5 Retro Tribute Vehicles That Need to Be Made
Over the weekend Ford introduced yet another version of the Mustang, this time called the FX. Like many Mustangs before it, the FX is a retro-inspired tribute. Unlike many of the other ‘Stangs that reach far back into the car’s heritage, this one is focused on more recent models, specifically the Fox Body era.
Regardless of whether this works on the Mustang FX or not, it got us thinking; what other vehicles could benefit from a retro-inspired special edition. Tributes to vehicles from the 1980s-1990s. Although our answer could have been ‘ALL OF THEM’, we’ve shrunk it down to just five that seem plausibly ready to honor the past.
GMC Canyon Tribute to the Syclone
The GMC Syclone was a legend in the early 1990s. A compact pickup truck with the heart of a monster, the turbocharged all-wheel drive Syclone redefined what a sport truck could be. Although the current GMC Canyon is larger and does not have a six-cylinder engine, it does have a powerful turbo under the hood.
Lower the truck, paint it black, give it fan blade wheels and red badging, and GMC could have something to battle the Ford Maverick Lobo.
Honda Civic Type R Tribute to the EK Type R
Although we never got it on our shores, the model code EK Honda Civic Type R Hatchback from the late 1990s is iconic to automotive fans around the world. Even if the latest Civic Type R hatchback is not a two-door, it could still serve as a platform for a tribute model. Paint it white with simple seven-spoke whites, remove the current spoiler and install a roof mounted one, then give the interior the full red treatment.
Acura Integra Type-S Tribute to the Integra Type R
Since we’re on the topic of legendary Type R models, why not give the Acura Type S a similar treatment to the Civic Type R listed above. Paint it white, give it seven-spoke white wheels that mimic those on the late 1990’s car, install the red interior and we’re good to go. Oh wait, no, it needs a big white hoop rear wing too.
Chrysler Pacifica Tribute to the OG Town & Country Van
Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth invented the minivan as we know it in North America. Such a success was the first generation, it revolutionized the automotive industry, and for the next 15 years every automaker had a minivan on the market.
Although the market has shrunk, why not make a special edition Chrysler Pacifica that leans heavily into the original Town & Country? Maybe skip on having a wood panel exterior, but what about some retro two-tone paint options. The real heart of the tribute could be inside with seats and trim that mimic that of the original. Plush beige leather seats for miles!
Cadillac Escalade Tribute to the OG
The Escalade has been a successful stalwart in the Cadillac lineup for over 25 years. Why not celebrate that with a bit of nostalgia. Here though, we suggest something a bit different. The first-generation Escalade didn’t really have a distinct personality. It was too closely related to its lesser platform mates. It’s the second-generation SUV where it gained bolder styling. For the special edition, maybe recreate the thick, angled horizontal slated grille and chrome wheels, along with a giant, old-school Cadillac crest.
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A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.
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Bring out a new T-Bird
Please don't. Remember the last T-Bird that they brought back. Yuck!!!!!