Top3 1960s Classic Cars That Could Beat Today’s Models

Three classic cars shook the 1960s

Recently, modern cars have been impressing us with their superior performance. Some boast powerful engines, while others showcase unique visual aesthetics with elegant designs. However, there are classic car models out there that can still be outstanding among these new cars.

Here are three classic car models that turned the automobile industry upside down in the 1960s with their exceptional performance and stunning designs. Let’s find out which models still leave us in awe today.

1962 Ferrari 250 GTO was auctioned off for $51.7 million

The Ferrari 250 GTO, produced for only 39 units from 1962 to 1964, was equipped with a 3.0L V12 engine boasting a formidable 450 horsepower and about 29.9 kgf.m of torque. The Ferrari 250 GTO is still considered one of the most beautiful models by Ferrari enthusiasts and won the GT Manufacturer’s International Championship from 1962 to 1964. This model holds a history of glorious victories in Sebring 12 Hours, Le Mans, Targa Florio, and Spa 1000km. 2018, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO was auctioned off for $51.7 million, making headlines.

James Bond’s car, the 1963 Aston Martin DB5

Launched in 1963, the Aston Martin DB5 is a grand tourer model and a successor to the DB4. The DB5 is often referred to as one of the most famous cars in the world, mainly because it was the vehicle of choice for James Bond in the Goldfinger (1964).

The DB5 offers all the luxurious features of its time, including a wool carpet, power windows, and chrome wire wheels with a magnesium alloy body made with Superleggera’s patented technology and even an onboard fire extinguisher. Additionally, the DB5’s value was further elevated due to its limited production of only 1,059 units from 1963 to 1965.

A car that restored American pride: the original Ford GT, the Ford GT40

The Ford GT40 is the predecessor of today’s Ford GT, which holds a remarkable record of winning the Le Mans 24 Hours Grand Prix four consecutive years from 1966 to 1969. Initially, Ford tried to collaborate with Ferrari to create a racing car, but the negotiations failed. Instead, Ford partnered with racing car engineering company Lola to launch the GT40 Mk1 in 1964.

Although the Mk1 did not finish its first Le Mans 24 Hours Grand Prix, the later GT40 Mk2 set a record for the highest average speed at the 1966 race, claiming the top three positions. The Mk4 continued the winning streak the subsequent year by securing victories at the Sebring 12 Hours and the Le Mans 24 Hours Grand Prix. These successes restored American pride in motorsports, a field where the U.S. had previously been seen as an outsider.