18 Retro Car Models from the ’90s That Are Extinct

The 1990s were a golden age for unique and experimental car models, many of which have since vanished from the roads. Whether they were icons of style or simply oddities, these cars once held a spot in showrooms and driveways, now living only in old photos and collectors' garages.

Tricia Quitales
July 28, 2025
6 min read

18 Retro Car Models from the ’90s That Are Extinct — Brandon on Pexels

Automotive nostalgia often leads us back to the bold and quirky designs of the 1990s. Many unique car models from that decade have quietly disappeared, leaving behind memories for those who drove or admired them. These discontinued vehicles highlight an era of experimental designs, evolving technology, and bold risks in the car industry. Though no longer in production, they remain symbolic of a distinctive time in automotive history.

1. Pontiac Sunfire GT

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The Sunfire GT was Pontiac’s attempt to blend sporty styling with affordability. With its aggressive front fascia and coupe design, it captured young drivers’ attention. Though it had a modest four-cylinder engine, it looked far faster than it was. Interior quality was a weak point, but the flashy styling made up for it in the eyes of its fanbase. Production ended as Pontiac began to phase out its lineup before the brand itself was discontinued.

2. Ford Probe

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Initially a collaboration between Ford and Mazda, the Probe was a front-wheel-drive coupe intended to replace the Mustang. It never quite won over traditional Mustang fans but developed a niche audience. Its sleek curves and pop-up headlights gave it a futuristic appeal in its early years. Over time, declining interest and changing market demands led to its demise. The final model year was 1997, and it hasn’t been revived since.

3. Geo Metro Convertible

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The Geo Metro was known more for fuel efficiency than excitement, but its convertible version added a playful twist. It was one of the smallest convertibles on the market during its time. Despite low horsepower, it was a favorite among first-time drivers. The model’s lightweight design contributed to surprisingly good mileage. Eventually, poor crash-test ratings and limited demand saw it quietly vanish.

4. Mitsubishi 3000GT

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This Japanese sports car came packed with advanced technology, including all-wheel drive and active aerodynamics. It stood out with bold styling and a twin-turbocharged V6 in its VR-4 trim. Complicated systems made it expensive to repair, affecting long-term popularity. As the 2000s approached, consumer interest shifted toward lighter, simpler performance cars. Mitsubishi ended production in 2001, closing the chapter on this ’90s powerhouse.

5. Suzuki X-90

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Strange and compact, the Suzuki X-90 tried to mix SUV practicality with coupe style. It had two seats, a T-top roof, and a trunk, confusing both buyers and critics. Though it offered four-wheel drive, it lacked real off-road capabilities. Its quirky appearance made it a commercial failure. Production ceased in 1997 after just two model years.

6. Isuzu VehiCROSS

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With bold, muscular lines and cladding-covered bodywork, the VehiCROSS looked like something from a concept car catalog. It offered impressive off-road performance with Isuzu’s Torque-On-Demand 4WD system. Limited production numbers added to its cult status. The interior was cramped, and it came at a high price point for what it offered. Isuzu pulled the plug after 2001, never bringing it back.

7. Dodge Stealth

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Built in partnership with Mitsubishi, the Dodge Stealth shared its platform with the 3000GT. It came with a variety of engines, including a twin-turbo V6 in the R/T Turbo model. Performance was impressive, but the design didn’t age well compared to competitors. The market for heavy sports coupes was shrinking by the late ’90s. Dodge discontinued it in 1996.

8. Saturn SC2

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Saturn built its image around simplicity and innovation, and the SC2 coupe embodied that philosophy. It featured polymer panels that resisted dents and had a sporty three-door layout. Though not high-performance, it appealed to those wanting an affordable, modern-looking car. As Saturn struggled to stay relevant, SC2 sales declined. The brand itself was eventually shut down in 2010.

9. Toyota Paseo

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Based on the Tercel platform, the Paseo was Toyota’s attempt at a compact sporty coupe. It offered reliability over raw performance, powered by a small four-cylinder engine. The design was sleek and appealing to younger buyers. Unfortunately, it lacked the excitement buyers were beginning to expect from sport compacts. Production ended in the late ’90s due to sluggish sales.

10. Plymouth Breeze

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Part of Chrysler’s “Cloud Car” series, the Breeze was meant to be a practical and affordable midsize sedan. It shared its platform with the Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Cirrus. It offered a comfortable ride and decent interior space. However, it lacked the refinement of competitors like the Honda Accord. After Plymouth was discontinued in 2001, the Breeze disappeared with it.

11. Acura Vigor

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The Vigor was positioned between the Integra and Legend, offering a unique five-cylinder engine. It was designed to blend sportiness with luxury but struggled to find a clear audience. Though well-built, it was often overlooked in a competitive segment. Acura replaced it with the TL, which had broader appeal. The Vigor quietly bowed out in 1994.

12. Eagle Talon

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A close relative of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, the Talon was part of a performance-focused collaboration. With available turbocharged engines and all-wheel drive, it was a solid performer. Its aggressive styling made it a favorite among young enthusiasts. Eagle, as a brand, struggled with identity and sales. The Talon ended production in 1998 as the Eagle division was shut down.

13. Oldsmobile Achieva SCX

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Built for performance, the SCX trim of the Achieva featured a quad four engine and sport suspension. It competed in the compact sport sedan segment with some success. Unfortunately, the brand’s aging image clashed with its youthful target market. Sales never matched expectations, and the SCX was dropped before the decade ended. Oldsmobile itself was discontinued in 2004.

14. Mazda MX-3

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One of the few cars to offer a small-displacement V6 engine, the MX-3 was unique in the early ’90s market. It combined agile handling with a sporty, hatchback design. Though praised by enthusiasts, it never achieved strong sales. Its small size and unusual engine configuration limited its mass-market appeal. Mazda phased it out by 1998.

15. Chrysler TC by Maserati

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An unusual collaboration between Chrysler and Maserati, the TC was intended as a luxury roadster. It shared components with the LeBaron but aimed to feel more exclusive. Build quality and styling didn’t justify the premium price. The car was never fully embraced by buyers or critics. Production ended in 1991 after just a few years on the market.

16. Nissan NX2000

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This compact performance hatch was based on the Sentra SE-R platform and delivered spirited driving. It featured a sporty suspension, high-revving engine, and practical design. While a strong performer, it lacked the flashiness of other sports cars. Enthusiasts loved it, but general consumers overlooked it. By 1993, it was no longer offered in North America.

17. Daewoo Leganza

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Daewoo entered the U.S. market with the Leganza, a midsize sedan priced to attract budget-conscious buyers. Designed by Italdesign, it had European-inspired styling. The ride quality was acceptable, but reliability issues hurt its reputation. Without a strong dealer network or brand recognition, it failed to gain traction. Daewoo eventually exited the U.S. market altogether.

18. Mercury Tracer LTS

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The Tracer LTS was Mercury’s version of the Ford Escort GT with a bit more refinement. It had a sporty edge thanks to its responsive handling and DOHC engine. Its compact size made it ideal for urban commuters. Despite these strengths, it couldn’t stand out in a crowded market. Mercury’s gradual decline led to its discontinuation in the late ’90s.