When it comes to collecting rare and unique cars, Europe has produced some truly special models that stand out for their design, performance, and exclusivity. While many are familiar with popular brands, there are lesser-known European cars that have captured the attention of collectors around the world. From rally legends to stylish grand tourers, these 19 uncommon cars have become hot commodities in the collector market. Let’s take a look at what makes them so desirable.
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Alfa Romeo SZ (Sprint Zagato)
The Alfa Romeo SZ stands out due to its bold, angular design, a product of the legendary Zagato design house. Produced between 1989 and 1991, only 1,036 units were made, making it a rare gem. Beneath its striking exterior is a 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 210 horsepower and a thrilling driving experience. Collectors are drawn to the SZ not just for its rarity but for its avant-garde look and solid performance on the road.
Lancia Delta HF Integrale
The Lancia Delta HF Integrale earned its place in automotive history by dominating the World Rally Championship, winning six consecutive titles between 1987 and 1992. This all-wheel-drive hatchback, equipped with a turbocharged engine, was built for both speed and handling. Its rally success, combined with its aggressive styling, has made it highly sought after among collectors.
Citroën SM
The Citroën SM is an extraordinary fusion of French innovation and Italian performance, featuring a Maserati V6 engine paired with Citroën’s advanced hydropneumatic suspension. Produced between 1970 and 1975, the SM was a technological marvel, offering a blend of comfort and sportiness. Its futuristic design, both inside and out, has only added to its allure over time. Limited production numbers and its unique engineering make it a favorite among collectors of rare, high-tech classics.
BMW Z1
A pioneer in BMW’s Z series, the BMW Z1 is known for its signature retractable doors that slide down into the body. Produced from 1989 to 1991, this roadster comes with a 2.5-liter straight-six engine, offering a sporty yet smooth driving experience. With only 8,000 units produced, its rarity makes it especially valuable. Collectors admire the Z1 not only for its quirky features but also for its role as a technological showcase in BMW’s lineup.
Renault Alpine A310
The Renault Alpine A310, produced from 1971 to 1984, is a mid-engine sports car that has gained attention for its sleek wedge-shaped design and lightweight construction. Initially powered by a four-cylinder engine, it was later upgraded to a V6, increasing its appeal among enthusiasts. Its distinctive looks and excellent handling make it a prized possession for collectors. The A310’s limited production and the growing interest in retro sports cars have only boosted its desirability.
Rover SD1 Vitesse
The Rover SD1 Vitesse, with its muscular 3.5-liter V8 engine, was a standout performance car during its production from 1982 to 1986. Known for its success in British touring car championships, the Vitesse model became synonymous with speed and power. Its combination of British engineering and racing pedigree has made it a cult classic among collectors.
Saab 99 Turbo
Launched in 1978, the Saab 99 Turbo revolutionized the automotive world by introducing turbocharging to mainstream production cars. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine was ahead of its time, offering a performance boost that set it apart from its rivals. This innovation, along with its distinctive Scandinavian design, makes the 99 Turbo a favorite among enthusiasts. Today, collectors seek out this pioneering model for its technological significance and its unique place in Saab’s history.
Talbot Sunbeam Lotus
The Talbot Sunbeam Lotus is a rally-bred hatchback that earned its place in the spotlight after winning the 1980 World Rally Championship. Developed in collaboration with Lotus, it boasts a powerful 2.2-liter engine and lightweight body, perfect for high-performance driving. Its motorsport success, combined with limited production numbers, makes it highly collectible today.
Fiat 130 Coupe
Designed by Pininfarina, the Fiat 130 Coupe is a beautifully crafted grand tourer produced from 1971 to 1977. It features a 3.2-liter V6 engine and an elegant interior that reflects Italian luxury at its finest. Although often overlooked in the past, its rarity and timeless design have recently attracted collectors. Its smooth ride and understated style make it a coveted classic, especially for those who value Italian craftsmanship.
Matra Murena
The Matra Murena, produced between 1980 and 1983, is a unique mid-engine sports car with a three-seat layout, offering an unconventional driving experience. Its fiberglass body and lightweight construction contributed to its agile handling, while its 2.2-liter engine provided solid performance. Collectors are drawn to the Murena for its rarity and innovative design, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts who appreciate engineering quirks.
Peugeot 504 Coupe
The Peugeot 504 Coupe, produced from 1969 to 1983, is an elegant grand tourer with design by the renowned Pininfarina. Its sleek lines, coupled with a refined driving experience, make it a desirable collector’s car. Powered by either a four-cylinder or V6 engine, the 504 Coupe offers both style and substance. Collectors appreciate its combination of timeless design and durability, along with its relative rarity compared to other European coupes.
Alfa Romeo 75 Turbo Evoluzione
The Alfa Romeo 75 Turbo Evoluzione is a rare homologation special created in the late 1980s for European touring car racing. Its turbocharged 1.8-liter engine, paired with lightweight body modifications, delivered sharp performance. With only 500 units built, its scarcity has made it highly sought after among collectors. The car’s motorsport pedigree and distinctive Alfa styling make it a highly prized addition to any collection.
Lancia Fulvia Coupe
The Lancia Fulvia Coupe, especially the HF variant, is cherished for its rally pedigree and Italian elegance. Built between 1965 and 1976, the Fulvia featured a narrow-angle V4 engine and front-wheel-drive layout, offering a unique driving experience. Its success in rallying, including winning the 1972 International Championship for Manufacturers, adds to its desirability. Collectors value the Fulvia for its sharp handling, iconic design, and motorsport heritage.
Renault R5 Turbo
The Renault R5 Turbo, with its mid-mounted turbocharged engine and aggressive wide-body design, is a rally icon turned collector’s favorite. Originally produced for Group B rallying between 1980 and 1986, this small yet powerful car captured the attention of enthusiasts for its performance and handling. Today, the R5 Turbo is highly collectible, thanks to its motorsport success and striking design. Its limited production run only increases its allure.
Bitter CD
The Bitter CD is a rare luxury grand tourer, blending German engineering with Italian styling. Built between 1973 and 1979, it features an Opel Diplomat chassis and a sleek, handcrafted body designed by Erich Bitter. With only around 395 units produced, the Bitter CD is an exclusive collector’s item. Its rarity, combined with its powerful 5.4-liter V8 engine and luxurious interior, makes it a prized possession for enthusiasts of European grand tourers.
Citroën BX 4TC
The Citroën BX 4TC is a rare homologation car created for Group B rallying in 1986. With only 200 units produced, it’s one of the most obscure and collectible rally cars from the era. Powered by a 2.1-liter turbocharged engine, the BX 4TC had a short but memorable rally career. Its unique design and rarity make it a standout among collectors who appreciate the quirkiness and history of Group B rally cars.
Gordon-Keeble GK1
The Gordon-Keeble GK1 is a British-Italian hybrid grand tourer, featuring a fiberglass body designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro and powered by a Chevrolet 5.4-liter V8 engine. Built in extremely limited numbers—only 99 cars were produced between 1964 and 1967—the GK1 is a rare sight today. Collectors are drawn to its combination of Italian design and American muscle. Its exclusivity and unique styling make it a highly desirable collectible.
Monteverdi Hai 450 SS
The Monteverdi Hai 450 SS is a Swiss supercar with a 7.0-liter Hemi V8 engine, producing an incredible 450 horsepower. Built between 1969 and 1970, only four prototypes were ever completed, making it one of the rarest supercars in the world. Collectors are drawn to its exclusivity and raw performance, as well as its striking design. The Hai 450 SS represents a blend of power and rarity, making it highly sought after.
Iso Rivolta IR 300
The Iso Rivolta IR 300 is a luxurious grand tourer that blends Italian style with American muscle. Produced between 1962 and 1970, it features a 5.4-liter Chevrolet V8 engine, offering impressive performance for its time. The car’s elegant design, coupled with its power and rarity, has made it a favorite among collectors. The Iso Rivolta’s unique combination of luxury and performance ensures its place in the world of collectible European classics.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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