25 Coolest Cars Of The 80s That Would Make Even The Owner’s Friends Jealous
The 1980s gave us some of the most iconic, stylish, and downright envy-inducing cars ever made. Whether it was the turbocharged performance, futuristic tech, or sheer street presence, these vehicles turned heads and made their owners the coolest people in their friend groups.
From high-performance sports cars to luxury cruisers, these rides were the ones everyone wished they had in their driveway. Get ready for a trip down memory lane as we revisit 25 cars from the ’80s that made their owners the center of attention.
1. Ferrari Testarossa (1984-1991)
With its wide, low stance and signature side strakes, the Ferrari Testarossa wasn’t just a car—it was a rolling status symbol. Powered by a 4.9-liter flat-12 engine producing 390 horsepower, this Italian masterpiece could hit 60 mph in just over five seconds.
Anyone lucky enough to own one in the ’80s was practically a celebrity, as the Testarossa graced everything from Miami Vice to countless posters on bedroom walls. Its blend of performance and style made it one of the most sought-after cars of the decade.
2. Lamborghini Countach (1980-1990)
No car screamed “exotic” louder than the Lamborghini Countach. Its wedge-shaped body, scissor doors, and massive rear wing made it look like something straight out of the future.
Beneath the wild design was a naturally aspirated V12 capable of pushing the car past 180 mph. If you had a friend with a Countach, chances are they were the one person who never had trouble getting a date. Its bold design and incredible performance made it a poster favorite worldwide.
3. Porsche 911 Turbo (930) (1978-1989)
Nicknamed the “Widowmaker” for its challenging handling, the Porsche 911 Turbo (930) was both feared and admired. With a turbocharged flat-six delivering up to 330 horsepower, this beast could rocket to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds.
That giant whale-tail spoiler wasn’t just for looks—it helped keep the rear end planted at high speeds. Anyone who owned one was automatically the cool, daring type. The combination of speed and style made it irresistible to car enthusiasts everywhere.
4. Buick Grand National GNX (1987)
Most muscle cars of the ’80s were shadows of their former selves—but not the Buick Grand National GNX. With a turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 producing 276 horsepower (but rumored to be much more), this all-black menace was faster than a contemporary Corvette.
Friends who thought they could take it in a street race were often left staring at its taillights. It was the ultimate sleeper car, and owning one meant you were serious about speed and performance.
5. Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z (1985-1990)
Named after the International Race of Champions, the IROC-Z was every teenager’s dream ride. The 5.7-liter V8 pumped out up to 245 horsepower, and the aggressive styling made it a standout at any school parking lot or car meet.
If you had a friend with an IROC-Z, you were always looking for an excuse to ride shotgun. Its blend of style, power, and affordability made it one of the coolest rides of the decade, cementing its place in ’80s car culture.
6. Ford Mustang SVO (1984-1986)
While most people associated Mustangs with big V8s, the SVO took a different approach with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It was quick, efficient, and packed with advanced features like four-wheel disc brakes and adjustable suspension.
While it wasn’t the loudest Mustang on the block, it was one of the smartest—and that alone made it special. Ford’s attempt at a Euro-style sports car was well-received, and owning one meant you appreciated a balance of power and sophistication.
7. Toyota Supra Mk3 (1986-1992)
The Supra was evolving in the ’80s, and the third-generation Mk3 introduced turbocharged power and an electronically controlled suspension. The 7M-GTE inline-six made 232 horsepower, enough to keep up with more expensive European sports cars.
It was the kind of car that quietly impressed people—until you hit the gas and left them behind. Its combination of Japanese engineering and performance made it a favorite among tuners and a standout in the evolving sports car landscape of the decade.
8. Nissan 300ZX Turbo (Z31) (1984-1989)
With its sleek, angular design and a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 pushing 200 horsepower, the 300ZX Turbo was a proper grand tourer. It offered digital gauges, T-top roofs, and futuristic features that made any owner feel ahead of their time.
Friends who underestimated it were in for a surprise when they saw how effortlessly it handled the highway. It was a car that combined innovation with performance, making it popular among those who valued both speed and style.
9. Mazda RX-7 Turbo II (1986-1991)
Few things were as unique as a rotary engine, and the RX-7 Turbo II made the most of its 1.3-liter Wankel powerplant. Producing 200 horsepower in a lightweight chassis, this nimble sports car could out-handle almost anything.
Owning one instantly made you the “car guy” in your group of friends. Its distinct engine note and agile handling characteristics made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts, proving that big power could come in small packages.
10. BMW M3 (E30) (1986-1991)
The car that started the M3 legacy, the E30 M3 was a race car for the road. With its high-revving 2.3-liter four-cylinder and razor-sharp handling, it became an instant classic.
It wasn’t just about speed; it was about precision, and that made it one of the most respected cars of the era. Anybody driving one knew they were in control of a masterpiece, and it cemented BMW’s reputation for manufacturing the ultimate driving machines.
11. Mercedes-Benz 560SEC (1985-1991)
The two-door version of the S-Class, the 560SEC, was the pinnacle of luxury and power in the ’80s. With a 5.5-liter V8 under the hood and a price tag that screamed exclusivity, it was the kind of car CEOs and celebrities drove.
Anyone who rode in one knew they were in the presence of serious wealth. Its combination of comfort, style, and performance made it a standout among luxury cars of the decade.
12. Honda CRX Si (1985-1991)
Small but mighty, the Honda CRX Si was one of the most fun cars of the decade. Its lightweight design and rev-happy engine made it a blast to drive, while its fuel efficiency made it practical.
Friends who thought economy cars were boring were proven wrong in the passenger seat of a CRX Si. It was a testament to Honda’s ability to balance sportiness and practicality, making it a favorite among young drivers and enthusiasts alike.
13. Lotus Esprit Turbo (1980-1993)
Sleek, exotic, and turbocharged, the Esprit Turbo was a British supercar that turned heads everywhere. James Bond drove one, which automatically made it one of the coolest cars of the decade.
Its mid-engine layout and lightweight chassis made it as thrilling to drive as it was to look at. Owning an Esprit meant you valued style and performance, and it was a statement of luxury and sophistication.
14. Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA (1987-1992)
With its aggressive styling, digital dash, and V8 power, the GTA version of the Trans Am was the definition of ’80s cool. It looked fast standing still, and when it moved, it backed up the attitude with serious performance.
Fans of American muscle couldn’t resist its charm, and owning one was a ticket to instant street cred. Its role in popular TV shows and movies cemented its place as a cultural icon of the decade.
15. Alfa Romeo GTV6 (1980-1986)
This Italian coupe combined sharp handling with a howling V6, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. It may not have been the most reliable car, but anyone who owned one was instantly the most interesting person in the room.
The GTV6 had a passion and character that was unique, and its distinct sound and style left a lasting impression. Its quirks and charms made it a beloved classic, especially among those who appreciated Italian automotive artistry.
16. Saab 900 Turbo (1978-1994)
Quirky, turbocharged, and shockingly fast, the Saab 900 Turbo was a sleeper hit of the ’80s. Its aircraft-inspired design and turbo boost gauge made it feel like something out of a fighter jet.
Drivers loved its unique blend of practicality and performance, making it a cult classic. Its ability to handle diverse weather conditions made it popular in various regions, and it was a favorite among those who appreciated Swedish engineering.
17. Dodge Daytona Shelby Z (1987-1991)
A front-wheel-drive turbocharged coupe that packed more punch than people expected. It was fast, fun, and affordable—meaning every friend wanted to borrow it for the weekend.
The Shelby Z stood out with its performance and style, offering a thrilling driving experience without breaking the bank. Its combination of affordability and fun made it a popular choice among young drivers looking for excitement on a budget.
18. Volkswagen Scirocco 16V (1986-1992)
A stylish, lightweight sports coupe that handled beautifully and had just enough power to surprise people. The Scirocco was proof that Volkswagen could make genuinely exciting cars.
Its combination of design and engineering made it popular among those who valued driving dynamics. With its aerodynamic shape and agile performance, the Scirocco was a driver’s delight and a standout in the compact sports car market.
19. Acura Legend Coupe (1986-1990)
The first luxury coupe from Acura, the Legend was smooth, refined, and a clear sign that Honda meant business in the premium car market. Its elegant design and potent engine made it a standout.
Owning one meant you were ahead of the curve in recognizing the potential of Japanese luxury vehicles. The Legend was both a statement of style and a demonstration of engineering prowess, winning over fans with its quality and performance.
20. Chrysler Conquest TSi (1983-1989)
Essentially a rebadged Mitsubishi Starion, the Conquest TSi was a turbocharged rear-wheel-drive sports coupe with serious performance credentials. It was a hit among those who valued a balance of power and price.
Its striking design and powerful engine made it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciated its sporty nature. The Conquest TSi offered a taste of Japanese engineering with an American twist, making it a unique choice in the sports car market.
21. Porsche 944 Turbo (1985-1991)
Often overlooked compared to the 911, the 944 Turbo was incredibly well-balanced and quicker than many expected. Its front-engine layout and turbocharged power made it a formidable sports car.
Fans appreciated its precise handling and surprising performance, which often outshone its more famous sibling. The 944 Turbo was a testament to Porsche’s engineering, offering a thrilling driving experience in a sleek, stylish package.
22. Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe (1983-1988)
Blending muscle car aesthetics with turbocharged efficiency, the Turbo Coupe was a unique mix of power and sophistication. It offered a distinct look that appealed to fans of classic American design. With features like a turbocharged engine and advanced suspension, it delivered surprising performance.
The Thunderbird Turbo Coupe was a car for those who appreciated both style and substance, making it a standout choice in the ’80s automotive landscape.
23. Mitsubishi Starion (1982-1989)
One of the best JDM cars of the decade, the Starion combined boxy styling with serious turbo power. It was an icon of the ’80s with a unique look and impressive performance.
Driving a Starion meant you were in tune with the latest in automotive trends, and its turbocharged engine ensured exciting drives. It was a favorite among those who valued Japanese design and engineering, cementing its place as a classic in the sports car world.
24. Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 (1989-1995)
The “King of the Hill” Corvette, featuring a Lotus-engineered V8 and performance that made Ferraris nervous. It was the ultimate American sports car, blending power and precision.
Owning a ZR-1 was a testament to one’s passion for speed and performance. Its reputation as a Ferrari-beater cemented its legend status, making it a coveted car among enthusiasts who appreciated its engineering excellence and road presence.
25. Renault 5 Turbo (1980-1986)
A mid-engine, rally-bred hot hatch that looked wild and performed even wilder. The Renault 5 Turbo was a standout in the world of small performance cars.
Its unique design and impressive agility made it a favorite among rally fans and car enthusiasts alike. Driving one was an experience in itself, and its rally heritage gave it a special place in the hearts of those who appreciated motorsport-inspired engineering.