Home Cars These 10 Cars Were So Weird They Became Cool

Cars

These 10 Cars Were So Weird They Became Cool

Cameron Eittreim July 11, 2025

The world of automobiles isn’t just about speed or luxury—it’s also about daring to be different. Some cars arrived on the scene so unconventional that they left onlookers scratching their heads. But over time, these unusual vehicles have found their place as cult classics, celebrated for their boldness and charm. What was once seen as awkward or strange has often become a symbol of creativity and individuality. This article takes a closer look at ten cars whose weirdness helped them transcend mere transportation and become true icons.

NEXT >>

1. AMC Pacer

1200px 1975 amc pacer base model at 2012 rockville t — A classic blue AMC Pacer from the 1970s, famously featured in Wayne’s World, gleams under the sunlight. | Photo by Sami Aksu on Pexels

Few cars have turned heads quite like the AMC Pacer. Launched in the 1970s, its bulbous silhouette and massive glass panels earned it a reputation as the “flying fishbowl.” Critics and comedians alike poked fun at its unusual proportions, but time has been kind to the Pacer’s quirky charm. A new generation discovered its appeal after the car’s memorable role in Wayne’s World. Today, the Pacer’s once-mocked design is celebrated by enthusiasts who appreciate its unapologetic boldness and retro vibe.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

2. Citroën DS

When the Citroën DS debuted in 1955, it looked like something from another planet. Its sleek, aerodynamic lines and innovative features—most notably the revolutionary hydropneumatic suspension—set it apart from anything else on the road. Drivers marveled at its smooth, gliding ride, which made the DS feel more like a spaceship than a car. The design was so avant-garde that it initially baffled traditionalists, but design aficionados quickly fell in love. Today, the Citroën DS is revered as a masterpiece of engineering and a true symbol of automotive innovation.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

3. DeLorean DMC-12

Delorean dmc 12 %289979%29 %28cropped%29 — A gleaming DeLorean DMC-12 stands with its iconic gullwing doors open, ready for a Back to the Future adventure. | Photo by olia danilevich on Pexels

The DeLorean DMC-12 is instantly recognizable thanks to its brushed stainless-steel body and iconic gullwing doors. When it launched in the early 1980s, its futuristic looks stood out in a sea of boxy sedans. While its performance was modest, its unique design made it unforgettable. The DeLorean shot to superstardom after starring as a time machine in the Back to the Future trilogy. Today, it’s celebrated as a symbol of 1980s optimism—and one of pop culture’s most beloved cars.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

4. Nissan S-Cargo

A quirky Nissan S-Cargo microvan shows off its retro charm, standing out with its playful, compact Japanese design. | Photo by Jagjeet Dhuna on Pexels

The Nissan S-Cargo is one of the quirkiest microvans ever produced. Introduced in the late 1980s, its snail-inspired styling—complete with round headlights and curvy bodywork—gave it instant personality. Originally sold only in Japan, the S-Cargo’s rarity outside its homeland has made it a true cult favorite among collectors. Its playful proportions and friendly face make it a standout at any car show, proving that a little whimsy goes a long way in capturing hearts.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

5. Pontiac Aztek

Pontiac Aztek 1112 21 — The iconic Pontiac Aztek, made famous by Breaking Bad, stands out among a lineup of unusual, eye-catching SUVs. | Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva on Pexels

The Pontiac Aztek is infamous for its polarizing design, often landing on “ugliest cars” lists after its early 2000s debut. However, the Aztek’s unconventional look masked a surprisingly practical and versatile crossover, well ahead of its time. Its resurgence in popularity owes much to its starring role as Walter White’s ride in Breaking Bad, where it became an unexpected symbol of resilience. Today, fans appreciate the Aztek for its bold design choices and its place in pop culture history.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

6. Subaru BRAT

1280px Subaru Brat %2815022049405%29 — A classic Subaru BRAT sits parked, showcasing its unique car-truck hybrid design and vintage pickup style. | Photo by Roberto Lee Cortes on Pexels

The Subaru BRAT blurred the lines between car and truck, featuring an open bed and quirky rear-facing jump seats. At its launch, these unusual features raised eyebrows, but the BRAT’s playful spirit and versatility have aged well. Today, it’s recognized as an innovative forerunner to modern car-based pickups, admired for its unique design and fun factor. Its cult following continues to grow among enthusiasts who appreciate vehicles that dare to be different.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

7. Fiat Multipla (1998-2010)

The Fiat Multipla is instantly recognizable for its bug-eyed headlights and unusually wide stance. Its unconventional appearance made it a frequent punchline, but beneath the surface was an exceptionally practical family car. The Multipla offered seating for six adults in two rows—an impressive feat for a compact MPV. Despite its looks, it won design awards and developed a loyal fanbase who appreciated its clever packaging and functionality. The Multipla stands as proof that sometimes, weird can also be wonderfully useful.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

8. BMW Isetta

1957 Bmw Isetta 300 At 2015 Rockville Show 2of6 — Image Credit: Creative Commons

The BMW Isetta defined the bubble car era of the 1950s with its unmistakable egg-shaped body and single, front-hinged door. Originally designed for economy and efficiency in postwar Europe, the Isetta became a symbol of resourcefulness and charm. Its tiny footprint made it ideal for navigating narrow city streets, while its quirky entry method captured imaginations worldwide. Today, the Isetta stands out as one of the most recognizable microcars ever, embodying an era of automotive ingenuity and playful design.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

9. Reliant Robin

1280px 1977 Reliant Robin 850 281413652992629 28cropped29 — A classic British Reliant Robin, its distinctive three-wheeled design gleaming, stands parked on a quiet street. | Photo by Efrem Efre on Pexels

The Reliant Robin is a true oddball, known for its distinctive three-wheeled setup and featherweight body. While its tendency to tip over became legendary—especially after hilarious features on Top Gear—the Robin has a special place in British automotive culture. Its quirky design and approachable simplicity have made it an enduring symbol of eccentricity. Fans cherish the Robin not despite its flaws, but because of them, celebrating its unmistakable charm and comedic legacy.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

10. Honda Element

Honda Element Ex Photo 6393 S Original — A vibrant Honda Element showcases its signature boxy design, highlighting the SUV’s reputation for versatility and style. | Photo by Markus Spiske on Pexels

The Honda Element turned heads with its boxy, utilitarian design when it debuted in the early 2000s. While some dismissed its looks as awkward, others embraced the Element’s spacious, flexible interior and rugged, easy-to-clean surfaces. Over time, it’s become a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, pet owners, and those who value practicality above all else. Today, the Element is praised for its unique character and versatility, showing that sometimes, thinking outside the box truly pays off.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

A Lasting Legacy of the Lovably Odd

These ten cars prove that standing out can lead to lasting fame—even if it starts with raised eyebrows. From wild proportions to bold engineering, each model has transcended its odd reputation to become a beloved icon. Their stories remind us that automotive greatness isn’t just about conformity, but about daring to be different.

.article-content-img img { width: 100% }

<< Previous