I propose a series of threads where we discuss the "worst" cars of each decade. Pick whatever decade you like. Explain your criteria. Suggested criteria examples:
- Worst car in its timeframe, in its day, or within its genre (could involve aesthetic or functionality considerations)
- Worst car by today's standards (any and all factors, including desirability)
For me, given my age, I think that I automatically zero in on the 70s and 80s. In the 70s, cars I think were objectively not that good, but were still interesting (to me). In the 80s, I think cars got better but are less interesting and desirable. I blame that squarely on practicality (fuel economy) driving the cars' design characteristics. The first cut were lame as hell. As an example, I'll pick two cars to illustrate my thesis:
1983 Toyota Camry
Objectively a pretty good family car, and cars like this were commonly exciting to baby boomers who were happy to throw away all of the gas guzzling but interesting cars of their era. But there is absolutely zero desirability today. And without the perspective of the baby boomers who would have fallen all over it, I'm not sure I would have wanted to drive it in the 80s, either, had I been old enough.
I think the thing that draws me to the 70s is the large Cadillacs. There are other interesting choices, of course. On the low end of the spectrum, look at a Chevy Monza V8. In the case of a Cadillac, especially by the mid 70s, interest was waning due to the oil embargo stuff, so it probably wasn't that desirable by most people outside of the very old (or other stereotypes that you may enjoy). A V8 Monza was kind of interesting but I think it went down in history as not that good of a car. But today, it's interesting in that it was sort of an early 60s concept revived for the 70s (big engine in a small car platform).
Each decade should have its own thread. Each poster can set his own criteria within each thread.
Worst cars, by decade
Re: Worst cars, by decade
When I think of bad cars, I usually think of rental cars that I try to avoid getting stuck with at the counter. In the previous decade, this was definitely the 4th generation Taurus. For this decause, the Impala ranks right up there, although the 3.6L 302 HP variant is somewhat intriguing.
Re: Worst cars, by decade
Chrysler 200. Caliber. Other Chrysler products.
Re: Worst cars, by decade
Ahh yes, how could I forget the Caliber? I once rented one for a drive from NC to Alabama. One of the worst rental experiences I have had. I am working on getting Executive status from National so I don't have to be subjected to the low end of the rental lineup anymore.
Re: Worst cars, by decade
My worst rental was also a Chrysler product:
The PT Cruiser.
Worst car ever, especially for long drives. There is a bar across the front of the seat that made my legs continuously go numb the whole time. I have never been so uncomfortable in a car ever. This car had zero redeeming qualities. I am sorry in advance if anybody has one of these, but if you do, you probably hate it way more than I do.
The PT Cruiser.
Worst car ever, especially for long drives. There is a bar across the front of the seat that made my legs continuously go numb the whole time. I have never been so uncomfortable in a car ever. This car had zero redeeming qualities. I am sorry in advance if anybody has one of these, but if you do, you probably hate it way more than I do.
Re: Worst cars, by decade
I never drove a PT Cruiser. It was built on the Neon platform if I recall, so I'm sure it was lousy. There was a turbo version.
People also like to hate on the HHR but I have actually driven one. It's not terrible. Also the SS with the LNF 2.0 DI turbo was a very respectable performer. You can't see too well out of it but it's a useful little box.
People also like to hate on the HHR but I have actually driven one. It's not terrible. Also the SS with the LNF 2.0 DI turbo was a very respectable performer. You can't see too well out of it but it's a useful little box.