Countless vehicle models have come and gone throughout the years. Some inspired limited runs that have made them valuable antique cars today. Others became a mass market success purchased by countless families. Still others faded into obscurity. But which vehicles have proven to be the most influential in American history? As this list reveals, the Model T isn’t the only car that influenced today’s drivers.

Top 3 Influential Antique Cars

1. Chevrolet® Corvette

Sports cars weren’t very popular in the United States until the early 1950s, when Chevrolet introduced the Corvette. Though the initial 1953 model wasn’t the most reliable or successful, a 1955 redesign with a new V8 engine helped improve the vehicle’s perception. Since then, the Corvette helped usher in future American-made sports cars, while older models remain highly prized collectors’ items.

2. Ford® Mustang

First revealed at the World’s Fair in 1964, the Ford Mustang didn’t just redefine sports cars—it launched an entirely new category of “muscle cars” and “pony cars.” Stylish looks and a powerful engine made it overwhelmingly popular, so much so that it wasn’t long before other automakers got in on the craze with vehicles like the Firebird, Challenger, and Camaro.

3. Plymouth®/Dodge® Voyager

The minivan may not evoke feelings of nostalgia and thrilling driving experiences, but there is no denying that the introduction of this vehicle in the mid-1980s radically redefined the roadways. Features such as a sliding door and removable seats made the Voyager perfect for large families or those needing to transport larger items. This vehicle’s success guided minivan design for decades to come.

Whether you’re interested in purchasing influential collector cars or simply wish to admire restored antique cars, you can’t go wrong by visiting the Charlotte AutoFair Produced by Hornets Nest Region, AACA in Charlotte, NC. With thousands of vehicles on display and available for purchase, this auto show is the ultimate gathering for automotive enthusiasts. To learn more about their next event, visit them online or call (704) 841-1990 today.