Cars brought a revolution in the transport system when they were first invented. However, at that time they were slow, small and clumsy. Technology has not only changed the way of living but also the way of travelling. Now the cars are engineered with innovative technology. They are fast, efficient, powerful and compact. Their names are unchanged but they have altogether a different outlook now, as they had many years ago. We have compiled a list of top 10 iconic cars that are in demand in the auto markets and on still the show. Let’s have a look at them.

1. Volkswagen Beetle

• Before

This little Bug car’s first model came in 1938. Soon it became the most famous around the world because of its unique design and compact chassis. It was unsafe and less powerful at that time. In 1950’s however, it became more comfortable and speedier. It had a rear-located, rear-wheel drive, air-cooled four-cylinder and boxer engine with two-door bodywork.  It could accommodate four passengers.

• Now

The new Beetle is more advanced and high-tech. It is now 66 years old but has the whole new makeup. It features a powerful engine that can produce 200 HP of output power. The exterior is eye-catching and safety features are at its best.

2. Mini

• Before

Mini as the name suggests, is a small car engineered by British Motor Corporation. It made its first debut in 1958. It featured front wheel drive and was amazingly practical. It could accommodate both people and luggage. It has also got the honor of being the British Royal Car. Over the years this car grew up into different models, including the Mini Moke, a Van and a Pickup truck.

• Now

The new Mini now comes in various versions including Hardtop, Coupe, Convertible, Roadster, Clubman and Countryman. The cabin is now more spacious and the seats are comfortable.  The exterior is stylish and a must to look at. An outstanding performance is achieved with robust engine.

3. Porsche 911

• Before

Porsche 911 is the luxury two door sports coupe that is manufactured to please the aesthetic sense of sports car lovers. It is versatile and multipurpose. It first made its appearance in 1963 with its signature teardrop shape. Later, in 1973 it evolved to 911 Carrera RS. However, 3.2 Carrera series came in 1980’s and was more efficient reliable, comfortable and practical.

• Now

The 2012 version is the latest although it has got through many transitions from Boxster to the GT2, GT3, RS and the Cayman but the basic design is the same. The front and rear overhangs over have been reduced which makes it lighter. The 6-cylinder boxer engine at the back of the car can generate 350 HP in the base model and 400 HP in the 911 S. A7-speed transmission can give you more mileage and more fuel efficiency than it could give you 25 years ago.

4. Ford Mustang

• Before

Ford Mustang made its appearance in the auto markets in 1964. It made the pony car design of automobiles. The car was shown to the public first time at the New York World’s Fair. At that time Mustang had to go through tough procedures of emissions and safety regulations. But in 1980 Mustang got a makeover. It was redesigned with 5.0 litre V8 engine that could give 225 horsepower. The exterior was modernized and the interior was restyled as more generations came. Now the New Mustang is a changed pony car.

• Now

Nowadays Mustang has been totally a new vehicle. The 5.0L V8 can generate an output of 420 HP then, there’s a Hi-PO 302 Boss engine that generates 302 HP. The six-speed transmission can give powerful performance. The new model was introduced in 2005 and its 2012 version is upgraded with advanced technology features. The exterior is beautiful and the interior is comfortable to give you a luxury ride.

5. Honda Civic

• Before

The Honda Civic is one of the best family car that is economical for everyone. It came in July 1972 as a two-door model. Later, however a three door hatchback was introduced. The 87 model was more spacious. It was available in three models i-e hatchback, sedan and wagon. At that time it was run by 4-cylinder engines that were not very powerful and deliver less than 100 horsepower.

• Now

The Honda Civic is in its ninth generation and has grown much more in terms of power and technology. This compact car is now taller and more spacious. It is more fuel efficient and is loaded with high tech features like intelligent Multi-Information Display.

6. Volkswagen Golf

• Before

The Volkswagen Golf is a small family car and has been around since 1974. Soon it became the Volkswagen best selling model that ran on front wheel drive. Its early versions came as a 3- door hatchback but later 5-door car was also introduced.

• Now

The new Golf has got more style and power. The current Mark VI version is the sixth-generation model. It was designed by the Volkswagen’s chief designer Walter de’Silva.  The exterior is beautified and the exterior styled with smart features. The 5- and 6-speed manual transmission gearbox and 6- or 7-speed DSG gives you a powerful performance. This little car has really got guts to do big things.

7. BMW M1

• Before

BMW M1 series is a sleek and unique supercar that was introduced in 1978. It was a two-door coupe and was hand-built between 1978 and 1981. It featured 3.5 liter 6 cylinder engine that could give faster performance.

• Now

The new BMW M1comes as BMW 1 series M coupe. The name is changed but the essential style is the same as the sports car. However, it is loaded with innovative technology features. The M Twin Power Turbo technology gives the engine more boost and let you drive with more fuel efficiency. The 6–speed manual transmission can give you fastest acceleration.

8. BMW 3-Series Sedan

• Before

BMW 3-Series Sedan was unveiled in1983. It was a 4-door sports sedan that amazed the auto makers. It was lighter and less powerful. It’s 2.5-liter 6-cylinder engine could give only 168 horsepower. But in 1987, 325ix featured all wheel drive that made it stand out of other cars and gave an efficient performance.

• Now

The 2012 BMW 3-Series has got some major advancement. The 8-speed automatic transmission, a new turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in the base 328i sedan, twin-turbo straight-6 engine on 335i are some of the remarkable improvements. The exterior has been enhanced with gorgeous styling and the fuel efficiency has been improved.

9. Range Rover

• Before

Range Rover made a great sensation among the auto lovers when it arrived in the United States in early 1987 .It was easy to handle and smooth to drive. The cabin was spacious and seats were comfy. It also got under evolution. The interior was redesigned later. The vinyl and rubber were replaced with the Cloth seats and carpets.

• Now

The 2012 Range Rover is the masterpiece of the third generation. It is powered by the V8 engine that can deliver 375 HP of output power while the supercharged engine gives 510 HP of output power. It’s a premium luxury SUV that features smart accessories including heated front and rear seats wrapped in Oxford Leather, an electric slide tilt glass sunroof and ‘Range Rover” inscribed veneers. The Gloss Black headlamp and front grille makes the new Rover more stunning and gorgeous.

10. Audi TT

• Before

Audi TT is a two door sports car that was unveiled in 1998.It soon became famous because of its two body styles i-e 2+2 coupe and a two seater roadster. Up till now  its two generations have been in the market.

• Now

The new TT is the fastest sports car. The 225-HP Quattro version became the most demanded. The 5 and 6- speed transmission made it more fast and efficient.

So, these were the most popular iconic cars that are still shining superstars of the auto world. Which icon you have got?? Do let us know..