The 1980s was a transformative decade for the automotive industry, marked by innovation, bold designs, and the birth of vehicles that would become timeless classics. For car enthusiasts and those who appreciate automotive history, the Cars Of The Eighties hold a special place. This era saw manufacturers pushing boundaries in performance, luxury, and technology, creating vehicles that continue to captivate drivers today. Let’s take a drive down memory lane and explore some of the most iconic cars of the eighties that defined this remarkable period.
BMW M3
Emerging from the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1985, the BMW M3 quickly transcended expectations. Homologation requirements initially set at 5,000 units were swiftly surpassed within a year, demonstrating the immediate appeal of this performance machine. To meet soaring demand, BMW introduced the Evolution and Evolution II models, further cementing the M3’s status among cars of the eighties as a symbol of sporting prowess and engineering excellence. These models enhanced the original formula, offering even greater performance and exclusivity to eager drivers.
Audi 100
Audi’s contribution to the cars of the eighties wasn’t limited to just the groundbreaking Quattro. The Audi 100, launched in 1982, showcased a different kind of innovation. At its release, it boasted the best aerodynamics of any production car, a testament to Audi’s commitment to efficiency and forward-thinking design. Its lightweight construction, coupled with the option of four-wheel drive, distinguished it from its contemporaries. Notably, the Audi 100 was also the first saloon to feature flush-fitting side windows, a sleek design element that contributed to its record-breaking drag coefficient of 0.30cd. This focus on aerodynamic efficiency was a hallmark of cars of the eighties, and the Audi 100 was a prime example.
Bentley Turbo R
For those seeking unparalleled luxury and performance in cars of the eighties, the Bentley Turbo R, introduced in 1985, delivered an exceptional experience. Evolving from the Mulsanne Turbo, the Turbo R offered increased power thanks to the incorporation of Bosch fuel injection. Bentley further differentiated the Turbo R from its Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit sibling through suspension upgrades, emphasizing its sporting character. Powered by a massive 6.75-litre V8 engine, the Bentley Turbo R provided immense performance, with its top speed electronically capped at 135mph. Despite being a hand-built, exclusive vehicle, the Turbo R achieved remarkable sales, with approximately 4,815 units produced, proving the demand for high-performance luxury cars of the eighties.
Lexus LS 400
Concluding our overview of remarkable cars of the eighties is the Lexus LS 400. Unveiled at the 1989 Detroit Auto Show, this vehicle would become a defining model of the subsequent decade, yet its roots are firmly planted in the late eighties. Born from Toyota’s ambitious endeavor to surpass the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the LS 400 was the product of meticulous development and an unwavering commitment to perfection. Toyota left no detail unaddressed in their quest to create a new benchmark in the luxury car segment. The Lexus LS 400 signaled a shift in the automotive landscape and remains a significant entry in the history of cars of the eighties, paving the way for Japanese luxury vehicles in the global market.
The cars of the eighties continue to inspire and influence automotive design and engineering. They represent a pivotal era where innovation and style converged to create lasting automotive icons.
