Year: 2004
Debut at: North American International Auto Show
Production cost: Unknown
The Chrysler ME Four-Twelve, whose design had a strong McLaren essence, was a fully-functioning concept car from the well-known brand. The ME Four-Twelve was named for its four turbochargers and twelve-cylinder engine. It had a seven-speed transmission and could hit 248 miles per hour.
The leather interior was partnered with a chrome-covered console and gunmetal gauges and also allowed for keyless access. But unfortunately, there was too much money needed to develop the concept further, and so the Chrysler ME Four-Twelve was not to be seen.
Yamaha OX99-11
Year: 1992
Debut at: Unknown
Production cost: $800,000*
The Yamaha OX99-11 was a joint venture by International Automotive Design and Yamaha. The OX99-11 contained a 3.5-liter V-12 engine, a fiberglass chassis, and an aluminum body.
On the outside, it had an overt, space-age feel with its bubble windshield and smooth edges. But with budget disagreements and a recession in Japan, it was one stroke of bad luck after another for this concept, which is why it was never made.
Buick Avista
Year: 2006
Debut at: North American International Auto Show
Production cost: $84,035*
The Buick Avista was a breath of fresh air from the brand known for its girth and durability that dominated its style. With the Camaro’s Alpha platform as its foundation, the Avista was conceptualized by Ed Welburn and featured twin-turbo V-6 engines. And though it was very stylish, the Avista was more than just looks.
The concept had Magnetic Ride Control which allowed for smooth steering on the road and with 400 horsepower, it was quite the novelty for this car manufacturer. However, Buick insisted on retaining the Avista solely for design research.
Mitsubishi Concept-RA
Year: 2008
Debut at: North American International Auto Show
Production cost: Unknown
The Mitsubishi RA would have caught the attention of environmentalist consumers at first with its recyclable plastic body panels. But a surprising element to the RA’s structure was its turbo diesel engine that put out 201 horsepower.
Yet with its light and agile-looking frame, it was supposed to produce low emissions and with its all-wheel drive, it was incredibly unique for a sports car. So what kept this dream from becoming a reality? Mitsubishi was afraid to branch out in their sports car division and scrapped the RA altogether.
BMW Nazca C2
Year: 1992
Debut at Detroit Auto Show
Production cost: $1-3 Million*
The BMW Nazca C2 was a creation of Italdesign, a transportation development service. The Nazca C2 was commissioned to replace the BMW M1 and under its hood rested a 5-liter V-12 engine.
It boasted a super-low profile and the cabin was made entirely from glass. Sadly, BMW had growing concerns over the concept’s marketability and so only three were ever made.