subject: Successful Comeback Cars - The Ones That Survived [print this page]
The Mini was considered an icon of the 60s - and its funky retro styling has helped it to enjoy similar success the second time around. The Mini was voted the second most influential car of the 20th Century - in particular this was because of its innovative 'space-saving' front wheel, which created far more room inside the vehicle for passengers and luggage. This genius idea influenced car makers for years to come.
When the Mini was first released in 1959 it took a while for sales to pick up after initially being praised by the media. This little supermini has since featured in lots of famous films, including The Italian Job and A View to Kill which has had a huge effect on its popularity.
The current Mini is cool, trendy and very popular among young drivers. It's nippy, and can certainly pick up speed fast - time will tell how long this car stays popular - it definitely has staying power!
The Volkswagen Beetle first hit production lines in 1938 - and is still on the roads today, which is some feat. The Beetle also has the same 'retro' connotations as the Mini.
When car manufactures re-introduce an old classic they have to be certain that it'll succeed else they could ruin its reputation. Both Mini and Volkswagen succeeded and both cars were as popular the second time around as they were in their heyday.
Back in 1972 the Volkswagen Beetle overtook the Ford's model 'T' as the most popular car ever made - which shows just how popular this little car was. The Beetle is sometimes referred to as the 'Bug' - because of its unique shape.
Another car which has hit motor dealerships more recently is the Fiat 500. This is another 'comeback car' that has kept its retro looks. The funky Fiat 500 has also proved to be a hit, and is really affordable.
The Fiat 500 had its glory back in the 50s - it stayed popular until the 70s when sales died out and production eventually ceased. There wasn't a need for nippy little city cars, motorists were looking for something different.
Nowadays, there is more of a need for zippy little city cars - hence the reason for the 500's return.
These three examples show that old classics can make a comeback - so what other cars can we look forward to making a return in the future - the Ford Capri perhaps...
