“Wheel” You Get It Right?
Think you know your automotive history? From iconic muscle cars to futuristic electric marvels, these legendary vehicles made their mark the moment they hit the road. But how well can you pinpoint the exact year each of them debuted?
Buckle up and test your car knowledge with this quiz—because only true gearheads will ace it.
Ford Mustang
When did the Ford Mustang first hit the market?
A) 1962
B) 1964
C) 1966
D) 1968
Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
1964
The Ford Mustang made its legendary debut in 1964, launching a new era of “pony cars.” Introduced at the World’s Fair in New York, it was an instant success—selling over 22,000 units on its first day.
Tesla Model S
When did the Tesla Model S debut?
A) 2008
B) 2010
C) 2012
D) 2014
Granada, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2012
The Tesla Model S was officially released in 2012. With a sleek design, cutting-edge tech, and surprising range, it helped redefine what electric cars could be. Who remembers Ludicrous Mode?
Maurizio Pesce from Milan, Italia, Wikimedia Commons
Chevrolet Corvette
What year did the first Corvette roll off the assembly line?
A) 1951
B) 1953
C) 1955
D) 1957
Greg Gjerdingen, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
1953
The Chevrolet Corvette debuted in 1953 as a concept car turned production reality. Only 300 units were made that year, and they were all Polo White. The Corvette would evolve into America’s most iconic sports car.
Mustang Joe, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Dodge Viper
When was the first Dodge Viper released?
A) 1989
B) 1991
C) 1994
D) 1996
TaurusEmerald, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
1991
The Dodge Viper roared onto the scene in 1991 with raw power and retro styling. It was stripped down—no ABS, no traction control, and no roof. But what it did have was a massive 8.0-liter V10 engine.
Mini Cooper (BMW Era)
When did BMW launch the modern Mini Cooper?
A) 1998
B) 2000
C) 2001
D) 2002
Badgernet, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
2001
BMW revived the Mini Cooper in 2001, blending the original’s charm with modern engineering. The relaunch captured the spirit of the British classic while adding German precision.
Kieran White from Manchester, England, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Pontiac GTO
When was the first Pontiac GTO released?
A) 1962
B) 1964
C) 1966
D) 1968
Greg Gjerdingen, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
1964
Often considered the first true muscle car, the Pontiac GTO debuted in 1964. With a powerful V8 under the hood and a rebellious attitude, it kicked off a golden age of high-performance street cars.
Greg Gjerdingen from Willmar, USA, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Honda Civic
What year did the Honda Civic first launch?
A) 1970
B) 1972
C) 1974
D) 1976
Kzaral[1], CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
1972
The Honda Civic arrived in 1972 as a compact, fuel-efficient solution during a time of rising gas prices. It quickly earned a reputation for reliability and affordability—and over the years evolved into one of the world’s best-selling cars.
Rutger van der Maar, Wikimedia Commons
Porsche 911
When did the original Porsche 911 make its debut?
A) 1962
B) 1963
C) 1964
D) 1965
1968 Porsche 911 R - Walk around & Drive, RSC Automobile
1964
The Porsche 911 officially hit the market in 1964, though it had been shown as the “901” in 1963. It featured a rear-mounted flat-six engine and quickly became known for its distinctive shape and performance.
Pat Durkin, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Toyota Prius
When was the Toyota Prius first introduced in Japan?
A) 1995
B) 1997
C) 1999
D) 2001
Damian B Oh, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
1997
The Toyota Prius was introduced in Japan in 1997, making it the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. It reached the U.S. market in 2000 and became a favorite among eco-conscious drivers and helped mainstream hybrid technology.
Mytho88, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
BMW M3 (E30)
What year was the first BMW M3 (E30) released?
A) 1984
B) 1985
C) 1986
D) 1987
1986
The first BMW M3 (E30) launched in 1986 as a homologation special for touring car racing. Its high-revving 2.3-liter engine, boxy fenders, and razor-sharp handling made it an instant legend. Today, the E30 M3 is a collector’s dream.
Riley from Christchurch, New Zealand, Wikimedia Commons
Jeep Wrangler
When did the Jeep Wrangler replace the CJ series?
A) 1985
B) 1986
C) 1987
D) 1988
Greg Gjerdingen from Willmar, USA, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
1987
The Jeep Wrangler made its debut in 1987, replacing the long-running CJ series. While it kept the rugged DNA of its military predecessor, it added creature comforts like improved suspension and better safety.
Nissan GT-R (R35)
When was the modern Nissan GT-R (R35) released?
A) 2005
B) 2007
C) 2008
D) 2010
Highway Patrol Images, Wikimedia Commons
2007
The R35-generation Nissan GT-R launched in 2007, reinventing the legendary “Godzilla” for a new era. With twin-turbo power, advanced all-wheel drive (and stunning lap times) it shocked the performance world.
(Black Cat), Wikimedia Commons
Audi R8
When did Audi release the first-generation R8?
A) 2004
B) 2005
C) 2006
D) 2007
Hatsukari715, Wikimedia Commons
2006
Audi introduced the R8 in 2006, bringing exotic style and mid-engine thrills to a new audience. With a design inspired by its Le Mans prototypes, the R8 offered performance to rival Ferraris—without the fuss—while also introducing the now-famous LED headlight signature.
How Did You Do?
Whether you aced every question or learned something new along the way, thanks for cruising through car history with us!
If you got 12–15 right, you’re a certified car guru.
Scored 8–11? Not bad at all.
Less than that? Time to hit the books (or the track).
Either way, you’re now one step closer to becoming an automotive trivia champ!
Greg Gjerdingen from Willmar, USA, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
You Might Also Like:
Quiz: Can You Name These Famous Cars From Movies?
Ultimate Car Trivia: Can You Name These Classic Cars?
You've Never Heard Of These Obscure American Car Companies & Their Greatest Hits
Sources: 1, 2, 3