Space shuttles come with a hefty price tag, and they certainly aren’t built to last forever. A shuttle offers just over 100 flights before retirement, and each mission to space costs an astronomical amount.
In other words, rather than investing in an actual shuttle or spacecraft, it might be a better idea to go for a car that captures the essence of one.
That’s precisely what this article is all about we’re diving into the world of futuristic cars that closely resemble spaceships or vehicles straight out of a galaxy far, far away.
If you’re in search of a car that looks like a spaceship, you’ll be pleased to know that we’ve refreshed this article with additional details about the models featured.
We’re highlighting some of the most unique automotive designs ever created. Some of these vehicles emerged in the early 1990s, an era fueled by boundless imagination.
Additionally, we’ll explore visionary concept cars from renowned manufacturers like Honda, Mercedes, and Kia, to name a few.
Classic cars also deserve a mention, as some older models bear an uncanny resemblance to spacecraft. Even Ferrari makes an appearance on this list with its 512S Modulo.
Among the most extraordinary designs, the one-of-a-kind creation by Michael Vetter stands out. Dubbed the “Extra Terrestrial Vehicle,” this car might just be a more exciting ride than an actual spaceship for some enthusiasts.
So, sit back and enjoy the article, and as always, don’t forget to share it with a friend. Without further ado, here are 20 cars that look like spaceships. Let’s begin!
10. DKW Monza
Named after the iconic Italian Grand Prix, this rare vehicle had an undeniable need for speed, especially during the 1950s.
The DKW Monza competed in two separate races in 1954 and 1955. However, it wasn’t just a race car it was also produced for the market, making it even more special.
The exact production numbers remain somewhat uncertain, though estimates suggest that a little over 200 units were made. Today, it is believed that only around 50 of these rare DKW Monza models still exist.
Back in its prime, the car set five international records, proving it was impressively fast for its time. With just a set of wings, it could have been ready to launch into space.
Also Read: Top 10 Cars That Can Drive on Land and Cruise in Water
9. 1981 DeLorean DMC-12
If you’re a regular reader of Hot Cars, you may have seen a celebrity linked to this iconic vehicle. We’re talking about WWE Superstar Sheamus, who purchased the car in 2014 for $55,000.
This shouldn’t come as a shock, especially considering that the car’s major assembly line was based in Northern Ireland.
The DeLorean DMC-12 had a relatively short production run, spanning the early 1980s from 1981 to 1983. During that time, the DeLorean Motor Company manufactured over 8,000 units.
Fans of the legendary car can look forward to an exciting revival, as replicas are set to make a comeback. However, they won’t be cheap, with prices expected to be just under $100,000.
8. Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X is frequently compared to a spaceship, largely due to its distinctive door design. Its exterior also boasts a sleek, futuristic look that makes it stand out as an advanced vehicle. Launched in 2015, the Model X remains available for purchase today.
This SUV features five doors and was among the best-selling plug-in vehicles in 2016.
Adding to its list of impressive achievements, the Model X set a Guinness World Record for the heaviest tow by an electric production passenger vehicle. Incredibly, it was able to tow a Boeing 787-8!
With that kind of strength, perhaps it could even haul a spaceship as well!
7. Toyota FCV Plus
This concept car looks incredibly futuristic. The Toyota FCV Plus is more than just a vehicle it’s part car, part power plant. Not only does it serve as transportation, but it also generates its own power.
Now that’s what you call advanced. With its space-age design, this car is all about sustainability and environmental consciousness.
As New Atlas explains, clean fuel is the primary focus of this Toyota concept car:
“The car is designed to double as a clean energy source and to operate as part of the ‘electric power-generating infrastructure,’ helping to protect the environment and provide a measure of energy security in the process.”
6. Volkswagen Arrow Hybrid Car
This concept car is sure to have you staring at the screen for minutes. With its arrow-like shape, you might even think it was designed by extraterrestrials. Resembling a hybrid hovercraft, this two-wheeler boasts aerodynamics similar to a motorcycle.
However, its enclosed roof gives it a car-like appearance rather than that of a traditional motorcycle. In fact, you could argue that it resembles a Slingshot-style vehicle more than either a car or a bike.
The concept was first revealed to the public in 2013, but little has been heard about it since. According to Volkswagen, the vehicle is designed to accommodate just one person.
5. Volkswagen XL1
Is Volkswagen a company focused on the future, or are they designing vehicles fit for outer space? The XL1 is yet another strikingly unconventional design.
Surprisingly, it’s not just a concept car 250 units were made available for purchase in 2013. This environmentally friendly vehicle is designed to accommodate a driver and one passenger.
The two-door coupe also reached Germany in the summer of 2014. Its impact on the automotive world was significant, earning it a nomination for World Car of the Year in 2014.
Unfortunately for Volkswagen, the award ultimately went to the Audi A3 a car that, sadly, doesn’t resemble a spaceship. However, the runner-up, the BMW i3, certainly does.
4. Honda FCV Concept
Honda is no stranger to developing unique concept vehicles, but this particular design looks like something straight out of outer space. Unveiled in the fall of 2014, the Honda FCV Concept certainly stands out with its futuristic aesthetic.
According to Honda, the car’s uniqueness extends beyond its exterior, as its interior is equally innovative: “The Honda FCV Concept features a low, wide aerodynamic body with clean character lines.
The interior strives to achieve harmony between man and machine by taking advantage of new powertrain packaging efficiencies delivering even greater passenger space than the four-seater FCX Clarity.”
3. Mercedes-Benz CLR
At first glance, the Mercedes-Benz CLR might leave you with two thoughts. First, which extraterrestrial designed this hovercraft?
And second, why is it so incredibly flat? Initially, this car was used for practice and qualifying rounds, but due to safety concerns, it was eventually pulled from competition.
One of the most infamous moments involving the CLR was an accident with racer Mark Webber, which sparked significant controversy.
The vehicle literally backflipped mid-race, creating a moment where it almost seemed capable of flight just like a spaceship. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case.
2. 2084 Chrysler Hover Car
Chrysler took things to the next level with the introduction of this truly unique concept car.
Throughout this article, we’ve joked about cars resembling hovercrafts but Chrysler seems to be making that vision a reality with this futuristic design. However, details about the vehicle remain scarce.
Many have drawn comparisons between this car and the futuristic vehicles seen in movies like Total Recall, Blade Runner, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and Back to the Future II.
Who knows? Maybe by 2084, this concept will become a reality. Until then, we can only dream about getting behind the wheel of such an extraordinary automobile.
Also Read: 10 Automakers That Are Betting Big on Solid-State Batteries to Transform Electric Vehicles
1. Michael Vetter’s Extra Terrestrial Vehicle
We wrap up the list with a vehicle born from the imaginative mind of Michael Vetter. Not only did he design this extraterrestrial-inspired car, but he also put it up for auction on eBay, where it sold for an impressive $100,000.
Vetter describes his creation as a showstopper on the outside and a smooth ride on the inside: “You are looking at a vehicle which receives more pictures taken of it on a daily basis than any Lamborghini or Ferrari.
The ride is smooth, solid and reliable. Due to the shape of the car the faster you go it seems to get more quiet inside.” When it comes to cars that resemble spaceships, few come as close to the real thing as Vetter’s otherworldly masterpiece.