While there are many highly regarded names in the automotive world, not all of them have survived the test of time.
With companies like Ferrari, Toyota, Ford leading the way, there have a number of once-famous car manufacturers that are now just a distant memory.
Others were pioneers, some were progressive, and some simply got crushed by changing market conditions.
So here’s a glimpse at a few of the most interesting brands that have faded into the automotive ether and the reasons they went away.
List of Forgotten Car brands that were great
Let’s take a look
Pontiac (1926–2010)
Pontiac was one of the most famous brands in the General Motors lineup, which once featured muscle cars like the Firebird, GTO and Trans Am.
Despite its legacy of performance and technology, GM closed the brand down in 2010 as part of the company’s financial turnaround and changing consumer preferences. Pontiac models continue to be tremendously collectible with vintage Firebirds and GTOs garnering attention at car shows.
Saab (1945–2016)
Saab began life as an aero manufacturer before making the switch to cars in the late 1940s. Its reputation was built on safety, turbocharged engines and quirky styling.
But it fell into a cycle of financial distress and ownership changes that brought about its collapse. Officially, Saab closed the books on production in 2016, but the brand maintains a cult following among enthusiasts.
DeLorean (1975–1982)
Back to the future movie? Sure, you have heard of it. DeLorean Motor Company (DMC) produced the DMC-12, which became a global sensation thanks to the Back to the Future movies.
Poor performance and financial scandals led the company to bankruptcy after just seven years, despite its stainless steel body and gull wing doors. The DeLorean is still considered a pop culture icon and a collector’s favorite today.
Packard (1899–1958)
US automaker, Packard was one of the United States’ premier luxury car manufacturers, and went head-to-head with Cadillac and Rolls-Royce.
Packard vehicles were equipped with rugged construction and potent engines, they were status symbols. But the company ran into financial trouble after merging with Studebaker in 1954 and eventually closed in 1958. Among classic car collectors, the Packard name remains prestigious.
Studebaker (1852–1967)
Long time ago, Studebaker had started life as a wagonmaker before getting into cars early in the 20th century.
It created ground-breaking and attractive vehicles, yet competition from bigger car makers proved to be terminal. Studebaker tried to come back but tragically went out of business in 1967. These days, models like the Studebaker Avanti are very hot in demand.
Tucker (1944–1950)
When it launched, the Tucker Corporation was an ambitious auto startup that set out to transform the safety and design of the automobile.
At the time, such safety features as a third headlight for visibility and a roll cage were incorporated into the Tucker 48, aka Tucker Torpedo. But financial and legal problems brought production to a halt after just 51 cars were built. The Tucker is now one of the most valuable classic cars in the world.
Oldsmobile (1897–2004)
Another great automaker, Oldsmobile was one of the original American car brands, pioneering many aspects of automotive innovation.
Vehicles such as the Cutlass and 442 were hugely popular during their time. But as consumer demand changed and GM consolidated its line, Oldsmobile was put to rest in 2004. The brand’s legacy remains as a part of modern GM vehicles.
Saturn (1985–2010)
Have you heard of it? Saturn was an initial GM effort to create an honest and consumer-friendly brand, separate from the more traditional American automakers.
The brand was too focused on upfront, no-haggle prices and fuel-efficient cars — neither of which had been particularly profitable, and in the latter model, Honda was already ahead of the game — and was shuttered in 2010. Those who loved Saturn still remember its unique take on selling cars.
Hummer (1992–2010, Returned in 2021)
Originally a military vehicle that evolved into a giant, gas guzzling civilian SUV brand. Once a symbol of status in the early 2000s, the company discontinued the huge SUV in 2010 as economy soured and gas prices soared.
GMC, however, reanimated Hummer in 2021 as an all-electric brand, bringing it back from the dead.
Edsel (1957–1960)
Peak Ford The first of three vehicles to wear the Edsel nameplate was intended to be a premium car brand, but the Ford subsidiary is remembered as one of the greatest flops in automotive history.
A poor marketing effort, strange design and high price point resulted in low sales. Ford killed ailing Edsel in just three years, making it one of the shortest-lived automotive nameplates in history.
Final quote about these brands
These brands are no longer manufacturing cars, though some people claim their heritage goes far beyond strictly automotive terms.
Be it through their innovative designs, vintage models, or their lasting industry impact, these obscure automotive companies never fail to fascinate.
Who knows? Who knows, maybe one day some of these will make a return!
