The 1960s was a decade of revolution, and this spirit of change was clearly reflected in the automotive world. From groundbreaking designs to powerful engines, cars of the 60s were anything but ordinary. Driven by the space race and a booming economy, car manufacturers pushed boundaries, creating vehicles that were both stylish and exciting. Let’s take a drive down memory lane and explore some of the most Popular Cars In The 1960s, vehicles that not only captured the essence of the decade but also continue to be celebrated today.
Ford Mustang
Arguably the most iconic car of the decade, the Ford Mustang, launched in 1964, ignited a phenomenon. It wasn’t just a car; it was a cultural symbol. Appealing to a younger generation with its sporty looks and affordable price tag, the Mustang was a game-changer. While the early models weren’t necessarily powerhouses, the option for a V8 engine hinted at its performance potential. As the decade progressed, the Mustang evolved, boasting more potent V8s and a desirable four-speed manual transmission, turning it into a true performance machine. Available in fastback and convertible versions, the Mustang offered something for everyone. Even Carroll Shelby, the legendary automotive designer and racer, contributed to its legacy with high-performance variants. The Mustang’s impact was so profound that even today, it remains instantly recognizable, even to those with limited car knowledge. Its blend of style, performance, and affordability made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s and cemented its place in automotive history.
Chevrolet Camaro
Chevrolet’s answer to the Mustang arrived two and a half years later in the form of the Camaro. Following a similar formula, the Camaro was lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and offered a vast array of engine options and striking design. By the late 1960s, the muscle car era was booming, and the Camaro was strategically positioned to capitalize on this trend, even offering big-block engine options from the start. While it initially trailed the Mustang in sales, the first-generation Camaro has become a highly sought-after classic, commanding top prices at auctions like Barrett-Jackson. Its aggressive styling and powerful engine choices made the Chevy Camaro a strong contender and one of the most popular cars in the 1960s, embodying the muscle car spirit of the era.
Chevrolet Corvette C2
While the C3 Corvette, known for its NASA-inspired colors and association with Apollo astronauts, is also a product of the 60s, it’s the preceding C2 generation that is most often associated with the decade. Emerging from the 1950s-era C1, the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray was directly inspired by the stunning Mako Shark concept car, translating much of its futuristic design into production. This generation marked significant advancements, including the introduction of the big-block engine and independent rear suspension, finally elevating the Corvette to true sports car status. Initially relatively accessible, the big-block C2 Corvettes are now highly valuable collectibles, often fetching six-figure sums. The C2 Corvette’s combination of breathtaking design and performance upgrades cemented its status as one of the most popular cars in the 1960s and a symbol of American automotive excellence.
Volkswagen Beetle
The Volkswagen Beetle boasts a remarkable history, with production spanning from 1938 all the way to 2003. The most iconic and popular cars in the 1960s version, the Type 1, is also the most successful, selling over 21 million units globally. These small, air-cooled cars were not only fun to drive and affordable but also surprisingly reliable. They paved the way for the acceptance of German automotive engineering in the US market, setting the stage for brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The original Beetle continued production in Mexico for many years, even alongside the radically different New Beetle. In its final year, a limited run of 3,000 commemorative editions was produced, each boasting a modest 50 horsepower. The Beetle’s global appeal and enduring design made it a truly popular car in the 1960s, beloved for its simplicity and charm.
Volkswagen Microbus
Officially known as the Type 2, the Volkswagen Microbus, affectionately nicknamed the “hippie van,” achieved similar levels of sales and pop culture impact as the Beetle. The 1960s saw production of both the T1 and the less visually appealing T2 generations. Sharing similarities with the Beetle, including a rear-mounted air-cooled engine and rear-wheel drive, the Microbus prioritized practicality and space over sporty handling due to its higher center of gravity. The “chicken tax” in the early 1970s significantly impacted van imports into the US, limiting the Microbus’s popularity stateside compared to its global success, where it remained in production until 2013. Despite this, the Microbus became an enduring symbol of the 1960s counterculture and remains one of the most popular cars in the 1960s, recognized for its iconic shape and association with freedom and adventure.
Lincoln Continental
A true design icon of the 1960s, the slab-sided Lincoln Continental was produced from 1961 to 1969. Its design was a radical departure from the previous Mark X Continental, although both were undeniably large vehicles. A distinctive feature of this generation was the introduction of rear-hinged “suicide doors.” Combined with its imposing presence, luxurious interior, and smooth ride, the Continental was a successful seller in the high-end luxury car market. It also gained notoriety as the car President John F. Kennedy was riding in during his assassination in 1963. The Lincoln Continental’s bold design and luxurious features made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s for those seeking sophisticated American luxury.
Plymouth Barracuda
While today the Plymouth Barracuda is renowned as one of the most valuable muscle cars at auction, its origins were relatively modest. Launched just two weeks ahead of the Ford Mustang, the first-generation Barracuda was a stylish fastback version of the Plymouth Valiant. While the front end was conventional, the rear featured a distinctive and expansive wraparound glass. The second generation, introduced in 1967, adopted a more muscular aesthetic and offered potent V8 engines, including the legendary 426 Hemi. The Barracuda’s evolution from a stylish coupe to a powerful muscle car contributed to its popularity and solidified its place among the popular cars in the 1960s, especially for enthusiasts seeking Mopar performance.
Shelby Cobra
Carroll Shelby, a celebrated race car driver, aimed to create a lightweight and powerful sports car in the early 1960s. By combining the British AC Ace body with a Ford-sourced V8 engine, Shelby created one of the most legendary sports cars of all time, suitable for both racing and street driving. Sold from 1962 to 1967, the Shelby Cobra is often categorized with the ultimate muscle cars. Weighing just over 2,000 lbs and equipped with a massive 427 V8, the Cobra could achieve a 0-60 mph acceleration in a mere 4.5 seconds, traction permitting. The Shelby Cobra’s raw power and lightweight construction made it one of the most exhilarating and popular cars in the 1960s for those craving unadulterated performance.
Futura – Batmobile
What is a 1955 Lincoln concept car doing on a list of 1960s cars? Well, after its run on the auto show circuit, the futuristic bubble-top concept car, known as the Lincoln Futura, changed owners several times and fell into disrepair. When ABC decided to bring Batman to television for the first time, they needed a fitting Batmobile. The Futura was quickly and expensively transformed into the iconic Batmobile, becoming a favorite ride for a generation of superhero fans. While not a production car in the traditional sense, the Batmobile, based on the Futura, became one of the most popular cars in the 1960s in the public consciousness, thanks to its prominent role in the Batman TV series.
Jaguar E-Type
Produced from 1961 to 1975, the Jaguar E-Type defined British sports cars of the era. Universally acclaimed for its stunning beauty, the E-Type is often cited among the most beautiful cars ever designed. Built upon a proper racing frame, its chassis was well-engineered, delivering exceptional driving dynamics. The Series 1 E-Type offered smooth inline-six cylinder engines, though perhaps not the most reliable. Nevertheless, the Jaguar E-Type single-handedly boosted the popularity of British cars in the US market. The Jaguar E-Type’s breathtaking aesthetics and engaging driving experience made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s and a symbol of sophisticated British motoring.
Ferrari 250 GTO
The Ferrari 250 GTO was the equivalent of the F40 for the 1960s. Another contender for the title of “most beautiful car on this list,” the 250 GTO is an early masterpiece from Enzo Ferrari’s design studios. It featured a 3.0-liter V12 engine producing 300 horsepower in a car weighing just under 2,000 lbs. It dominated racetracks worldwide. Originally priced at roughly twice the cost of a Corvette, it was still a relative bargain for an exotic car with such performance and pedigree. Today, owning a 250 GTO is a dream for the ultra-wealthy. In 2013, one sold at auction for over $38 million, and currently, some are listed for over $55 million. The Ferrari 250 GTO’s racing pedigree, stunning design, and extreme rarity make it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s among collectors and enthusiasts, albeit unattainable for most.
Ford GT40
From 1964 to 1969, Carroll Shelby played a pivotal role in developing Ford’s ultimate performance car, the GT40. While his Cobra and Daytona were successful in the GT class, Henry Ford II sought to challenge Ferrari in the top prototype class at Le Mans. The visually striking GT40 initially showed promise but struggled with reliability on the track. Once Shelby took over the program, the 427 V8-powered GT40 became a dominant force. Its racing success was unparalleled, famously winning the 24 Hours of Daytona, 12 Hours of Sebring, and 24 Hours of Le Mans in the same year, securing first, second, and third place in all three races. The Ford GT40’s racing dominance and striking design made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s, representing American engineering prowess on the world stage.
Aston Martin DB5
The Aston Martin DB5 is arguably the quintessential grand tourer, setting the benchmark for all subsequent GT cars. Even upon its debut in 1963, it exuded sophistication and luxury. Many consider it as aesthetically pleasing as the iconic Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. Powered by a potent 4.0-liter inline-six engine, renowned for its smoothness, paired with a ZF 5-speed transmission (a rarity for the time), the DB5 offered both performance and refinement. Its classic, muscular yet elegant lines and design cues are still evident in modern Aston Martins. This timeless appeal made it James Bond’s car of choice, and for many, their dream car as well. The Aston Martin DB5’s timeless elegance and association with James Bond cemented its place as one of the most popular cars in the 1960s and a symbol of British sophistication and style.
Chevrolet Chevelle
The Chevrolet Chevelle is frequently ranked among the top muscle cars of all time. While its exact position on such lists is debatable, its legendary status within the muscle car pantheon is undeniable. The Chevelle reached its performance peak in 1970 with the 450 hp LS6 SS, but the 1960s versions were far from slow. The 1964 debut model, while starting with a modest 220 hp V8, quickly evolved as the muscle car wars escalated, spurred on by the Pontiac GTO. The 327 engine was added mid-year, and by 1966, the powerful 396 engine, producing well over 350 hp, became available. The Chevy Chevelle’s combination of versatility, performance potential, and classic muscle car styling made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s and a favorite among enthusiasts.
Pontiac GTO
Speaking of the GTO, Pontiac’s executives, facing a ban on factory-backed racing, sought to inject excitement into their model lineup. Another restriction at the time limited mid-size cars to smaller engines (330 cubic inches or less), but Pontiac cleverly circumvented this by offering the GTO as an option package, which included a powerful 325 hp 389 V8 engine. Producing significantly more horsepower than its mid-size competitors, the GTO instantly became a sensation and a pop culture icon, widely credited with launching the muscle car era. The Pontiac GTO’s groundbreaking performance and rebellious image made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s and a catalyst for the muscle car revolution.
Lamborghini Miura
The iconic Lamborghini Miura is celebrated for its beauty, yet surprisingly, company founder Ferruccio Lamborghini wasn’t initially enthusiastic about it. He preferred luxurious GT cars, such as Lamborghini’s earlier 350GT and 400GT models. The Miura was a radical departure, featuring sleek, race car-inspired lines and a groundbreaking mid-engine layout. Upon its debut in 1966, its 3.9-liter V12 engine produced an impressive 350 hp, and its aerodynamic design enabled it to become the fastest production car in the world at the time. The Lamborghini Miura’s revolutionary design and performance made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s and a defining supercar of the era, paving the way for future mid-engine sports cars.
Chevrolet Impala
The 1961 Chevrolet Impala debuted Chevy’s full-size styling direction for the new decade, showcasing cleaner, more streamlined lines for their large cars. The third-generation Impala continued to offer Chevrolet’s largest engines, including the legendary 409, famously immortalized in a Beach Boys song. It wasn’t just its size that was notable for the time; the 409 cubic inch engine’s output of one horsepower per cubic inch made the Impala a formidable force on the drag strip. Its massive fenders and trunk later became popular among lowrider enthusiasts, providing ample space for airbags and hydraulic systems. The Chevrolet Impala’s combination of size, power, and cultural relevance made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s, appealing to a broad spectrum of car buyers.
Porsche 911
Ferdinand Porsche sought to create a larger, more powerful successor to his first model, the 356. This replacement would become an automotive legend, outliving its creator – the Porsche 911. The 1964 911, while not a powerhouse with its 128 hp flat-six engine, possessed the iconic design and exceptional handling dynamics that would become Porsche hallmarks. The infamous Porsche options list began in the 1960s, offering features like targa tops and even gasoline-burning cabin heaters. While the turbocharging wouldn’t arrive until the 1970s, the foundation for the 911 legend was laid in the 60s. The Porsche 911’s enduring design and focus on driving purity made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s and the foundation for one of the most respected sports car lineages in history.
Toyota 2000GT
Japan’s first collectible car, the Toyota 2000GT, began as a show car in 1965. Its overwhelmingly positive reception led to production in 1967. While its 2.0-liter inline-six engine was less powerful compared to other GT cars of the era, its exceptional handling prowess allowed it to outperform many more powerful cars on the track, earning it a dedicated following and numerous racing victories. Its design is considered among the finest examples of “coke bottle” styling, and it was even featured as James Bond’s car in You Only Live Twice. The Toyota 2000GT’s striking design and surprising performance established it as one of the most popular cars in the 1960s and a symbol of Japan’s burgeoning automotive industry.
Lotus Elan
Looking at a 1960s Lotus Elan, one might mistakenly think it’s a 1990s Mazda Miata. The Lotus design was remarkably forward-thinking (and the Miata was intentionally retro), making the Elan look contemporary even today. Unapologetically a sports car, initially offered only as a two-seat roadster, the Elan, with just 108 hp at launch, relied on its incredibly lightweight construction and superb handling to deliver a genuinely fun driving experience. Its minimalist design was attractive, low-slung, and curvaceous. It became a legend in its time, elevating Lotus’s global reputation. The Lotus Elan’s focus on lightweight and handling made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s for driving enthusiasts seeking pure sports car thrills.
Buick Riviera
In the early 1960s, Buick needed a personal luxury car to compete with the wildly successful Ford Thunderbird. Inspired by a custom Rolls-Royce, Buick’s design chief, Bill Mitchell, envisioned a sharp-edged design for GM. After some refinement, the 1963 Riviera was launched to both critical acclaim and strong sales. Its combination of sharp, angular lines with emerging muscular styling created arguably the most beautiful Buick ever produced. Later versions offered even greater performance, but the first-generation Riviera GS remains the pinnacle of GM design in the 1960s. The Buick Riviera’s distinctive styling and luxurious appointments made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s for those seeking a stylish and sophisticated American coupe.
Shelby Daytona Coupe
The Shelby Cobra was designed to beat Ferrari on high-speed racing circuits. However, Shelby recognized a limitation in the Cobra’s open-cockpit design, which restricted its top speed to under 160 mph. Utilizing a wrecked Cobra chassis, stunning coupe bodywork was hand-fabricated, resulting in the first Daytona Coupe. With a top speed of 190 mph, the coupe achieved numerous class victories and set 25 speed records at Bonneville. The Shelby Daytona Coupe’s aerodynamic design and racing success made it one of the most popular cars in the 1960s among racing aficionados and a testament to American ingenuity in motorsports.
Studebaker Avanti
Studebaker was facing financial difficulties by the late 1950s, and the Avanti was conceived as a halo car to revitalize sales. The Avanti was a fiberglass-bodied sports car, similar in concept to the Corvette, powered exclusively by a robust V8 engine. Despite its attractive design and focus on safety, the Avanti sold less than 2,000 units in its first year. Sales improved slightly the following year, but not enough to rescue the company from its financial woes. Production ceased in December 1963 when the Studebaker plant closed. While Studebaker eventually faded away, the Avanti nameplate retained a certain mystique. The Studebaker Avanti, though not a commercial success, remains one of the more uniquely popular cars in the 1960s due to its distinctive styling and historical significance as Studebaker’s last gasp.
Chevrolet Corvair
The fully sealed, Tesla-esque grille of the Chevrolet Corvair hints at its unconventional nature. Unlike its competitors and every other GM car at the time, the Corvair was rear-engined, similar to the Porsche 911. Originally intended to compete with smaller cars like the VW Beetle and Ford Falcon, the Corvair featured relatively conventional 2-door, 4-seater styling. The first generation was introduced in 1960 and priced under $2,000. While the car underwent rapid improvements over the years, American drivers were unaccustomed to the rear-weight bias, leading to an unfairly acquired reputation for being unsafe, largely due to Ralph Nader’s book “Unsafe at Any Speed.” The Chevrolet Corvair, despite its controversial reputation, remains one of the more popular cars in the 1960s in terms of historical interest, showcasing an innovative, albeit ultimately flawed, approach to American car design.
Jensen Interceptor
Think of the Jensen Interceptor as a Ferrari GTC4Lusso with a distinctly 1970s mustache. Jensen, a 30-year-old British car manufacturer known for its unusual rear window designs, debuted the eccentric Interceptor in 1966. With its long hood and bubble-like rear window, the Interceptor looked unlike anything else on the road. While reliability was questionable, its performance was assured, thanks to Chrysler V8 engines, including the powerful 440. Just over 6,000 Interceptors were produced before Jensen closed in 1976, but its unique style and powerful engine have made it a cult classic, with plans for a potential revival currently underway. The Jensen Interceptor’s unique design and American V8 power made it one of the more niche but still popular cars in the 1960s, appreciated for its distinctiveness and grand touring capabilities.
These are just some of the most quintessential and popular cars in the 1960s. Do you agree with our list? Are there any iconic models we might have missed? Let us know in the comments which cars from the 60s you find most memorable and iconic!
