The 1980s. A decade synonymous with bold fashion choices, groundbreaking music, and some truly unforgettable cars. Beyond the leg warmers and synth-pop anthems, the automotive world was undergoing a revolution, birthing vehicles that continue to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. From revolutionary hot hatches to dream-worthy supercars, the cars of the 80’s were a diverse mix of innovation and style.
Our definitive list of the greatest cars from the 1980s:
- Peugeot 205 GTi
- Ford Capri 2.8i
- Ferrari F40
- BMW M3
- Audi Quattro
- Porsche 959
- Ford Fiesta XR2
- Alfa Romeo GTV6
- Nissan Skyline R32 GT-R
- Renault Alpine GTA
- Toyota MR2
- Renault 5 GT Turbo
- Ford Sierra Cosworth
- Lancia Delta Integrale
- Talbot Sunbeam Lotus
Peugeot 205 GTi
- Production run: 1984-1994
- Number built: approximately 330,000
- Engine: 1.6 or 1.9-litre petrol
- Estimated used price: £10,000 – £30,000
The Peugeot 205 GTi isn’t just a car; it’s a legend. Universally lauded as one of the finest hot hatchbacks ever conceived, its 1984 debut sent ripples through the automotive press. Critics were instantly charmed by its razor-sharp handling and spirited engine performance. This French icon redefined the hot hatch segment and set a benchmark that many still aspire to achieve.
Initially offered with a lively 1.6-litre petrol engine producing 105hp, Peugeot amplified the thrill in 1986 by introducing a potent 1.9-litre variant boasting 130hp. Regardless of the engine choice, the 205 GTi guaranteed an exhilarating driving experience, making it a cherished classic among 80’s cars aficionados.
Ford Capri 2.8 Injection
- Production run: 1981-1986
- Number built: Approximately 700,000 (total MKIII Capri production)
- Engine: 2.8 fuel-injected V6
- Estimated used price: £10,000 – £40,000
“The car you always promised yourself” – Ford’s marketing slogan for the Capri in 1969 resonated deeply, particularly in the UK. The Ford Capri was more than just transportation; it was a statement. It embodied speed, fun, and head-turning aesthetics without demanding a king’s ransom. It became a cultural icon, defining affordable cool for a generation.
Discover the latest Ford offers
The MKIII Capri, launched in 1978, further solidified its appeal. The 1981 introduction of the Capri 2.8 Injection, powered by a robust V6 engine borrowed from the Granada, amplified its performance credentials. For those seeking extra flair, the 2.8 Injection Special offered stylish five-spoke alloy wheels and a sporty Recaro interior. The Capri era concluded in 1986 with the commemorative 280 Brooklands edition, marking the end of a beloved chapter in 80’s cars history.
Ferrari F40
- Production run: 1987-1992
- Number built: 1,315
- Engine: 2.9-litre twin-turbo V8
- Estimated used price: Approximately £1 million
The Ferrari F40. Simply uttering its name conjures images of speed, exclusivity, and automotive passion. Transcending mere 80’s cars classification, the F40 stands as an icon for any era. Its mid-mounted, twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V8 engine shattered the 200mph barrier, catapulting Ferrari into a new performance stratosphere. Limited to just 1,315 units, the F40’s rarity amplifies its desirability and escalating value among collectors globally.
This wasn’t a Ferrari draped in luxury; the F40 was unapologetically focused on pure, unadulterated speed. Stepping inside reveals a spartan, driver-centric cockpit, signaling its track-bred DNA. Its raw driving experience and visceral performance place the F40 most comfortably on the racetrack, where its legendary status truly comes to life.
BMW M3 (E30)
- Production run: 1986-1991
- Number built: Approximately 18,000
- Engine: 2.3-litre four-cylinder
- Estimated used price: £70,000+
The E30 BMW M3. The progenitor of an iconic lineage of high-performance sports saloons, the M3 debuted in 1986 and immediately set a new standard. Forged in the crucible of motorsport, it dominated touring car championships worldwide, etching its name into racing history. On public roads, it became the quintessential status symbol, the “yuppie super-saloon” against which all others were measured.
Distinguishing itself from the standard 3 Series, the M3 sported aggressive flared wheel arches and a deeper front bumper, hinting at its performance capabilities. Drivers had to master the race-derived ‘dog leg’ gearbox, a unique feature placing first gear where second gear is typically found, adding to its distinctive, track-focused character. The E30 M3 remains a highly sought-after 80’s car, revered for its blend of performance and practicality.
Audi Quattro
- Production run: 1980-1991
- Number built: Approximately 11,500
- Engine: 2.2-litre inline-five cylinder
- Estimated used price: £50,000+
“Fire up the Quattro!” These four words, immortalized in British television, perfectly encapsulate the 1980s. Gene Hunt, the iconic Ashes to Ashes character, sliding his vibrant red Audi Quattro through cardboard boxes became a defining image of the decade. The Audi Quattro was more than just a car; it was a cultural phenomenon.
However, the ‘Ur Quattro’ (German for ‘the original Quattro’) was primarily engineered for World Rally Championship dominance. Its pioneering four-wheel-drive system was unprecedented, revolutionizing rally driving and securing 23 WRC victories. The Quattro wasn’t just an 80’s car; it was a technological marvel that reshaped automotive engineering and motorsport.
Porsche 959
- Production run: 1986-1993
- Number built: 292
- Engine: 2.8-litre flat-six
- Estimated used price: £1 Million+
The Porsche 959. Conceived as the technological rival to the Ferrari F40, the 959 was a marvel of engineering innovation. Originally designed as a Group B rally homologation special, it boasted cutting-edge features like hydraulically adjustable suspension and a crawler gear – functionalities rarely associated with a 200mph Porsche supercar.
Tragically, the demise of Group B rallying coincided with the 959’s market arrival, seemingly sidelining its intended purpose. Yet, this four-wheel-drive supercar found alternative arenas, competing in the grueling Paris to Dakar rally and the prestigious Le Mans 24-hour race. The Porsche 959, though a somewhat “lost cause” in rallying terms, remains an iconic 80’s car, showcasing Porsche’s engineering prowess and forward-thinking design.
Ford Fiesta XR2
- Production run: 1981-1984 (MK1)
- Number built: Approximately 20,000
- Engine: 1.6-litre petrol
- Estimated used price: Around £15,000
The hot hatchback reigned supreme in the 1980s, and the Ford Fiesta XR2 was a prime example of this popular breed. While often overshadowed by the Peugeot 205 GTi, the Fiesta XR2 was a formidable contender in its own right, delivering engaging performance on winding roads. It represented accessible fun and spirited driving in the 80’s car landscape.
Explore the Ford Fiesta ST review
Its 1.6-litre Crossflow engine, producing a modest 94hp, was more than sufficient given its featherlight 840kg weight. This combination translated to grin-inducing agility and responsiveness through corners, making the Fiesta XR2 a beloved 80’s hot hatch for enthusiasts.
Alfa Romeo GTV6
- Production run: 1981-1989
- Number built: 21,700
- Engine: Busso 2.5-litre V6
- Estimated used price: £15,000-£30,000
For true petrolheads, Alfa Romeo holds a special allure, and the GTV6 perfectly embodies this passion. Its legendary ‘Busso’ V6 engine is its crowning glory, celebrated for producing one of the most captivating engine notes in automotive history. The Alfa Romeo GTV6 is an 80’s car that appeals to the senses, especially the auditory.
Discover the latest Alfa Romeo deals
True to Alfa Romeo’s reputation, the GTV6 wasn’t without its quirks. The rear-mounted transaxle gearbox could be challenging to operate smoothly, and reliability issues were not uncommon. However, these minor flaws fade into insignificance the moment you unleash the glorious sound of the Busso V6, making it a truly emotive 80’s car.
Nissan Skyline GT-R R32
- Production run: 1989-1994
- Number built: 44,000
- Engine: 2.6-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six
- Estimated used price: £45,000
Just making it into the 80’s decade, the Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 is a Japanese automotive icon. Not only is it one of the most celebrated cars from Japan, but it was also a technological tour-de-force for its time. The R32 GT-R revolutionized performance car engineering and became a legend within the 80’s cars and beyond.
Its 2.6-litre twin-turbocharged engine officially produced 276hp – a figure widely considered to be understated. During the 80s and 90s, Japanese automakers had a gentlemen’s agreement to cap performance car horsepower at 276hp, although many models, like the GT-R R32, secretly exceeded this limit. This “gentleman’s agreement” adds to the mystique surrounding this legendary 80’s car.
Renault Alpine GTA
- Production run: 1986-1995
- Number built: Approximately 7,400
- Engine: 2.9-litre V6
- Estimated used price: £15,000-£40,000
The Renault Alpine GTA was a rare and distinctive offering in the 80’s car market. Despite widespread critical acclaim from motoring journalists upon its 1984 release, it remained relatively uncommon. Its mid-mounted V6 engine and striking, exotic styling gave it the visual appeal of a miniature supercar.
Constructed with a lightweight fibreglass body, the GTA prioritized agile handling. The Turbo version delivered impressive acceleration, sprinting from 0-60mph in a mere 7.0 seconds. The Renault Alpine GTA, a somewhat overlooked gem from the 80’s, offered a unique blend of style and performance.
Toyota MR2
- Production run: 1984-1989
- Number built: 160,000
- Engine: 1.6-litre petrol
- Estimated used price: £10,000-£30,000
The Toyota MR2 injected fresh vitality into the sports car segment upon its 1984 launch. Born from a growing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, the MR2 brilliantly demonstrated that driving enjoyment and fuel economy could coexist. It became a symbol of smart and sporty 80’s car design.
The MR2 (Midship Runabout 2-seater) featured a responsive, mid-mounted 1.6-litre engine that thrived on revs. Combined with its lightweight construction, it offered a driving experience that rivaled the era’s popular hot hatchbacks in terms of sheer fun. The Toyota MR2 proved that affordable sports cars could be exciting and efficient 80’s cars.
Renault 5 GT Turbo
- Production run: 1985-1991
- Number built: 160,000
- Engine: 1.4-litre turbo petrol
- Estimated Used price: £10,000-£50,000
It’s undeniable that hot hatchbacks were a defining trend of the 1980s, and for compelling reasons. They offered practicality, affordability, and exhilarating driving dynamics. While icons like the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Peugeot 205 GTi are widely remembered, the Renault 5 GT Turbo often gets overlooked in discussions of 80’s cars.
Compare today’s hot hatchback models
However, the Renault 5 GT Turbo is undoubtedly deserving of recognition. Its 1.4-litre turbocharged engine delivered impressive performance for its time, producing 110hp and achieving a 0-60mph sprint in a brisk 8.7 seconds. Its remarkably light weight further enhanced its agility, making it ideal for spirited cornering. The Renault 5 GT Turbo remains a sought-after, if slightly underappreciated, 80’s hot hatch.
Ford Sierra Cosworth
- Production run: 1986-1992
- Number built: Approximately 10,000
- Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged
- Estimated used price: £15,000-£100,000
Fast Fords have always been a hit in the UK market. Representing blue-collar performance for the masses, the Sierra Cosworth stands as one of the most iconic models. Engineered as a homologation special under 1980s FIA regulations for Touring Car and rally racing, it packed a serious performance punch. The Ford Sierra Cosworth is a quintessential 80’s performance car.
Its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine generated a potent 204hp. Coupled with its distinctive whale-tail rear spoiler, it became the dream car for many aspiring “boy racers.” Unfortunately, the Sierra Cosworth’s weak security systems also made it a prime target for thieves, leading to exorbitant insurance costs. Despite this, its legendary status as an 80’s car endures.
Lancia Delta Integrale
- Production run: 1987-1993
- Number built: 44,000
- Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged
- Estimated used price: Up to £100,000
The Lancia Delta initially debuted in 1979 as a rather ordinary hatchback, equipped with a modest 1.3-litre engine. Throughout the 1980s, it underwent a remarkable transformation, evolving into a world-beating rally machine: the Delta Integrale. This evolution cemented its place as an unforgettable 80’s car.
Get assistance in choosing your next car
Launched in 1987, the Delta Integrale refined the preceding Delta HF 4WD, optimizing it for peak rally performance. It gained larger wheels to accommodate bigger brakes, along with its signature flared wheel arches. Further refinements continued throughout its production run, culminating in the ultimate Integrale Evoluzione 2 in 1993. The Lancia Delta Integrale is a testament to the power of continuous improvement in 80’s car engineering.
Talbot Sunbeam Lotus
- Production run: 1979-1981
- Number built: 2,308
- Engine: 2.3-litre petrol
- Estimated used price: Up to £60,000
A slightly unconventional choice, the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus is nonetheless a truly special vehicle. Born from Chrysler’s ambition to challenge the Ford Escort RS in rallying, Lotus was enlisted to inject sporting prowess into their otherwise mundane hatchback. The Talbot Sunbeam Lotus is a unique and often overlooked 80’s car.
The Sunbeam Lotus received a potent 2.3-litre engine and a taut, rear-wheel-drive chassis. Motoring journalists of the era lauded its exceptional driving dynamics, but this critical acclaim wasn’t enough to translate into strong sales figures. Its production run was brief, lasting only two years with a mere 2,308 units manufactured. Despite its short lifespan, the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus remains a distinctive and desirable 80’s car for collectors.
Ready for a Car Change? Carwow is Here!
Considering a new vehicle? Carwow simplifies the process of selling your current car quickly and at a fair price – as well as helping you discover incredible deals on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a brand new car, explore used car options, or investigate car leasing possibilities, Carwow is your comprehensive destination for new car deals.
