Just like endangered species, classic car technologies are fading away. With electrification and stricter emissions, features like boxer engines, 5-speed manuals, and diesel powertrains are becoming rare. Here are 5 technologies on the brink of extinction and the models that still keep them alive.
In the automotive world, certain technologies once symbolized power and innovation but are now facing extinction. According to a report from Japanese publication Best Car Web, five key technologies are on the verge of disappearing from the market, making true car enthusiasts shed a tear.
What are the endangered technologies?
The rare technologies include boxer engines, 5-speed manual transmissions, diesel engines, small-displacement 3-cylinder engines, and rear-wheel drive in compact cars. These features were once common but are now limited to a handful of models.
Why are these technologies disappearing?
The main driver is the global shift toward electric and hybrid vehicles, along with tightening emission standards. Large engines and diesels can no longer meet environmental requirements easily, while automatic and CVT transmissions replace manuals for comfort and efficiency.
Is the Toyota Supra also threatened?
Although the Toyota Supra still offers a 6-cylinder engine and manual transmission, the next generation may go fully electric, marking the end of an era for classic sports car powertrains.
What does this mean for enthusiasts?
If you love traditional driving, now is the time to own a car with these features before they become museum pieces. Models like the Subaru BRZ (boxer) and Mazda MX-5 (manual) are still available, but they may be among the last to carry these traits.
Cars still retaining these technologies
- Boxer engine: Subaru BRZ, Subaru WRX, Porsche 911 (some trims)
- 5-speed manual: Mazda MX-5, Honda Civic Type R (6-speed)
- Diesel engine: Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 d, BMW X5 xDrive30d
Will manual transmissions disappear completely?
With the rise of electric and automatic cars, manuals are becoming rare. However, some manufacturers like Mazda and Porsche still offer them in specific models, but they are expected to gradually vanish over the next decade.
Why are diesel engines threatened?
Due to stricter emissions standards in Europe and America, diesel engines are less common. Many companies have stopped developing new diesel engines, focusing instead on electric and hybrid powertrains.
What is the best boxer-engine car still available?
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are the most popular with a 4-cylinder boxer engine. The Porsche 911 also offers a 6-cylinder boxer in some trims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will manual transmissions disappear completely?
With the rise of electric and automatic cars, manuals are becoming rare. However, some manufacturers like Mazda and Porsche still offer them in specific models, but they are expected to gradually vanish over the next decade.
Why are diesel engines threatened?
Due to stricter emissions standards in Europe and America, diesel engines are less common. Many companies have stopped developing new diesel engines, focusing instead on electric and hybrid powertrains.
What is the best boxer-engine car still available?
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are the most popular with a 4-cylinder boxer engine. The Porsche 911 also offers a 6-cylinder boxer in some trims.
Sources
- Best Car Web (JP) — クルマ好き涙目!! 5速MT・水平対向・ディーゼルなど希少技術が消える!? 絶滅危惧車の最新動向
