Which car had the coolest spoiler or wing?
Spoiler alert! We’re talking about a subject that may prove divisive along generational lines. I’m not even gonna mention the most obvious spoiler or wing; it will undoubtedly be the most-cited submission in the comments section below. Instead I wish to expand everyone’s horizons with some lesser-known examples.
First, for the record, we’ll make a distinction between wings and spoilers. Put in the simplest terms, wings are usually elevated off of the decklid and larger in surface area, using the air coming off of the car to push down on the rear end and thus increase stability at speed. Spoilers—often positioned lower down and somewhat flush with the body, also involve airflow, but in this case for the purpose of directing up and air away from the car. Doing so prevents air turbulence that would otherwise result from the interaction of the high-pressure airflow and the low-pressure air behind the car.
Because there have been insane spoilers from all generations, and from all corners of the world. The Mk. IV Supra Turbo is far from an obscure, deep cut in the world of automotive downforce, but it’s gone from niche, tuner curiosity blue chip investment—and modern performance icon. That wing is unmistakable.
But here’s one I bet you didn’t remember: The 1980s was a time when spoilers went mainstream, promoting themselves as beneficial to both high performance and fuel efficiency. The little dovetail at the end of the 1983–1986 Ford Thunderbird personified a newfound interest in aerodynamics for everyone. It’s also a beautifully subtle touch that introduced the styling flair to a buying public, one that now expects this stuff built into the product from Day One. And how great is that?
Then there’s the complete opposite side of the spectrum. How about an insane wing mounted to am equally insane English body, purpose-built maximize downforce depending on the dynamics of the given moment? In some circles, the McLaren Senna’s could very well be the ultimate spoiler, as it’s both adjustable and hangs in the air instead of being firmly attached by two pillars. Has any manufacturer put more thought into a wing?
Yes, there’s that oh-so-famous, extremely rare/desirable/valuable, radically bewinged muscle car that I haven’t included in my diabolical brain teaser. Because what good is giving you what you already have in mind?
So without any further ado, which car had the best spoiler or wing?
Daytona Charger, Porsche 917-30, and 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 ducktail.
In the 50sand 60s, aero was not a big deal. But, as the 60s came to an end, the HP, tires, and suspensions were pushing the limit. So, the engineers started using wind tunnels and found the dirty air at the back of the car. The wings cleaned up the turbulence and added needed downforce and more speed.
Plus, they look cool.
IMO, unless one plans on doing some serious racing at speeds or on courses where these things will be a real factor, they are more ‘eye candy’ and a big ‘flag’ for a ticket (along with the ‘fire engine red’ color) than being much of a help at any ‘legal speed’ on the highway (yea – as if any of us pay ‘full attention’ at all times to speed limits anyway).
And, any ‘real’/’serious’ spoilers on a vehicle are ‘auto deployable’ and / or ‘auto adjustable’, based on the speed the vehicle is going at the time..
The Porsche 996.1 taco wing is my hands-down favourite. Stylish and functional with adjustability for road or track use. A wing truely made for more than just looks!
Definitely the Supra MK. IV spoiler is the coolest ever. The entire back end of that car is unmistakably gorgeous hands down.
Probably because I am Gen X, the first two examples that came to mind were the Lamborghini Countach and Porsche 911 “whale tail”. Those were some pretty audacious examples and certainly made them bedroom wall poster-ready. It didn’t hurt that they were actually functional as well.
1973 Porsche 911RS Ducktail .. subtle yet efficient and perfect complement for the RS.
extreme versions block visibility, lift the car’s nose, and hamper gas mileage. Overall a dumb idea.
The BMW 3.0 CSL Batmobile.
SAAB 900 SPG (Turbo in Europe)
Changed the character of the car to the definition of “cool”.
They all look stupid. They slow you down. C8 owners that passed on the z51 are happy with overall better cars.
Fully functional, auto adjustable (based on speed, driving conditions) – a couple come to mind:
– Porsche 911;
– Chrysler Crossfire (2004-2008) (look it up);
– Mitsubishi 3000GT (1992-1999) (again, look it up);
Probably many more, however these are a few, only one of which has been mentioned – the Porsche..
Porsche 911 RS Ducktail, hands down.
I’ve owned two cars with a big wing a ’97 Supra Turbo and a Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX who had one inspired by the Supra.
Countach!
The Porsche 911 from the 1973 “Duck tail” through the “Whale Tail” and ending with the “Tea Tray” 1994 964 (930) Turbo Tail.
The “water-cooled ” generations of the 911 have what I call the “Meccano Set” wings and I cannot stand the look of them on those cars……..they have ruined a timeless car design.