The 1980s. A decade of iconic moments, groundbreaking music from Pink Floyd to booming pop anthems, unforgettable movies like the A-Team hitting the screens, and let’s not forget the revolutionary fashion. But beyond the cultural phenomena, the 80s also delivered some truly exceptional automobiles. For car enthusiasts, the era represents a golden age of automotive design and innovation, birthing vehicles that are as cool today as they were back then.
So, buckle up and prepare for a blast from the past as we dive into our curated list of 15 of the coolest cars from the 1980s. From nimble hot hatches perfect for weekend drives to breathtaking supercars that still turn heads, this list is a celebration of the best the 80s automotive scene had to offer.
Our Top Picks for the Coolest 1980s Cars:
- Peugeot 205 GTi
- Ford Capri 2.8i
- Ferrari F40
- BMW M3
- Audi Quattro
- Porsche 959
- Ford Fiesta XR2
- Alfa Romeo GTV6
- Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R
- Renault Alpine GTA
- Toyota MR2
- Renault 5 GT Turbo
- Ford Sierra Cosworth
- Lancia Delta Integrale
- Talbot Sunbeam Lotus
1. Peugeot 205 GTi: The Hot Hatch Hero
- Production: 1984-1994
- Units Built: Approximately 330,000
- Engine: 1.6 or 1.9-liter petrol engines
- Estimated Value: £10,000 – £30,000
The Peugeot 205 GTi isn’t just a car; it’s a legend in the hot hatchback world. Launched in 1984, it quickly became the benchmark for its class, earning rave reviews from motoring journalists for its incredibly agile handling and spirited engine performance. This car redefined what a small, affordable car could be, proving that practicality and driving thrills could go hand-in-hand.
Initially, the 205 GTi came with a lively 1.6-liter petrol engine producing 105 horsepower. Responding to demand for even more power, Peugeot introduced a 1.9-liter variant in 1986, boosting output to 130 horsepower. Regardless of the engine choice, the Peugeot 205 GTi delivered an unmatched fun-to-drive experience, making it a true icon of the Cool 80s Cars era.
2. Ford Capri 2.8 Injection: The Quintessential British Coupe
- Production: 1981-1986 (2.8 Injection variant)
- Total MKIII Capri Production: Around 700,000
- Engine: 2.8-liter fuel-injected V6
- Estimated Value: £10,000 – £40,000
“The car you always promised yourself” – Ford’s marketing slogan for the Capri perfectly captured the aspiration this coupe inspired. While the Capri debuted in 1969, it was the MKIII, and especially the 2.8 Injection model from 1981, that truly resonated with the 80s vibe. It was a car that was fast, stylish, and attainable, especially in the UK where it gained a massive following. The Ford Capri was the cool car next door.
The 1978 MKIII revamp gave the Capri a fresh look, and the 1981 introduction of the 2.8 Injection, powered by a punchy V6 engine borrowed from the Granada, elevated its performance. For those wanting extra flair, the Capri 2.8 Injection Special added five-spoke alloy wheels and sporty Recaro seats. The Capri’s story concluded in 1986 with the limited edition 280 Brooklands, cementing its status as a cool 80s classic.
3. Ferrari F40: The Pin-Up Supercar
- Production: 1987-1992
- Units Built: 1,315
- Engine: 2.9-liter twin-turbo V8
- Estimated Value: Around £1 million and upwards
The Ferrari F40. Simply uttering its name evokes images of speed, exclusivity, and pure 80s supercar cool. More than just an 80s car, the F40 is an icon of automotive history. Its mid-mounted, twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V8 engine was a technological marvel, pushing Ferrari past the 200 mph barrier. Limited to just 1,315 units, the F40’s rarity has only amplified its desirability and value, making it the ultimate dream car for many.
This wasn’t a Ferrari focused on luxury; it was raw, visceral, and built for pure speed. Stepping into the F40 was a statement – a commitment to performance above all else. Its track-focused nature and unfiltered driving experience make the F40 a true legend, perfectly embodying the cool and excessive spirit of the 80s.
4. BMW M3 (E30): The Benchmark Sports Saloon
- Production: 1986-1991
- Units Built: Approximately 18,000
- Engine: 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine
- Estimated Value: £70,000+
The E30 BMW M3 launched in 1986, igniting the now-iconic M3 lineage of high-performance sports saloons. Born from racing, the E30 M3 dominated touring car championships, proving its engineering prowess on the track. But it wasn’t just a racer; on the road, it became the ultimate status symbol, the “yuppie super-saloon” that everyone aspired to own. The BMW M3 was the cool, sophisticated choice for the discerning driver.
The M3 distinguished itself from the standard 3 Series with aggressive flared wheel arches and deeper front bumpers, hinting at its performance capabilities. Inside, the race-inspired “dog leg” gearbox, with first gear where second usually is, added to its unique character. The E30 M3 set the standard for sports saloons, and its cool factor remains incredibly high today.
5. Audi Quattro: The Rally Legend That Conquered the Road
- Production: 1980-1991
- Units Built: Approximately 11,500
- Engine: 2.2-liter inline-five cylinder engine
- Estimated Value: £50,000+
“Fire up the Quattro!” – these four words are synonymous with 80s cool, thanks in part to the iconic TV show “Ashes to Ashes.” The image of Gene Hunt, sliding around in a vibrant red Audi Quattro, perfectly encapsulates the car’s powerful and slightly rebellious image. But the ‘Ur Quattro’ (meaning “the original Quattro” in German) was more than just a TV star; it was a rally car engineered to dominate the World Rally Championship.
The Quattro’s groundbreaking four-wheel-drive system was revolutionary, changing the landscape of rally racing forever. It secured 23 WRC victories, proving the superiority of all-wheel drive in motorsport. This technology wasn’t just for the track; it translated into incredible roadholding and performance for everyday drivers, making the Audi Quattro a cool and technologically advanced icon of the 80s.
6. Porsche 959: The Technological Tour-de-Force
- Production: 1986-1993
- Units Built: 292
- Engine: 2.8-liter flat-six engine
- Estimated Value: £1 Million+
Enter the Porsche 959, the Ferrari F40’s technological rival. Conceived as a Group B rally homologation special, the 959 was a showcase of cutting-edge engineering. Features like hydraulically adjustable suspension and even a crawler gear, unheard of in a 200 mph Porsche supercar, highlighted its innovative spirit. The Porsche 959 was not just cool; it was a glimpse into the future of automotive technology.
Group B rallying’s demise sadly curtailed the 959’s intended rally career. However, this four-wheel-drive marvel found other arenas to prove its capabilities, competing in events like the Paris to Dakar rally and the Le Mans 24-hour race. Its rarity and technological sophistication solidify the Porsche 959 as one of the coolest and most significant cars of the 80s.
7. Ford Fiesta XR2: The Pocket Rocket Hot Hatch
- Production: 1981-1984 (MK1 XR2)
- Units Built: Approximately 20,000
- Engine: 1.6-liter petrol engine
- Estimated Value: Around £15,000
The hot hatchback was a defining car type of the 1980s, and the Ford Fiesta XR2 was a prime example of the breed. While often compared to the Peugeot 205 GTi, the Fiesta XR2 held its own as a fun, affordable, and cool choice. It proved that you didn’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy spirited driving on your favorite back roads.
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Its 1.6-liter Crossflow engine, producing 94 horsepower, might seem modest by today’s standards. However, the Fiesta XR2’s light weight of just 840kg meant that power translated into plenty of smiles per mile, especially when tackling twisty roads. The Ford Fiesta XR2 was a cool and accessible entry into the world of hot hatches.
8. Alfa Romeo GTV6: The Italian Stallion with a V6 Soundtrack
- Production: 1981-1989
- Units Built: 21,700
- Engine: Busso 2.5-liter V6 engine
- Estimated Value: £15,000-£30,000
For true petrolheads, an Alfa Romeo holds a special allure, and the GTV6 is a shining example of why. Its appeal is largely thanks to the legendary “Busso” V6 engine, renowned for producing one of the most captivating engine notes ever. The Alfa Romeo GTV6 was cool because it appealed to the senses, offering a driving experience that was as much about sound and passion as it was about speed.
True to Alfa Romeo’s reputation, 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, all was easily forgiven the moment you pressed the accelerator and unleashed that glorious V6 soundtrack. The Alfa Romeo GTV6 was cool in its imperfections, embodying Italian flair and passion.
9. Nissan Skyline GT-R R32: The Godzilla from Japan
- Production: 1989-1994 (barely makes the 80s cut!)
- Units Built: 44,000
- Engine: 2.6-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine
- Estimated Value: £45,000 and upwards
Squeezing into the 80s right at the end, the Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 is a car that redefined performance and Japanese automotive engineering. It’s not just an 80s car; it’s a legend that continues to inspire awe. The R32 GT-R was one of the most technologically advanced cars of its time, earning the nickname “Godzilla” for its monstrous performance and track dominance. It was undeniably cool and set the stage for future generations of GT-Rs.
Its 2.6-liter twin-turbo engine officially produced 276 horsepower – or so Nissan claimed. A gentlemen’s agreement among Japanese automakers in the 80s and 90s limited advertised horsepower figures to 276hp, but many suspected the R32 GT-R actually produced significantly more. Regardless of the official numbers, the Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 was a performance powerhouse, making it one of the coolest and most influential cars of the late 80s.
10. Renault Alpine GTA: The Understated French Sports Car
- Production: 1986-1995
- Units Built: Approximately 7,400
- Engine: 2.9-liter V6 engine
- Estimated Value: £15,000-£40,000
The Renault Alpine GTA was a somewhat rare sight when it debuted in 1984, despite receiving praise from motoring journalists. Its mid-mounted V6 engine and striking, almost miniature supercar styling, gave it a unique cool factor. The Renault Alpine GTA was a cool and distinctive alternative to more mainstream sports cars.
Constructed with a lightweight fiberglass body, the GTA prioritized handling and agility. The Turbo version offered impressive performance, accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 7.0 seconds. The Renault Alpine GTA was a cool and capable sports car that deserves more recognition for its 80s charm and driving dynamics.
11. Toyota MR2: The Fun and Frugal Mid-Engine Roadster
- Production: 1984-1989
- Units Built: 160,000
- Engine: 1.6-liter petrol engine
- Estimated Value: £10,000-£30,000
The Toyota MR2 injected fresh excitement into the sports car market when it arrived in 1984. Born in response to a growing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, the MR2 proved that a car could be both economical and exhilarating to drive. The Toyota MR2 was cool because it democratized the mid-engine sports car experience, making it accessible to a wider audience.
The “Midship Runabout 2-seater” (MR2) featured a rev-happy, mid-mounted 1.6-liter engine. Combined with its lightweight construction, this configuration delivered handling that could rival the hottest hatchbacks of the era in terms of sheer driving fun. The Toyota MR2 was a cool and clever sports car that stood out from the crowd.
12. Renault 5 GT Turbo: The Pocket-Sized Turbocharged Hot Hatch
- Production: 1985-1991
- Units Built: 160,000
- Engine: 1.4-liter turbo petrol engine
- Estimated Value: £10,000-£50,000
Hot hatchbacks were undeniably popular in the 1980s, and for good reason. They were practical, affordable, and incredibly fun to drive. While the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Peugeot 205 GTi often take center stage, the Renault 5 GT Turbo is a hot hatch gem that deserves equal attention. The Renault 5 GT Turbo was cool because it delivered thrilling turbocharged performance in a compact and cheeky package.
The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine was surprisingly potent for its time, producing 110 horsepower and achieving 0-60 mph in a brisk 8.7 seconds. Its featherweight construction further enhanced its agility, making it a corner-carving delight. The Renault 5 GT Turbo was a cool and often overlooked hot hatch hero of the 80s.
13. Ford Sierra Cosworth: The Blue-Collar Performance Icon
- Production: 1986-1992
- Units Built: Approximately 10,000
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged engine
- Estimated Value: £15,000-£100,000
Fast Fords have always been popular in the UK, representing accessible performance for the masses. The Sierra Cosworth is arguably the most iconic of them all. Developed for homologation under 1980s FIA Touring Car and rally racing regulations, the “Cossie” packed a serious punch. The Ford Sierra Cosworth was cool because it was a performance car for the people, with a distinctive and aggressive style.
Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivered 204 horsepower, and the signature whale-tail rear spoiler made it an instant icon. The Sierra Cosworth was a dream car for many, but its popularity also made it a target for thieves due to its less-than-stellar security. Despite this, the Ford Sierra Cosworth remains a cool and highly sought-after 80s performance car.
14. Lancia Delta Integrale: The Rally Champion for the Road
- Production: 1987-1993 (Integrale variant)
- Units Built: 44,000 (Delta Integrale models)
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged engine
- Estimated Value: Up to £100,000
The Lancia Delta began its life as a rather ordinary hatchback in 1979. However, throughout the 80s, it evolved into a rally-dominating force, culminating in the legendary Delta Integrale. The Lancia Delta Integrale was cool because it was a rally car for the road, bringing world-beating performance and pedigree to the streets.
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Launched in 1987, the Delta Integrale built upon the previous Delta HF 4WD, further optimizing it for rally competition. It featured wider wheels to accommodate larger brakes and those iconic blistered wheel arches. Continuously refined throughout its production run, culminating in the final Integrale Evoluzione 2 in 1993, the Lancia Delta Integrale remains a cool and highly collectible piece of rally and automotive history.
15. Talbot Sunbeam Lotus: The Unexpected Rally Weapon
- Production: 1979-1981 (just sneaks into the 80s!)
- Units Built: 2,308
- Engine: 2.3-liter petrol engine
- Estimated Value: Up to £60,000
Rounding out our list with a bit of a wildcard, the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus is a truly special and cool car. Born from Chrysler’s ambition to challenge the Ford Escort RS in rallying, Lotus was enlisted to inject some performance magic into their humble Sunbeam hatchback. The Talbot Sunbeam Lotus was cool because it was an underdog, an unexpected rally contender with Lotus pedigree.
The Sunbeam Lotus received a potent 2.3-liter engine and a stiff, rear-wheel-drive chassis. Motoring journalists of the time lauded its exceptional driving dynamics. Despite its critical acclaim, sales were slow, resulting in a short production run of only two years and just 2,308 cars built. This rarity only adds to the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus’s cool and collectible status today.
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