Top 10 Concept Cars of the 1960s
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The 1960s were the golden era of concept cars, where designers pushed the limits of style, technology, and imagination. From wedge shapes to futuristic automated driving, this decade gave us visions of the future that, sadly, mostly never hit the road. Here’s a look at the top 10 concept cars of the ’60s we wish had been built.
Top 10 Concept Cars of the 1960s
1962 Ford Cougar 406 Concept
Inspired by the iconic Mercedes 300SL Gullwing, Ford’s Cougar 406 concept sported winged doors and a potent 406-cubic-inch V8 engine with 405 hp. Almost lost for years, this rare concept influenced the Mustang’s early development — which was nearly named “Cougar.”
1964 Plymouth VIP Concept
Debuted at the 1964 Chicago auto show, this full-size convertible featured a retractable glass canopy made of photochromic material that tinted automatically. Inside the 1964 Plymouth VIP Concept, luxuries included a reel-to-reel tape player and in-car television, making it a tech-forward dream of the ’60s.
1964 Chevrolet Corvette XP-819 Concept
The XP-819 concept pushed the Corvette towards a mid-engine layout decades before production models followed suit. Designed by Larry Shinoda, the prototype was nearly destroyed after a crash but survived and was restored, remaining a legend of Corvette innovation.
1965 Fiat 2300S Speciale by Pininfarina
One of five Pininfarina concepts on Fiat’s flagship, the 2300S Speciale prioritized aerodynamic efficiency with minimal chrome and a luxurious two-seater coupe layout. Its styling nods to Alfa Romeo’s Duetto and Ferrari’s elegance, hinting at what Fiat’s premium cars could have been.
1966 Jaguar XJ13 V12 Sports Racer Prototype
Built to compete with Ferrari’s mid-engine Le Mans cars, the Jaguar XJ13 combined a Malcolm Sayer-designed aerodynamic body with a powerful V12 engine. Although it never raced due to delays and shifting rules, it remains a stunning example of Jaguar’s engineering ambition.
1966 Porsche 911 Roadster by Bertone
Commissioned by American dealer John von Neumann, this sleek Porsche 911 Roadster focused on safety and a stylish interior while abandoning the typical 911 look. Despite Porsche’s hesitation and high production costs, the one-off remains a unique piece of Porsche history.
1967 Lancia Flavia Super Sport by Zagato
Designed by Ercole Spada, this aerodynamic study evolved the Flavia Sport Zagato with a sleeker look and turbine wheels. Despite high hopes, the car never went into production but remains a beloved Zagato creation that still survives today.
1968 Maserati Simun by Ghia
Ghia’s interpretation of a Maserati 2+2 penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Simun featured sharp styling and retractable headlights. Although Maserati chose a curvier design for production, the Maserati Simun influenced several cars and hinted at a bolder Maserati identity.
1968 Alfa Romeo Carabo by Bertone
Designed by Marcello Gandini, the Alfa Romeo Carabo introduced the wedge design and scissor doors that would influence supercars like the Lamborghini Countach. Based on Alfa Romeo’s 33/2 Stradale chassis, it was a radical look at what Alfa Romeo’s future could have been.
1969 Buick Century Cruiser Concept
A 1969 vision of automated driving, this Buick Century Cruiser concept offered punch-card programmed routes, radar monitoring, and luxurious amenities like swivel seats, a fridge, and TV. Though automated driving wasn’t ready then, the Cruiser imagined a futuristic, relaxing driving experience.
Final Thoughts
The 1960s concept cars embodied bold visions of the future, combining design flair with engineering daring. Though few reached production, their influence shaped supercar design, safety innovation, and even autonomous driving concepts. They remind us what might have been and inspire future possibilities.
Which of these ’60s concept cars would you have loved to see on the road? Share your favorites in the comments!
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