40th Anniversary Special: Cars launched in 1984
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Forty years ago was a big occasion for enthusiasts as it marked the very first Classic Motor Show at the NEC, and it would have featured some great cars. But what about the brand-new models that appeared that year? They are the classics of today, so let’s remind ourselves of the exciting new motors we could buy way back in 1984.
There was certainly something for every taste and budget, including the launch of a pair of Ferraris and a homologation rally car. We’ll return to those in the next instalments but it’s fair to say that deep pockets would have been needed!
More affordable sports cars were on the menu, though, including the brilliant Toyota MR2 and the sleek and stylish Alpine GTA. And if you were looking for something to replace your MGB Roadster there was the Reliant Scimitar SS1 that was launched at the International Motor Show right here in Birmingham.
All images provided by Magic Car Pics: https://www.magiccarpics.co.uk
Those in need of a family car weren’t forgotten in 1984, and one of the most eagerly-awaited launches was that of the Austin Montego although perhaps the Rover 200 (SD3) would have been more to your taste. Fans of German cars might have preferred the second generation of VW Jetta instead.
And how could we forget a model that transformed the family car market and introduced us to the concept of the MPV? Yes, 1984 saw the debut of the Renault Espace that blended clever design with the sort of space and practicality that drivers of traditional estate cars could only dream about.
For anyone with a bit more cash and a desire for a premium badge the W124 generation Mercedes-Benz delivered a classy and superbly-built executive car, and when it came to badge appeal the Lancia Thema and Saab 9000 weren’t far behind. Not quite luxurious enough? Then the Bentley 8 would have fitted the bill, as would the opulent open-top Bentley Continental, What a way to travel…
Other cars would make their debut four decades ago, too, but we think the ones we’ve highlighted here demonstrate the sheer variety on offer. You might just see some of them at this year’s show. In the meantime, it’s always nice to take a trip down a motoring memory lane and remember some of our favourite cars. Which was yours?