Holden’s death comes amid a backdrop of intense emotional turmoil for Kyle Abbott, who is teetering on the brink of a breakdown. Once a calm and collected figure in the world of business, Kyle is now consumed by jealousy and insecurity, particularly regarding his relationship with Claire. The introduction of Holden into the mix has only exacerbated Kyle’s fears, leading him to make increasingly desperate moves to assert control over Claire’s life.
Sources close to the situation reveal that Kyle’s obsession with Holden has reached a boiling point. His attempts to isolate Claire from Holden have backfired, pushing her further away and intensifying the emotional strain on their relationship. With every warning he issues to Holden, Kyle’s grip on Claire seems to loosen, creating a dangerous cocktail of jealousy and desperation.
Meanwhile, the Abbott family is facing its own internal crisis. Kyle’s reckless behavior threatens not only his relationship with Claire but also the integrity of the family business, Jabot. Jack Abbott, Kyle’s father, is acutely aware of the stakes and is taking measures to protect their legacy amid the chaos. The tension between family loyalty and personal ambition is palpable, and the fallout from Holden’s murder could spell disaster for the Abbott family.
Timeless Masterpieces: 10 Automotive Designs That Define Beauty in 2025
For over a decade, I’ve navigated the intricate world where engineering prowess collides with artistic vision, and few areas are as captivating as automotive design. While a car’s primary function remains transportation, certain vehicles transcend utility to become bona fide works of art. These aren’t just machines; they’re emotional statements, sculpted steel and glass that resonate deeply with our sense of aesthetics.
As we move deeper into 2025, the automotive landscape is experiencing unprecedented transformation, from electrification to autonomous driving. Yet, amidst this evolution, the enduring allure of truly beautiful cars remains a constant. Their forms, conceived sometimes decades ago, continue to captivate, influence, and appreciate, standing as benchmarks of design excellence. This isn’t just about subjective taste; it’s about recognizing the deliberate harmony of line, proportion, and surface that defines an iconic automobile.
Our team, composed of seasoned experts and passionate enthusiasts, has meticulously curated a list that aims to celebrate these design triumphs. This isn’t just a nostalgic look back; it’s a recognition of design DNA that continues to shape the present and inspire the future. We’ve focused exclusively on road-legal models, each chosen for its profound impact on automotive aesthetics and its lasting appeal within the luxury car aesthetics and premium vehicle design segments. These are the vehicles that, from an expert perspective, represent the pinnacle of iconic automotive styling, embodying both historical significance and an enduring, almost prophetic, sense of beauty that still commands attention in today’s market. Many on this list have become significant investment-grade classic cars, their designs as valuable as their mechanical integrity.
Here are 10 automotive masterpieces that, in my professional opinion, continue to set the standard for beauty, even in 2025:
Mazda RX-7 (FD Generation)
Year of Introduction: 1992
Engine (Iconic Spec): 1.3-liter twin-turbo rotary engine, 255-276 hp
Why It Earns Its Place: The third-generation Mazda RX-7, known by its internal code FD, isn’t just a sports car; it’s a masterclass in organic, flowing design. Launched in the early 90s, the FD RX-7 arrived as a breath of fresh air, its sensuous curves and seamless surfaces a stark contrast to the angular designs prevalent at the time. What makes the FD so compelling, particularly from a 2025 perspective, is its timelessness. It doesn’t look dated; instead, it appears as a perfectly resolved sculpture, a testament to the idea that form can be both dynamic and elegant without relying on aggressive vents or overstated lines.
The design team, led by Yoichi Sato, achieved an unparalleled aerodynamic purity. The long hood, the tucked-in cabin, and the wide rear haunches create an undeniable sense of motion even when static. It embodies the essence of performance vehicle aesthetics without shouting about it. The pop-up headlights, a hallmark of 90s sports cars, integrate flawlessly into the overall form. Mechanically, the twin-turbo rotary engine provided a unique driving experience, but it’s the bodywork that truly solidified its status as a collector’s darling. Today, well-maintained FD RX-7s are highly sought after, appreciating steadily as enthusiasts and collectors recognize its profound contribution to Japanese sports car design and overall automotive art. It’s a prime example of a vehicle whose aesthetic value far outstrips its initial market positioning, becoming a definitive piece in any discussion of classic JDM investment.
Talbot-Lago T150-C-SS ‘Goutte d’Eau’ (Teardrop)
Year of Introduction: 1937
Engine (Iconic Spec): 4.0-liter inline-six, 140 hp
Why It Earns Its Place: To gaze upon the Talbot-Lago T150-C-SS ‘Goutte d’Eau’ (French for ‘Drop of Water’) is to witness automotive coachbuilding at its absolute zenith. Designed by Figoni & Falaschi, this automobile is less a car and more a rolling sculpture, a breathtaking embodiment of Art Deco principles applied to steel and aluminum. In a world where car design is often constrained by mass production efficiencies, the Teardrop stands as a monument to bespoke craftsmanship and unrestrained artistic expression.
Its name perfectly describes its defining characteristic: an impossibly smooth, aerodynamic form that mimics a falling water droplet. The way the fenders integrate seamlessly into the body, the voluptuous curves, and the exaggerated but harmonious proportions are simply unparalleled. This isn’t just a car; it’s a pivotal moment in automotive design history, pushing the boundaries of what was conceivable. From a 2025 viewpoint, its value continues to soar, making it one of the most significant investment-grade classic cars and a true piece of high-end collector automobiles. Examples routinely fetch multi-million dollar figures at auction, reflecting its status not just as a beautiful car, but as a priceless relic of an era when coachbuilders were artists, translating dreams into metal. Its legacy defines bespoke automotive art and its influence on subsequent streamlined designs is undeniable, offering a masterclass in how to combine functional aerodynamics with profound beauty.
Lancia Stratos HF
Year of Introduction: 1973
Engine (Iconic Spec): 2.4-liter Ferrari Dino V6, 190 hp
Why It Earns Its Place: The Lancia Stratos is a wedge of pure, unadulterated aggression and minimalist beauty, designed with a singular, ruthless purpose: rallying. Yet, in achieving peak functionality for its intended sport, it stumbled upon a form that is utterly captivating. Marcello Gandini at Bertone penned a shape that remains revolutionary and instantly recognizable today. It’s incredibly compact, wide, and low, with an almost brutalist efficiency that somehow translates into unparalleled aesthetic appeal.
The Stratos is an exercise in “form follows function” taken to an artistic extreme. The steeply raked windshield, the short wheelbase, and the iconic wraparound glass that forms the rear window are all elements dictated by rally demands, yet they coalesce into a shape of undeniable purity. It’s a prime example of performance vehicle aesthetics where every line serves a purpose, creating a visceral sense of speed and agility. Despite a notoriously cramped cabin and challenging ergonomics, the Stratos’s raw, purposeful beauty ensures its legendary status. In 2025, its values are incredibly strong, driven by its historic rally car design legacy and its rarity (only 492 road-legal versions were built). It’s a highly sought-after collectible, embodying the spirit of 70s supercar design philosophy and Italian ingenuity. For serious collectors, a Stratos is more than a car; it’s a tangible piece of motorsport history and an extraordinary example of bold, exotic car design principles.
Aston Martin DB9
Year of Introduction: 2003
Engine (Iconic Spec): 5.9-liter V12, 450-510 hp
Why It Earns Its Place: Aston Martin has a heritage steeped in elegant, sophisticated design, and the DB9, introduced in the early 2000s, perfectly encapsulates this lineage while introducing a modern fluidity that remains strikingly relevant in 2025. While subsequent Aston models have built upon its foundation, the DB9 strikes a sublime balance that, in my expert view, makes it a pinnacle of modern GT design. It’s less aggressive than its DBS sibling, more purely sculptural, embodying the essence of a grand touring design with effortless grace.
The DB9’s beauty lies in its understated power and impeccable proportions. Its long hood, perfectly raked windshield, and muscular rear haunches convey both strength and elegance without resorting to excessive ornamentation. The signature Aston Martin grille and sweeping lines are instantly recognizable, yet the overall execution is one of refined subtlety. It’s a car that matures gracefully, avoiding the pitfalls of fleeting trends. From a luxury car aesthetics standpoint, the DB9 offers a masterclass in how to craft a truly timeless form. Its enduring appeal is reflected in its strong used market values, particularly for well-maintained examples. It represents the pinnacle of premium vehicle design from a specific era, and its influence can still be seen in contemporary automotive styling. The DB9 proves that true beauty, when thoughtfully conceived, doesn’t fade; it only deepens with time, solidifying its place as an iconic automotive styling benchmark.
Fiat 500 (Original)
Year of Introduction: 1957
Engine (Iconic Spec): 0.5-liter air-cooled two-cylinder, 13-21 hp
Why It Earns Its Place: At first glance, the original Fiat 500 might seem an unconventional choice for a list dominated by exotic sports cars and luxury grand tourers. Yet, its inclusion is deliberate, underscoring the principle that beauty is not solely defined by aggression or opulence. The Nuova 500, launched in 1957, is a design marvel precisely because it achieves immense charm and functional aestheticism within a tiny, economical package. It’s a testament to the idea that automotive art can be democratized.
Its genius lies in its sheer earnestness and impeccable packaging. Every curve, every proportion is optimized for urban life, yet it exudes an undeniable personality and warmth. The rounded headlamps, the gentle bubble shape of the cabin, and the diminutive stature create a visual language that is both universally appealing and instantly iconic. It’s not just cute; it’s a perfectly balanced design that evokes joy and nostalgia. From a 2025 perspective, the original 500’s influence is profound, having spawned a successful modern retro-interpretation that dominates city car segments. It stands as a symbol of clever design, proving that a utilitarian object can also be a profound statement of style and culture. As a vintage car appreciation piece, it remains incredibly popular, a reminder that affordable classic cars can also possess profound aesthetic value, defying the notion that only the most expensive vehicles can be truly beautiful.
BMW Z8
Year of Introduction: 1998
Engine (Iconic Spec): 4.9-liter V8, 400 hp (from E39 M5)
Why It Earns Its Place: The BMW Z8 is a rare gem, a modern classic that masterfully blended retro-inspired styling with contemporary engineering, creating a roadster of breathtaking elegance. Designed by Henrik Fisker under Chris Bangle’s direction, the Z8 was a deliberate homage to the legendary BMW 507 of the 1950s. Yet, it wasn’t merely a copy; it was an evolution, refining the proportions and detailing of its muse to create something arguably even more harmonious and impactful.
What elevates the Z8’s design, especially as we assess it in 2025, is its incredible poise and restrained power. The long hood, short rear deck, and classic roadster silhouette are perfectly executed. The details, such as the horizontally mounted kidney grilles and the side vents that sweep into the door handles, are subtle nods to its heritage but feel thoroughly modern. It avoids the trap of overt nostalgia, instead channeling the spirit of the 507 into a vehicle with contemporary performance and presence. Powering it was the revered S62 V8 from the E39 M5, ensuring it drove as impressively as it looked. With fewer than 6,000 units produced globally, the Z8 is a genuine rare car valuation benchmark. Its status as an investment-grade classic continues to climb, appreciated by those who understand its unique position as a meticulously crafted piece of German automotive design innovation, offering both luxury car aesthetics and a visceral driving experience.
Peugeot 406 Coupe
Year of Introduction: 1996
Engine (Iconic Spec): 3.0-liter V6, 194 hp
Why It Earns Its Place: In a list dominated by high-dollar exotics and established luxury marques, the Peugeot 406 Coupe might seem like an outsider. However, its inclusion is a testament to the enduring power of brilliant design, especially when it comes from an unexpected source and offers immense value. Penned by Pininfarina, the legendary Italian design house, the 406 Coupe is a masterclass in understated elegance and accessible sophistication. It’s a car that punches far above its weight class in terms of aesthetic appeal.
The 406 Coupe is remarkable for its clean, flowing lines and perfect proportions. It avoids any hint of fussiness or aggressive styling, opting instead for a smooth, cohesive shape that is both athletic and refined. The delicate curve of the roofline, the subtly flared wheel arches, and the distinctive taillights create a visual symphony that speaks of classic Italian flair blended with French practicality. It’s a prime example of accessible automotive styling that doesn’t compromise on quality or grace. Even in 2025, a well-preserved 406 Coupe looks remarkably fresh, a testament to Pininfarina’s timeless touch. Its affordability relative to its design pedigree makes it a fantastic entry point for those seeking classic car market trends 2025 that emphasize design value without stratospheric prices. It remains a beloved cult classic, demonstrating that premium vehicle design isn’t always exclusive to the highest echelons of the automotive world.
Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale
Year of Introduction: 1967
Engine (Iconic Spec): 2.0-liter V8, 230 hp
Why It Earns Its Place: The Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale isn’t merely beautiful; it’s arguably one of the most exquisitely sculpted forms ever to grace four wheels. Born from the Tipo 33 racing program, this road-legal version is a rare, hyper-exclusive masterpiece, with only 18 examples built. Its design, attributed to Franco Scaglione, is an astonishing blend of sensual curves, aggressive stance, and pioneering features, making it a foundational piece in supercar design philosophy.
From its impossibly low stance and butterfly doors to its voluptuous fenders and expansive glass canopy, every element of the 33 Stradale is designed for maximum visual impact and aerodynamic efficiency. It embodies the very definition of exotic car design principles, pushing boundaries far beyond its contemporaries. The intricate detailing, from the complex headlight assemblies to the beautifully integrated exhausts, speaks to a level of craftsmanship and artistic intent rarely seen. In 2025, the 33 Stradale is more than just a car; it’s a piece of kinetic art, consistently ranked among the most valuable and aesthetically perfect automobiles ever made. Its rare automobile market status means its value is in the tens of millions, an undeniable indicator of its enduring appeal and its profound influence on subsequent high-end collector automobiles. It’s a vision of speed, beauty, and uncompromising design that continues to inspire.
Citroën DS
Year of Introduction: 1955
Engine (Iconic Spec): Various, including 1.9-liter inline-four, 75 hp
Why It Earns Its Place: The Citroën DS, unveiled at the 1955 Paris Motor Show, didn’t just turn heads; it fundamentally redefined automotive design and engineering. It was a UFO on wheels, so futuristic and unconventional that it looked like it had arrived from 20 years in the future. Designed by Flaminio Bertoni and André Lefèbvre, the DS is a monumental achievement in integrating radical engineering with an utterly groundbreaking aesthetic. It truly exemplifies automotive design innovation.
Its aerodynamic, almost organic shape was unlike anything else on the road, with an emphasis on smooth surfaces, a long, sloping hood, and a tapering tail. The DS introduced innovations like self-leveling hydropneumatic suspension, disc brakes, and directional headlights – all wrapped in a body that was both elegant and incredibly practical. It demonstrated that a family car could also be a work of art, merging practical design aesthetics with profound visual appeal. In 2025, the DS remains an icon of French design, celebrated for its bold vision and its refusal to conform to conventional norms. Its enduring popularity among collectors and enthusiasts attests to its status as a timeless piece of iconic automotive styling. The DS proved that beauty could be revolutionary, a true testament to forward-thinking design that continues to inspire and challenge perceptions of what a car can be.
Chevrolet Corvette (C2 ‘Sting Ray’)
Year of Introduction: 1963
Engine (Iconic Spec): Various, including 7.0-liter ‘Big Block’ V8, 425 hp
Why It Earns Its Place: The second-generation Chevrolet Corvette, universally known as the C2 or ‘Sting Ray,’ is the epitome of American automotive design, a powerful, sensuous, and utterly distinctive expression of speed and style. Designed by Larry Shinoda and Bill Mitchell, the C2 was a dramatic departure from the first-generation Corvette, injecting a level of sophistication and aggression that cemented its place in history. It defines American muscle car aesthetics with an artistic flourish.
Its most striking feature is the iconic “split-window” coupé design (for 1963 only), a daring and beautiful element inspired by the Bugatti Atlantique. The C2’s bodywork is a masterpiece of “coke-bottle” shaping, with pronounced fender arches, a sharp character line running down the side, and a tapering tail that evokes a stingray’s graceful power. This design seamlessly integrates performance vehicle aesthetics with a bold, masculine appeal. The C2 wasn’t just about looks; it boasted independent rear suspension, a significant engineering upgrade that matched its dynamic styling. In 2025, the C2 Sting Ray remains one of the most desirable classic American cars, its values consistently strong as collectors clamor for its combination of raw power, groundbreaking engineering, and breathtaking design. It stands as a powerful symbol of vintage car appreciation and a foundational piece of classic US automotive culture, a timeless icon whose beauty only grows with each passing year.
Your Journey into Automotive Design Continues
The vehicles on this list, whether sleek European exotics or iconic American muscle, share a common thread: they transcend mere transportation to become expressions of pure design brilliance. Their forms, conceived decades ago, continue to influence, inspire, and appreciate, proving that true beauty is indeed timeless. As an expert who has observed the automotive market trends in 2025, I can confidently say that these designs continue to represent sound automotive investment opportunities for those who appreciate their intrinsic and aesthetic value.
What are your thoughts on these enduring designs? Which automotive masterpiece would you add to this exclusive pantheon? Share your perspectives and dive deeper into the world of high-end collector automobiles with us. Explore our extensive resources on rare car valuation, bespoke automotive art, and the fascinating evolution of premium vehicle design. We invite you to join our community of enthusiasts and experts, and continue this passionate discussion about the cars that truly define beauty.
