5 Pontiac Concepts and Prototypes That Should Have Made It to Production

Remember the late ’80s when everything seemed possible, even in the car world? That’s exactly the vibe the Pontiac Stinger brought to the table. This wasn’t your average concept car. Imagine a car that screams fun, freedom, and adventure. That’s the Stinger for you, with its dune buggy inspiration, open top for soaking up the sun, and a paint job in neon green that would make anyone do a double-take.

Why did Pontiac dream up such a wild ride, you ask? They had their finger on the pulse, tapping into what the younger, adventurous spirit was seeking. Those under 35 were craving a car that wasn’t just a car but an extension of their adventurous lifestyles. Enter Chuck Jordan and his team at GM, who cooked up the Stinger with features that were way ahead of its time. We’re talking a carbon-fiber body, removable glass panels for that open-air feel, and a tech-filled interior designed for outdoor escapades.

And oh, the interior! It wasn’t just a place to sit; it was a basecamp for adventure. Integrated tool kits for the spontaneous fix, portable vacuums for beach sand, garden hoses, and even picnic benches that magically unfolded from the back. The seats? They borrowed the comfort and resilience of wetsuit material. Need to stash your outdoor gear? The Stinger had you covered with innovative storage solutions. And let’s not forget the engine – a 3.0-liter, 170-horsepower heart with an active pneumatic suspension system meant this beauty could handle both the boulevard and the backcountry.

In an industry filled with ‘what could have been’, the Stinger stands out. It was more than a concept; it was a peek into a future where SUVs and adventure vehicles morphed into versatile partners in exploration. Sadly, the Pontiac Stinger never hit the production line, but it left a lasting impression on what adventurous driving could look like. And who knows? Maybe, just maybe, the spirit of the Stinger will inspire the cars of tomorrow.