@@Psych0technic Depends where you are. England is definitely grey in my experience. It makes taking over them on a bright yellow sports bike all the more special.
Haha yeah I got it multiple times in this viddy! Saab, Mx5, Golf1, BMW.. And the fact that he designed the new Mini........... This guy KNOWS what he's doing!
@SOUL SEEKER No I don't. Test drive it, you might be very happy with it, there are some interesting engine choices. It's just built on the 159 platforms so just don't expect the MX-5 or TT nimbleness.
Time caps and names: 1:11 Mazda MXS 2:36 SAAB 900 4:13 Renault Aventine 6:27 Porsche SPR 988 7:48 Honda CRX 9:14 Volkswagen Mark 1 golf 11:10 BMW E 30 12:40 Mini Cooper
as a Swede, you picking the good old Saab 900 really warmed my heart. Loved driving those back in the day. It´s not only quirky as hell, it´s really practical too. Open the rear hatch, fold the rear seats and it swallows anything in a single gulp. Want to load a dishwasher machine? No problems (I tired!). Me and my twin brother together had the "hybrid"-version, i e the Saab 90 (half Saab 99, half saab 900). The 90 sure looks kind of strange, but somehow one could learn to love it too! Btw, I´m also a huge fan of the AvanTime, the 1st gen Boxster and the CRX. Great picks!
I appreciated the discussion of the Saab. It was indeed such an interesting and distinctive design and it was sad to see that company slowly die with GM. I’d love to hear Frank’s thoughts on the design of the final 9-5.
I recently ordered an UBER to carry a couple of guitars in cases. Imagine my surprise when the app somehow found me a final gen 9-5 wagon! Also imagine my disappointment, when that somehow got replaced with a Skoda Octavia along the way. :(
Old Saabs (well all of them are kinda old now) are starting to look better and better I think, especially in black, the side profile somehow reminds me of Porsches
@@artoodiitoo That's because of the extremely low tail and tail light position, which probably wouldn't even be legal these days. 911's iconic low tail was massively raised for the 996 generation.
LOL that intro at 0:53 Thank you Frank for never taking yourself too seriously. It is one of the reasons why this channel is so special! Don't lose that!
Great picks! And thanks for "avenging" the Avantime! I would personally add: - the Peugeot 406 coupé - the original Audi TT - the first BMW Z3 - the Alfa Romeo 156 - the 2004 Mercedes CLK - the Opel Calibra - the Mazda 323 f (around 1998)...
even a regular 406 sedan looks pretty good, especially in the metal. I wonder if a Citroen C6 can be had for under 5k. If not, there's the XM. I've recently seen one and it looks like something from Star Wars compared to modern cars around it.
A good decision. I hope more of them did it that way People will get to see the faces behind these cool cars and learn how it all came about with their design and everything. We might know the names of some of these people who made these legendary/innovative/exotic cars but honestly, its sad how alot of these people really don't get the recognition they deserve. Besides its also good for passing down knowledge and inspiring kids who are interested and would like to take the same path as them.
Always loved this version. It looks familiar without going retro. Released almost 20 years, yet could be released today and look contemporary. I think the Countrymen range ruined the purity of the 2001 model with it's somewhat bulbous look.
@Marcell Venglovecz People buy Mini because of its style and driving character. Corolla owners are simply looking for the cheapest running cost. Very different reasons for their success
@Marcell Venglovecz “Pure” is a subjective matter. Mini is still a great fun stylish car to own. It still stands out in the crowd. The interior is still very funky. Others have tried to replicate their success but you can’t beat the original.
I remember back in the late 80's, my dad telling me about his friend that owned a SAAB. As a kid, I was just so impressed with SAABs like they were Porsches or BMW. Sadly, reality set in.
Super glad to see the 1st Gen CR-X getting love! I especially love the one with the sunken in headlights. Looks shockingly aggressive for its size! Especially the Mugen one!
One of my favourite Hondas, up there with the s2000, the integra, the eg6 civic, and the nsx with the pop ups. The citroen c4 coupe deserves being mentioned, since it has a back end very much inspired by the cr-x and nice lines all round.
I liked my gen 1 CRX better. My nephew had the gen 2 at that time and mine was faster, because with the gen 2 it had to have the mandatory catalyst under it ;). Both the CRX and the BMW E46 330 coupe have been my favorite cars so far.
@@randomfrog6376 I agree with you. Another reason I went for a 1st Gen over a 2nd was the door handles as stupid as that sounds. I think they look nicer hidden into the back of the door panel. Both gens are cool though.
I wish I had these videos years ago when I was in high school and drew cars all day in my notebook during class! Would you ever consider doing a “MasterClass” course? I think it would extremely compelling to hear about your perspective on design in depth.
I’ve owned the Mini R53 since 2004…it’s 2022 and I still have it and won’t let it go. I had no idea you designed it. Thank you for such a classic and beautiful design that stands the test of time. None of the mini’s that came after is as good. Also a shoutout to the Miata, Saab 900, CR-X, Golf MK-I, and E30 you selected…love all of them.
i fell in love with the 2nd gen honda prelude, it was love at first sight! sad that there aren`t many out there, but it definitely is one of my top 10 favorites.
I recently picked up a 2004 Mini OneD, British Racing Green. And I love it. About 2500 pounds including all the Danish taxes. It just makes me happy. Will never sell it. It’s so well thought out. You can feel that it is a fresh design. From a blank piece of paper. I love that. Thank you Frank. 16 years on and 320,000 km it is going strong.
The Mini R50/R52/R53 Is a timeless classic. The Design is quite unique and classy. I’ve got one and I’m always willing to go for a drive in it. It’s like rock & roll, love the exterior and the interior, the BMW feel, the go-kart steering and that “harsh ride” it’s enormously fun. I adore it!
Frank Stephenson is a joy to watch. His capabilities are awesome. The mini Cooper is one of the most iconic world class designs. To electrify the design would be fantastic.
So did I, a 2003 wagon with a wonderfully smooth straight 6 which runs on LPG - what a silky smooth ride! It has a beautiful dashboard as well, perhaps the nicest of all BMWs. And every time I start the engine It puts a big smile on my face. No modern car sounds like this, almost like a jet turbine. People sometimes ask, if this car had start-stop automatic already, and I very much enjoy telling them, that it did not ... ;-)
i agree on the BMW, the Golf, the Mini. I must say: The Frank Stephenson Mini retrodesign is the best redesign of a car i ever saw! Congratulations for this pice of designart.
4:23 yeeeeeeeeeeeah this is why Frank and I are of a kind. We both appreciate the Avantime. Renault was so quirky at that point with the Vel Satis butts.
Fiat 500. Great city car, great design, heritage, and a lot of Italian charm. Can be bought for that sort of money although the most desirable one, the Abarth, is a bit more.
@PYXB3 i've seen that a long time ago. I'm pretty thankful we have nominally better cars now but man, we might just come to a point where we dont trust humans to drive their own cars.
I mostly ride motorbikes. It always shocks me when I get into a car and find two great big pillars exactly where I want to be looking. Like did they do that on purpose? Because it makes no sense to me.
Every time I watch his videos and he calls the hole in the front bumper a mouth, I would think of the smiling Miata and wonder what he thinks of it. Now we know and I have even more respect for that vehicle. Very cool
The first Gen MX5 always reminds me of an original Lotus Elan bought up to date. To me the lines are very much the same with just the rear smoothed off a bit
I found the Honda Del Sol a very attractive car at the time. Haven’t seen one for quite a while. I imagine it didn’t have quite enough motor to be successful.
Honestly, I think the Del Sol’s biggest problem was that it wanted to be a CRX that appealed to people who were buying Miatas. The reality was that it didn’t appeal people who wanted a Miata or people who loved the CRX. It was definitely a well designed and well made car.
my wife bought her 3rd del sol (Motegi version) last week and set off to Italy (from Frankfurt Germany) this morning- I like it too, because she will certainly get back home with that little beauty : )
Thank you Frank for this video and your channel. You are a living legend who has definitely left his footprint in the car industry. Your designs will live forever.
I totally agree with the list. Proof that beauty is a matter of taste and not money; pretty much all the cars in that list were affordable when new and mass produced. I especially liked the fact that cars like the 900 and the Avantime were included in this list because sometimes beauty defies established rules.
Agree with all of your choices Frank, particularly the Saab and Renault for being so bold in design. I had a gorgeous E30 318is back in 2002, concours condition, which would be worth a small fortune now if it had been mothballed. You brought back a strong memory, my father taking me to the Geneva motorshow, probably 1972. I was 7 years old and the Fiat 130 Coupe stole my heart, It seemed so different to me, very straight lines compared to what had been traditional and yet so elegant and almost brutish, genius design. I could go on and on, so many Citreon and Peugeots that I can drink in. And my mothers 1964 Cheverolet Impala sedan, we spent 6 years in California and those cars rocked to a very young boy. Loving your channel Frank.
Very interesting video Frank, great topic! I've found myself a very nice Peugeot 406 Coupé with that lovely Pininfarina design - gorgeous design and they are dirt cheap! One thing i miss though is some credit for the clips you used - Overtake Films definitely deserves some praise for those beautiful pictures of the green MX-5.
Happy to see you kept it real (under 5k) Happy also to see you went off the tangent and chose less obvious cars. I remember when the Avantime launched and although not the kind of car I tend to like, I admired the design for its boldness.
At some point in life I ended up with a Peugeot 406 Coupe I picked up for just over 2000€. And after a few years of living with it I am baffled why these cars still aren't more sought after. They are not just great to look at but also very pleasant to drive and actually live with.
Great content Frank, I love hearing your thoughtful expert opinion on car designs. I have an MR2 Roadster and a Mazda RX-8 sat on my drive, each costing under 5 grand. I can't help but sit and stare out of the window admiring them for hours whilst I think of an excuse to go out for a spin. The RX8 in particular has many unusual and interesting details and looks like nothing else on the road. They both put a big smile on my face driving them and my only issue is deciding which one to drive.
Back in 2012, as a fresh-faced 26 year old, I was working together with Renault Design to create the 5/6-seater version of the Trafic and the Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro (called Cab Approfondie). I was talking cars during a long meeting with the guy at Renault sitting next to me, and it turned out we both owned an NA MX-5. I'm on my second NA MX-5 now, a 1994 1.8 with the non-airbag dashboard. I love it so much! But at some point, I'll want an early Porsche 996 Carrera. Ps. I've always been fasscinated with the Renault Avantime. Everytime I see one on the road in Europe, I have to chase it for a while :)
Frank, Frank, Frank. I only just discovered you on RUclips (you can thank Harry Metcalfe) and OMG I love your work! I’m sitting watching this in a comfy leather couch with a nice glass of Shiraz in my hand, nodding to myself and saying “yessssss” to every car you’ve listed! God I love cars.
The instant I read the title I knew SAAB would be front and center. They absolutely dominate any list of the best designed cars of all time :) 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 90, 99, 900, 9000, 9-3, 9-5; every car they made was 1-3 decades ahead of every other auto manufacturer. Hell, my '08 9-3 looks right at home in a 2021 lineup. They've been a huge influence on my guitar design too, and they've helped me learn how to incorporate more fluid and natural design into my work! And of course they pioneered turbocharging and safety technologies that are used in pretty much every car today
I remember seeing the Avantime for the first time at the Motor Show in around 2000 and thought it was stunning. So much more interesting than the Vel Satis and a shame it didn't sell. Nowadays that cab-forward shape would be perfect for an EV, which is probably why I can see a hint of its proportions in a modern I-Pace. Golf: truly seminal, so clean. As for the last two, I agreed with everything you say, both when in 1987 I bought an E30 320i with that wonderful straight 6, and then rather more recently when we bought a pair of BMW Minis, the first red with a white roof and the second electric blue and white. OK the JCW bits rather alter the look of the second one but it still sits, looks and feels like an old Mini, albeit about 50% bigger. Nice selection!
I bought an E30 325i coupe 3 years ago for $3500 cad, and it has been the best car I've ever owned. I regularly get people in parking lots coming up offering to buy.
What a wonderful surprise! Apart from the cars themselves, I recall my pride (as a kid growing up in the States) when Grant Larson succeeded so thoroughly with the 986 Boxster; we really needed that car even from spiritual perspective despite the deserved adoration of the 928 and 944. As for the cars themselves, I'm fortunate to have had a few just like or similar to those chosen (Golf MkII GTI 16v, NB MX-5 Miata and a very late production E30 325is). Thank you! And since I'm in Europe now, I'll see what I can do to send some tips on where to find some of these 'beautiful bargains'.
Funny that I owned two out of them - the Miata Mk I (british racing green!), followed by the Boxster. My heart nearly broke when I sold the Miata after ten years of ownership, but I needed the money for the Boxster at that time. Years passed, the Boxster developed to a 911, my daughter grew up from a 3 years old girl sitting on my knees and playing with the steering wheel of the Miata to a teenager ready to get the driving license, and I looked on eBay for a cheap car for her first driving experiences. And came across my Miata. Still in great condition. Life sometimes gives you a sign you should not ignore. So my daughter learned how to drive with the car she already knew since her early childhood, and the Miata will stay. And, to be honest - even when you are used to a 911, the Miata experience is special - a light weighted easy feeling of fun. When there is a car that makes you feel forever young, it's the Miata.
Great video. Many will disagree but for a nice clean design, Alfa 156 second series, Peugeot 306, original Fiat Panda, Fiat Uno (Turbo ie), Fiat Barchetta, Fiat Grande Punto, Renault Clio mk2, Mondeo Mk3, Vauxhall Cavalier Mk3, Peugeot 406 coupe, Mazda RX7, Mitsubishi FTO. Think there’s a few Guigiaros in there :)
A classic advert form SAAB directed by Tony Scott,I remember this advert like it was yesterday Frank.''From seven and a half million to seven and a half thousand pounds,Saab nothing on earth comes close! 1984.
Good video. Pleased to say that I have driven or lusted after all 8 on the list. A well sorted line up of these would make for a wonderful alternative to a single expensive new car.
i bought a vw scirocco 2 GT, 10 years ago as my first car for under 3k as my first car because i always loved the design, its an affordable, quick car, i drive it everyday and it basically doubled in worth over those years, still one of my fav giorgetto giugiaro designs!
Bought my first car this year. A 1998 Honda Accord Coupe for $750 CAD and I have to say it is one of my favorite looking Hondas to have been made. Everything from the front end to the beautiful back end of the car and the beautiful three piece design of the tail lights is just perfect!
Bought the SAAB 900 for 120 pounds this summer, 1984 model. Just some minor rust spots that's easy to fix. This one I will keep for as long as possible! LOVE IT!
The Honda CRX (facelift, with the vertical glass panel at the back -> 8:19) has one of the most beautiful transitions from mid-car to rear-end I know. The way the curvature gently sweeps to form the gorgeously shaped rear shape with the rounded edges on each side, practically making the C-pillar disappear is just sublime, AFAIC. N.B., the rims one sees at 8:19 terribly date the car; imagine something more elegant and it will lift the whole look of the car.
@@FrankStephensondesign Great! My wishlist is composed of: - Giorgetto Giugiaro - Walter De Silva - Chris Bangle - Luke Donckerwolke - Flavio Manzoni - Peter Schreyer - Tokuo Fukuichi - Patrick Le Quément - Marcello Gandini - Makoto Iwaki Hopeffully it's not too much 😅 Thanks again, and keep up the good work!
Avantime is a masterpiece in my opinion. A SUV coupe with advanced&luxurious equipment back in 2001. This car was so criticized went it came out while in fact it was just 20 years ahead of its time..
Sorprendentemente haz puesto mi coche favorito: Honda Crx. wow! Lo que me extraña es que no hayas puesto el Fiat Coupe 20v. Me parece un coche precioso.
Mk.I Audi TT. Very affordable, very sexy, very sleek design. I've driven thru rural parts of the United States in the early 00's where a car like that wasn't seen often and had people ask what manner of exotic it was.
renault: in the future cars will be crazy and unique just like avantime!
the future: grey SUVs that all look alike
so true, so sad...
Little boxes on the hillside, little boxes made of ticky-tacky, Little boxes on the hillside, little boxes all the same.
Correction: white SUVs.
@@Psych0technic Depends where you are. England is definitely grey in my experience. It makes taking over them on a bright yellow sports bike all the more special.
@@gerardmontgomery280 till they run you over accidantaly or on purpose.
I came here expecting Saab, I got Saab. You're a man of fine taste.
I’ve got a viggen so him putting any saab in this vid surprised me lol
Haha yeah I got it multiple times in this viddy! Saab, Mx5, Golf1, BMW.. And the fact that he designed the new Mini........... This guy KNOWS what he's doing!
@@93_forceboy55 Yeah the viggen is from the dark ages of car design.
Amg got five Slash /////AMG
@@UltimoGames 0
I think the best pick would be Alfa Romeo Brera. To this day it still looks modern and astonishing
Absolutely.
And fat. Look up the weight of this thing. Unfortunately you really feel it while driving
@SOUL SEEKER No I don't. Test drive it, you might be very happy with it, there are some interesting engine choices. It's just built on the 159 platforms so just don't expect the MX-5 or TT nimbleness.
@SOUL SEEKER the Honda civic type r is faster the brera and handles better but the alfa does look lovely
@SOUL SEEKER Not sure about the UK but in Europe that 10k would put you in the Boxster S territory!
Have to say the original Audi TT is a timeless, affordable classic. Fun video!
Nice to see you watch Frank.
The first gen was a pretty ground-breaking design when it first appeared, there wasn't anything else like it on the road.
@@JimmyBlandfood here in italy where I live you can find both for under 5k €
@@JimmyBlandfood In germany they start at 1200€
Too bad it suffers from bad push understeer because they had to use their quatro system instead of giving it a proper rwd
Your studio / office is incredible. Give us a tour one day!
I was just thinking the same. Everything just oozes artistic designer vibes
Stan Agradnov ........i want the dog LOL
Time caps and names:
1:11 Mazda MXS
2:36 SAAB 900
4:13 Renault Aventine
6:27 Porsche SPR 988
7:48 Honda CRX
9:14 Volkswagen Mark 1 golf
11:10 BMW E 30
12:40 Mini Cooper
Thanks for that!
*MX-5
*Avantime
as a Swede, you picking the good old Saab 900 really warmed my heart. Loved driving those back in the day. It´s not only quirky as hell, it´s really practical too. Open the rear hatch, fold the rear seats and it swallows anything in a single gulp. Want to load a dishwasher machine? No problems (I tired!). Me and my twin brother together had the "hybrid"-version, i e the Saab 90 (half Saab 99, half saab 900). The 90 sure looks kind of strange, but somehow one could learn to love it too! Btw, I´m also a huge fan of the AvanTime, the 1st gen Boxster and the CRX. Great picks!
I had to google the 90. I think it looks more balanced than the 900. Really beautiful. :)
🇸🇪=🏳️🌈
I appreciated the discussion of the Saab. It was indeed such an interesting and distinctive design and it was sad to see that company slowly die with GM. I’d love to hear Frank’s thoughts on the design of the final 9-5.
I recently ordered an UBER to carry a couple of guitars in cases. Imagine my surprise when the app somehow found me a final gen 9-5 wagon! Also imagine my disappointment, when that somehow got replaced with a Skoda Octavia along the way. :(
@@khesesian i completely agree with you. Saab always had futuristic clean designs.
Old Saabs (well all of them are kinda old now) are starting to look better and better I think, especially in black, the side profile somehow reminds me of Porsches
@@artoodiitoo That's because of the extremely low tail and tail light position, which probably wouldn't even be legal these days. 911's iconic low tail was massively raised for the 996 generation.
Especially that only 1 saab dealership still remains active in portland, they now specialize on older model saabs apart from their 9-5 models
The SAAB 900 turbo aero is just pure love to me.
Frank Stephenson be like: „And the next car on our list is a Ferrari F40! If you can find one of these for under 5 grand you‘re getting a great deal!“
Getting a F40 for under 5 grand is totally an unquestionable choice, I'll definitely buy it
LOL that intro at 0:53 Thank you Frank for never taking yourself too seriously. It is one of the reasons why this channel is so special! Don't lose that!
Was not expecting this video, thank you for making it
I agree. I was hoping to some day hear his opinions on several of these cars (Miata, Golf, Boxer) so this was 👍
Great picks!
And thanks for "avenging" the Avantime!
I would personally add:
- the Peugeot 406 coupé
- the original Audi TT
- the first BMW Z3
- the Alfa Romeo 156
- the 2004 Mercedes CLK
- the Opel Calibra
- the Mazda 323 f (around 1998)...
I would disagree with the alfa 156, I think the 159 looks wayyy better.
even a regular 406 sedan looks pretty good, especially in the metal.
I wonder if a Citroen C6 can be had for under 5k. If not, there's the XM. I've recently seen one and it looks like something from Star Wars compared to modern cars around it.
Nice list! Particularly I love the 1st Z3 and think it's way better looking than a Miata.
Yes! The Calibra's were great!
@@deathtrap5556 Fair enough, especially considering that the 156's restyling and the 159 were from the same author 😉
"the grille, which is beautifully proportioned".... 😉
exactly!!! right to the point
He zoomed in to the grille like 5 times too to hammer the point home :P
Now the new grills look disgusting
I caught that too he roasted the new bmws
Frank has decided,he is going to be a youtube star.
A good decision. I hope more of them did it that way People will get to see the faces behind these cool cars and learn how it all came about with their design and everything. We might know the names of some of these people who made these legendary/innovative/exotic cars but honestly, its sad how alot of these people really don't get the recognition they deserve. Besides its also good for passing down knowledge and inspiring kids who are interested and would like to take the same path as them.
The Mini Cooper is always gonna look good. That design saved the brand from extinction.
Always loved this version. It looks familiar without going retro. Released almost 20 years, yet could be released today and look contemporary. I think the Countrymen range ruined the purity of the 2001 model with it's somewhat bulbous look.
The purity of the Mini was ruined by the BMW "mini".
@@ronwhite8503 I would argue the sales numbers tells the opposite story.
@Marcell Venglovecz People buy Mini because of its style and driving character. Corolla owners are simply looking for the cheapest running cost. Very different reasons for their success
@Marcell Venglovecz “Pure” is a subjective matter. Mini is still a great fun stylish car to own. It still stands out in the crowd. The interior is still very funky. Others have tried to replicate their success but you can’t beat the original.
I remember back in the late 80's, my dad telling me about his friend that owned a SAAB. As a kid, I was just so impressed with SAABs like they were Porsches or BMW. Sadly, reality set in.
notice how there are 0 friggin crossovers and SUVS in there... I approve!
though the alfa romeo was sold in mainland europe as a coupe! and while looking at it you can kinda see that, 2 doors, long front etc
Super glad to see the 1st Gen CR-X getting love! I especially love the one with the sunken in headlights. Looks shockingly aggressive for its size! Especially the Mugen one!
Finally someone who likes the 1st gen! Props to you man it's my favorite too
One of my favourite Hondas, up there with the s2000, the integra, the eg6 civic, and the nsx with the pop ups.
The citroen c4 coupe deserves being mentioned, since it has a back end very much inspired by the cr-x and nice lines all round.
I always liked the 2nd gen 1988-1990 CRX a tad more. The glasstop is a wonder of design.
They're awesome, a proper SiR is pretty much a collectors car now. The EF civic and Prelude are just as cool.
I liked my gen 1 CRX better. My nephew had the gen 2 at that time and mine was faster, because with the gen 2 it had to have the mandatory catalyst under it ;). Both the CRX and the BMW E46 330 coupe have been my favorite cars so far.
I gotta say 1st gen is definitely my favorite. I love the back and the front isn't as squashed looking. It's just so cool
@@randomfrog6376 I agree with you. Another reason I went for a 1st Gen over a 2nd was the door handles as stupid as that sounds. I think they look nicer hidden into the back of the door panel. Both gens are cool though.
The r50 / r53 Mini Cooper aged really well. They’re almost 20 years old! Good job Mr. Stephenson.
I wish I had these videos years ago when I was in high school and drew cars all day in my notebook during class! Would you ever consider doing a “MasterClass” course? I think it would extremely compelling to hear about your perspective on design in depth.
Yes, coming soon Michael, stay tuned. 👍
I'd add 3rd gen scirocco as well. Its aging so well.
omg so true.
I’ve owned the Mini R53 since 2004…it’s 2022 and I still have it and won’t let it go. I had no idea you designed it. Thank you for such a classic and beautiful design that stands the test of time. None of the mini’s that came after is as good. Also a shoutout to the Miata, Saab 900, CR-X, Golf MK-I, and E30 you selected…love all of them.
i fell in love with the 2nd gen honda prelude, it was love at first sight!
sad that there aren`t many out there, but it definitely is one of my top 10 favorites.
I recently picked up a 2004 Mini OneD, British Racing Green. And I love it. About 2500 pounds including all the Danish taxes.
It just makes me happy. Will never sell it. It’s so well thought out. You can feel that it is a fresh design. From a blank piece of paper. I love that. Thank you Frank. 16 years on and 320,000 km it is going strong.
The Mini R50/R52/R53 Is a timeless classic. The Design is quite unique and classy.
I’ve got one and I’m always willing to go for a drive in it. It’s like rock & roll, love the exterior and the interior, the BMW feel, the go-kart steering and that “harsh ride”
it’s enormously fun. I adore it!
I have one and I feel exactly the same way. For the money it’s such a fun car with a ton of character. I can’t believe mine is 18 years old now,.
Frank Stephenson is a joy to watch.
His capabilities are awesome.
The mini Cooper is one of the most iconic world class designs. To electrify the design would be fantastic.
Front overhang aside, Alfa Romeo Brera?
Oh yessss. One of the best looking cars ever! And don't forget the 159.
Brera yes, bargain no.
@@djdewaal289 Love the 159. It still looks modern and eye catching today. It's aged so well.
@@gearloose703 Very true. It looks stunning tho
@@ArmadaAsesino Yes, still catches my every time I see one
Would love to see a tour of your personal car collection
I bought a 2002 bmw e39 in great condition for a little under 3k! I am in love with the design of the e39 as well as the e38
So did I, a 2003 wagon with a wonderfully smooth straight 6 which runs on LPG - what a silky smooth ride! It has a beautiful dashboard as well, perhaps the nicest of all BMWs.
And every time I start the engine It puts a big smile on my face. No modern car sounds like this, almost like a jet turbine. People sometimes ask, if this car had start-stop automatic already, and I very much enjoy telling them, that it did not ... ;-)
i agree on the BMW, the Golf, the Mini. I must say: The Frank Stephenson Mini retrodesign is the best redesign of a car i ever saw! Congratulations for this pice of designart.
Thanks for showing an E30 M3 which are well over £50k now in the UK on a list of cars under £5k.
Even a base E30 still looks elegant.
4:23 yeeeeeeeeeeeah this is why Frank and I are of a kind. We both appreciate the Avantime. Renault was so quirky at that point with the Vel Satis butts.
When he said crx. That is my favorite car hands down.
Too bad the editor chose the wrong one to show
Fiat 500. Great city car, great design, heritage, and a lot of Italian charm. Can be bought for that sort of money although the most desirable one, the Abarth, is a bit more.
1st generation Cinquecento is also a very well designed car. Same with the Panda and the Lancia Y10, they really knew how to design small cars
If you’re a midget, sure. As someone that is 188, fiat 500’s blow, both as a driver and a passenger
Great picks. I’ve always wanted an avantime. And the Saab 900 is my all time favourite
Thanks for the great video and for making me smile when you mencioned the CRX, as a JDM lover it was inevitable!
Cars with great visibility.....something thats been slightly lost throughout the years sadly.
all in the name of "safety"
Well, if it meant walking out alive from an accident, then that is good.
@PYXB3 i've seen that a long time ago. I'm pretty thankful we have nominally better cars now but man, we might just come to a point where we dont trust humans to drive their own cars.
I mostly ride motorbikes. It always shocks me when I get into a car and find two great big pillars exactly where I want to be looking. Like did they do that on purpose? Because it makes no sense to me.
When he said that about the Avantime and it immediately cuts to the enormous C pillar hahahaha
Every time I watch his videos and he calls the hole in the front bumper a mouth, I would think of the smiling Miata and wonder what he thinks of it.
Now we know and I have even more respect for that vehicle. Very cool
The first Gen MX5 always reminds me of an original Lotus Elan bought up to date.
To me the lines are very much the same with just the rear smoothed off a bit
Yes, the Avantime is cool! Its like one of these panoramic railway cars.
I found the Honda Del Sol a very attractive car at the time. Haven’t seen one for quite a while. I imagine it didn’t have quite enough motor to be successful.
Honestly, I think the Del Sol’s biggest problem was that it wanted to be a CRX that appealed to people who were buying Miatas. The reality was that it didn’t appeal people who wanted a Miata or people who loved the CRX. It was definitely a well designed and well made car.
my wife bought her 3rd del sol (Motegi version) last week and set off to Italy (from Frankfurt Germany) this morning- I like it too, because she will certainly get back home with that little beauty : )
Thank you Frank for this video and your channel. You are a living legend who has definitely left his footprint in the car industry. Your designs will live forever.
I have a Honda CRX an incredible drivers car and absolutely beautiful
I totally agree with the list. Proof that beauty is a matter of taste and not money; pretty much all the cars in that list were affordable when new and mass produced. I especially liked the fact that cars like the 900 and the Avantime were included in this list because sometimes beauty defies established rules.
Can’t argue with that Frank, I drove a Saab 900 turbo in 1988 it was brilliant
Agree with all of your choices Frank, particularly the Saab and Renault for being so bold in design. I had a gorgeous E30 318is back in 2002, concours condition, which would be worth a small fortune now if it had been mothballed. You brought back a strong memory, my father taking me to the Geneva motorshow, probably 1972. I was 7 years old and the Fiat 130 Coupe stole my heart, It seemed so different to me, very straight lines compared to what had been traditional and yet so elegant and almost brutish, genius design. I could go on and on, so many Citreon and Peugeots that I can drink in. And my mothers 1964 Cheverolet Impala sedan, we spent 6 years in California and those cars rocked to a very young boy. Loving your channel Frank.
Hows this one? A Volvo P1800S for £1300, drove it daily for 10 years. It was 1990 though!
that mini is a masterpiece, thank you sir for sharing your work
Very interesting video Frank, great topic! I've found myself a very nice Peugeot 406 Coupé with that lovely Pininfarina design - gorgeous design and they are dirt cheap!
One thing i miss though is some credit for the clips you used - Overtake Films definitely deserves some praise for those beautiful pictures of the green MX-5.
Man, you gotta do a tour of your little bunk house/ tiny house, thats amazing
Happy to see you kept it real (under 5k)
Happy also to see you went off the tangent and chose less obvious cars.
I remember when the Avantime launched and although not the kind of car I tend to like, I admired the design for its boldness.
At some point in life I ended up with a Peugeot 406 Coupe I picked up for just over 2000€. And after a few years of living with it I am baffled why these cars still aren't more sought after. They are not just great to look at but also very pleasant to drive and actually live with.
Frank, I've been admiring the 65 / 66 Chevy Corvair. I can't believe how cheap they are. I'd love to hear your thoughts on that one.
Great content Frank, I love hearing your thoughtful expert opinion on car designs. I have an MR2 Roadster and a Mazda RX-8 sat on my drive, each costing under 5 grand. I can't help but sit and stare out of the window admiring them for hours whilst I think of an excuse to go out for a spin. The RX8 in particular has many unusual and interesting details and looks like nothing else on the road. They both put a big smile on my face driving them and my only issue is deciding which one to drive.
When Frank Stephenson speaks, I listen. Thank you sir.
Back in 2012, as a fresh-faced 26 year old, I was working together with Renault Design to create the 5/6-seater version of the Trafic and the Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro (called Cab Approfondie). I was talking cars during a long meeting with the guy at Renault sitting next to me, and it turned out we both owned an NA MX-5. I'm on my second NA MX-5 now, a 1994 1.8 with the non-airbag dashboard. I love it so much! But at some point, I'll want an early Porsche 996 Carrera.
Ps. I've always been fasscinated with the Renault Avantime. Everytime I see one on the road in Europe, I have to chase it for a while :)
I'm so happy you picked out the Honda CR-X! Always been a favorite design of mine.
Frank, Frank, Frank. I only just discovered you on RUclips (you can thank Harry Metcalfe) and OMG I love your work! I’m sitting watching this in a comfy leather couch with a nice glass of Shiraz in my hand, nodding to myself and saying “yessssss” to every car you’ve listed! God I love cars.
Enjoy!
I find the t200 celica to be timeless and sporty even ~30 years after its creation
The instant I read the title I knew SAAB would be front and center. They absolutely dominate any list of the best designed cars of all time :) 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 90, 99, 900, 9000, 9-3, 9-5; every car they made was 1-3 decades ahead of every other auto manufacturer.
Hell, my '08 9-3 looks right at home in a 2021 lineup.
They've been a huge influence on my guitar design too, and they've helped me learn how to incorporate more fluid and natural design into my work! And of course they pioneered turbocharging and safety technologies that are used in pretty much every car today
I remember seeing the Avantime for the first time at the Motor Show in around 2000 and thought it was stunning. So much more interesting than the Vel Satis and a shame it didn't sell. Nowadays that cab-forward shape would be perfect for an EV, which is probably why I can see a hint of its proportions in a modern I-Pace. Golf: truly seminal, so clean. As for the last two, I agreed with everything you say, both when in 1987 I bought an E30 320i with that wonderful straight 6, and then rather more recently when we bought a pair of BMW Minis, the first red with a white roof and the second electric blue and white. OK the JCW bits rather alter the look of the second one but it still sits, looks and feels like an old Mini, albeit about 50% bigger. Nice selection!
You really created something special with that mini. I’m a huge fan of the late 90’s Jetta.
Great video. But what about the Peugeot 406 Coupé?
I bought an E30 325i coupe 3 years ago for $3500 cad, and it has been the best car I've ever owned. I regularly get people in parking lots coming up offering to buy.
What a wonderful surprise! Apart from the cars themselves, I recall my pride (as a kid growing up in the States) when Grant Larson succeeded so thoroughly with the 986 Boxster; we really needed that car even from spiritual perspective despite the deserved adoration of the 928 and 944. As for the cars themselves, I'm fortunate to have had a few just like or similar to those chosen (Golf MkII GTI 16v, NB MX-5 Miata and a very late production E30 325is). Thank you! And since I'm in Europe now, I'll see what I can do to send some tips on where to find some of these 'beautiful bargains'.
Funny that I owned two out of them - the Miata Mk I (british racing green!), followed by the Boxster. My heart nearly broke when I sold the Miata after ten years of ownership, but I needed the money for the Boxster at that time.
Years passed, the Boxster developed to a 911, my daughter grew up from a 3 years old girl sitting on my knees and playing with the steering wheel of the Miata to a teenager ready to get the driving license, and I looked on eBay for a cheap car for her first driving experiences.
And came across my Miata. Still in great condition. Life sometimes gives you a sign you should not ignore. So my daughter learned how to drive with the car she already knew since her early childhood, and the Miata will stay.
And, to be honest - even when you are used to a 911, the Miata experience is special - a light weighted easy feeling of fun. When there is a car that makes you feel forever young, it's the Miata.
I’ve had 4 of these cars! Blessed to have parents that weren’t that fixated in car reliability haha.
Great video. Many will disagree but for a nice clean design, Alfa 156 second series, Peugeot 306, original Fiat Panda, Fiat Uno (Turbo ie), Fiat Barchetta, Fiat Grande Punto, Renault Clio mk2, Mondeo Mk3, Vauxhall Cavalier Mk3, Peugeot 406 coupe, Mazda RX7, Mitsubishi FTO. Think there’s a few Guigiaros in there :)
I bought one of the MC12 sketches! Thank you for making things like that available. I can’t wait to have signed artwork from my favorite car designer!
Thank you, I hope you enjoy it!
I had the original CRX, a Saab 900, and now a 1st gen Mini Clubman. Great analysis!
Once again great video ! I would definitely add to the list the Peugeot 406 Coupe and the Lancia Thesis.
About the Honda CRX, I totally agree with you sir. Your words is what I would describe about the car. It looks beautiful till this day.
I like all the cars in the list. I've owned an MX5 and I'm on my 3rd Mini. The SAAB 900 is the only car to pull off 3 spoke wheels ever and so cool.
Gotta love the Viking shield.
A classic advert form SAAB directed by Tony Scott,I remember this advert like it was yesterday Frank.''From seven and a half million to seven and a half thousand pounds,Saab nothing on earth comes close! 1984.
I agree on all of them! All cars that I particularly like and would like to own. I started with the MINI
Yes! I was hoping the Miata would be on this list. I absolutely love my Miata, drives just as beautiful as it looks.
Great list you have come up with. These are some of my favorite cars and the e30 is my favorite of all time!
R53 Mini will always be a great looking car. I have an R56, but the R53 has a special place in my heart. Absolutely beautiful.
Alfa Romeo GT.. the most beautiful affordable 2000's car and to add: Bertone Swan song
and last Busso engine car..
Good video. Pleased to say that I have driven or lusted after all 8 on the list. A well sorted line up of these would make for a wonderful alternative to a single expensive new car.
What about the original Mercedes CLS?
i bought a vw scirocco 2 GT, 10 years ago as my first car for under 3k as my first car because i always loved the design, its an affordable, quick car, i drive it everyday and it basically doubled in worth over those years, still one of my fav giorgetto giugiaro designs!
Great selection! I agree with you with the CRX, E30, Saab 900 and Mini (I'm fallen in love with Mini design). I would include 1996 Alfa GTV.
True!
Bought my first car this year. A 1998 Honda Accord Coupe for $750 CAD and I have to say it is one of my favorite looking Hondas to have been made. Everything from the front end to the beautiful back end of the car and the beautiful three piece design of the tail lights is just perfect!
I have to say you are legendary sir!
Thank you for this video
Bought the SAAB 900 for 120 pounds this summer, 1984 model. Just some minor rust spots that's easy to fix. This one I will keep for as long as possible!
LOVE IT!
Great video. How about an Alfa GTV or Spider from the late 90s or perhaps a Fiat Coupe?
... or a Lancia Delta HF Turbo (the Integrale is too expensive already)
The Honda CRX (facelift, with the vertical glass panel at the back -> 8:19) has one of the most beautiful transitions from mid-car to rear-end I know. The way the curvature gently sweeps to form the gorgeously shaped rear shape with the rounded edges on each side, practically making the C-pillar disappear is just sublime, AFAIC. N.B., the rims one sees at 8:19 terribly date the car; imagine something more elegant and it will lift the whole look of the car.
Have you thought of interviewing other great designers, VW Golf?
Yes, it's in the schedule!
@@FrankStephensondesign do you accept suggestions?
I can already feel the diesels pulling
@@wilbeugre Of course!
@@FrankStephensondesign Great! My wishlist is composed of:
- Giorgetto Giugiaro
- Walter De Silva
- Chris Bangle
- Luke Donckerwolke
- Flavio Manzoni
- Peter Schreyer
- Tokuo Fukuichi
- Patrick Le Quément
- Marcello Gandini
- Makoto Iwaki
Hopeffully it's not too much 😅
Thanks again, and keep up the good work!
Avantime is a masterpiece in my opinion.
A SUV coupe with advanced&luxurious equipment back in 2001. This car was so criticized went it came out while in fact it was just 20 years ahead of its time..
Fiat 500. Prefer that over the Mini design. Both great!
I love this guy. I find myself referencing what he says in his videos when I'm talking to friend's and even my kids!
Sorprendentemente haz puesto mi coche favorito: Honda Crx. wow!
Lo que me extraña es que no hayas puesto el Fiat Coupe 20v. Me parece un coche precioso.
I owned a 1987 Honda CRX - what a great car! Just don't get in a wreck in one. I did! -->8:08 12:55
Thanks, as an aside what is the best colour to show off the form of the car? Is there one or does it vary car to car?
I always heard from designers that the silver gray is the best, lets see what Frank think ☺️
A silver blue often works a treat on reflections and highlights.
Ideal color is different for some cars. White can contrast great with black tinting/tires/trim on _some_ designs.
Ah, Honda CRX. The memories ... My first car (a black one). A 1985 model, bought in 88. I loved it to death. I wish I still had it.
I LOVE THE AVANTIME!
Mk.I Audi TT. Very affordable, very sexy, very sleek design.
I've driven thru rural parts of the United States in the early 00's where a car like that wasn't seen often and had people ask what manner of exotic it was.