Feb 19, 2013

Cars with personality aren’t dead

Are cars with personality, charm and charisma dead? Jason Harper from Bloomberg seems to think so. In his recent article, Harper asks “In this age of mass production and global distribution, have we seen the last taillights of cars with personality? Where are the oddball autos that appeal to only a heartfelt few?”

Cars that Harper digs from the “good old days” are the Citroen DS-19, the Morris Minor Traveller or the Buick Riviera. Sure, those were cool cars, but isn’t it natural for people to look fondly at the past? It’s why after every Super Bowl, people say the commercials were disappointing inferring some sort of benchmark was set in the past. People were more wholesome too, our country was stronger, gas was cheaper, Adam Sandler made funnier movies and cars had more personality.

To his credit, Harper does believe electric cars from Fiskar and Tesla are a sign of change. Their interiors, their curves and wacky details have stimulated excitement in the car industry. Nonetheless, beautiful design aren’t just limited to electric cars. It could be argued a whole host of quirky and charming cars can be found at a dealership near you. Here are a few.

Jeep Wrangler

It’s an American classic with history tracing back to World War II. The design is timeless and iconic. Even the latest Wrangler will age well.

Ford Mustang

Aside from the Dodge Challenger there is no other car that is such a distinct homage to the muscle car era of the 60′s and 70′s.

BMW X6

It’s weird. A mix between crossover, SUV, station wagon and car. If any modern vehicle can be said to appeal to “only a heartfelt few” this is certainly it.

MINI Countryman

If this isn’t a reincarnation of the Morris Minor Traveller, than it’s difficult to describe what or who finds the Countryman appealing. Interesting side note, the Countryman won the 2012 and 2013 Dakar Rally.

Nissan Juke

It’s curves, lines and even headlights are in the wrong places so how does something so wrong, feel so right?

---

Photo source: Amazing Wallpapers, Car Type