They just don’t make them like they used to—except, sometimes, they do. Every now and then, a manufacturer decides to bring back a legendary nameplate, blending vintage style with modern performance. But for every car that gets a second chance, there are plenty of classics left in the past that deserve another shot.
The 1960s gave us some of the most iconic machines ever built, from raw muscle cars to elegant grand tourers and race-proven legends. Some of these cars changed the game, others built cult followings, but all of them still have something special to offer today. With the right mix of retro design and cutting-edge tech, these ten classics could make a serious impact in the modern era.
Jaguar E-Type
Jaguar has given the E-Type a bit of a revival with its continuation models, but a full-scale reboot? Now that would be something. The E-Type is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cars ever built, with Enzo Ferrari himself allegedly calling it “the most beautiful car ever made.”
The Series 1 and 2 models are the most admired, featuring sleek lines, chrome bumpers, and the legendary XK inline-six engine. With up to 265 horsepower from its 4.2 or 3.8-liter engine, the E-Type wasn’t just a looker—it had the performance to match. A modern reboot with today’s tech could make it even more spectacular.
Lamborghini Miura
If there’s one supercar that deserves a comeback, it’s the Lamborghini Miura. Developed in secret by Lamborghini’s engineers, it was originally dismissed by Ferruccio Lamborghini himself. That changed when he saw the finished product, and the Miura went on to define the supercar segment.
Powered by a 3.9-liter V12 that produced 345 horsepower in early models, the Miura wasn’t just fast—it was revolutionary. Its low-slung, mid-engine layout changed performance car design forever. A modern Miura could blend that unmistakable wedge shape with cutting-edge aerodynamics and Lamborghini’s latest V12 powerplant.
1964 Pontiac GTO
People love to argue about what the first muscle car really was, but the 1964 Pontiac GTO is the car that truly kicked off the movement. It took a midsize Pontiac LeMans, dropped in a massive 6.4-liter V8, and let the horsepower do the talking.
With up to 325 horsepower and a four-speed manual, the original GTO set the standard for what a muscle car should be. A reboot with retro styling and a modern V8 under the hood would be a serious hit, especially now that muscle cars are shifting toward electrification. A throwback to the GTO’s golden age could be exactly what enthusiasts need.
First-Generation Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang is still alive and well, but imagine a factory-built tribute to the very first generation. When the Mustang debuted in 1964, it introduced the world to the pony car and gave birth to a movement that’s still going strong today.
With its long hood, short deck, and available V8 power, the first-gen Mustang became an instant classic. Special editions like the Boss 429 pushed it even further. A modern reboot of the original design—complete with retro styling and a naturally aspirated V8—could bring back the magic that made the early Mustangs so iconic.
Ford Cortina
The Ford Cortina wasn’t a high-performance supercar or a muscle-bound brute, but it was a cultural icon. As one of the UK’s best-selling cars, it became a staple of British roads in the 1960s and 1970s, offering a balance of affordability, reliability, and fun.
While its basic design wasn’t groundbreaking, the Cortina proved its worth on the racetrack, taking on larger cars like the Mustang in touring car racing and winning. A modern version could capture the same lightweight, fun-to-drive spirit, giving enthusiasts an affordable, engaging alternative to today’s more bloated sedans.
Ford GT40
If there’s one 1960s car that deserves a revival, it’s the Ford GT40. While Ford has built modern supercars inspired by the original, none have quite captured the raw essence of the Le Mans-dominating legend.
Born from Ford’s rivalry with Ferrari, the GT40 was designed to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and it did just that—four years in a row from 1966 to 1969. Powered by a series of V8 engines, the GT40 remains one of the most iconic race cars ever built. A reboot that stays true to its lightweight, race-focused roots could be a game-changer.
Ferrari 250 GTO
A list of legendary 1960s cars isn’t complete without the Ferrari 250 GTO. Built from 1962 to 1964, only 36 were ever produced, making it one of the rarest and most valuable cars in the world.
Powered by a 3.0-liter Tipo V12 producing 296 horsepower, the 250 GTO was a force in endurance racing and remains a dream car for collectors. With one selling for $70 million in 2018, it’s clear how coveted these cars are. A modern reinterpretation could blend classic styling with Ferrari’s latest hybrid tech, keeping its spirit alive for a new generation.
Alfa Romeo Spider
The Alfa Romeo Spider is one of the most recognizable sports cars of all time, thanks in part to its starring role in The Graduate. Introduced in 1966, it combined stunning design with the driving character Alfa Romeos are known for.
The original Spider started with a 1.6-liter engine before later models received larger powertrains. While the build quality wasn’t always perfect, nobody cared—it was an Alfa Romeo, after all. A new version that pays tribute to its classic styling while embracing modern performance and reliability would be a welcome return.
Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona
When Lamborghini launched the Miura, Ferrari needed an answer. The result was the 365 GTB/4 Daytona, a front-engined grand tourer that could go toe-to-toe with its mid-engined rival.
Under the hood was a 4.4-liter Colombo V12 producing 347 horsepower, giving it plenty of punch. The Daytona was also stunning to look at, with its long, aggressive lines. A modern version with an updated V12 and classic-inspired styling could make for one of the best Ferrari grand tourers of the modern era.
Saab 96
Saab might be gone, but its legacy lives on, and few cars define that better than the Saab 96. A development of the earlier Saab 92, the 96 debuted in 1960 and quickly gained a reputation for its toughness and reliability.
With independent suspension and dual braking systems introduced in 1964, the Saab 96 was ahead of its time. But its real claim to fame came in rallying, where it punched well above its weight. In the hands of Erik Carlsson, the Saab 96 became a giant killer. A modern version capturing that rugged, rally-ready spirit would be a fitting tribute.
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