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Auto Talk => Head to Head => Topic started by: 2o6 on August 07, 2010, 12:39:09 PM

Title: Best looking American car
Post by: 2o6 on August 07, 2010, 12:39:09 PM
Same principle, different country.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: SVT666 on August 07, 2010, 01:35:15 PM
This is going to be the hardest one because the US has produced most of the best looking cars ever produced.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: CALL_911 on August 07, 2010, 01:42:52 PM
Quote from: SVT666 on August 07, 2010, 01:35:15 PM
This is going to be the hardest one because the US has produced most of the best looking cars ever produced.

Like this one:
(http://cache.jalopnik.com/cars/assets/resources/2007/08/01_PontiacAztek.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 07, 2010, 01:49:01 PM
Lincoln Continental Mark IV hands down.  :wub:

(http://de.academic.ru/pictures/dewiki/49/1976_Lincoln_Continental_Mark_IV.jpg)


2nd place goes to the Plymouth V...  :devil:


Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: hotrodalex on August 07, 2010, 02:14:04 PM
Uh, I won't post pictures since that will make this thread load in an hour.

'67 Chevelle coupe
'69 Camaro SS/RS
Shelby Cobra
Mustang BOSS 302
'32 Ford pickup
Hemi 'Cuda
Dodge Challenger (original)
First-gen Corvette
'63 Corvette split window
Any lowered 60's wagon with rims.
Smoky and the Bandit Trans Am
C5 & C6 Corvette Z06
2010 Camaro
Pontiac G8 GXP
2005 Shelby Mustang GT (I think, the one with the straight across wire grill that Hemi likes)
Pontiac GTO (both 60's versions and the new one)
60's Lincoln Continental
'59 Caddy
'55 Buick
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Cookie Monster on August 07, 2010, 02:19:42 PM
Quote from: SVT666 on August 07, 2010, 01:35:15 PM
This is going to be the hardest one because the US has produced most of the best looking cars ever produced.
I would have to disagree, in my opinion.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Northlands on August 07, 2010, 02:56:46 PM
(http://www.thetoptensite.com/images/a_car_1955_Thunderbird.JPG)


(http://www.toptenz.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/1970-buick-gsx.jpg)

Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Onslaught on August 07, 2010, 03:04:20 PM
Is the Cobra really American?
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: mzziaz on August 07, 2010, 03:04:36 PM
Cord 810, maybe?

(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2556/3697993025_c16ca2425b.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: GoCougs on August 07, 2010, 03:07:09 PM
I think it was GM cars of the '50s - '55 Buick, '57 Chevy, '58 Impala, '59 Cadillac, chief among them.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 07, 2010, 03:07:56 PM
forgive my fanboi-ism...

(http://www.thetorquereport.com/2009_cadillac_cts_v_track.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: hotrodalex on August 07, 2010, 03:14:28 PM
Quote from: GoCougs on August 07, 2010, 03:07:09 PM
I think it was GM cars of the '50s - '55 Buick, '57 Chevy, '58 Impala, '59 Cadillac, chief among them.

Ah, forgot about the Impala. Any Impala from the '58 up until the '68 coupe is pretty cool.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 07, 2010, 03:15:05 PM
these are pretty ubiquitous in the classic/muscle car world, but it definitely deserves mention:
(http://image.automotive.com/f/images/24279694+pheader/mump_0907_01_z+1967_mustang_fastback+front_angle.jpg)

you can thank Paul Newman's character in "Cars" for this one:
(http://a.imageshack.us/img30/3998/195420hudson20hornet204.jpg) (http://img30.imageshack.us/i/195420hudson20hornet204.jpg/)

more shameless Caddy love
(http://www.mafia2.hu/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/cadi.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Northlands on August 07, 2010, 03:26:22 PM
Quote from: Onslaught on August 07, 2010, 03:04:20 PM
Is the Cobra really American?
I messed up with that one because of the current Shelby ownership.

I'll take it down.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 07, 2010, 03:39:05 PM
Quote from: Northlands on August 07, 2010, 03:26:22 PM
I messed up with that one because of the current Shelby ownership.

I'll take it down.

it's always been a bone of contention between Brits and Americans...Brits call it the AC Cobra and claim it as theirs; we call it the Shelby Cobra and claim it as ours.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 07, 2010, 03:40:17 PM
I've always loved this car from "Rain Man"
(http://a.imageshack.us/img63/2271/rainmanbuickroadmaster8.jpg) (http://img63.imageshack.us/i/rainmanbuickroadmaster8.jpg/)

I guess I've always had a preference for the late-40's/early-50's style of classic car...
(http://www.jbmotors.net/Pics/1949%20Mercury/49%20Mercury%20002.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: sportyaccordy on August 07, 2010, 05:14:12 PM
Nothing immediately comes to mind

Maybe the OG Camaro/Mustang
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Onslaught on August 07, 2010, 05:32:40 PM
I'm having a difficult time with this. For one I'm already drunk at 7:30 and the other is I don't like most American cars. I don't like "look at me" styling with massive hood scoops and chrome all over the place. I like a more curved and subtle look to my cars. That said I know I'm forgetting something other than these cars. I just can't think of them right now.

(http://a.imageshack.us/img824/1491/mustangshelby651.jpg)
(http://a.imageshack.us/img291/9643/chevroletcorvettez0602.jpg)
(http://a.imageshack.us/img828/7434/chevycorvettered1956.jpg)
(http://a.imageshack.us/img828/9480/1969camaro3.jpg)
Best looking muscle care of all time^^^.
(http://a.imageshack.us/img375/939/corvettel88.jpg)
This ^^^ is really pushing it for me.
(http://a.imageshack.us/img214/513/fordgt.jpg)
I'm not so sure I can call this ^^^ an American design.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: SVT666 on August 07, 2010, 08:51:34 PM
(http://sherrayrico.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/ford_mustang_boss_429_1969_01_m.jpg)

(http://furious.pl/robocze/auta/chevelle.jpg)

(http://www.otoharley.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/2002-Dodge-Viper-Pictures.jpg)

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_go9oG9TuqXs/S9nv_OojqKI/AAAAAAAAACA/XuYgC13GqLc/s1600/1996-Dodge-Viper-GTS-quarter1_hre-sm%5B1%5D.jpg)

(http://www.maxi-tuning.ru/wallpaper/Dodge-Viper-ACR/12514/main.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 07, 2010, 09:03:25 PM
Some more.  :wub:

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
(http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-1950-1959/1957-Chevrolet-Bel-Air-Red-g-b-le.jpg)

Plymouth Volare
(http://www.hyts.hu/autok/plymouth/volare-1978/plymouth_volare-1978_r3.jpg)
(http://www.hyts.hu/autok/plymouth/volare-station-wagon-1978/plymouth_volare-station-wagon-1978_r4.jpg)

'74 and '77 Dodge Monaco
(http://www.nfscars.net/storage/games/mostwanted/downloads/car/images/cac2a4d9-3ef9-4c31-a60b-3af540da313f.jpg)
(http://forum.avtoindex.com/foto/data/media/33/Dodge_Royal_Monaco_1977_30.jpg)

1976/1977 Chevrolet Caprice
(http://www.canadiandriver.com/articles/bv/images/77caprice.jpg)

1971 Chrysler New Yorker
(http://www.imperialclub.com/Events/Chattanooga04/1971%20Chrysler%20New%20Yorker.JPG)



Yeah, I like the cool stuff.  :mrcool:  :rockon:
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: 68_427 on August 07, 2010, 09:10:25 PM
Quote(http://www.otoharley.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/2002-Dodge-Viper-Pictures.jpg)

lol

Quote(http://www.hyts.hu/autok/plymouth/volare-station-wagon-1978/plymouth_volare-station-wagon-1978_r4.jpg)

Want in black.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: SVT666 on August 07, 2010, 09:13:19 PM
I would kill for a 1964 Continental.  It would be a restomod project and I would dump the new 5.0L in it and the interior would be thoroughly modern.

(http://rantonthiscar.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/1964-lincoln-continental-custom3.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: hotrodalex on August 07, 2010, 10:25:40 PM
Quote from: SVT666 on August 07, 2010, 09:13:19 PM
I would kill for a 1964 Continental.  It would be a restomod project and I would dump the new 5.0L in it and the interior would be thoroughly modern.

(http://rantonthiscar.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/1964-lincoln-continental-custom3.jpg)

Eh, just don't go crazy with the exhaust or anything. Modest volume and no exposed tailpipes. Just wouldn't be right on a car like that.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: hotrodalex on August 07, 2010, 10:31:11 PM
Quote from: cawimmer430 on August 07, 2010, 09:03:25 PM
(http://www.hyts.hu/autok/plymouth/volare-station-wagon-1978/plymouth_volare-station-wagon-1978_r4.jpg)

At least pick a good wagon.

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/74/1965_Vista_Cruiser_1.jpg)

(http://www.teamflanders.com/signature/wagon.jpg)

(http://www.liamag.com/images/how%20to/jaschenberg/impala.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: 68_427 on August 07, 2010, 10:32:21 PM
Any late 60/70's wagon is hot.  For the most part.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 08, 2010, 07:02:41 AM
Quote from: hotrodalex on August 07, 2010, 10:31:11 PM
At least pick a good wagon.

You didn't let me finish!  :hammerhead:  :lol:

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7b/87-90_Chevrolet_Caprice_wagon.jpg)

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2b/Ford-LTD-wagon.jpg)

(http://stationwagonforums.com/forums/gallery/files/6/1980PontiacBonnevilleSafari.jpg)


^I swear these things are beautiful!^  :wub:
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Onslaught on August 08, 2010, 07:05:34 AM
lol. Wood siding.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 08, 2010, 07:26:53 AM
Quote from: Onslaught on August 08, 2010, 07:05:34 AM
lol. Wood siding.

Was that real wood by the way?
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Onslaught on August 08, 2010, 07:28:46 AM
Quote from: cawimmer430 on August 08, 2010, 07:26:53 AM
Was that real wood by the way?
Not any of the ones I ever saw. But then again I was a kid.  And all cars looked like big bricks in the parking lot back then.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 08, 2010, 07:33:35 AM
Quote from: Onslaught on August 08, 2010, 07:28:46 AM
Not any of the ones I ever saw. But then again I was a kid.  And all cars looked like big bricks in the parking lot back then.

Beautiful bricks, beautiful bricks.  :ohyeah:  :praise:
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Raza on August 08, 2010, 08:58:18 AM
Quote from: Onslaught on August 07, 2010, 05:32:40 PM
I'm having a difficult time with this. For one I'm already drunk at 7:30 and the other is I don't like most American cars. I don't like "look at me" styling with massive hood scoops and chrome all over the place. I like a more curved and subtle look to my cars. That said I know I'm forgetting something other than these cars. I just can't think of them right now.

(http://a.imageshack.us/img824/1491/mustangshelby651.jpg)

That should be it.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Onslaught on August 08, 2010, 09:06:01 AM
No, 69 Camaro owns that.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 08, 2010, 09:18:04 AM
There's so many, but a few not mentioned yet...

(http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-1960-1969/1966-Oldsmobile-Toronado-Jay-Leno-FA-1024x768.jpg)

(http://image.automotive.com/f/images/10324782+pheader/corp_0504_01_z+1953_chevrolet_corvette_replica_diesel_powered+front_right_view.jpg)

(http://img119.imageshack.us/img119/9788/63673dodge20charger2019.jpg)

(http://www.bluemooncruisers.com/images/MemberCars/edvalentine70camaro.jpg)

Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 08, 2010, 09:27:02 AM
Special mention for the '33 Ford... the inspiration for the most popular hot rods, along with the '32.

(http://local.aaca.org/florida/33Ford%20Ed%20Clark%205.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Raza on August 08, 2010, 09:30:53 AM
Quote from: Onslaught on August 08, 2010, 09:06:01 AM
No, 69 Camaro owns that.

No way. 
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: GoCougs on August 08, 2010, 09:34:28 AM
Yeah, '69 Camaro is generally considered the best-styled car of the muscle car era. I'm not much of a fan - I prefer the '68-'69 and and much prefer the '70-'73.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 08, 2010, 09:40:49 AM
'69 Charger owns all.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 08, 2010, 09:43:25 AM
'54 Studebaker... amazingly ahead of its time in terms of design.

(http://image.automotive.com/f/featuredvehicles/9273559+pheader/0708rc_01_z+1954_studebaker_starliner_hardtop+front_view.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Onslaught on August 08, 2010, 09:43:42 AM
Quote from: Rockraven on August 08, 2010, 09:40:49 AM
'69 Charger owns all.
It's a good looking aircraft carrier.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Onslaught on August 08, 2010, 09:44:43 AM
Quote from: Rockraven on August 08, 2010, 09:18:04 AM

(http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-1960-1969/1966-Oldsmobile-Toronado-Jay-Leno-FA-1024x768.jpg)



I knew I was forgetting some cars.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 08, 2010, 09:52:07 AM
Quote from: mzziaz on August 07, 2010, 03:04:36 PM
Cord 810, maybe?

(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2556/3697993025_c16ca2425b.jpg)

I love '30s art deco, and this car defines it. Good call.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: GoCougs on August 08, 2010, 09:57:28 AM
Best looking car of the muscle car era:


(http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/9058/chargerp.jpg) (http://img256.imageshack.us/i/chargerp.jpg/)

Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: rohan on August 08, 2010, 10:19:38 AM
Easy choice here

Best looking car ever made
(http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff15/rohowssgt/1949-Mercury-Black-fa-sedan-s-2-le1.jpg)

It's closest competition
(http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff15/rohowssgt/Tony_Moller_72_Cutlass1.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: 68_427 on August 08, 2010, 10:21:06 AM


How could none of you mention the Firebird?

(http://www.musclecargarage.com/68_firebird_ho.jpg)
(http://image.popularhotrodding.com/f/10879974/0810phr_13_z+1968_pontiac_firebird+front_view.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: rohan on August 08, 2010, 10:23:01 AM
Actually after thinking about it I realized this is it's closest competition the 442 vert is a very close 3rd
(http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff15/rohowssgt/57-nomad1.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Northlands on August 08, 2010, 11:09:35 AM
Quote from: Rockraven on August 08, 2010, 09:18:04 AM
There's so many, but a few not mentioned yet...

(http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-1960-1969/1966-Oldsmobile-Toronado-Jay-Leno-FA-1024x768.jpg)

(http://image.automotive.com/f/images/10324782+pheader/corp_0504_01_z+1953_chevrolet_corvette_replica_diesel_powered+front_right_view.jpg)

(http://img119.imageshack.us/img119/9788/63673dodge20charger2019.jpg)

(http://www.bluemooncruisers.com/images/MemberCars/edvalentine70camaro.jpg)



Jeezus, those would all be on my list. I must have been brain hemorrhaging the other day. All very nice pics. ( Especially that Toronado! )
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 08, 2010, 11:44:49 AM
Quote from: 68_427 on August 08, 2010, 10:21:06 AM

How could none of you mention the Firebird?

(http://www.musclecargarage.com/68_firebird_ho.jpg)
(http://image.popularhotrodding.com/f/10879974/0810phr_13_z+1968_pontiac_firebird+front_view.jpg)

Beautiful... I also like the 2nd generation:

(http://www.allmusclecars.com/pontiac/by1970tapf.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 08, 2010, 11:49:38 AM
Wonderfully tacky, yet a beauty in its own right...

(http://www.cor-vette.com/projects/1977/dr77se10.JPG)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on August 08, 2010, 12:32:38 PM
Quote from: GoCougs on August 08, 2010, 09:34:28 AM
Yeah, '69 Camaro is generally considered the best-styled car of the muscle car era. I'm not much of a fan - I prefer the '68-'69 and and much prefer the '70-'73.
:hesaid: I'm fond of the '70 Chevelle SS also!

for the newer American cars I gotta go with this one. Even with that hole in the hood.
(http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb199/TWOBIGHEDZ/chevrolet-corvette-zr1-39.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: mzziaz on August 08, 2010, 01:14:32 PM
Never liked the looks of the current vette much. Stingrays are much better.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Rich on August 08, 2010, 01:15:59 PM
Solstice
'93 Trans Am
'98 Trans Am
G8
'69 Mustang
'99 Mustang GT
'05 GTO
1996 Corvette
1997 Corvette
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 08, 2010, 02:00:58 PM
Solstice GXP Coupe... only 1253 (68% GXP's) made it off the assembly line. A future classic for sure.

(http://alan927.jalbum.net/2009%20Detroit%20Auto%20Show/slides/Pontiac%20Solstice%20Coupe%20rear.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Cookie Monster on August 08, 2010, 02:25:55 PM
Quote from: Rockraven on August 08, 2010, 02:00:58 PM
Solstice GXP Coupe... only 1253 (68% GXP's) made it off the assembly line. A future classic for sure.

(http://alan927.jalbum.net/2009%20Detroit%20Auto%20Show/slides/Pontiac%20Solstice%20Coupe%20rear.jpg)
No offense but IMO that looks terrible.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 08, 2010, 02:45:06 PM
Quote from: thecarnut on August 08, 2010, 02:25:55 PM
No offense but IMO that looks terrible.

Not offended, because it's your opinion.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: hotrodalex on August 08, 2010, 02:45:30 PM
Quote from: Rockraven on August 08, 2010, 09:18:04 AM
(http://www.bluemooncruisers.com/images/MemberCars/edvalentine70camaro.jpg)

Yes, but true split bumpers are better.

(http://www.universalautosalesandclassiccars.com/images/1971%20Camaro2/71Camaro2LeftSide.JPG)

Quote from: Rockraven on August 08, 2010, 11:44:49 AM
Beautiful... I also like the 2nd generation:

(http://www.allmusclecars.com/pontiac/by1970tapf.jpg)

Those are a favorite of mine. :wub:
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 08, 2010, 02:47:38 PM
Quote from: hotrodalex on August 08, 2010, 02:45:30 PM
Yes, but true split bumpers are better.

(http://www.universalautosalesandclassiccars.com/images/1971%20Camaro2/71Camaro2LeftSide.JPG)



Those are a favorite of mine. :wub:

Yes, that's the Camaro I was looking for ('70?).
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: hotrodalex on August 08, 2010, 02:54:04 PM
Quote from: cawimmer430 on August 08, 2010, 07:26:53 AM
Was that real wood by the way?

Nope. The last real wood to go on cars was in the early 50's. After that it was paint or vinyl.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woodie
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: hotrodalex on August 08, 2010, 02:55:39 PM
Quote from: Rockraven on August 08, 2010, 02:47:38 PM
Yes, that's the Camaro I was looking for ('70?).

That one is a '71 I believe. (There's not much of a difference. The only clue pointing to '71 is the seats. '70s had lower seatbacks and a headrest)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: 68_427 on August 08, 2010, 03:13:51 PM
I may be a slight bit biased, but...

(http://www.universalautosalesandclassiccars.com/images/1968%20Corvette2/68Corvette2LeftSide.JPG)
(http://images.quickblogcast.com/6/2/2/4/4/153570-144226/68corvette_med.jpg)
(http://www.tc.umn.edu/~hagen050/vetdone1.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Cookie Monster on August 08, 2010, 03:45:00 PM
Quote from: Rockraven on August 08, 2010, 02:45:06 PM
Not offended, because it's your opinion.
Phew, thank god. I thought you were going to tell me my opinion was wrong. :lol:

I think I would like it more if it didn't look like they tacked the top onto a convertible. The windows just look way too small.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 08, 2010, 04:06:46 PM
Quote from: 68_427 on August 08, 2010, 03:13:51 PM
I may be a slight bit biased, but...

(http://www.universalautosalesandclassiccars.com/images/1968%20Corvette2/68Corvette2LeftSide.JPG)
(http://images.quickblogcast.com/6/2/2/4/4/153570-144226/68corvette_med.jpg)
(http://www.tc.umn.edu/~hagen050/vetdone1.jpg)

Oh yes. I too love the '68-'72 C3. I have a soft spot for all C3's... I have an '80 in storage that I'm going to finish when I'm retired.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: 68_427 on August 08, 2010, 09:22:12 PM
LS7?
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Mustangfan2003 on August 08, 2010, 11:34:11 PM
Hard to disagree with this

(http://a.imageshack.us/img824/1491/mustangshelby651.jpg)

I love this

(http://candtp.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/ford-gt.jpg)

The C2 might be the best looking Vettes ever

(http://www.corvettearchive.com/gen2/1963_corvette_split_window.jpg)

And to throw a Mopar in the mix I pick the 1969 Charger
(http://moksliukai.lt/forum/attachments/1969_dodge_charger_rt_440.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 09, 2010, 12:44:10 AM
Quote from: cawimmer430 on August 08, 2010, 07:26:53 AM
Was that real wood by the way?

you're going to have to go back a lot further for that

(http://www.rmauctions.com/images/cars/HF09/HF09_r225_01.jpg)

(http://www.internetsalespartner.com/images/722_DSCN0640.JPG)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 09, 2010, 12:46:32 AM
this is an absolutely lovely vehicle, IMO...third headlight and everything

(http://www.cartype.com/pics/2604/full/tucker_46.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: omicron on August 09, 2010, 07:52:22 AM
The US has made some truly stunning cars, for which I shall be forever grateful. These ones are just a few (of many) off the top of my head:

1957 Chrysler 300C
(http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/373/chrysler300c19571024x76cw7.jpg)

1961 Lincoln Continental
(http://www.lovefords.org/61linc/images/1961-lincoln-fordheaduarters-yellow.jpg)

1963 Buick Riviera
(http://www.cascadiaclassic.com/63-riviera.jpg)

1963 Thunderbird Sports Roadster
(http://www.63sr.com/Bird-i3.jpg)

1964 Chevrolet Impala SS
(http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_images/3/2089/1441/30220720210_large.jpg)

1964 Studebaker GT Hawk
(http://thehamiltonchaptersdc.ca/64GTHawkBL.jpg)

1964.5 Ford Mustang
(http://www.itsme.be/img/1964-mustang-coupe.jpg)

1965 Buick Wildcat
(http://www.buickstreet.com/images/teds-65-wildcat-front.jpg)

1966 Pontiac Grand Prix
(http://www.seven82motors.com.au/showroom/albums/1966-pontiac-grand-prix/1966-Pontiac-Grand-Prix-060.jpg)

1967 Cadillac Eldorado
(http://media.supersportmotors.com/photos/112/DSCN4748.JPG)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Mustangfan2003 on August 09, 2010, 09:03:12 AM
Quote from: Vinsanity on August 09, 2010, 12:46:32 AM
this is an absolutely lovely vehicle, IMO...third headlight and everything

(http://www.cartype.com/pics/2604/full/tucker_46.jpg)

Our local car museum has a Tucker, really amazing to look at.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: shp4man on August 09, 2010, 01:22:42 PM
I've always had a thing for mid-50's Mercs, my dad bought a new one in '55. I can still remember the car.

(http://www.americancruisersoh.com/images/schorniks_car_2004.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Morris Minor on August 09, 2010, 01:24:48 PM
Quote from: Mustangfan2003 on August 09, 2010, 09:03:12 AM
Our local car museum has a Tucker, really amazing to look at.
I saw one in the flesh at an exhibit a few weeks ago. They are HUGE!
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 09, 2010, 01:41:51 PM
Quote from: omicron on August 09, 2010, 07:52:22 AM
1963 Thunderbird Sports Roadster
(http://www.63sr.com/Bird-i3.jpg)

THAT was the one I kept trying to remember for this thread...best. Thunderbird. ever.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 09, 2010, 01:49:11 PM
Quote from: Morris Minor on August 09, 2010, 01:24:48 PM
I saw one in the flesh at an exhibit a few weeks ago. They are HUGE!

as I recall, they have a 9.7L helicopter engine mounted out back :lol:
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Byteme on August 10, 2010, 10:27:35 AM
If I had to pick just one.




(http://www.prewarcar.com/images/caradvert/2383_1277206030_resized_Duesy-A.jpg)

Runners up would be 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado, 1966 Pontiac 2+2Convertible, 1939 Lincoln Continental

Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Cookie Monster on August 10, 2010, 10:40:27 AM
I would have to agree with the '63 Thunderbird. :wub:
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: TBR on August 10, 2010, 11:18:40 AM
(http://assets.speedtv.com/images/easy_gallery/965301/1954_chevrolet_corvette_convertible_m.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 10, 2010, 11:21:53 AM
I'm going to be a rebel here and nominate the '02 Thunderbird. It was never intended to be a sportscar, and it does a fantastic job at being what it is... a cruising machine. I think it looks great, and it uses the Lincoln LS chassis and interior, which were fine underpinnings for this car. Yeah, it was a tad overpriced, but it's hard to find a good example today for less than $20,000. I would love to have one.

(http://www.tvhistory.tv/2002_Thunderbird.JPG)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 10, 2010, 11:32:13 AM
I dunno, whenever I look at the interior of one of those, I can't help but think that it belongs inside the 1990's hardtop 4-seater T-bird instead. Funny that today's Challenger pretty much followed the same footsteps: nice cruiser with eye-catching styling, but with a bland interior, underwhelming performance, and questionable price tag. At least the T-bird is a convertible, though, and performance isn't a big priority.

Would've been awesome to see a special edition with the supercharged version of the Jag V8 :rockon:
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 10, 2010, 11:46:00 AM
A good looking car nonetheless.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: hotrodalex on August 10, 2010, 01:37:26 PM
(http://www.1969chargerregistry.com/gallery/albums/daytona/dodge_charger_daytona_1969_02_m.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: ChrisV on August 10, 2010, 02:31:39 PM
Quote from: EtypeJohn on August 10, 2010, 10:27:35 AM
If I had to pick just one.
(http://www.prewarcar.com/images/caradvert/2383_1277206030_resized_Duesy-A.jpg)

Almost all the ones I would post are already in the thread. Love the Deusey, and from this era, there are a couple more:

Packards:

(http://www.chicagocarexchange.com/resize.asp?image=P30rf34web.JPG&size=800)

(http://www.vaultcars.com/34PackRdstrBlack/008.JPG)

Cord L-29:

(http://www.khulsey.com/stockphotography/cord-l29-limousine-body-co-special-1930.jpeg)

(http://wallpapers-free.co.uk/backgrounds/transport/cars/1930-Cord-L-29-Phaeton-Maroon-fvl.jpg)

Auburn:

(http://www.ccecorvair.com/OAP/2002/arendt/auburn1935.jpg)

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0f/Auburn_851-Boattail-Speedster_Rear-view.JPG/800px-Auburn_851-Boattail-Speedster_Rear-view.JPG)

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/60/Auburn_851-Boattail-Speedster_Front-view.JPG/800px-Auburn_851-Boattail-Speedster_Front-view.JPG)

Cadillac V16:

(http://www.velocityjournal.com/images/full/2002/s2002080401/cd1932series2795801.jpg)

(http://users.compaqnet.be/carcollection/Cadillac/CadillacV16.jpg)

(http://files.conceptcarz.com/img/Cadillac/37-Cadillac_V16-S90-Aerodynamic_DV-08_PBC_001.jpg)

(http://files.conceptcarz.com/img/Cadillac/37-Cadillac_V16-90_Coupe-DV-08_PBC_010.jpg)

Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 10, 2010, 03:48:17 PM
oooh...I love me some Auburn Speedster :wub:
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 10, 2010, 03:53:12 PM
I also like the '72 Dodge Coronet Brougham sedan.  :wub:

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4467374976_9da594f7f4.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Onslaught on August 10, 2010, 04:10:14 PM
Quote from: Rockraven on August 10, 2010, 11:21:53 AM

(http://www.tvhistory.tv/2002_Thunderbird.JPG)
I know this has nothing to do with looks (even if I don't think this car looked that great) but that's the most painful car I've ever been in. Zero leg room and horrific headroom. It's like someone at Ford had a picture of me and said "let's make a car that actually hurts this guy to get into and drive."

I'm also surprised that a Prowler hasn't been put up yet. Even if they're ugly.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 10, 2010, 04:15:43 PM
Prowlers are a little too kitschy, IMO. Kind of like an Excalibur for the 21st century :mask:
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: SVT666 on August 10, 2010, 04:48:16 PM
Even though it should have had a V8 and a manual

(http://www.fansonline.net/images/coventrycity/1993-Plymouth-Prowler-Concept-takeout.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 10, 2010, 05:22:13 PM
lol, Ruby's Diner...I wonder how many people outside of SoCal know that it's a real place :tounge:

and wtf is up with the guy giving the thumbs up to the invisible driver?
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: hotrodalex on August 10, 2010, 07:12:31 PM
Needs chrome bumpers.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Raza on August 10, 2010, 07:15:02 PM
Quote from: Rockraven on August 10, 2010, 11:21:53 AM
I'm going to be a rebel here and nominate the '02 Thunderbird. It was never intended to be a sportscar, and it does a fantastic job at being what it is... a cruising machine. I think it looks great, and it uses the Lincoln LS chassis and interior, which were fine underpinnings for this car. Yeah, it was a tad overpriced, but it's hard to find a good example today for less than $20,000. I would love to have one.

(http://www.tvhistory.tv/2002_Thunderbird.JPG)

I've been seeing a bunch of these lately...one of the most hideous cars in recent history. 
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Raza on August 10, 2010, 07:16:37 PM
Quote from: SVT666 on August 10, 2010, 04:48:16 PM
Even though it should have had a V8 and a manual

(http://www.fansonline.net/images/coventrycity/1993-Plymouth-Prowler-Concept-takeout.jpg)

I love them.  Hell, I'd have taken its V6 with a manual. 
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: 2o6 on August 10, 2010, 07:59:26 PM
Prowlers are ugly.


This is gorgeous.

(http://www.plan59.com/images/JPGs/stu53red.jpg)

This is beauty.

(http://www.corvair.org/chapters/chapter809/images/J.McCreery%2065%20Corvair%203.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 10, 2010, 07:59:59 PM
Quote from: Raza  on August 10, 2010, 07:16:37 PM
I love them.  Hell, I'd have taken its V6 with a manual. 

a 318 or 360 mated to an automatic would've been more likely, or at least more suited to the car's purpose
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: MX793 on August 10, 2010, 08:13:03 PM
No mention of the Zimmer? :lol:

Too hard to choose.  Love the '69 and '70 Mustangs.  Love the '66-'69 Toronados.  Love the early C3 Corvettes.  Love the '64 Continental...
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: ChrisV on August 11, 2010, 09:04:33 AM
Quote from: hotrodalex on August 10, 2010, 07:12:31 PM
Needs chrome bumpers.

Or no bumpers:

(http://i.ebayimg.com/20/!!gG1(Q!EWE~$(KGrHqQOKj4EvikVnUDSBMETVe(-lg~~_4.JPG)

(http://www.theprowlerstore.com/images/Photos21.jpg)

(http://www.theprowlerstore.com/images/99BlackTX44.jpg)

There are a couple running around here with the bumper delete, and they look pretty good.




And the kind of car it was patterned after usually hada crate 350 that put out about as much power as teh stock V6, and usually had an automatic:

(http://autoambush.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/hrdp_9907_02_z+1933_ford_roadster+passenger_side_view.jpg)

Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: SVT666 on August 11, 2010, 10:18:06 AM
Quote from: ChrisV on August 11, 2010, 09:04:33 AM
Or no bumpers:
If I had one, I would remove the bumpers in a heartbeat.

QuoteAnd the kind of car it was patterned after usually hada crate 350 that put out about as much power as teh stock V6, and usually had an automatic:
Sure, but the V6 doesn't sound right, and I don't care what tranny those old hot rods had, I want a manual.  The manuals being made back then sucked so autos made more sense...just like most muscle cars had autos because manuals sucked ass at that time.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Payman on August 11, 2010, 11:36:08 AM
Quote from: SVT666 on August 11, 2010, 10:18:06 AM
If I had one, I would remove the bumpers in a heartbeat.
Sure, but the V6 doesn't sound right, and I don't care what tranny those old hot rods had, I want a manual.  The manuals being made back then sucked so autos made more sense...just like most muscle cars had autos because manuals sucked ass at that time.

Meh, the exhaust sound is an easy fix with a cherry bomb. I too would immediately ditch those awful bumpers, and I think I'd like the manumatic in this car instead of a manual. Much better for cruising around town.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: SVT666 on August 11, 2010, 12:01:17 PM
Quote from: Rockraven on August 11, 2010, 11:36:08 AM
Meh, the exhaust sound is an easy fix with a cherry bomb. I too would immediately ditch those awful bumpers, and I think I'd like the manumatic in this car instead of a manual. Much better for cruising around town.
The stock exhaust setup sounds alright, but it's not the V8 rumble that a car like that should make.  Even a cherry bomb won't be quite right.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: cawimmer430 on August 11, 2010, 04:34:48 PM
Man, you losers and your sports cars.  :facepalm:  :evildude:

THIS

(http://www.lov2xlr8.no/brochures/mopar/76cr/bilder/10.jpg)

(http://www.lov2xlr8.no/brochures/mopar/76cr/bilder/6.jpg)

(http://www.lov2xlr8.no/brochures/mopar/76cr/bilder/8.jpg)

(http://www.lov2xlr8.no/brochures/mopar/76cr/bilder/4.jpg)

IS WHERE IT'S AT.  :praise:



Plymouth time!  :rockon:

(http://www.lov2xlr8.no/brochures/mopar/73plyf/bilder/2.jpg)


Man, I wish I went to that college in the '70s! My parents would have given me a gorgeous Plymouth Fury as a graduation present!  :thumbsup:

(http://www.lov2xlr8.no/brochures/mopar/73plyf/bilder/4.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Laconian on August 11, 2010, 04:36:34 PM
(http://www.automotivehistoryonline.com/1964%20Studebaker%20Avanti.jpg)
Studebaker Avanti, it isn't the best, but it's still a really good looking car.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: hotrodalex on August 11, 2010, 08:03:52 PM
(http://image.streetrodderweb.com/f/11781380/0811sr_02_z+1963_ford_falcon_wagon+.jpg)

(http://image.automotive.com/f/features/11781374%2Bpheader/0811sr_01_z%2B1963_ford_falcon_wagon%2B.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Vinsanity on August 11, 2010, 08:08:11 PM
that is a sweet Falcon!...but I bet that woodgrain would look pretty awesome on the side of a black Ford Flex too
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: shp4man on August 11, 2010, 08:18:28 PM
More Falcon love.

(http://image.hotrod.com/f/9037436/hrdp_0707_32_z+1962_ford_falcon_budget_paint_job+completed_side_view.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: hotrodalex on August 11, 2010, 08:43:26 PM
Falcon wagons are tied with this for my favorite wagon.

(http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x253/calfan5/catalina2.jpg)

(http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x253/calfan5/catalina.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: omicron on August 12, 2010, 09:01:18 AM
I'll give you Falcon wagon, damnit!

(http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/private/carpoint/7866853.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Mustangfan2003 on August 12, 2010, 09:24:23 AM
Some of you Aussies have had too much Fosters.
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: omicron on August 12, 2010, 09:27:53 AM
I cannot hear you over the Falcons!

(http://www.toqinc.org/fords_downunder/4x4ute.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: ChrisV on August 12, 2010, 10:05:21 AM
I love Falcons...

(http://home.comcast.net/~cvetters3/falcon2b.jpg)

(http://home.comcast.net/~cvetters3/greenfalcon2d.png)

Which is why that green car's nose is going on my Comet:

(http://home.comcast.net/~cvetters3/Comsketch4.jpg)
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Nethead on August 12, 2010, 10:43:05 AM
The Nethead here will try to limit it to ten twelve:

The '05 Mustang GT coupe
The '65 Shelby G.T.350 coupe
The '57 Thunderbird
The '63 Stingray coupe
The '63 Avanti coupe
The '63 Riviera
The '68 Cyclone GT coupe (and why I bought a '69 CJ 428 Cyclone)
The '68 Charger coupe
The '65 Impala Super Sport coupe
The '66 Toronado
The '61 Lincoln Continental (two-door, if they came in two-door models :huh:)
The '66 Bronco roadster

OK, that's ten twelve in more-or-less descending order.
 
The T-Bird, Stingray, and Avanti are essentially in a three-way tie for third place.
The Impala, Toronado, and Continental are essentially in a three-way tie for seventh place.
 
The Cobra 427 is excluded due to its Anglo-American heritage, as is the Ford GT from earlier in this decade for the same reason...
Title: Re: Best looking American car
Post by: Tave on August 12, 2010, 10:43:41 AM
I have to second Onslaught on the C1 Vette.