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20 Discontinued Models We’d Buy in a Heartbeat Today

Cameron Eittreim June 22, 2025

Every automotive enthusiast carries in their heart a special list of cars long retired from production but never forgotten. These discontinued models evoke deep nostalgia, reminding us of eras defined by innovative design, thrilling performance, and unique charm. Often ahead of their time or simply too niche for the mainstream market, these vehicles have grown more desirable with age, becoming sought-after gems among collectors and fans alike. Join us as we explore 20 unforgettable cars that have been discontinued but continue to captivate, excite, and inspire—a select group we’d eagerly welcome back into our driveways today.

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1. Honda S2000

The Honda S2000 remains an icon among roadster enthusiasts, celebrated for its exhilarating performance and timeless aesthetics. At its heart beats a legendary high-revving, naturally aspirated engine capable of spinning up to an incredible 9,000 RPM—an experience rarely matched by contemporary sports cars. Coupled with a perfectly balanced chassis, precise steering, and rear-wheel drive, the S2000 delivers unmatched driving purity that modern vehicles often overlook in favor of technology and convenience. Its minimalist approach, driver-oriented cockpit, and sleek lines have aged beautifully, ensuring that this discontinued masterpiece continues to captivate drivers who value raw, engaging motoring experiences.

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2. Toyota FJ Cruiser

Blending distinctive retro styling with genuine off-road prowess, the Toyota FJ Cruiser quickly won the hearts of adventure enthusiasts around the globe. Inspired by Toyota’s legendary FJ40 Land Cruiser, it combined rugged durability and impressive capability with modern comfort and reliability. Its bold, boxy design stood apart from contemporary SUVs, while functional features like water-resistant interiors, high ground clearance, and advanced four-wheel-drive systems made it ideal for traversing challenging terrain. Today, the FJ Cruiser enjoys enduring popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and collectors alike, appreciated for its unapologetic individuality and ability to inspire off-road adventures long after its discontinuation.

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3. Dodge Viper

Few cars embody raw American muscle and aggressive styling quite like the Dodge Viper. Known for its massive V10 engine, blistering acceleration, and bold, unapologetic aesthetics, the Viper commanded attention wherever it went. Unlike many modern sports cars, the Viper intentionally avoided excessive electronic driver aids, placing emphasis instead on visceral feedback and pure driving skill. Its distinctive long hood, muscular curves, and side-exit exhausts further accentuated its intimidating character. Although production ceased, the Viper remains highly coveted today, valued by enthusiasts who crave its unfiltered power and the thrilling, old-school driving experience that modern sports cars rarely deliver.

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4. Pontiac GTO

The Pontiac GTO stands as an enduring symbol of American muscle car heritage, credited by many as the vehicle that sparked the muscle car revolution of the 1960s. With its powerful V8 engine, bold styling, and accessible performance, the GTO captured the spirit of a generation seeking excitement and freedom on the open road. Unlike many modern muscle cars that feature advanced technology and refined comfort, the GTO delivered straightforward, tire-shredding thrills wrapped in a timeless, muscular design. Today, collectors and enthusiasts alike cherish the GTO not just for its historical significance, but also for its authentic, no-frills driving experience.

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5. Ford Bronco (Original Generation)

Long before the recent revival captured headlines, the original Ford Bronco had already cemented its reputation as an iconic, versatile off-roader. Introduced in the 1960s, the first-generation Bronco offered a perfect blend of rugged capability, compact size, and distinctively simple styling. Its removable top, robust chassis, and go-anywhere attitude made it a beloved companion for outdoor adventures. Today, original Broncos remain highly sought-after collectibles, admired for their timeless charm and straightforward mechanics. Enthusiasts continue restoring and customizing these classics, keeping alive their unique spirit and reminding us why the original Bronco still inspires passion and loyalty decades after its production ended.

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6. Chevrolet SS

The Chevrolet SS was an understated gem that combined American muscle with refined sedan practicality. Beneath its modest exterior lay a powerful V8 engine paired with rear-wheel drive, delivering exhilarating performance often reserved for pricier European sport sedans. Its discreet styling allowed it to fly under the radar, appealing to enthusiasts who valued performance over flash. Despite its relatively short production run, the SS carved out a unique niche, offering an engaging driving experience coupled with everyday usability. Today, performance-minded drivers still seek out the Chevrolet SS, appreciating its rare blend of comfort, power, and subtlety unmatched by current offerings.

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7. Saab 9-3 Aero

The Saab 9-3 Aero exemplified the Swedish automaker’s tradition of combining distinctive design with turbocharged performance. Known for its innovative engineering and aerodynamic silhouette, the 9-3 Aero offered drivers a unique alternative to mainstream luxury sedans. Its spirited turbocharged engine delivered impressive acceleration, while the aircraft-inspired interior and ergonomic cockpit underscored Saab’s aviation heritage. Despite Saab’s unfortunate departure from the automotive landscape, the 9-3 Aero maintains an enthusiastic following. Loyal fans appreciate its blend of practicality, distinctive style, and engaging driving dynamics, ensuring this Swedish icon remains beloved among collectors and enthusiasts who value individuality and character over mass-market appeal.

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8. Mazda RX-7

The Mazda RX-7 remains legendary for its unique rotary engine, delivering a distinctive, high-pitched exhaust note unlike anything else on the road. Renowned for its smooth, linear power delivery and agile handling, the RX-7 provided a pure, driver-focused experience that earned it a loyal fanbase among driving enthusiasts. Its lightweight construction, balanced chassis, and sleek, aerodynamic styling set it apart from competitors. While modern sports cars increasingly rely on advanced technology and turbocharged piston engines, enthusiasts continue to cherish the RX-7 for its mechanical purity, timeless design, and the distinctive character that a rotary powerplant brings to the driving experience.

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9. BMW 1 Series M Coupe

The BMW 1 Series M Coupe quickly became a cult classic, celebrated for its raw performance and limited production numbers. With a muscular stance, aggressive styling, and powerful turbocharged inline-six engine, this compact coupe captured the essence of BMW’s iconic M division. Its precise steering, balanced chassis, and spirited handling offered drivers an engaging, visceral driving experience often missing in modern performance cars. The car’s exclusivity further enhanced its appeal, turning it into an instant collector’s item. Today, enthusiasts seek out the 1 Series M Coupe for its pure driving dynamics and its place among BMW’s most memorable performance models.

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10. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, affectionately known as the Evo, earned legendary status through its rally-inspired performance and uncompromising driving dynamics. Powered by a potent turbocharged engine paired with Mitsubishi’s advanced all-wheel-drive system, the Evo excelled both on the track and twisting mountain roads. Its aggressive styling, lightweight build, and precise handling made it a thrilling, accessible sports sedan that delivered genuine motorsport DNA to enthusiasts. Today, despite ending production, the Evo remains highly desirable among performance car fans, who appreciate its raw capability, tunable powertrain, and the exhilarating experience few modern sedans can replicate.

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11. Nissan Skyline GT-R R34

Immortalized through motorsport successes and iconic appearances in pop culture, the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 remains an automotive legend. Equipped with an advanced twin-turbo inline-six engine and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, it became synonymous with precision, speed, and tuning potential. Its aggressive yet refined styling, driver-centric cockpit, and technological innovations set benchmarks many modern sports cars still aspire to reach. Even years after production ceased, the R34 GT-R maintains a devoted following, coveted by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its enduring popularity highlights its lasting impact and the unique driving experience that continues to inspire admiration around the world.

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12. Acura Integra Type R

The Acura Integra Type R stands as a true performance icon, embodying Honda’s mastery of lightweight engineering and high-revving engines. Renowned for its razor-sharp handling, precise steering, and eager 1.8-liter engine capable of revving past 8,000 RPM, this front-wheel-drive legend delivered a driving experience that remains unmatched today. Its minimalist, driver-focused interior underscored a singular purpose: pure engagement behind the wheel. With limited production numbers and a passionate enthusiast following, the Integra Type R has become a highly sought-after collector’s item, celebrated for its uncompromising dedication to driving dynamics and the sheer joy it brings to those lucky enough to own one.

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13. Chevrolet Avalanche

The Chevrolet Avalanche carved out its own niche, skillfully blending the practicality of an SUV with the rugged utility of a pickup truck. Its distinctive “midgate” allowed drivers to easily transform the interior for increased cargo space, offering unmatched versatility for hauling gear, passengers, or both. The Avalanche’s unique design and adaptable functionality appealed to a wide audience, from families seeking comfort to outdoor adventurers in need of capability. Today, fans miss its practical innovations and flexibility, recognizing that few vehicles offer similar convenience. In an era where versatility and adaptability remain highly valued, the Avalanche’s absence is felt more than ever.

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14. Subaru Baja

The Subaru Baja remains an endearing oddity among automotive enthusiasts, blending the practicality of a compact truck bed with the comfort and handling of a passenger car. This quirky car-truck hybrid boldly defied convention, offering adventurous drivers a unique blend of all-wheel-drive capability, passenger comfort, and open-bed utility. Its distinctive styling and versatile design carved out a dedicated niche audience—drivers who valued individuality, functionality, and Subaru’s trademark reliability. Years after its discontinuation, the Baja still maintains a passionate community of owners who appreciate its unconventional personality and practical charm, underscoring how uniquely appealing niche vehicles can be.

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15. Volkswagen Corrado VR6

The Volkswagen Corrado VR6 is celebrated as one of VW’s most distinctive sports coupes, combining sleek, angular styling with groundbreaking engine technology. At its core was the innovative VR6 engine, a compact and powerful motor offering smooth performance and an unmistakable soundtrack that set it apart from contemporary rivals. Paired with sharp handling and a driver-focused cockpit, the Corrado quickly earned a devoted following among driving enthusiasts. Today, it maintains cult status within the Volkswagen community, admired both for its rarity and its enduring appeal as a rewarding driver’s car that perfectly blends practicality, performance, and unique German engineering.

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16. Cadillac CTS-V Wagon

The Cadillac CTS-V Wagon boldly defied convention, pairing the practicality of a spacious luxury wagon with breathtaking high-performance capabilities. Under its sharply designed hood, a supercharged V8 engine delivered exhilarating acceleration rivaling dedicated sports cars, while its refined interior offered premium comfort and versatility. This unique combination positioned the CTS-V Wagon as an enticing alternative to European performance wagons, capturing the imagination of drivers seeking both family-friendly practicality and track-ready excitement. Today, its rarity and fearless personality have made it a highly desirable collector’s item, reminding enthusiasts of the sheer joy that comes from a performance car disguised as an everyday hauler.

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17. Ford SVT Lightning

The Ford SVT Lightning was far more than just a pickup truck—it was a muscle car in disguise. Developed by Ford’s Special Vehicle Team, this high-performance truck featured a potent supercharged V8 engine, aggressive styling, and sport-tuned suspension, making it one of the fastest and most exciting pickups of its time. Its blend of practicality and tire-shredding acceleration appealed to fans who craved performance without sacrificing everyday utility. Today, the SVT Lightning’s enduring popularity speaks volumes about its lasting appeal, as truck enthusiasts and collectors alike continue to appreciate this bold, exhilarating chapter in Ford’s performance history.

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18. Audi RS2 Avant

The Audi RS2 Avant stands as a groundbreaking collaboration between Audi and Porsche, introducing the world to the concept of a high-performance wagon. Equipped with a turbocharged five-cylinder engine, Porsche-engineered brakes, and advanced quattro all-wheel drive, the RS2 Avant delivered blistering performance typically reserved for dedicated sports cars. Its bold yet practical design set a new standard for performance-oriented family vehicles, earning it a loyal following and iconic status. Today, enthusiasts and collectors highly covet this pioneering model, cherishing its historical significance, understated elegance, and thrilling driving dynamics that still hold their own against modern performance wagons.

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19. Lexus LFA

The Lexus LFA remains one of the most ambitious and captivating supercars ever produced, showcasing Lexus’s commitment to precision engineering and extraordinary performance. At its heart was a meticulously crafted V10 engine, renowned for its spine-tingling exhaust note and lightning-fast throttle response. Carbon fiber construction, cutting-edge aerodynamics, and innovative digital instrumentation further emphasized its advanced engineering. Produced in extremely limited numbers, the LFA quickly became a highly desirable collector’s item, coveted by enthusiasts for its exclusivity, groundbreaking technology, and thrilling driving experience. Even today, the Lexus LFA continues to captivate automotive fans, symbolizing the pinnacle of Japanese automotive craftsmanship.

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20. Jeep Cherokee XJ

The Jeep Cherokee XJ remains beloved among off-road enthusiasts for its legendary durability, straightforward mechanical design, and impressive capability. Introduced in the 1980s, this compact SUV quickly established itself as a go-anywhere vehicle that could handle rugged terrain while still serving as a comfortable daily driver. Its unibody construction provided strength without excessive weight, while its robust drivetrain and versatile suspension made it supremely capable both on-road and off. Today, the Cherokee XJ maintains a fiercely loyal following, as enthusiasts appreciate its simplicity, reliability, and ease of customization—qualities that have secured its lasting popularity decades after production ended.

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Conclusion

While automotive trends continually evolve, these discontinued models remind us why certain vehicles leave an indelible mark on our hearts. Each one—whether through groundbreaking engineering, distinctive styling, or unmatched driving thrills—possesses unique qualities that transcend their production eras. Enthusiasts continue to seek out these iconic cars, fueling a lasting passion for their timeless appeal and irreplaceable driving experiences. Though no longer rolling off assembly lines, their enduring popularity underscores the powerful connection between drivers and vehicles that capture imagination and emotion. Perhaps someday, manufacturers will revisit these cherished models, bringing renewed joy to enthusiasts eager to recapture automotive magic.

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20 Discontinued Models We’d Buy in a Heartbeat Today

1. Honda S2000

2. Toyota FJ Cruiser

3. Dodge Viper

4. Pontiac GTO

5. Ford Bronco (Original Generation)

6. Chevrolet SS

7. Saab 9-3 Aero

8. Mazda RX-7

9. BMW 1 Series M Coupe

10. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

11. Nissan Skyline GT-R R34

12. Acura Integra Type R

13. Chevrolet Avalanche

14. Subaru Baja

15. Volkswagen Corrado VR6

16. Cadillac CTS-V Wagon

17. Ford SVT Lightning

18. Audi RS2 Avant

19. Lexus LFA

20. Jeep Cherokee XJ

Conclusion

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