The 1990s were some of the most interesting years in our culture. It was also one of the most creative decades for the car industry and saw the rise of innovative technologies like electronic engine control and fuel injection systems. It was also a fashion forward time in the industry, as sleek curves became more favored than the clunkier designs of the past. A lot of great vehicles got their start in the 90s, but some were ahead of the curve when it came to style and performance. These are five of the decade’s most incredible cars.
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After its introduction to the world in 1992, the McLaren F1 quickly became the star of the decade. Its sleek, aerodynamic design was instantly attractive to drivers and the car was full of brawn beneath all that beauty. The F1 was equipped with a powerful BMW V12 engine which, in addition to the exterior design of the car, enabled it to hit a top speed of 240 mph. At the time, the F1 was the fastest car on the road, and it still reigns supreme as the fastest naturally aspirated car ever built.
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With its late introduction to the world in 1999, the Skyline GT-R R34 wasted no time in proving its mettle. It featured an improved electronic AWD system that split the torque and an I6 RB26 engine that gave it 276 horsepower. Drivers loved this car because it was affordable yet powerful and could hold its own against speed demons like the Ferrari F355. The R34 model was the last of Nissan's GT-R line, but it will always be remembered as one of the decade’s best cars.
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The Toyota Supra Turbo is one of the most popular sports cars of all time, especially since its cameo in The Fast and The Furious. When this model was introduced in 1993, its speed quickly gained the attention of street racers. With a 2JZ-GTE twin-turbocharged I6 engine and 320 horsepower, the Supra Turbo easily outperformed rivals like the Mazda RX-7 and Nissan 300ZX. It could also go from zero to 60 in just under five seconds and had better tuneability than most other cars of its generation. All in all, it’s easy to see why this car was one of the kings of the track and an icon of the 90s.
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The 1992 Viper RT/10 threw caution to the wind and lacked many common safety features. It also renounced simple luxuries, like air conditioning, glass windows, and outer door handles. Yet, it more than made up for the lack of creature comforts with high performance and speed. This stylish, compact convertible was equipped with a raging V10 engine that gave it 400 horsepower and lightning-fast acceleration. With a lightweight fiberglass body and no ABS or traction control, it took a skilled driver to master the Viper. This car commanded respect and a place among the best vehicles of the decade.
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The Carlton hasn’t received as much widespread acclaim as other popular 90s cars, but it is unequivocally great. As a sports sedan, the 1990 Carlton wasn’t very flashy, but don’t let its looks fool you. The Carlton sported a twin-turbo I6 engine that produced 380 horsepower and a top speed of 176 mph. It could outrun the Ferrari Testarossa and was so fast that the UK Parliament wanted to ban sales of the little car. Luckily for motorheads, calls for the ban were unsuccessful, and the Lotus Carlton went on to achieve legendary status as one of the greatest cars of the decade.
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