Even the least interesting cars can be transformed into something intriguing through special editions. These short-run factory-sanctioned customs add a touch of fun to otherwise ordinary rides. Let's explore some of the wild and unique special edition cars throughout history.

Uncover the Fascinating World of Special Edition Cars

Chrysler: The Quest for a Winning Race Car

In the sixties, Mopars dominated NASCAR with iconic cars. But by the seventies, Chrysler faced financial woes. In 1980, they launched the Aspen/Volare-based Mirada coupe, hoping it would be a ray of hope. Lee Iacocca personally had Richard Petty test a NASCAR version, but it was 8MPH off the contenders. Chrysler's fancier Imperial was more aerodynamic but wasn't raced. The poor testing results led to Petty's defection and Mopar abandoning its racing efforts. However, in an alternate history, Lee Iacocca didn't give up. He came up with the idea of creating the Dodge 600 Talladega by grafting an Imperial nose and a massive glass hatch onto a Diplomat. This odd concoction was named after the Dodge 600 sedan to promote it. Despite its unique look and high price, it barely sold 500 units needed for racing. The competition model won a few races but wasn't enough to make it a significant part of Mopar's NASCAR history.

AMC: Blending the Unusual

AMC design chief Dick Teague created controversial-looking machines like the Pacer. He then took it a step further with the Eagle Kammback on the new Spirit coupe. Dubbed the Jeep Sportster, it combined elements of different AMC models. The larger Eagle's grille and lights gave it a unique look that was initially controversial. But with some modifications, it became a more acceptable Jeep-branded machine. Around 2,000 Jeep Sportsters were made and sold out quickly, but Renault didn't see a future in it and pushed AMC to focus on other models.

Ford: The Mid-Engined Dream

Ford's proposed Fiero fighter, the GN34, went through various versions. It was supposed to have a Yamaha-developed twin cam head V6 and match the performance of the Corvette. But the project was axed due to limited sales of the Pontiac competitor. Ann, the only woman on the team, came up with the idea of putting the SHO V6 into the back of the soon-to-be-ditched Ford EXP. The result was the Cyclone, which took the moniker of a famous Mercury coupe. With a unique look and light weight, it was a nimble and fast car. However, the cost of making it was high, and only 3,768 Cyclones were built before Ford pulled the plug.

General Motors: The Oldsmobile Hurst Silhouette

Oldsmobile was a confusing brand that offered performance coupes like the 442. In the early nineties, they considered reviving the Hurst editions. They ended up creating the Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds Silhouette 25th Anniversary Edition by adding a manually-shiftable four-speed automatic with a supercharger to the Silhouette. Styling changes were made, including big wheels, a ground effects kit, and a unique sunroof. Inside, it had two-tone leather seats and a Hurst/Olds logo. Despite being a minivan, it was a relatively high-performance vehicle and sold out quickly.Surely, our imaginations run wild when it comes to special edition cars. What crazy cars do you wish existed? Let us know!