Real Talk: What Makes a Car Exotic?

Via P1 Exotics

While the term “exotic car” is widely used, how do we truly identify and distinguish an exotic car from non exotic cars? Does it simply have to do with opinion, or is there a universal definition?

In the 1900’s, exotic cars used to be recognized as cars that were from outside the United States, as it was much more common to see Fords on the road and much less common to imported brands such as Nissan, Toyota, and Fiat. However, as globalization further connected the world together, it is now easy to find car brands from all over the world in your and your neighbor’s driveway. Founder Antonio Unanue breaks down the modern definition of an exotic based on four factors: “performance, luxury, desirability, and rarity.”

Performance: What the Driver Enjoys

Via Business Insider

According to a Hyundai article, “The ‘performance’ in a performance car represents a more powerful engine, superior speed, agility, and overall driving experience.” Non exotic cars (such as the 2010 Honda Odyssey minivan I mentioned in the our first blog post) have less powerful engines that make them easier to handle. The more powerful engine in an exotic car means higher horsepower (and higher fuel consumption). On top of this, exotic cars will have special brakes to maintain functionality at top speeds when the engine is producing a lot of power and heat. When it comes to safety features, modern technology and standards of the automotive industry mean that every car produced, exotic or not, has the most up to date features to protect its passengers. Examples would be a backup camera, blind spot warning system, and air bags.

Luxury: What the Passengers Enjoy

Via HotCars

While safety features are a must in every vehicle, exotic cars differentiate from non exotics based on added luxury features. These features are not necessary, but make sure the ride is enjoyable for anyone sitting in the car. This means using higher quality interior materials on anything ranging from the engine and transmission to sound systems and telematics. In this HotCars article, some jaw dropping luxury features in exotic cars include the Rolls-Royce starlight headliner (pictured above), an elevating gear knob on a Jaguar, and bottom filling champagne glasses for BMW. An honorable mention goes to the gold lined engine in the McLaren F1.  

Desirability: What Everyone Wants…

Via TopGear

What brings you to one car dealership over another? The power to be the most desirable lies in the hands of the consumers, while rarity is something that can be controlled by the brands themselves (by increasing or decreasing production of a vehicle). Desirability can be influenced by features, age of the car, performance, price of the car, and rarity. However, gauging desirability depends on the individual consumer. In my 2010 Honda Odyssey minivan example, a mother of five children would desire this car much more than a brand new Ferrari 812 GTS that only seats two people. But, setting aside individual circumstances, it can generally be assessed that more people would prefer a Lamborghini (an exotic car) over a Honda (a non exotic car). This is the desirability that brands are after, and they spend millions of dollars annually on marketing to convince the average consumer of their desirability.

Rarity: …But Not Everyone Can Have

Via Lamborghini

As stated before, rarity is controlled by the brand itself. Exotic cars are almost always more rare compared to mass produced brands like Subaru. For example, there are only 13 Lamborghini Venenos worldwide, and the estimated $3.9 million price tag reflects this. I asked Founder Antonio Unanue what his first exotic car was, and he replied “a 1970 Mach 1.” The bright orange Mustang, while lacking in terms of performance, luxury, and desirability, could be argued that it was exotic “because it was exciting. It was rare because you don’t really see them on the road anymore.” Following Antonio’s reason, exotic cars remain exciting because you don’t see them often. It’s fun to marvel at a car you might only see once in your lifetime… which maybe explains why I haven’t found anyone ogling at my Nissan yet. 

To Conclude…

You can determine if a car is exotic based on this guideline from P1 Exotics, where we looked at performance, luxury, desirability, and rarity as indicators. However, there is no universal definition to an “exotic car”, as these factors are all unique to the tastes of the individual. When looking for a car, make sure that you look based on your own criteria and tastes. Most importantly, make sure you enjoy the ride, whether by yourself, with your family, or with friends.