Can You Identify These Iconic Cars From the ’80s?

By: Robin Tyler
Estimated Completion Time
4 min
Can You Identify These Iconic Cars From the ’80s?
Image: Wiki Commons by Dave_7

About This Quiz

The decade that gave us Madonna, Spandex, frozen yogurt and hair metal also gave the world some iconic automobiles. Some of these cruisers were first produced in the 1980s while others were modern reboots of old classics. The cars of the ‘80s still stand out today, and include sleek racers like the Ferrari F40, as well as off-roaders, sedans and more. 

The 1980s also saw the birth of the SUV and MPV as well as the ultimate soccer mom vehicle, the mini-van. A wide range of luxury models first came to prominence in the 1980s from a host of automakers, not just in the United States, but also in Europe and Japan. In fact, three Japanese automakers started their luxury lines with just the United States in mind. Think you got the skills to identify these 40 iconic cars from the 1980s? 

Don't worry, we'll provide a photo to help you. (Or you can read the hint if you're really stumped.) So get ready. Fasten your seat belt, floor the accelerator pedal, burn some rubber and ace this quiz! Good luck!

Answer These Random Questions and We'll Guess What Car You Had in the ’70s 1
Wiki Commons by Sicnag
The vehicle in this image helped give a famous name an '80s boost. What is it?
Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z
Daihatsu Charmant
Dodge St. Regis
Fiat 126
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

First marketed in 1985, the Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z helped spice up the dull third generation Camaro range first introduced in 1982. A new paint job and a boosted V8 engine meant it not only looked good but pushed out over 200 hp.

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Toyota Cressida
Wiki Commons by Riley
The second generation of this vehicle proved it could hold its own against Mercedes and BMW. What is it?
Maserati Biturbo
Toyota Cressida
Citroën Axel
Buick Century
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The second generation of Toyota Cressida was introduced in 1982. Solidly built, it was powered by a 2.8-liter SOHC straight-six engine that produced 116 hp, which was impressive for a family sedan at the time.

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Land Rover 90
Wiki Commons by Arpingstone
Tally ho! Can you tell us the make and model of this vehicle?
Renault 20/30
Opel Omega
Land Rover 90
Range Rover Classic
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Originally designed by Maurice Wilks in the late 1940s, the Land Rover changed little over time. In the 1980s, three models were made available, the 90, 110 and 127. The 90 model had just two engine options, either a 2.2-liter diesel or petrol engine.

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Ford Escort
Wiki Commons by Mr.choppers
This car is certainly a legend in Europe. Do you know what it is?
Vauxhall Chevette
Oldsmobile Omega
Peugeot 405
Ford Escort
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

One of the longest-running Ford Europe models, the third generation was originally meant to be a standalone Ford model called the Erika, but it became part of the Escort range. It was powered by a range of engine options from 1.1 to 1.6-liter, and available as a hatchback, estate (station wagon), cabriolet and van.

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BMW 315
Youtube by AUTO BILD
Can you name the make and model of this classic '80s car?
BMW 315
Opel Kadett
Toyota Starlet
Nissan S130
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The first generation of BMW's famed 3 series was released in 1975 and remained in production until 1983. The 315 was built between 1981 and 1983 and was powered by a 1.6-liter engine that produced 73 hp. This gave it a top speed of close to 100 mph.

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Chevrolet Corvette
Wiki Commons by Sicnag
A muscle car classic, can you identify this vehicle?
Saab 99
Lotus Turbo Esprit
Chevrolet Corvette
Vauxhall Belmont
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The fourth generation of the Corvette, designated C4, was built from 1984 until 1996. This was the first model of this iconic car to receive a complete makeover and redesign since 1963. One of the major changes was an all-aluminum suspension.

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Toyota Corolla
Wiki Commons by Charlie
One of the best-selling cars of all time, can you identify this '80s model?
SEAT Málaga
Plymouth Voyager
Toyota Corolla
Ford Pinto
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The Corolla is one of Toyota's longest produced models, and three generations of this best seller were produced in the '80s alone. The sixth generation, introduced in 1987, included a more rounded, aerodynamic body style with a range of engine options.

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Volkswagen Golf Mk II
Wiki Commons by Trogain
Pictured here is one of the decade's most iconic hatchbacks. Can you name it?
Volvo 66
Wartburg 1.3
Shelby Dakota
Volkswagen Golf Mk2
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Released in 1983, more than 6.3 million Golf Mk2s were produced, including the famed GTI model. The Mk2 included two body options — the three-door or five-door hatchback.

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MG Midget
Wiki Commons by Thomas's Pics
See if you can name this iconic British open-top sports car.
Pontiac Bonneville
Vauxhall Carlton
Volkswagen Polo
MG Midget
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The Midget was produced by MG from 1961 to 1979, however a few cars were titled in 1980, allowing this two-door roadster to just barely cross the finish line to make it into our quiz. The last generation was powered by a 1500 cc engine.

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Acura Legend
Youtube by Cars Global
One of the first cars introduced for Nissan's luxury brand, do you know what vehicle this is?
Alfa Romeo 2300
Ford Probe
Acura Legend
Volkswagen Jetta
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

When Acura was first launched in 1986, the Legend was one of only two models offered. The first generation was powered by a 2.5-liter V6 engine, which produced 151 hp.

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Ford Tempo
Wiki Commons by IFCAR
The influx of smaller Japanese cars saw an American manufacturer produce this model to compete with them. What is it?
Plymouth Prowler
Chevrolet Nova
AMC Pacer
Ford Tempo
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The Ford Tempo was an attempt by the American-based Ford Motor Company to produce a vehicle that would compete with Japanese imports. The Tempo had a twin called the Mercury Topaz. This compact car was produced from 1983 to 1994.

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American Scout II
Wiki Commons by Mr.choppers
Any ideas as to the make and model of this off-roader?
Daihatsu Leeza
International Harvester Scout II
Acura Legend
Buick Skylark
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The Scout was built from 1961 to 1980 and proved to be a popular off-roader. More than 500,000 were built during this period.

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Chevrolet Chevette
Wiki Commons by dave_7
In 1980, this was the best-selling car in the US. Do you know make and model?
Porsche 944
Reliant Rialto
Austin Ambassador
Chevrolet Chevette
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

With sales of 2.8 million over a 12-year period, the Chevette served Chevrolet well in the subcompact class. In fact, in 1979 and 1980, it was the best-selling small car in the United States.

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Lexus ES
Wiki Commons by Ryanandlenny
Can you ID this '80s luxury sedan?
Chrysler Fifth Avenue
Holden Astra
Lexus ES
Dodge Rampage
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

This four-door sedan, marketed by Lexus since 1989, is currently in its seventh generation. It remains an excellent seller with more than 350,000 sold in the United States alone.

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Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Wiki Commons by Greg Gjerdingen
Introduced in 1984, this vehicle proved to be a popular off-roader. Any clue as to the make and model?
Mitsubishi Chariot
Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Renault Alliance
Toyota Tarago
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Based on the Wagoneer platform, the Grand Wagoneer was introduced by Jeep in 1984. By 1987, the 25th anniversary of the Wagoneer design, the Grand Wagoneer came standard with all-weather tires, air conditioning, leather bucket seats, roof racks, fog lamps, and many other features. It also included a hood ornament.

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Ferrari F40
Wiki Commons by Maurizio Cefariello
What 1980s sports car is shown in this image?
Ferrari F40
Nissan Leopard
Subaru Sumo
Renault 5
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

In total, 1,311 Ferrari F40’s were produced between 1987 and 1991. Many consider this to be the finest Ferrari ever. The F40 was powered by a 2.9-liter twin turbo V12 capable of producing 471 hp. The F40’s top speed was 199 mph.

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Subaru Legacy
Wiki Commons by IFCAR
First released in 1989, can you name this vehicle, which has a boxer engine as its power plant?
Renault 5 Turbo
Subaru Legacy
GAZ Volga
Chevrolet Bel Air
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The Legacy is a 4-door sedan, first released in 1989 as a compact car. Featuring a traditional boxer engine, the Legacy had excellent power and great handling.

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Audi 90 IMSA GTO
Wiki Commons by Brian Snelson
Can you identify this iconic race car from the '80s?
Audi 90 GTO
Ferrari F50
De Tomaso Deauville
Dodge Lancer
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

After they moved out of the rally circuit following the demise of Group B racing in the mid-1980s, Audi turned its attention to something new. The result was the 90 GTO, which raced in the IMSA championship in the United States.

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Buick Grand National
Wiki Commons by Greg Gjerdingen
This '80s muscle car produced some impressive performance figures. Any idea what it is?
Citroën XM
Chrysler Sunbeam
Buick Grand National
Jaguar XJS
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The Buick Grand National quickly took the fight to its more established rivals from Ford and Chevrolet, particularly the GNX edition.

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McLaren MP44
Wiki Commons by Bahnfrend
This iconic race car was basically unbeatable. What is it?
McLaren MP4/4
Fiat 124
Ferrari F50
Peugeot 205
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The McLaren MP4/4 is possibly the greatest Formula 1 car ever built. It won 15 out of 16 races in 1988, giving Ayrton Senna his first world title.

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Volvo 262C
Wiki Commons by de:Benutzer:Bettenburg
Not an Italian car, but designed by the famous Italian company Bertone, can you identify this vehicle?
Hindustan Ambassador
Fiat Oggi
Mazda MX-5
Volvo 262C
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Part of the Volvo 200 series, the 262C was available from 1978 to 1981. Designed with the help of Italian styling house Bertone, the 262C featured a unique look compared to its counterparts in the series.

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Lamborghini Countach LP500s
Wiki Commons by Palauenc05
Can you tell us the name of this iconic '80s sports car?
Lamborghini Countach LP500 S
Chrysler Cordoba
Mercury Monarch
Mitsubishi Colt
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

One of the most iconic sports cars ever, the Countach was released in 1970 but saw numerous upgrades in the '80s, including a larger 4.8-liter motor in 1982. In total, 321 units of this model were built.

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Ford Pinto
Youtube by cookieboystoys
Iconic for all the wrong reasons, this vehicle had a tendency to catch fire in accidents. What is it?
Ford Pinto
Eagle Medallion
Dodge Dynasty
Autobianchi Y10
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Produced for a decade between 1970 and 1980, the Pinto was the first subcompact car produced by Ford in America. Although the Pinto was popular (Ford produced 3 million Pintos over 10 years), it was the subject of a safety-related controversy, and was ultimately replaced by the Escort.

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DeLorean DMC-12
Wiki Commons by Kieran White
Although it was a massive failure, it was also one of the most famous cars of the decade. What vehicle is featured here?
Fiat 131
DeLorean DMC-12
Mercedes-Benz W201
Nissan Prairie
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

In theory, the DeLorean was a winner. In practice, it caused its parent company to go bankrupt and close. The DeLorean is probably most remembered for appearing in the "Back to the Future" movie trilogy.

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1986_Nissan_Sentra
Wiki Commons by Greg Gjerdingen
First introduced in 1982 as a replacement for the Datsun 210, can you identify this vehicle?
Hyundai Stellar
Chevrolet S-10 Blazer
Nissan Sentra
Fiat Argenta
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The Nissan Sentra has been sold in a number of markets around the world, including America. It was an immediate hit in the United States and continues to be one of the best-selling cars in the world. The Sentra is currently in the seventh generation.

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Acura Integra Coupe
Youtube by Charrua NYC
Can you name this vehicle, which was based on a Honda model of the same name?
Mercedes-Benz 600
ERA Mini Turbo
Acura Integra Coupe
Holden Barina
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Built between 1986 and 2001, Honda's Integra was released under the Acura brand in the United States. In fact, when Acura was first launched in 1986, this was one of only two models offered. The first generation was available as a four-door sedan or a three- or five-door liftback.

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Ferrari Testarossa
Wiki Commons by Marty B
Can you name this beauty?
Eagle Summit
Ferrari Testarossa
Chevrolet Impala
Buick Estate
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Produced from 1984 to 1996, the Testarossa was first unveiled at the Paris Auto Show. Almost 10,000 Testarossas were made, making this one of Ferrari's best-selling models. The Testarossa was powered by a 4.9-liter flat 12 engine.

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Porsche 959
Wiki Commons by Greg Gjerdingen
Name this popular sports car, which was produced from 1986 to 1993.
Toyota Sprinter
Porsche 959
Renault Alliance
AMC Concord
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

When it was introduced, this was the fastest street-legal production car in the world, with a top speed of 197 mph. Only 345 Porsche 959s were produced. It originated as a rally car, but according to FIA rules, at least 200 production models needed to be built.

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Chevrolet GMT400
Wiki Commons by IFCAR
Any ideas as to the name of this pickup?
Chevrolet GMT400
Mitsubishi Cordia
Toyota Camry
Fiat Duna
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

After playing it safe for a number of years, Chevrolet introduced the GMT400 in 1988. This truck featured a sleek new body, designed with the help of a wind tunnel. The ride was also significantly improved, thanks to an independent front suspension with torsion bars.

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Peugeot 504
Wiki Commons by Vauxford
Produced up to 1983, this was the best-selling model for a French automaker. What is it?
Aston Martin V8
Dodge Mirada
Chevrolet Malibu
Peugeot 504
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Not many people know it, but Peugeot is the oldest car manufacturer in the world. Founded in 1810 as a coffee mill company, Peugeot began making cars in 1882.

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Audi 80
Wiki Commons by free photos & art
From 1973 to 1986, this vehicle shared its platform with the Volkswagen Passat. Do you know what it is?
Nissan 180SX
Ford Mustang
Ferrari F40
Audi 80
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Produced for three decades, the 80 was a stalwart of the Audi fleet. The B2 model, which was produced from 1978-1986, was marketed as the Audi 4000 in the US.

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Cadilac Deville
Wiki Commons by Greg Gjerdingen
What is the name of this American classic?
Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Cadillac DeVille
Citroën Axel
BMW M3
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Certainly an iconic name in American motoring, the Cadillac DeVille was produced between 1958 and 2005. The sixth generation was produced for the mid part of the '80s into the '90s and was available as a four-door sedan or two-door coupe.

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Dodge Dakota
Wiki Commons by IFCAR
Can you identify this iconic pickup truck?
Ferrri Testarossa
Dodge Dakota
Cadillac Fleetwood
Austin Allegro
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Produced between 1986 and 2011, the Dodge Dakota was a classic American pick-up truck, and the first mid-sized truck to offer an optional V8 engine.

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Dodge Colt
Wiki Commons by Joe Haupt
This vehicle was also sold as the Mitsubishi Mirage. Can you find its American name?
Chrysler Town & Country
Ford Thunderbird
Dodge Colt
Nissan Gloria
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Produced between 1971 and 1994, the Colt was actually built by Mitsubishi Motors and marketed by Dodge in the United States. The fifth generation was sold between 1984 and 1988, and featured a 1.6-liter engine.

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Cadillac Brougham
Wiki Commons by Greg Gjerdingen
Can you name this classic luxury sedan from the '80s?
Buick LeSabre
Cadillac Brougham
Volkswagen Caddy
Rover CCV
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

From 1987 until 1992, the Brougham was named after British statesman Henry Brougham, who designed a famous horse-drawn carriage in 1838. Cadillac's 1987 model was powered by a 5.0 L V8 engine that produced 140 hp.

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Lamborghini LM002
Wiki Commons by Detectandpreserve
You wouldn't expect this carmaker to produce a model like this. Can you name this truck?
Lamborghini LM002
Toyota Land Cruiser
Rolls-Royce Phantom VI
Alfa Romeo Sprint
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Known for their sports cars, the LM002 was a massive departure for Lamborghini. It was built between 1986 and 1993 and only 328 were made. Pirelli was commissioned to make custom tires for this vehicle.

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Jeep Cherokee Pioneer
Wiki Commons by order_242
What American off-road classic is shown in this image?
Renault Alliance
Veskanda C1
Jeep Cherokee Pioneer
Opel Ascona
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The Pioneer was a trim package for the Cherokee and was available from 1984 to 1990. It included steel wheels, an AM radio and an alternate cloth trim with a plaid pattern.

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Land Rover Defender
Wiki Commons by Vauxford
This classic British off-road vehicle comes from the 1980s. Can you tell us what it is?
Toyota Carina
Lotus Esprit
Nissan Gloria
Land Rover Defender
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The Defender was produced from 1983 to 2013. Originally known as the Land Rover 110 (due to its 110-inch wheelbase), the Defender was one of Land Rover's top-selling models.

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Rolls Royce Silver Spirit
Wiki Commons by Jeremy
What is the name of this iconic luxury car?
Toyota Corolla
Rolls Royce Silver Spirit
Shelby Dakota
BMW M1
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Built between 1980 and 1999, the Silver Spirit was the epitome of luxury. Four distinct generations (or "marks") of this vehicle were produced during its 19-year history. The Mark I was powered by a 6.75 L Rolls-Royce L410 V8 engine.

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Dodge Power Ram Cummins Turbo Diesel
Youtube by Cereal Marshmallows
Can you identify the vehicle in this image?
Bohse Eurostar
Dodge Power Ram
Citroën GS
Eagle Vista
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

This truck was Dodge's answer to the heavy trucks being produced by Chevrolet and Ford. In 1989, the model gained a Cummings B Series engine, which up to that point had only been featured in large commercial trucks.

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Wiki Commons by Dave_7