Every year, automakers showcase dozens of flashy concept cars that dazzle audiences and wow the automotive media. Not all those concepts make it to production, however. Some concepts are not well received by their intended audience, but others are simply killed because the automakers decide that particular concepts are not a wise investment.
In recent years, there have been a few standout concepts that I think really should have been produced:
1. 2008 BMW M1 Homage Concept
This sleek design was intended to recall BMW’s legendary M1 supercar from the late 1970s. Chris Bangle, best known for his controversial “Flame Surfacing” design language, was instrumental in the construction of this concept. Officially, BMW intended the M1 to be only a design exercise, but, despite the presence of a 1 Series tuned by M, the M1 moniker is still in reserve. Perhaps we may yet see a BMW supercar in the near future…
2. 2002 Cadillac Cien Concept
Cadillac’s “Art & Science” design language was most dramatically integrated into the styling of the Cien supercar concept. Powered by a 750 horsepower V12 , it showcased numerous advanced technologies, especially for its time. Some have been incorporated into mainstream vehicles in recent years, such as direct fuel injection, cylinder-shutoff, satellite navigation, and paddle-shift control for the transmission. The exterior design was said to be inspired by the F-22 Raptor stealth fighter. Unfortunately, Cadillac is not in the habit of putting its concepts into production; they are primarily intended to generate excitement and interest in Cadillac as a company.
3. 2004 Chrysler ME 412 Concept
The story of this supercar is rather sad. The ME 412 (Mid-Engine, 4 turbos, 12 cylinders) wasn’t just a concept: it was intended to enter production, and as such was fully functioning. With 850 hp and 850 ft.-lbs. of torque controlled by a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the ME 412 could put up numbers that still rival the best supercars in the world: 0-60 in 2.9 seconds, quarter-mile in 10.6 seconds at 135 mph, and an estimated top speed of 248 mph. Unfortunately, the upper management at then-parent-company Daimler-Benz did not like the fact that Chrysler so easily showed up the SLR McLaren supercar, and killed the ME 412 project. Only a couple prototypes remain of what could have been Chrysler’s greatest accomplishment.
4. 2008 Italdesign Giugiaro Quaranta Concept
This futuristic-looking design exercise by Giugiaro for Italdesign was, unlike most concepts, fully-functioning. The Quaranta had a radical design inside and out, with elements such as a series of side gills replacing a more traditional exhaust outlet, a solar panel for auxiliary power, and a forward-tilting canopy that housed a 1+3 seating configuration, with the driver seated in the middle up front. Motor Trend has an interesting article detailing their experience of actually getting to drive the Quaranta on some of the highways of Italy. Italdesign does not produce cars; therefore, the Quaranta will not see production.
5. 2008 Mazda Furai Concept
The ultimate expression of its “Nagare” design language, Mazda’s Furai racer concept was also not only drivable, but was capable of actually racing, as it was built on the same chassis as one of Mazda’s ALMS (American Le Mans Series) racers. The overall look of the Furai is unlike anything else, and it is powered by a motor unlike any other: a triple-rotor engine with an output of up to 450hp, and fueled by E100, or pure ethanol. However, Mazda doesn’t make supercars or even produce cars with over 300hp, so the Furai was branded a “design exercise only” from the outset.
Miles Walker is a freelance writer and blogger who usually compare car insurance deals over at CarinsuranceComparison.Org. His most recent review looked at the best car insurance quotes.