A Decade of Challenges and Innovation

The 1980s were defined by economic turbulence, featuring high inflation, significant fuel price fluctuations, and global geopolitical tension. Much like today, these pressures forced the automotive industry to adapt rapidly. While some models became icons, others—often innovative or experimental—slowly vanished from the collective consciousness. Here, we revisit those vehicles from or rooted in the 80s that deserve a second look.


Pioneering Concepts and Niche Markets

  • Subaru BRAT (1977): Famous for its tenure at Ronald Reagan's California ranch, this rugged utility vehicle was marketed as "Fun on Wheels." Its success in the US market helped cement Subaru’s reputation for reliability.
  • Stevens Cipher (1980): Designed by Professor Anthony Stevens, this lightweight sports car used a Reliant engine and a glassfibre body. Though it never reached mass production, it is often cited as a key inspiration for the Mazda MX-5.
  • AMC Eagle Kammback (1981): A "niche within a niche," this compact car featured a manually swappable four-wheel-drive system. While it struggled to find a long-term audience, it represented an adventurous approach to drivetrain versatility.

Ambitious Collaborations

Some of the decade's most interesting vehicles emerged from partnerships between global manufacturers:

«The Plymouth Sapporo was the result of a deal between Mitsubishi and Chrysler, offering a blend of economy and luxury features like lumbar-supported bucket seats and power mirrors. Despite promising efficiency, it was eventually superseded by Mitsubishi’s own Conquest.»

Similarly, the Chrysler TC by Maserati attempted to bridge the gap between American mass-market appeal and Italian prestige. Though it utilized sophisticated engines, the project was cut short after about 7,300 units were imported to the US.


Performance and Styling Experiments

Automakers frequently tried to lure younger buyers with turbocharging and aggressive aesthetics:

  • Buick Century Turbo Coupe (1979): Sporting a 175bhp turbocharged V6, this car leaned into "European-influenced" styling but failed to capture the youth market it targeted.
  • Chevrolet Citation X-11 (1980): A performance-focused variant that successfully campaigned in racing circuits during the mid-80s, proving that even mass-market platforms could house serious competitive spirit.
  • Dodge Omni GLH (1984): Overseen by the legendary Carroll Shelby, the moniker stood for "Goes Like Hell." It remains a high-performance benchmark from an era often dismissed as mundane.

Luxury and Exclusivity

Luxury manufacturers also took risks during this era, often with mixed results. The Volvo 780, styled by Bertone, stood out as an exotic flagship with sharp, sophisticated lines. Meanwhile, the Lexus ES (1989) launched as the "Camry-based" companion to the LS, setting the foundation for what would become a global luxury powerhouse.


These vehicles serve as a reminder that the 1980s were a period of immense experimentation. Whether they were hindered by economic recession, poor timing, or internal politics, these cars contributed to the diverse automotive landscape that fuels our fascination with the decade today.