Choosing the right name for a car can be tricky, which is why many established automakers (like VW and BMW) play it safe with generic alphanumeric names. However, some brands take inspiration from nature, and in this case, birds, resulting in some truly iconic vehicle names. Here are five standout cars named after birds that soar above the rest.
1. Aspark Owl
The Aspark Owl is an all-electric hypercar built in Italy by Japanese company Aspark. Despite being made of carbon fiber, it weighs nearly 2,000 kg. Its range is limited to 280 miles, but its four-motor setup generates an astounding 1,984 hp and 1,475 lb-ft of torque, delivering lightning-fast acceleration. The Owl also features stylish dihedral doors, a sleeker alternative to traditional gullwing doors.
2. Stutz Blackhawk
A lesser-known American luxury car from the 1970s, the Stutz Blackhawk boasts an imposing grille, oversized headlights, and a name exuding power. Built by the now-defunct Stutz Motor Company in collaboration with Italian manufacturers, this ultra-luxury personal coupe stretched nearly six meters long and came with multiple V8 engine options, including the legendary 429 Cobra Jet. Despite its impressive specs, its market success was limited—perhaps because hawks and cobras aren’t exactly natural allies.
3. Plymouth Superbird
No list of bird-themed cars would be complete without the Plymouth Superbird. Technically based on the Road Runner, this muscle car featured an unmistakable aerodynamic wing and three powerful V8 engine choices, including the ‘Super Commando’ and the legendary ‘Hemi.’ In the 1970s, American cars were often criticized for being underpowered, but the Superbird defied expectations with up to 426 bhp—an impressive feat for its time.
4. Ford Falcon
Launched in 1959, the Ford Falcon remained in production for over a decade, spanning three and a half generations. The first and final models stand out the most, with the latter closely related to the Ford Torino and Fairlane. Available in a sleek two-door sedan variant, the Falcon often came equipped with V8 engines ranging from 4.9L to 7L (429 cu in). In Australia, the Falcon became a cultural icon, battling the Holden Commodore in a fierce rivalry until local manufacturing ceased in 2016.
5. Eagle Speedster
Arguably the most beautiful and exclusive car on this list, the Eagle Speedster is a modern interpretation of the legendary Jaguar E-Type. Built in England, it blends classic aesthetics with contemporary engineering, featuring fuel injection, independent wishbone suspension with Ohlins adjustable dampers, and carbon fiber intake manifolds. Powered by a 4.7L V12 producing 350 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque, it accelerates from 0-60 mph in just five seconds and reaches a top speed of 170 mph. However, exclusivity comes at a price—a staggering $1 million.
