10. Jaguar XK140
The 1955 Jaguar XK140 improved upon the already successful XK120, becoming one of the best sports cars of its time. It excelled in every aspect, serving as the foundation and inspiration for the future E-Type.
Designed as a GT model, the XK140 was perfect for long-distance cruising, a feature that perfectly suited the era of the 1950s.
Overview:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Production Years | 1955 – 1957 |
| Purpose | Grand tourer |
| Body Styles | Two-door coupe and two-door roadster (convertible) |
| Engine Type | Inline-6 (straight-6) |
| Displacement | 3,442 cc (210 cu in) |
| Horsepower | 190 hp (142 kW) @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 220 lb-ft (298 Nm) @ 3,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Top Speed | Over 120 mph (193 km/h) |
| 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) | Approximately 8 seconds |
| Chassis | Steel platform with aluminum body panels |
| Suspension | Independent front suspension with wishbones and coil springs, live axle rear suspension with leaf springs |
| Brakes | Disc brakes on the front wheels, drum brakes on the rear wheels |
| Curb Weight | Approximately 3,300 lbs (1,500 kg) |
| Length | 167.5 in (4,254 mm) |
| Width | 65.0 in (1,651 mm) |
| Height | 57.0 in (1,448 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 98 in (2,489 mm) |
11. Cadillac Coupe de Ville
The 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville is a real gem in the world of cars, boasting one of the most stunning designs ever created. Its striking features included oversized tailfins and sharp stoplights, sleek curves, a large steering wheel, shiny chrome bumpers, and stylish white wall tires.
This car became the favorite of music legends like John Lennon and Elvis Presley, adding to its popularity.
Underneath its stylish exterior, it packed a powerful punch with a 325hp 6.4-liter V8 engine, giving drivers plenty of power to enjoy.
Overview:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 1959 |
| Purpose | Luxury car |
| Body Style | Two-door hardtop coupe |
| Engine Type | V8 |
| Displacement | 365 cu in (5,997 cc) or 390 cu in (6,393 cc) |
| Horsepower | 325 hp (242 kW) or 340 hp (254 kW) |
| Transmission | 2-speed Hydra-Matic automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Top Speed | Over 130 mph (209 km/h) |
| 0-60 mph (0-60 km/h) | Approximately 10 seconds |
| Fuel Economy | Approximately 10-12 mpg (city/highway) |
| Chassis | Perimeter frame with steel body panels |
| Suspension | Coil spring suspension on all four wheels |
| Brakes | Drum brakes on all four wheels |
| Length | 223.7 in (5,682 mm) |
| Width | 79.8 in (2,027 mm) |
| Height | 63.5 in (1,613 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 130 in (3,302 mm) |