The 1970s were an exciting time for automakers to let their imaginations run wild. Concept cars during this era weren’t just about showing off—they explored new technologies, bold designs, and future possibilities.
From wedge-shaped wonders to quirky electric experiments, these cars shaped the future of automotive design. Let’s take a look at the incredible concept cars that rocked the 1970s!
Lancia Stratos Zero (1970)
The Lancia Stratos Zero was a wedge-shaped marvel designed by Marcello Gandini. Its angular body and near-flat silhouette made it look like a car from another planet.
This daring design wasn’t just about aesthetics—it paved the way for the rally-dominating Lancia Stratos. The Zero is a testament to bold innovation that still inspires designers today.
BMW Turbo (1972)
BMW’s Turbo concept was all about blending safety with high performance. It introduced futuristic features like a heads-up display and impact-absorbing bumpers.
The Turbo’s gullwing doors and sleek lines made it a head-turner, but its real legacy lies in inspiring the BMW M1, one of the brand’s most iconic sports cars.
Ferrari Modulo (1970)
The Ferrari Modulo wasn’t just futuristic—it was downright otherworldly. Its canopy roof and hidden wheels made it look more like a spaceship than a car.
Despite its wild design, the Modulo was powered by a ferocious V12 engine, proving it had both style and substance. It remains a Ferrari legend.
Mazda RX-500 (1970)
This rotary-powered concept was Mazda’s vision of high-tech performance. Its lightweight body and gullwing doors made it a star at auto shows.
The RX-500 wasn’t just about speed; it also showcased advanced aerodynamics. While it didn’t go into production, it reinforced Mazda’s reputation for innovation.
Mercedes-Benz C111-II (1970)
With its rotary engines and turbo-diesel experiments, the Mercedes-Benz C111-II was a playground for cutting-edge technology. Its gullwing doors added a touch of drama.
Though never sold to the public, the C111-II helped Mercedes test groundbreaking tech that would shape its future cars. There were many other Mercedes concept cars created that defined their standing as an innovator in elegance.
Chevrolet Aerovette (1973)
The Aerovette was Chevrolet’s bold take on a mid-engine sports car. Its futuristic gullwing doors and sharp edges made it unforgettable.
Although it didn’t reach production, the Aerovette influenced later Corvette designs, showing the potential of mid-engine layouts.
Alfa Romeo Navajo (1976)
The Navajo was an angular concept that looked like a futuristic supercar. Built on the chassis of the 33 Stradale, it combined performance with bold design.
Though it never made it to production, the Navajo remains a cult favorite among Alfa Romeo enthusiasts.
Volvo VESC (1972)
The Volvo VESC focused on safety, introducing features like crumple zones and airbags long before they became standard.
It wasn’t flashy, but it set the tone for Volvo’s reputation as a leader in automotive safety.
Porsche Tapiro (1970)
The Porsche Tapiro brought Giorgetto Giugiaro’s wedge design to life. Its gullwing doors and sharp angles made it stand out.
Based on the Porsche 914-6, it combined futuristic looks with real performance potential.
Fiat X1/23 (1972)
The Fiat X1/23 was a tiny electric car aimed at city drivers. Its compact design made it perfect for tight urban spaces.
Though it wasn’t produced, it demonstrated Fiat’s forward-thinking approach to sustainable transportation.
Lotus Esprit Concept (1972)
The Lotus Esprit Concept evolved into one of the most iconic sports cars of the 1970s. Its sharp, wedge-shaped design screamed speed.
This concept proved that bold design could translate into production success, becoming a hit with car enthusiasts and moviegoers alike.
Chrysler Cordoba de Oro (1970)
This gold-plated luxury car was Chrysler’s vision of opulence. It featured plush interiors and a flashy design.
While it didn’t hit the market, it reflected the era’s love for extravagance and bold statements.
Toyota EX-7 (1970)
Toyota’s EX-7 was a race car-inspired concept designed for high performance. Its aggressive styling made it stand out in the crowd.
Though it wasn’t mass-produced, it showcased Toyota’s engineering prowess and design ambition.
GM XP-897 GT (1973)
This rotary-powered concept was GM’s take on futuristic sports cars. Its lightweight body and unique engine were standout features.
While it remained a concept, the XP-897 GT was a bold experiment in pushing design and engineering limits.
Ford Explorer SUV Concept (1973)
The Ford Explorer Concept wasn’t an SUV but a futuristic, compact coupe with bold, swooping lines. It aimed to explore new design directions for smaller vehicles.
Though vastly different from today’s Explorer SUV, this concept reflects Ford’s innovative spirit in redefining vehicle categories.
Dome Zero (1978)
The Dome Zero was a Japanese concept designed with supercar aesthetics in mind. Its wedge-shaped body and gullwing doors were perfect for turning heads.
While it struggled with production approval, the Dome Zero gained fame in motorsports and inspired future Japanese sports car designs.
Jaguar XJ Spider (1978)
The XJ Spider was a sleek, open-top roadster concept built on the XJ platform. It blended Jaguar’s luxury with sporty appeal.
Though it stayed a one-off, the XJ Spider inspired later Jaguar roadster designs, such as the F-Type decades later.
Chevrolet Corvette XP-882 (1970)
This mid-engine Corvette prototype was GM’s attempt to rival European sports cars. Its design pushed boundaries for American performance vehicles.
Though the XP-882 didn’t enter production, it paved the way for the 2020 mid-engine Corvette, proving the idea was far from dead.
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