18 Car Commercials from the Past That Were Wildly Over-the-Top
A look at car commercials that took things to the extreme with absurd concepts, flashy visuals, and over-the-top storytelling.
- Daisy Montero
- 5 min read
Some car commercials from the past were so outrageous that they left a lasting impression. Whether they featured exaggerated special effects, bizarre storytelling, or unexpected celebrity appearances, these ads were impossible to ignore. While some were unintentionally funny, others were masterfully crafted to be memorable. Let us revisit 18 of the wildest car commercials that pushed the limits of advertising.
1. Nissan’s “Toys” (1996)
Nissan on Wikimedia Commons
A G.I. Joe-style action figure stole a Nissan 300ZX and went on a thrilling chase. The cinematic quality and playful concept made it feel like an action movie. It was a creative and unforgettable way to showcase the car’s excitement.
2. Honda’s “Cog” (2003)
Bindydad123 on Wikimedia Commons
A series of car parts interacted in a mesmerizing chain reaction that ended with a Honda Accord rolling forward. The precision and engineering behind the ad made it feel like a work of art. It was a slow but captivating way to highlight Honda’s attention to detail.
3. BMW’s “The Hire” (2001)
BMW on Wikimedia Commons
A series of short films starred Clive Owen as a mysterious driver taking on thrilling missions. Each film featured high-speed chases and intense stunts, making them feel like Hollywood action scenes. It was a bold and cinematic approach to car advertising.
4. Peugeot 206’s “The Sculptor” (2003)
Peugeot / Reproduction : Kilyann Le Hen on Wikimedia Commons
A man in India transformed an old, boxy car into a sleek Peugeot 206 using unconventional methods. The ad was humorous and inspiring as the man hammered, welded, and reshaped the vehicle. It creatively showcased the desire for a stylish car.
5. Audi’s “Duel” (2016)
Sxolixs on Wikimedia Commons
Two hotel valets engaged in an intense, slow-motion fight over the keys to an Audi RS7. The elegant cinematography and playful action made it feel like a high-end film. It perfectly captured the desirability of the car.
6. Volvo Trucks’ “Epic Split” (2013)
Designed by Karl-Erik Forsberg in the 1950s on Wikimedia Commons
Jean-Claude Van Damme performed a perfect split between two moving Volvo trucks. The breathtaking stunt demonstrated the stability and precision of Volvo’s steering system. It was a visually stunning ad that became an instant classic.
7. Mercedes-Benz’s “Chicken Magic Body Control” (2013)
Mercedes-Benz on Wikimedia Commons
A group of chickens moved in sync with the stability of a Mercedes-Benz suspension system. The bizarre but clever concept highlighted the smooth ride in a way no one expected. It was funny, unique, and surprisingly effective.
8. Toyota’s “Back to the Future” (2015)
Toyota on Wikimedia Commons
In honor of Back to the Future Day, Toyota featured Christopher Lloyd and Michael J. Fox discussing futuristic car technology. The ad cleverly tied in real innovations like hydrogen fuel cells. It was a nostalgic yet forward-thinking commercial.
9. Ford’s “Spaceman” (2018)
Unknown author on Wikimedia Commons
A man in a spacesuit drove a Ford Mustang across a surreal desert landscape. The cinematic visuals and mysterious atmosphere made it feel like a sci-fi film. It was an artistic way to capture the car’s sense of adventure.
10. Chevrolet’s “Like a Rock” Campaign (1991)
Diego HC on Wikimedia Commons
This series of ads featured rugged Chevy trucks conquering tough terrain while Bob Seger’s song played. The powerful visuals and music created a lasting association with durability, and it became one of the most iconic truck campaigns ever.
11. Subaru’s “Baby Driver” (2017)
Subaru on Wikimedia Commons
A father handed the car keys to his daughter, but in his eyes, she was still a little girl. The emotional storytelling connected safety with family values. It was heartfelt and resonated deeply with parents.
12. Pontiac’s “We Build Excitement” (1980s)
General Motors Company on Wikimedia Commons
This high-energy ad showcased Pontiac’s performance cars with dramatic camera angles and fast editing. The music and voiceovers made every car feel like a thrilling ride. It was a classic ’80s advertising at its most intense.
13. Volkswagen’s “The Force” (2011)
Volkswagen on Wikimedia Commons
A young child dressed as Darth Vader tried to use the Force on household objects. When he attempted to start the Volkswagen Passat, the car turned on remotely, leaving him amazed. It was charming and funny and became a viral sensation.
14. Lexus’ “Slide” Hoverboard (2015)
Gaspard on Wikimedia Commons
Lexus created a real, functioning hoverboard and showcased it in a futuristic skate park. The sleek design and sci-fi feel made it look like something from a movie. It was a bold way to promote Lexus’ innovation.
15. Dodge’s “Predators” (2014)
Unknown author on Wikimedia Commons
A fleet of Dodge muscle cars roared through the streets while a menacing voice compared them to predators. The aggressive tone and intense visuals made the cars feel powerful and untamed. It was a thrilling way to market performance vehicles.
16. BMW’s “Jump for Joy” (2007)
DeFacto on Wikimedia Commons
People performed incredible jumps as a BMW drove past them in slow motion. The ad symbolized the excitement and exhilaration of driving the car. It was energetic, visually stunning, and full of motion.
17. Jeep’s “Groundhog Day” (2020)
de:Benutzer:Gaspard on Wikimedia Commons
Bill Murray reprised his role from Groundhog Day, reliving the same day while enjoying adventures in a Jeep. The ad was nostalgic, funny, and perfectly fit the Super Bowl setting. It was a brilliant way to connect with movie fans and car enthusiasts.
18. Tesla’s “Starman” (2018)
TESLA on Wikimedia Commons
SpaceX launched a Tesla Roadster into space with a mannequin in the driver’s seat. The surreal imagery of a car floating through space captivated the world. It was an audacious and unforgettable marketing stunt.