads with a penchant for Italian flair, the Alfa Romeo GTV6 is an irresistible choice. Its allure is largely down to the legendary ‘Busso’ V6 engine, renowned for producing one of the most captivating engine notes ever to grace automotive soundwaves. The GTV6 was a feast for the senses, combining stunning Italian design with that glorious V6 soundtrack.
True to Alfa Romeo tradition, the GTV6 wasn’t without its quirks. The rear-mounted transaxle gearbox could be challenging to master, and reliability wasn’t its strongest suit. However, these minor flaws fade into insignificance the moment you unleash the Busso V6. The Alfa Romeo GTV6 is a testament to the passion and artistry of Italian car design in the 80s, a car that prioritizes emotion and driving pleasure above all else.
9. Nissan Skyline GT-R R32: The Dawn of the Japanese Performance Revolution
- Production Run: 1989-1994 (R32 GT-R)
- Number Built: 44,000 (R32 GT-R)
- Engine: 2.6-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six
- Estimated Used Price: £45,000 and upwards
Just sneaking into the 1980s is the Nissan Skyline GT-R R32, a car that would redefine Japanese performance cars and send shockwaves through the global automotive landscape. The R32 GT-R wasn’t just a car; it was a technological marvel, packed with advanced features for its time and possessing immense performance potential.
Officially rated at 276hp from its 2.6-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, the R32 GT-R was rumored to produce significantly more – a common practice among Japanese manufacturers at the time due to a gentlemen’s agreement on power output. Its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and advanced engineering earned it the nickname “Godzilla” for its track dominance. The Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 heralded the arrival of Japan as a serious player in the high-performance car world and remains an icon of 80s automotive engineering.
10. Renault Alpine GTA: French Flair and Mid-Engined Exoticism
- Production Run: 1986-1995
- Number Built: Approximately 7,400
- Engine: 2.9-litre V6
- Estimated Used Price: £15,000-£40,000
The Renault Alpine GTA was a relatively rare and often overlooked gem from the 80s, despite garnering praise from motoring journalists upon its release in 1984. Its mid-mounted V6 engine and striking, futuristic styling gave it the aura of a scaled-down supercar, offering a taste of exotic performance at a more accessible price point.
Utilizing a lightweight fibreglass body, the GTA prioritized agility and handling. The Turbo version delivered even more impressive performance, accelerating from 0-60mph in a brisk 7.0 seconds. The Renault Alpine GTA offered a unique blend of French style, mid-engined thrills, and relative exclusivity, making it a distinctive and desirable 80s sports car for those in the know.
11. Toyota MR2: Affordable Mid-Engined Fun for the Masses
- Production Run: 1984-1989 (First Generation MR2)
- Number Built: 160,000 (First Generation MR2)
- Engine: 1.6-litre petrol
- Estimated Used Price: £10,000-£30,000
The Toyota MR2 revitalized the sports car market when it arrived in 1984. Created in response to growing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, the MR2 proved that fun and frugality could coexist. It democratized the mid-engined sports car experience, offering a configuration previously reserved for expensive exotics at a price point accessible to a wider audience.
The MR2’s name, an acronym for “Midship Runabout 2-seater,” perfectly described its layout. Its rev-happy 1.6-litre engine, combined with a lightweight chassis, delivered a driving experience that could rival contemporary hot hatchbacks in terms of sheer enjoyment. The Toyota MR2 is celebrated for its affordability, engaging handling, and for making the mid-engined sports car dream a reality for many 80s car enthusiasts.
12. Renault 5 GT Turbo: The Pocket Rocket Hot Hatch
- Production Run: 1985-1991
- Number Built: 160,000
- Engine: 1.4-litre turbo petrol
- Estimated Used Price: £10,000-£50,000
Hot hatchbacks were undeniably the stars of the 80s automotive scene, and for good reason: they were practical, affordable, and incredibly fun to drive. While the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Peugeot 205 GTi often steal the limelight, the Renault 5 GT Turbo is an equally deserving, if somewhat overlooked, 80s hot hatch hero.
Don’t let its diminutive size fool you. The Renault 5 GT Turbo packed a punchy 1.4-litre turbocharged engine, producing 110hp and achieving a 0-60mph sprint in a respectable 8.7 seconds. Its featherweight construction made it incredibly agile and eager to corner. The Renault 5 GT Turbo is a reminder that 80s hot hatch thrills came in all shapes and sizes, and that sometimes, the smallest packages deliver the biggest doses of fun.
13. Ford Sierra Cosworth: The Blue-Collar Performance Icon
- Production Run: 1986-1992
- Number Built: Approximately 10,000
- Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged
- Estimated Used Price: £15,000-£100,000
Fast Fords have always held a special place in the hearts of UK car enthusiasts. Representing accessible performance for the masses, the Ford Sierra Cosworth stands as one of the most iconic of these blue-collar heroes. Developed for homologation under 1980s FIA Touring Car and rally racing regulations, the Sierra Cosworth was built for speed and excitement.
Its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivered a potent 204hp. Combined with its distinctive whale-tail rear spoiler, the Sierra Cosworth became the ultimate boy-racer dream car of the era. Unfortunately, its popularity also made it a target for thieves due to its relatively weak security systems, leading to high insurance premiums. Despite this, the Ford Sierra Cosworth remains a symbol of 80s performance and a highly collectible fast Ford.
14. Lancia Delta Integrale: The Rally-Bred Legend
- Production Run: 1987-1993 (Delta Integrale)
- Number Built: 44,000 (Delta Integrale variants)
- Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged
- Estimated Used Price: Up to £100,000
The Lancia Delta started life as a rather unassuming hatchback in 1979. However, throughout the 80s, it underwent a remarkable transformation, evolving into a world-beating rally machine: the Lancia Delta Integrale.
Launched in 1987, the Delta Integrale was a further refinement of the earlier Delta HF 4WD, optimized for rally dominance. It featured wider wheels to accommodate larger brakes and its iconic blistered wheel arches became a signature design element. Continuously developed and improved throughout its production run, culminating in the ultimate Integrale Evoluzione 2 in 1993, the Lancia Delta Integrale cemented its place as a rally legend and one of the most desirable 80s performance cars.
15. Talbot Sunbeam Lotus: The Unexpected Rally Star
- Production Run: 1979-1981
- Number Built: 2,308
- Engine: 2.3-litre petrol
- Estimated Used Price: Up to £60,000
A slightly left-field choice, but the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus is a truly special car from the fringes of the 80s. Born from Chrysler’s ambition to challenge the Ford Escort RS in rallying, Lotus was enlisted to inject some sporting DNA into their humble Sunbeam hatchback.
The Sunbeam Lotus received a potent 2.3-litre engine and a stiff, rear-wheel-drive chassis. Motoring journalists of the time lauded its exceptional handling and driving dynamics. Despite its critical acclaim, sales were slow, resulting in a short production run of just two years and a limited production of only 2,308 units. The Talbot Sunbeam Lotus remains a rare and intriguing piece of 80s automotive history, a testament to the potential of collaboration and a reminder that sometimes, the underdogs can deliver exceptional performance.
The Enduring Appeal of 80s Automotive Excellence
The cars of the 1980s represent a unique blend of emerging technology and raw driving engagement. From the dawn of the hot hatch to the rise of the supercar and the golden age of rallying, the 80s gifted us a diverse and exciting array of automobiles. These 15 cars are just a snapshot of the decade’s best, each holding a special place in automotive history and continuing to inspire passion and admiration among car enthusiasts worldwide. They stand as rolling reminders of a vibrant era in automotive design and engineering, and their appeal shows no signs of fading.
