Opel Calibra 16V

The Opel Calibra 16V arrived in 1989, a sleek, aerodynamic revelation that instantly made its contemporaries look boxy and outdated. Designed by Erhard Schnell and Wayne Cherry, its drag coefficient of just 0.26 was nothing short of groundbreaking, making it the most aerodynamic production car at the time. Trust me, in the late '80s, this was practically spaceship territory.

Under the hood, the Calibra 16V featured a lively 2.0-liter, 16-valve DOHC engine, producing a spirited 150 horsepower. It wasn't just about straight-line speed; the Calibra handled corners with a finesse that belied its humble Opel underpinnings. The suspension setup—MacPherson struts up front and semi-trailing arms at the rear—provided a balanced, confidence-inspiring drive that still feels engaging today.

Beyond its road-going prowess, the Calibra etched its name into motorsport history, notably in the fiercely competitive DTM series. The Calibra V6 4x4 variant, in particular, clinched the 1996 International Touring Car Championship title, cementing Opel's reputation as a serious contender in the racing world. Its distinctive silhouette and racing success turned the Calibra into an automotive icon, beloved by enthusiasts and collectors alike.