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17 Iconic Cars Named After Animals

Jimmy adeel July 8, 2025

For generations, automakers have looked to the animal kingdom when naming their most memorable creations. From the untamed power of big cats to the sleek grace of aquatic creatures, these names conjure vivid images of speed, agility, and style. Animal-inspired car names aren’t just about branding—they tap into deep associations, letting drivers imagine themselves at the wheel of something wild and unstoppable. Join us as we roar through the iconic vehicles named after animals, celebrating the fierce spirit that drives automotive innovation.

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1. Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang galloped onto the scene in 1964, forever changing the muscle car landscape. Named after the wild American horse, the Mustang captures the untamed spirit of the open road. Its design and performance quickly made it a symbol of freedom and raw power. Over the decades, it has spawned countless special editions and starred in blockbuster films. To explore the Mustang’s storied legacy, visit the official Ford Mustang history.

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2. Chevrolet Impala

The Chevrolet Impala debuted in 1958, taking its name from the swift African antelope. This full-size sedan quickly earned a reputation for style, comfort, and reliability. Its elegant lines and distinctive badge have made the Impala an enduring favorite across generations of drivers. With a production run that spans decades, the Impala remains a true automotive icon. Discover its legacy at the official Chevrolet Impala page.

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3. Dodge Viper

The Dodge Viper slithered into the spotlight in 1991, instantly capturing attention with its bold design and menacing performance. Named after the venomous viper snake, this sports car is known for its aggressive character and raw power. The Viper’s massive V10 engine and striking appearance have secured its place as a modern legend among American performance cars. For an in-depth look, visit MotorTrend’s Dodge Viper archive.

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4. Volkswagen Beetle

The Volkswagen Beetle, affectionately called the ‘Bug,’ has charmed drivers since 1938 with its instantly recognizable, beetle-inspired silhouette. Its rounded, compact design set it apart from anything else on the road, making it a global symbol of individuality and fun. The Beetle’s enduring popularity and cultural impact have solidified its legendary status. To explore the full story, visit the official Volkswagen Beetle page.

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5. Lamborghini Gallardo

The Lamborghini Gallardo draws its name from a renowned breed of Spanish fighting bull, symbolizing strength and agility. Unveiled in 2003, the Gallardo quickly became one of Lamborghini’s best-selling models, thanks to its striking looks and exhilarating performance. Continuing Lamborghini’s tradition of bull-inspired names, the Gallardo channels the power and presence of its namesake both on the road and track. For more on its legacy, visit the Lamborghini Gallardo history.

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6. Shelby Cobra

The Shelby Cobra slithered onto the automotive scene in the 1960s, blending British engineering with American muscle. Named after the deadly cobra snake, this sports car is famous for its lightweight body and thundering engine. The Cobra’s dominance on both the street and racetrack has cemented its status as a true icon in car culture. For an in-depth look at its history, visit Hagerty’s Shelby Cobra profile.

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7. Mercury Cougar

The Mercury Cougar leapt onto the scene in 1967, taking inspiration from the agile North American wildcat for both its name and character. This stylish coupe offered a unique blend of luxury and performance, distinguishing itself during the pony car era. The Cougar’s sleek design and refined features made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. For more on its storied history, see Hemmings’ Mercury Cougar overview.

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8. Plymouth Barracuda

The Plymouth Barracuda, introduced in 1964, took its name from the fierce, predatory fish known for its speed and aggression. With its bold styling and muscular engines, the Barracuda quickly became a standout in the muscle car wars of the 1970s. Its distinctive design and high-performance options have made it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts. For a deeper dive into its legacy, visit MotorTrend’s Barracuda history.

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9. Volkswagen Rabbit

The Volkswagen Rabbit hopped into North America in the 1970s and again in the 2000s, offering a playful twist on the globally known Golf. Its name highlights the car’s nimbleness and compact size, making it a hit with city dwellers seeking efficiency and fun. The Rabbit’s blend of practicality and lively character has kept it popular across generations. Find more details at Car and Driver’s Rabbit overview.

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10. AMC Marlin

The AMC Marlin, produced in the 1960s, drew its name and inspiration from the swift, streamlined marlin fish. With its fastback design and distinctive styling, the Marlin stood out in the muscle car era as a unique choice for drivers seeking both speed and individuality. Its aquatic namesake reflected the car’s focus on performance and flair. For more on this rare classic, visit Hemmings’ AMC Marlin history.

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11. Ford Falcon

The Ford Falcon, produced from 1960 to 1970, took flight with a name inspired by the swift and agile bird of prey. Compact and economical, the Falcon became a favorite for families and commuters alike, thanks to its versatility and reliability. Its success also laid the groundwork for several iconic Ford models that followed. For a deeper look into its history, visit the Ford Falcon history page.

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12. Sunbeam Tiger

The Sunbeam Tiger roared onto the scene in the 1960s, blending British style with American muscle. Its name evokes both power and elegance, captured by a potent V8 engine and nimble handling. This roadster’s unique transatlantic heritage and thrilling performance continue to make it a favorite among classic car enthusiasts. For more about its story, visit Classic & Sports Car’s Sunbeam Tiger history.

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13. Peugeot Lion Models (Peugeot 3008, 5008)

Peugeot’s iconic lion emblem is a powerful symbol of strength, pride, and resilience. Among its lineup, the 3008 and 5008 SUVs stand out for their bold designs and sophisticated features, truly capturing the spirit of the lion. These models reflect Peugeot’s commitment to confidence and elegance on the road. Discover more about the lion’s legacy at Peugeot’s official history page.

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14. Dodge Ram

The Dodge Ram stands tall in the world of full-size pickup trucks, drawing its name from the rugged and powerful mountain ram. Engineered for strength and durability, the Ram has become a favorite among those who demand reliability and muscle from their vehicles. The distinctive ram’s head logo is now a universal symbol of toughness in the truck segment. For more information, check out the official Ram Trucks website.

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15. Ford Puma

The Ford Puma first leapt into the spotlight in the late 1990s as a compact, sporty coupe, and returned in 2019 as a stylish crossover. Its name evokes the agility and athleticism of the wild puma, qualities reflected in its responsive handling and energetic design. The Puma appeals to drivers who crave a fun, dynamic ride with a touch of flair. Find out more at the official Ford Puma page.

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16. Nissan Leopard

The Nissan Leopard prowled the Japanese market from 1980 to 1999 as a stylish luxury coupe. Named after the elegant and powerful big cat, the Leopard distinguished itself with its refined design and advanced technology. This model became a symbol of sophistication and innovation, appealing to drivers seeking both comfort and performance. For more about its heritage, visit Nissan’s Leopard history.

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17. Isuzu Panther

The Isuzu Panther is a multi-purpose vehicle beloved across Southeast Asia for its durability and practicality. Named after the versatile and powerful panther, this vehicle is built to handle a variety of needs, from family transport to commercial use. Its robust design and reliable performance have made it a trusted choice in demanding environments. Learn more about the Panther’s strengths at Isuzu’s official site.

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Conclusion

Lamborghini gallardo — Image via: motor-junkie

From the fierce Mustang to the adventurous Safari, animal-inspired car names continue to capture our imagination and connect us with the natural world. These vehicles aren’t just modes of transport—they’re symbols of power, agility, and freedom. By drawing on the traits of their animal namesakes, automakers create a lasting bond between design and spirit. As you spot these icons on the road, let them remind you of the wild inspiration that drives automotive innovation forward.

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17 Iconic Cars Named After Animals

1. Ford Mustang

2. Chevrolet Impala

3. Dodge Viper

4. Volkswagen Beetle

5. Lamborghini Gallardo

6. Shelby Cobra

7. Mercury Cougar

8. Plymouth Barracuda

9. Volkswagen Rabbit

10. AMC Marlin

11. Ford Falcon

12. Sunbeam Tiger

13. Peugeot Lion Models (Peugeot 3008, 5008)

14. Dodge Ram

15. Ford Puma

16. Nissan Leopard

17. Isuzu Panther

Conclusion

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