Most people are familiar with Ferraris and Lamborghinis, two luxury vehicles. Car enthusiasts have cherished these vehicles for years because they have much to offer. How did these vehicles come about? Did they start as luxury models, or were they basic models that evolved?

The Early Years of Exotic Cars

Henry Ford probably never imagined luxury vehicles when he first launched his car company. His goal was to sell vehicles to the average person. Alfa Romeo and Bugatti were the first manufacturers to create luxury cars with a limited audience. In the early 20th century, they introduced vehicles with unique designs and robust engines, recognizing that only a few drivers would be interested in their offerings. The Buggati Type 41 Royale, produced in 1931, was a luxury vehicle with a 12.7-liter engine. The company only built six of these vehicles, which set the standard for future exotic models. If you own one of the models, you will probably receive an offer for your exotic car every time you take it for a drive. 

The 1950s and 1960s

Following World War II, exotic cars came of age. Aston Martin joined Ferrari and Lamborghini in producing exotic cars that drivers loved. The Ferrari 250 GTO came out during this period and remains coveted today because it has much to offer. Its outstanding performance and gorgeous design leave collectors clamoring to own one of these models, and it also helped cement Ferrari as an exotic car manufacturer. Lamborghini followed with the Miura, a vehicle featuring a mid-engine layout that changed how sports cars were designed. The breathtaking looks of this vehicle and the V12 under the hood made it an instant classic. 

The 1970s to 1990s

Manufacturers significantly improved exotic cars in the 1970s and 1980s. They experimented with different designs to improve their aerodynamics, added turbochargers, and switched to lightweight materials to increase performance. Drivers can look at the Porsche 959 as an example of the innovations. This vehicle emerged in the mid-1980s, and drivers quickly fell in love. The Porsche featured an all-wheel-drive system and an engine with twin turbochargers, allowing it to stand out in speed and handling. 

During the 1990s, McLaren introduced the F1, and people were amazed at this engineering marvel. The car, which featured a central driving position, was constructed using carbon fiber. This vehicle quickly led to more innovations as the world entered the 21st century.

The 21st Century 

In the first few decades of the 21st century, exotic car makers continue to push the boundaries. Ferrari, Bugatti, and Pagani are finding new ways to increase their vehicles' performance while improving their design. The LaFerrari features a hybrid powertrain and innovative aerodynamics, allowing the car to provide the speed drivers desire without harming fuel efficiency. 

Exotic car manufacturers are also incorporating advanced technology into their models. Driver assistance systems are common, and they are adding adaptive suspension and active aerodynamics to their models. These innovations enhance performance while providing a safe and enjoyable experience behind the wheel.

Many drivers will never be able to afford one of these luxury vehicles. However, they can rent one for a few days to experience how it feels to power one. The hardest part may be returning the vehicle and driving their everyday car once again. Fortunately, features once seen only in exotic cars are making their way into standard passenger vehicles today, so every driver benefits from the innovations made over the years.