10 Iconic coupés that defined an era
In the heyday of the 80s to early 2000s, coupés offered the perfect blend of style, performance, and accessibility. Every major brand had its own take on this mid-point between emotional and practical cars. Many of these models have since become icons, coveted collectibles, or the cars people dream of owning. Here are our top picks from that golden age.
Toyota celica
One of the longest-running and most recognizable coupés in history, the Toyota Celica spanned seven generations from 1970 to 2006. It evolved from a compact rear-wheel drive coupe to a front-wheel drive sports car. The most remembered in Europe is the seventh generation from 1999 to 2006, with its sharp design and more radical handling. Key engines included the 1.8 VVT-i with 143 horsepower and the TS version with 192 horsepower. Its lightweight, around 1,200 kg, allowed for agile and fun driving.
Alfa romeo gtv
Produced from 1994 to 2005, the Alfa Romeo GTV is one of Italy's most charismatic coupés. Designed by Pininfarina, it boasted a low, aggressive stance and a very distinct personality, true to Alfa's DNA. Engines ranged from fours to six cylinders. The Twin Spark 2.0-liter with up to 155 horsepower and the V6 Busso 3.0-liter (later 3.2) capable of over 240 horsepower stood out. With front-wheel drive and a chassis tuned for enjoyment, it's a modern classic highly prized for its design and mechanics.
Ford cougar
The Ford Cougar, made from 1998 to 2002, was Ford's attempt at a global coupe with an emphasis on style. It shared a platform with the Ford Mondeo and Contour, mounting four and six-cylinder engines, the most common being the 2.0-liter with 130 horsepower and the 2.5-liter V6 with 170 horsepower. Its rounded design and integrated front headlights were controversial at launch but have since gained appeal, though it wasn't a commercial success.
Opel calibra
On sale from 1989 to 1997, the Opel Calibra is one of the most aerodynamic coupés in history, with a drag coefficient of just 0.26. Based on the Opel Vectra A platform, it was a key model for the brand, though it's not well-remembered in Spain. Engines ranged from a 2.0-liter to turbocharged versions with up to 204 horsepower in the Calibra Turbo 4x4. This version was especially advanced for its time, with all-wheel drive and notable performance. Its success in competition, particularly in DTM racing, reinforced its image.
Peugeot 406 coupé
Considered one of the most elegant coupés of its era, the Peugeot 406 Coupé (1996-2004) was designed by Pininfarina. It shared its underpinnings with the Peugeot 406 saloon but offered a more refined setup. Engines ranged from a 2.0-liter to a 3.0-liter V6 with 210 horsepower. While not a radical sports car, it provided very stable handling. Its timeless design has been one of its strongest points, earning it a place among the most appreciated coupés by enthusiasts.
Mazda rx-8
Produced from 2003 to 2012, the Mazda RX-8 represented a unique bet on the rotary engine. Its 1.3-liter Wankel motor delivered 192-231 horsepower depending on the trim. Unlike other coupés, the RX-8 offered four real doors thanks to its rear-hinged rear doors, making it especially practical. Its engine stood out for its smoothness and revving capability, though it was also known for high fuel consumption and demanding maintenance. It was a very special car, but couldn't match its predecessor, the RX-7.
Nissan 300 zx z32
The Nissan 300 ZX, on the market from 1983 to 2000 across various generations, is one of Japan's great sports cars of its era. The most well-known is the Z32 version, launched in 1989. It mounted a 3.0-liter V6, available in atmospheric and turbocharged forms, with power ranging from 222 to over 280 horsepower (in the Z32). Some versions also featured all-wheel drive, a highly advanced feature for its time.