In the automotive industry, there are not only traditional and well-known modifications of models. There are also unusual cars that occasionally flash in the traffic. But their appearance evokes positive emotions and surprise, and is also remembered for a long time.
Today we will introduce you to the most striking and original models of non-standard cars from around the world. We decided to highlight the most interesting car modifications and divide them into different groups to create our own rating. It may not be perfect, but all the models presented will someday certainly take their rightful place in the most famous world-class automotive museums or are already in them.
Design whims
The “design” category was the most difficult for us, since there are a fairly large number of truly original cars with an unusual body that were produced earlier and are currently being produced. But in the end, after a long debate, 5 unusual cars were singled out that amazed us with their design delights.
We gave the 5th place to a sports car from Japan Mitsuoka Orochi. This sports car was produced in small batches from 2006 to 2014. It was at the end of production that the last updated version of the Orochi Final Edition car was presented to motorists, created in the amount of 5 pieces at a cost of about $ 125 thousand.
It was aimed only at local residents, so it is impossible to see this sports car outside the Japanese islands. It was for them that the “dragon-like” design was created, which was based on the appearance of a mythological animal with 8 heads of Yamata no Orochi.
4th place was given to the Ferrari FF. This car bears little resemblance to models of this brand. But it is the first all-wheel drive sports car created in Italy and at the same time a hatchback (three-door) in which four passengers can fit. It appeared in 2011 and today makes a strange impression, resembling an “ugly duckling” among other brand modifications more familiar to consumers.
The 3rd place in our rating of eye-catching original cars in terms of design solutions was taken by Tata Nano. This “baby”, made in India, has a slightly “bloated” body shape and an original, slightly silly-looking exterior design, which attracts attention. This is the most dangerous car, as she completely failed all the tests. But it also has an advantage - the lowest cost in the world, amounting to $ 2.5 thousand.
2nd place - for the products of the American automobile industry Chevrolet SSR. This car is a convertible pickup. It was produced for 3 years (from 2003 to 2006), but could not become popular even with the local public, who prefer large and basic models.
This model it has an unusual body that evokes associations more with the image of cartoons than with a production car. It evokes smiles and memories of the old days, as small headlights combined with bulky fenders were a fashion trend in the mid-20th century.
But it is precisely this “appearance” of the Chevrolet SSR that makes the car special, causing interest in it, which served as the basis for its inclusion in our rating.
The Olympic pinnacle in the category of "unusual car design" is headed by the handsome Italian FIAT Multipla, which was released from 1999 to 2004. It is rather difficult to understand what goal the Italian designers pursued and what they wanted to achieve when creating the Fiat Multipla.
Exterior this car endowed with a stupid "two-story", the appearance of which can only be explained by the unsuccessful layout of the upper body element with the body part of the classic hatchback version. Of course, this model did not enjoy great success, so in 2004 year FIAT returned to the usual version of the body.
Tricycle "miracle"
Today it is quite problematic to meet cars with three wheels. As a rule, they are represented by a small number of copies (ten, maximum, one hundred pieces). Our rating includes 4 models of cars of this type. One of them is a historical masterpiece, and the rest are modern developments and are even found on the roadways of various countries.
The first "three-wheeler" that opens our list was not quite a standard representative - Bond Bug under the number 700E. This unusual car was produced in 1971-74. in England. Originality this transport was not only in the number of wheels, but also in the "appearance". The most attractive innovation was the door, which was the upper opening part of the body itself.
The Bond Bug 700E is a representative of a two-seat car, which was positioned as a sports option. By the way, this interested the English public. In most cases, Bond Bug 700Es were painted a tangerine, deep orange hue, making them stand out from the crowd. total weight. It should be noted that Bond Bug clubs still operate in England to this day, where regular meetings are held, as well as racing competitions are organized.
This ungainly pretty baby was presented in two body types: a pickup truck (two seats) and a hatchback (four seats). This three-wheeled shorty was created in China, but there was a demand for it in several countries, including the United States, where a batch of several thousand units was sent.
The second position of unusual "three-wheelers" can be given to a handsome man named Carver. The existence of this project did not last long (2007-09), because the developer went bankrupt too quickly, not having had time to take the necessary steps to popularize his unique creation.
Carver is a two-seat vehicle with a unique feature - its body tilted when turning like a motorcycle. This could provide more reliable stability and created the feeling of using a sportbike.
1st place in the category "original three-wheeled cars" is occupied by the most successful member of this family - Campagna T-Rex. It first appeared in 1996 and has gone through a number of updates over the period of its existence.
This canadian car in many states it is classified as "motorcycles" and is considered a vehicle of a sports variant. The original and attractive appearance of the tricycle, the combination of the drive wheel (rear) with the chassis, as well as others non-standard solutions allowed him to gain popularity in many countries and even be present on the set of several films.
Machines capable of swimming
From the period of production of the first cars related to serial modifications, in the first half of the 20th century, some creators sought to make amphibious vehicles popular. Unfortunately, a large percentage of motorists were not interested in this development, so they began to be produced in small quantities, or were assembled exclusively to order.
But for some models, fate was completely different, and they were able to rise to the top of fame. It makes no sense to rank cars in this category. We will focus only on those models that have their own uniqueness and originality. There are only three of them.
The German Amphicar, which has a very funny appearance, became the first amphibious car launched in mass production(1961). This vehicle gained popularity in many countries of the world, but did not have time to get enough of the glory, since the success of Amphicar was short.
The reason was the slow mobility on the water, which did not allow getting proper pleasure from swimming. Also, this amphibious car did not differ in high qualities on the track either. The British Aquada has a more solid appearance. He is somewhat younger than the previous representative (began to be produced in 2003). This amphibious car is endowed with a boat bottom, an impressive exterior, which features a streamlined body.
The presence of special on-board electronics makes it possible to determine the water depth indicator. Immediately, as soon as the amphibious vehicle reaches the required level, the wheels are hidden in special wheel arches and the vehicle turns into a boat. This transformation takes only about 6 seconds.
Aquada is distinguished by nimbleness: it can accelerate to 50 km/h on water, and gains 160 km/h on land.
The Swiss Rinspeed Splash is an equally interesting representative of this category. It was developed in 2004. This model of an amphibious car literally soars above the water, thanks to the effect of hydroplaning. It has special wings for underwater use, as well as a propeller that extends from the rear.
The designers of Rinspeed Splash worked wonders: they placed the so-called hydrofoils in the thresholds of the car, and the one that turns 180 gr. the rear wing was given the role of a standard wing for moving on land. This sporting miracle - amphibian is capable of speeds up to 80 km / h on water and 200 km / h on land.
Tiny trucks
When it comes to trucks, everyone's imagination draws a powerful bulky "monster". But not all models can have an impressive appearance. You will have to get acquainted with small trucks. At the same time, we note that they are not only pleasing to the eye with their diminutiveness, but are also used to transport goods.
The third position is assigned to the Daihatsu Midget II truck, which appeared in 1996. This tiny vehicle has a length of 2.8 m. It is offered in 2 cab options (double and single), as well as in 2 body styles (pickup and van).
This truck is designed for small businesses. It was very actively sold in Japan, but could not achieve such popularity as its predecessor had (a model produced from 1957 - 72).
The French can also boast of their minitruck. This is Aixam-Mega MultiTruck, which is presented in several body styles, including a dump truck. This truck is endowed with a modern touching design. It can have an electric motor or a diesel power plant.
This model is characterized as a car with low operating costs. Its compactness makes it easy to move through the narrow streets of France, but even these factors did not allow the mini-truck to gain great popularity. Perhaps the reason was the high cost (the lowest price is 15 thousand euros).
The leading position was taken by the Indian truck Tata Ace Zip. His formidable appearance causes a smile of tenderness. This model has diesel engine and a force of 11 horses. Tata Ace Zip can handle a load of up to six hundred kg and its cost is quite low (about $5,000). But, this is far from the last word in the field of Indian automotive production process, since it is planned to release a more “miniature” Ace Zip model with 9, which will be equipped with a more powerful motor.
Original models of the past
At the end of this excursion, I want to pay attention to past times. They also observed a large number of unusual and interesting cars. In this case, the rating assessment will not be carried out. We will just tell you about the most original cars, which have already left their own mark in the world history of the auto industry.
For example, the Stout Scarab model. He is known for his unusual futuristic look, which was quite unusual for his era. This minivan appeared back in 1932. Its production was carried out only under the order. Due to the high cost ($5,000 was a huge figure in those days), only nine units of the Stout Scarab were reportedly made for sale. There were also several models as samples for exhibitions. Among them was the first car, the body of which was made of fiberglass.
Another original car of the past is the Mazda R360. She was the first production model passenger vehicles, released by the famous concern of the same name from Japan. This model was produced for six years in the period 1960-1966. During this time, about 60 thousand units of this machine were sold, including for export.
This model was quite compact. It could accommodate four people, and the engine with 16 HP could accelerate this car to a speed of 80 kilometers per hour. The car turned out to be in great demand and helped the manufacturer significantly improve financial performance, as well as start designing and manufacturing more modern vehicle modifications.
In conclusion, we will tell you about another model that helped the well-known German company to get out of financial problems. BMW brand. When the second war, called "world war", ended, this manufacturer was in deep decline. But the rather nondescript BMW Isetta 300 helped him survive and improve his position. The car was designed for only two people and had a 13 HP engine.
While the main representatives of the German car industry fought for consumers, offering them more expensive models, the Bavarian concern flooded the market with a cheap car. It had a very simple design, a front door and little performance. For 6 years (from 1956 to 1962), one hundred and sixty thousand BMW Isetta 300 models were produced, thanks to which the concern straightened its position in the market.
The global auto industry is not only mass VAZs, Golfs, Focuses, etc. The global auto industry is also a small part of truly original and original cars that are rarely found in the general stream. But, if you still manage to see their representative at least once, then for sure this moment will cause at least a smile or surprise, and at the most it will be imprinted in your memory for many years. Today we give you a chance not to wait for this happy moment, peering at the cars passing by. Today we give you the opportunity to get acquainted with the brightest representatives of a family of unusual and strange cars, carefully selected from around the world.
We tried to find the most interesting representatives and divided them into five groups, within which we made a small rating. Perhaps our opinion will not coincide with yours, but one thing is for sure - all the cars presented below rightfully deserve the opportunity to be present in our rating and someday they will definitely take or have already taken their place of honor in the world's leading automobile museums. And let's start, perhaps, with the most common, with design, because cars are also greeted by clothes.
Design quirks.
It was the most difficult to select candidates for the “design” category, since quite a lot of interesting cars with an original and unusual appearance were produced and are still being produced. But, despite the heated debate, we identified the five most curious cars that seemed to us the most unusual and controversial at the same time. So, let's begin.
Fifth place was given to the Japanese sports car, which was produced in small batches between the end of 2006 and 2014, when the world was presented with an updated and final version of the Orochi Final Edition, released in just five copies at a price of almost 125,000 US dollars. Outside of Japan, it is almost impossible to meet Orochi, since this very unusual sports car was oriented exclusively to the local public, who managed to appreciate the "dragon" design of the car, drawn based on the mythical eight-headed creature Yamata no Orochi.
The fourth line is occupied by another sports car -. Ask why? At least by the fact that looking at this car right away you can’t believe that this is a Ferrari. But really, this is the first all-wheel drive supercar in history. Italian manufacturer, and even in the body three-door hatchback designed for four passengers. Introduced in 2011, the Ferrari FF still seems to be some kind of strange, kind of “ugly duckling” compared to other Ferrari models that are familiar to the eye.
We gave the third line in the ranking of original cars in terms of design to the Indian “baby”. This little car, during the creation of which the developers saved on absolutely everything, received a slightly inflated body and a boring, somewhat silly exterior design, thanks to which it is able to attract the attention of absolutely any motorist. However, Tata Nano also has a positive advantage, because at a cost of about $ 2,500 it is the cheapest car in the world. Although on the other hand, Tata Nano is the most unsafe car in the world, having failed absolutely all crash tests.
The second place is occupied by the American. This convertible pickup truck lasted only three years on the market (2003 - 2006) and was never able to win the hearts of even the American public, who loves bulkiness and solidity. The very ambiguous appearance of the car, more suitable for a cartoon image than for a serial car, can only cause a smile, but memories of the past, because such massive wings and small round headlights were quite popular in the middle of the last century. However, this is what makes the Chevrolet SSR special and interesting, otherwise it would not have made it into our rating.
Well, at the top of Olympus, unusual automotive design located Italian compact van of the first generation, produced in the period from 1999 to 2004. What the Italian designers who drew the FIAT Multipla were thinking about and based on is not at all clear. The exterior of this car has a stupid "two-story" appearance, which appeared, apparently, during an unsuccessful attempt to cross the upper part of the body of a minivan with a piece of the body of a classic hatchback. Naturally, the car did not win great popularity, and in 2004, as part of the update, it received a more familiar front end.
Tricycle monsters.
“Very extremely rare” today are three-wheeled vehicles on the roads. Most of them are represented by only dozens - a maximum of hundreds of copies, and some are completely stuck at the stage of concept cars, never getting into the series. Our rating includes 4 models, one of which is historical, and three are quite modern, found on the roads in several countries at once.
An unusual car, produced in 1971 - 1974 in the UK, will open the list of interesting "three-wheelers". The unusual Bond Bug 700E was not only the presence of only three wheels and a strange appearance. One of the “chips” of this car is a top-hung door, or rather, an opening upper part of the body that served as a door. The Bond Bug 700E is a two-seat car that was positioned as (!) a sports car, which attracted the increased attention of the English public to it. As a rule, Bond Bug 700E cars were painted in bright orange tangerine, which made it even more noticeable. It is noteworthy that in England there are still Bond Bug 700E connoisseurs clubs that organize annual meetings and even racing competitions.
Third place in the ranking of unusual tricycles occupies an electric car, released in 2006 and lasted on the market until 2009. This funny and clumsy automotive midget has managed to offer customers as many as two body options - a 4-seater hatchback and a 2-seater pickup. ZAP Xebra was produced mainly in China, but managed to sell several thousand copies in the United States, where it was used by postal employees, and for advertising purposes by large companies, such as Coca-Cola.
We decided to give the second place to a very interesting development called . Unfortunately, this project did not last long. Having started in 2007, already in 2009 Carver left the stage due to the bankruptcy of the developer, who failed to marketing company for the promotion of his offspring. Carver - a single-seat car that had a very interesting feature– a body that deviates in the direction of rotation, providing better stability and at the same time creating the effect of riding a sports bike.
The top line of the rating of unusual "three-wheelers" is occupied by the most successful representative this class- which has been on the market since 1996 and has managed to survive several updates during this time. The Canadian three-wheeled vehicle, classified as a motorcycle in a number of countries, is positioned as a sports vehicle and has a rather interesting appearance, as well as the layout of the chassis with one rear drive wheel. Campagna T-Rex is not only successfully sold in many countries, but also managed to hit the movie screens, starring in several films.
Amphibious vehicles.
Ever since the appearance of the first mass-produced cars in the early 20th century, some manufacturers have tried to popularize amphibious cars, believing that such a versatile vehicle should gain popularity. Alas, or maybe not, but most motorists did not need amphibians, so their production eventually came down to small-scale production or assembly to order. Despite this, in the history of the global automotive industry, several models managed to leave a very bright mark.
We will not make a rating in this category, since we will only tell about three cars, each of which is unique and interesting in its own way. Let's start with the German one, which in 1961 became the first mass-produced amphibious vehicle in world history. With a slightly comical appearance, Amphicar was still in great demand in many countries, but its success was short-lived. Unfortunately, Amphicar swam too slowly, because of which movement on water did not bring proper pleasure, and on ordinary roads it was significantly inferior in quality and driving characteristics to other road users.
The amphibious car, created in 2003 in the UK, looks much more solid. This original car has a boat bottom, as well as a nice exterior with streamlined body contours. But this is not the main thing, the Aquada on-board electronics automatically determines the depth of the water and, when the desired level is reached, hides the wheels in the wheel arches, turning the car into a boat in just 6 seconds. It is also worth noting that Aquada is a very nimble car: on land it can accelerate to 160 km/h, and on water up to a decent 50 km/h.
Another curious representative of this class Vehicle was invented in Switzerland in 2004. We are talking about amphibious, literally hovering above the surface of the water due to the effect of hydroplaning. This is achieved thanks to special hydrofoils and retractable rear propeller. At the same time, the designers managed the almost impossible: to fit the side hydrofoils into the thresholds of the car, and to make the rear wing flipped by 180 degrees also play the role of a familiar wing while driving on land. As a result, the sports amphibian is capable of accelerating up to 200 km/h on the race track and up to 80 km/h while hovering over the water surface. Whatever you say, but Rinspeed Splash - perfect car for James Bond or any other superhero.
"Trucks".
Speaking of trucks, we used to think of KAMAZ, MAN, or at least a GAZelle, but trucks can be much smaller and more unusual than you think. It's even more logical to call these vehicles microtrucks or simply "trucks". We will introduce you to three representatives of this class, who manage not only to surprise others, but also to transport, if not bulky, but still cargo.
So, the third place in the ranking of unusual trucks is occupied by the one that was released in 1996. With a 'toy' design and a bonnet spare that often gets it called a 'rhinoceros', this compact car is only 2.8 meters long but manages to offer two cab options (single or double) as well as two cab options. body - van or pickup. Small delivery truck focused on small business and sold very briskly in Japan, but could not repeat the success of its predecessor, produced from 1957 to 1972.
There is also a microtruck in France. We are talking about, also offering several body options, including a dump truck. At the same time, the French have much more modern design, the truth is still quite funny, as well as two options power plant- diesel or electric motor. Despite the low operating costs and the possibility of being used on narrow Parisian streets, the Aixam-Mega MultiTruck has not yet won much popularity. Perhaps the fault is the price, starting at almost 15,000 euros.
We decided to call the Indian one the leader in the list of unusual trucks. You can start laughing, but this truck with a gloomy appearance is equipped with a diesel engine with a return of as much as 11 hp, which does not prevent it from carrying up to 600 kg of cargo and a driver with a passenger. Like all Tata models, the Ace Zip truck is quite cheap. Buying a new car costs Indian businessmen only $4,500-$5,000. However, this is not yet the limit of the introduction of "nanotechnology" in the Indian auto industry. Soon, Tata promises to release an even more compact modification of the Ace Zip with a 9-horsepower engine.
"Heroes of the past".
Concluding our excursion, I would like to turn your eyes to the past, where there were also many interesting, funny or original cars in their own way. Here again we will do without a rating, but we will just introduce you to the most interesting models who managed to leave their important mark in the history of the global automotive industry.
So let's start with the space car. This minivan, with an unusually futuristic appearance for its era, was born back in 1932 and was produced only to order. The Stout Scarab did not gain mass popularity, due to the high price of the car, which started at $ 5,000, which was a huge amount by the standards of that time. According to available historical data, only 9 copies of the Stout Scarab were collected for sale, several more cars existed as exhibition samples, including the first car in the history of the automotive industry with a fiberglass body.
Another hero of the past -. Meet the first mass-produced passenger car of the now famous Japanese automaker. It was produced in the period from 1960 to 1966 and during this time managed to disperse with a circulation of more than 60,000 copies, becoming along the way the first export car with the Mazda nameplate. The compact car accommodated 4 passengers and was equipped with a 16-horsepower engine, which allowed it to accelerate to 80 km / h. The R360 was so successful that Mazda managed to improve its financial position and start working on more modern cars.
Let's finish with another savior who pulled the famous Bavarian concern BMW out of oblivion. After the war, the German auto industry experienced a deep depression and Brand BMW had every chance to go down in history, if not for the unsightly little car, equipped with a 13-horsepower engine and a cabin designed for two passengers. While all the other representatives of the big German three tried to fight in the segment of more than expensive cars, the Bavarians filled the market with a cheap model with a simple design, an unusual front single door and modest technical specifications. In total, during the release (1956 - 1962), more than 160,000 BMW Isetta 300 rolled off the assembly line, which allowed the Bavarians to significantly improve their financial situation.
An article about 10 very unusual-looking cars, their features and characteristics. At the end of the article - an interesting video about wooden cars!
Every day it becomes more and more difficult to understand the country of manufacture of the car in its appearance. The influence of the consolidated currents of design and engineering make cars more and more impersonal. That is why we decided to make a list of the ten most unusual-looking cars.
It is worth noting that unusual concepts, as well as cars for various festivals and advertising campaigns, have always been distinguished by their bold design and original design, but we will consider those models that nevertheless went on open sale and became at least small-scale.
Rating of unusual cars in the world
The 50s and 60s of the last century marked the era of aerospace style, which was especially pronounced in the American auto industry. Huge curved glass, plenty of chrome and obligatory rear lights, made in the form of fins - here distinctive features of that era.
But Buick Centurion stood out even against the background of compatriots. In addition to the extraordinary design, made in the style of jet aircraft of those years, which is especially evident in the narrow rectangular shape radiator grilles and general streamlining, which required even the headlights to be shifted to the sides of the car.
hallmark models became an incredibly curved windshield and a roof with a panoramic view, which actually turned the salon into a wheelhouse spaceship. The equipment was also to match - already in the mid-50s in basic equipment included a rear-view camera and a screen on the instrument panel, and the front seats automatically shifted for easy entry and exit.
It was this actually experimental car that laid the foundation for the whole Buick Centurion family, which existed for decades, changing generations. But subsequent models completely lost the uniqueness and originality of the first Centurion, which became a hallmark, as well as excellent engine advertisements for subsequent vehicles.
2. Start
There was a place on our list for domestic auto industry. Moreover, the sample we are considering is not just exhibition copy or a product for the party nomenclature, this is a completely utilitarian serial minibus. It was produced at several factories, more precisely in several workshops, since the assembly was carried out almost manually and piece by piece.
Its key feature was quite advanced for the cars of those years car layout and rear engine placement. What's more, the engine compartment is designed as a protrusion in the stern, decorated in an aerospace style. The body is made of fiberglass, which was an advanced material for those years, and the main components and assemblies were borrowed from 21 Volga.
The profile of the car is no less original, in which the driver's cabin and the first passenger row are separated from the rest of the cabin by a massive central pillar, which evokes associations with a modern pickup truck with a closed cargo compartment. The total production volume is about 160 pieces, and the surviving copies are of great value as an example of realized design ideas.
Few people know, but Tatra, now known for the production of utility trucks, was also engaged in the production cars, which could not only compete with others, but surprise and even shock an ordinary motorist.
The Tatra 87 appeared in 1936 when aerospace styling was out of the question, but a quick look at this model makes it clear that it laid the foundations for many subsequent cars. Particularly impressive rear end bodies - despite its impressive dimensions and equipment with rather powerful engines, the Tatra had a rear-engine layout, which required the placement of air intakes in the stern and lengthening of the overhang, which was generally crowned with a full-sized fin.
The front of the car, which has three headlights instead of the usual two, did not lag behind in originality. The profile was remembered by the rear wheel fairing, which created the appearance of a thorough study of aerodynamics.
A sensational car that became famous all over the world even before the official start of sales. The fact is that the manufacturer declared a record low cost- 2000 dollars. This could not be offered by any concern in the world.
But if we ignore the cost, safety and level of equipment, then the one-volume body will immediately attract attention, the hood line of which smoothly passes into the windshield, and then into the roof, forming an almost perfect circle in profile.
Attract attention and air intakes in the area rear fender liner, which is not only not justified from a practical point of view, but also breaks the entire plane of the sidewalls. On early versions of the car, access to luggage compartment was only from the passenger compartment, so there was simply no familiar fifth door. Later, this controversial decision was abandoned, but along with it, the car also lost some of its originality.
If the Indian designers who created the cheapest car in the world can be forgiven a lot and attributed to the search for new ideas, then the Italians from FIAT took the risk consciously. Multipla, which appeared back in 1998, looks too bold for a production car to this day.
The first thing that attracts attention is the low line of the hood, so low that it does not reach the lower edge of the windshield, resulting in a kind of step in the bow. Contrary to the trend that originated in those years and has survived to this day, the door glazing line is also made very low, which makes the interior as visually open as possible.
Add naivety to the look and tiny round headlights located in the frontal part in three rows: fog, dipped beam and daytime running lights. The salon, visually concentrated around a futuristic center console, seems simple and standard against its background.
The layout did not lag behind in originality. The car had two rows of seats, but was six-seater, since there was a full-fledged sofa in front. Low sales volumes forced the concern to carry out a restyling in 2004, which deprived the look of originality.
Since we have touched on the topic of the original layout, it is worth mentioning such a legendary car as the BMW Isetta.
The appearance of this ultra-compact car was bright and memorable, but did not stand out too much against the background of classmates of those years until the doors were opened. More precisely, the only door located in front, instead of the hood. One can only guess what prompted the designers to take this bold step, because it was not economically justified. I had to develop a special steering column, which allows you to fold at the moment of opening the door on which it was fixed, as well as solve more whole line problems. However, it is worth recognizing that the car turned out to be unique.
As for the profile, the almost flat line of the “hood” and windshield, as well as the small angle of inclination of the aft part, make the monocab very specific. The same feeling arises when you look at Tata Nano. So it remains to admit once again that all design trends are cyclical, even with regard to the most extraordinary models.
But back to relatively fresh samples and fast forward to the United States, where the most common body type is a pickup truck. No less popular in this country are various tuning studios that reshape stock cars beyond recognition.
Due to this Chevrolet company decided to launch a model on the market that would not need modifications, as it would embody the most daring ideas and concepts. As a result, the Chevrolet SSR was born - a light pickup convertible built on the platform of a sports car and stylized as American classics 50s.
It was the epitome of the hot rod style launched into the series, and its equipment made it possible to tickle the nerves of sports car owners without any tuning.
Eight-cylinder engine with 390 hp had serious potential, and the lightweight body, combined with excellent aerodynamics, allowed him to accelerate the Chevrolet SSR to 100 km / h in 5.3 seconds.
The car was a two-seater and formally had a cargo compartment, the volume of which was not at all large for a pickup truck. Moreover, access to it was complicated by the use of a special hinged cover. In total, the model lasted on the assembly line for about three years.
An even more unusual roadster from the USA was the Prowler, which fully embodied the concept of hot rods of the 30s of the last century. That is why the front part of the body is made narrower, and the wheels are moved beyond the wings and only in tribute to modern requirements are covered with motorcycle fenders.
At the same time, the two-seater roadster was not at all archaic, its technical equipment and trim elements clearly demonstrated that you were looking at a modern car.
Despite its unique design and extreme impracticality, the Prowler was produced in an edition of 12,000 copies. Structurally, the car did not surprise at all - it was good, but it did not differ in anything outstanding, except for the design. Despite the use of aluminum components in its frame, the weight exceeded 1300 kg, which is quite a lot for a very modest size. The double cabin is quite cramped, and the suspension is very stiff, so to speak of comfortable ride do not have to.
But all these disadvantages become quite logical and justified, given the fact that the ancient Ford A was used as a prototype, which at one time served as the basis for the emerging hot rod movement. It was he who had a cramped and narrow interior, stiff suspension and a minimum of body panels. One way or another, Prowler can be considered a successful reincarnation.
The desire to revive the retro style in America has reached the point that the Chrysler PT Cruiser compact minivan was released in the hot rod style, which is extremely extraordinary for a family car.
A key design feature is the narrowed frontal part, which is built around a large grille, made in the style of cars of the 30s and 40s.
The profile had pronounced profiled wings, visually connecting the front and rear parts. The stern is the height of minimalism, which, until the complete completion of the image, lacked only a spoked spare wheel on the fifth door.
The car was based on the Neon platform, quite old at that time, from very utilitarian models, which predetermined the absence of outstanding speed and handling indicators.
The maximum speed of the car reached 176 km / h, and acceleration to hundreds took 10.3 seconds, which fully confirmed the purpose of the Chrysler PT Cruiser as a family car.
And the car completes our rating, the existence of which many did not even know.
Morgan specializes in the production of automobiles based on technical solution mid-1930s. True, small circulations predetermine the need to use the main components and assemblies from more massive modern models other brands.
The design of the Aero 8 is the embodiment of steampunk ideas, a combination of ancient and ultra-modern, embodied in metal. The front part is somewhat reminiscent of Bugatti, but if you look at the general style of those years, it is obvious that this common features automotive industry.
Morgan has a wooden frame, as of old, combined with aluminum body elements, connected with aircraft glue and rivets. And a huge hood and a cabin shifted back, together with hypertrophied large and voluminous front fenders, complete the conceptual image of the 30s.
There are also versions with spoked wheels, made in strict accordance with the technology of the time, which gives the appearance completeness.
Thus, even now, despite the desire of manufacturers to maximize the target audience, on public roads it is quite possible to meet a truly unique car with a design that will not leave anyone indifferent.
wooden cars- in the video:
there are models that amaze with their concept and their capabilities. This review will focus on the most unusual and amazing cars of the last 60 years. Some projects have already seen a real implementation, while others are being prepared for release in the coming years. 
1. Firebird III
This car was presented in 1959. Even at first glance, it is clear that the Fireberd III is a mix of a car and a jet. A car with an unusual body had 2 separate aircraft cabins. The control was carried out not by a steering wheel, but by a joystick, which, as a rule, is used in aircraft. Tail keels were as many as 7 pieces.
The rear wheels were almost completely hidden under the air intake wings. A gas-turbine engine was installed in the car, the power of which was 225 hp.
2 Holden Hurricane
In 1969 a coupe with the bright name "Hurricane" was presented. Landing in it (by analogy with military aircraft) was carried out as follows: the driver and passenger sat down in the cabin, the roof covered them, and at that moment the seats were relegated to the floor in a recumbent position.
Holden Hurricane was equipped with the most advanced electronics at that time: a rear-view camera was installed, an automatic climate control system, digital panel instruments, a self-tuning radio and a navigator that was guided by magnets.
3 Cadillac Cyclone
In 1959, Cadillac created its Cyclone concept, which already at that time implemented the collision avoidance system so popular in our time. IN front bumper This car was equipped with a radar system that scanned the road ahead of the car and warned the driver of possible dangers.
Apart from this Cadillac systems The Cyclone had an opening dome roof, as well as doors that slid backwards on ball bearings.
4.Toyota fun-vii
This car is called the machine of the XXII century. Toyota body fun-vii is covered with a special material that is capable of displaying a variety of video content on the surface of the car. As a result, depending on the wishes of the owner, the car can not only change colors, but becomes a field for absolutely any patterns and ornaments. In addition, the entire body of the car is fully touch-sensitive.
In addition, Toyota fun-vii is equipped with an "electronic concierge" function in the form of a hologram of a girl who communicates with the driver (the driver can choose her appearance and clothes on her own).
5. Transparent car
This fully working machine is 100% made of organic glass. Using her example, you can see how the car and the security systems installed in it work.
6 BMW Jina
Thanks to a special innovative design and a special material (Spandex) for the production of the body, this machine is able to change the appearance. The basis of the body is an aluminum frame, which can be driven by electric drives, a very plastic and translucent spandek completely fits the frame.
7 Hydra Spyder
This car is a hybrid of a racing car and a motorboat. The car weighs 3300kg and is equipped with 6 liter engine V-8, whose power is 400 hp. On land, the Hydra Spyder can reach speeds of up to 201 km/h and on water up to 85 km/h. When entering the water, the driver is required to press a special button. At this point, a special pneumatic system will remove the wheels, turning the car into a boat.
8. Kiravan
This truck is considered the perfect motor home. It is equipped with several fuel tanks, the total capacity of which is 772l (power reserve - 3000km). All systems of this road train are controlled from the cab. Installed in Kiravan: solar panel, battery, as well as diesel generator, with a power of 25 kW. These devices provide all the needs for electricity.
The interior space of the road train is amazing. Here on different levels located: an office with 2 PCs, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining room and a guest room, two bedrooms, a shower cabin and a dry closet.
9.Mercedes Benz Hexawheel
This concept of a young Iranian designer is able to overcome very difficult obstacles in his path. As the basis of the idea, he took the features of the articulation of individual elements in the skeletons of insects and embodied his idea in a model of a 6-wheeled car. So far, it exists in the form of computer graphics and a mini-model assembled from Lego parts. But according to the author real model will be provided all-wheel drive and hydraulic transmission.
10. Mercedes Benz F-Cell Roadster
This machine is modern version the first car, which produced in 1886. Mercedes. Here the retro design is combined with the cutting-edge technology of the 21st century, but the top speed is only 25 km/h.
11 Rolls-Royce 103EX
The manufacturer presented this concept as the car of the future. It has an unusual body shape, and the interior, as is always the case with Rolls-Royce, is filled with luxury.
At the same time, the traditional steering wheel and pedals are absent, since the car must move in autopilot mode.
12. BMW Vision Next100
This concept of German automakers is rather similar to a car not even in the 22nd, but in the 23rd century. Windshield- this is one large display where you can display the route.
The car is equipped with artificial intelligence, which will warn the driver about possible dangers on the way. In addition, the car will be able to move in autopilot mode.
We are all used to seeing cars on the roads that are generally very similar to each other. The modern automotive industry cannot boast of a variety of forms. However, for those who want to have a car that is unlike anything that moves on our roads, there are certain developments that are sharply different from everyday vehicles.
This article describes the most unusual cars in the world that can satisfy the aesthetic needs of even an avid critic and connoisseur.
Cars with the most unusual appearance
Today, many cars are being created in the world that have an extraordinary and shocking appearance.
The most prominent representatives of such transport can be considered:
The machine is a shoe
The car is made in the form of women's high-heeled shoes and can claim first place in the nomination "the most strange cars ever made in the world." It has wide-spaced motorcycle wheels located in front and are swivel. Rear wheel only one and is located directly under the heel. Here is also installed the usual motorcycle engine low power. 
The vehicle is a concept, not mass-produced and not intended for everyday use. It does not meet the safety requirements in force in the country of manufacture, therefore it cannot be registered in government databases. The movement on the car-shoe should be carried out at a minimum speed, since the stability of the unusual prototype leaves much to be desired.
ZIL - dragon
A piece-made car produced on the basis of ZIL-133. Made by order of one of the public associations of the Russian Federation. It looks like a dragon. It has a forward metal bump, fangs, a modified cabin and body. Equipped with an appropriately stylized container for transporting liquids. The car has a rather "terrible" and respectable design, corresponding to the post-apocalyptic theme. 
The technically modified truck has also been modified. More than installed here powerful motor, additional fuel tanks , gearbox replaced. Exploitation unusual car takes place on public roads.
The Batmobile is a vehicle made specifically for the filming of films about the superhero Batman. It was made in several copies. The basis for the concept at different times was the Lincoln future, Buick Riviera and Chevrolet Caprice. 
Two of the three such cars were stylized as a bat. The latest instance of the Batmobile is more reminiscent of a military vehicle. All Batmobiles are excellent representatives of the caste of the most unusual and extravagant cars on Earth.
Cars with the most unusual "stuffing"
Most unusual cars in the world do not always have a shocking appearance. Much more often they are distinguished by a technical component.
Concept powered by hydrogen fuel. In addition, a distinctive feature of the car is its body. It is made of soft panels that move even when pressed with a finger. As planned by the designers, the safety of the driver and passengers in such a car will be ensured by the entire body, which plays the role of a huge pillow. 
Of course, the small size of the concept and its characteristics do not allow to ensure safety even when using the "body-cushion" technology. It is assumed that the vehicle will move exclusively within the city, slowly and measuredly.
Vehicles with a gas engine
Gas generator technology is not new. Even the pre-war GAZ-AA (one and a half) traveled along the roads, emitting thick clouds of smoke. The essence of the gas generator is to convert solid fuel into combustible gas, which subsequently enters the engine cylinders and burns there, providing work power unit. The car runs on wood. 
Gas generating machines cannot be categorized exclusively as “the most unusual soviet cars because the technology is still used today. Such vehicles are piece, made mainly by amateur enthusiasts. Gas generators are equipped with cars and light trucks, motorcycles.
Aist-5TM
Made by NPO Aviastok based on KrAZ. A distinctive feature of the car is the installation of a KV-1 jet engine designed for the MIG-15, MIG-17, IL-28, etc. aircraft. Of course, the purpose of the aviation unit was not to move the car itself. With the help of a jet stream, specialists cleaned the runways from snow and ice. The KV-1 could be mounted in front or behind the KrAZ. 
Today, such technological solutions have been replaced by imported blowing and cleaning equipment. "Gorynychi", as airport workers called jet KrAZ trucks, are maintained in working condition. However, they are released onto the strip only when it is necessary to quickly dry the asphalt before marking.
The smallest cars
The most amazing machines come in very small sizes.
At the same time, the most miniature representatives of the auto world, as a rule, are not serial. They are made independently or to order by lovers of non-standard solutions.
Peel P50
At the time of manufacture, it was the smallest car in the world. Later, its double version was released, which also took its place in the Guinness Book of Records. The length of the car is 134 centimeters, the width does not exceed 64 centimeters. The weight of the mini-car is 59 kg, and the power is only 4.2 hp. 
The car was created in the UK. Despite the very modest power, it could reach speeds of up to 61 km / h, which at the time of the creation of the unit was a normal indicator for production cars. The car was three-wheeled, had one headlight, a steering wheel located in the center of the cabin and two doors opening in the rear direction.
A single-seat car made in 1957 by German engineer Karl Jurisch. The motorplane had a length of 228 cm and a weight of 165 kg. The power of the vehicle was equal to 9.5 hp, and the maximum speed was impressive at the time of the creation of the car 88 km / h. 
The car was three-wheeled, had no steering wheel. Management was carried out using levers located on the sides of the driver. The motoplane had 2 headlights, 1 windshield wiper, two rear-view mirrors. Did not go into the series, because possible manufacturers considered that the project will be unclaimed among potential buyers.
The car is not only the smallest of the vehicles produced today, but also tops the list describing the cheapest cars in the world. The cost of the car in the US is only 869 dollars. The real price of a car, of course, is higher. However, part of the cost is paid from the federal and regional budgets. 
Machine height is 1562 mm, length is 2631 mm. The width of the baby does not exceed 1546 mm. The maximum speed of the car is 40 km / h, which can be developed thanks to the electric motor installed under the hood. The charging time of an electric machine is usually within 6-7 hours.
