US platform “The Best One on the Planet” launches project to highlight vehicles that were once common but are now almost gone
NORTH CONWAY, N.H. – The Best One on the Planet, a site for classic and rare car enthusiasts, has released its first “Endangered Car List.” This shows that models that were once commonly seen on the streets have become almost impossible to find today.
According to COO Steve Haas, the idea was inspired by many contributions from users who shared unique examples of vehicles that were common in previous decades. “If you’ve followed the automotive world long enough, you’ll notice that a lot of models have disappeared. For example, the Dodge and Plymouth Neon were ubiquitous, but now I can’t even remember the last time I saw them,” Haas said.
Co-founder Matt Lewis explained that the goal was to acknowledge the rarity of vehicles once considered ‘disposable’. “The Ferrari 250 GTO is rare because there are only 39 units. isuzu impulseHow many are left in the world? “Maybe less,” he joked, adding, “We want to highlight these forgotten vehicles that, despite their simplicity, were symbols of their time.”
Find the missing Ford Aspire
In addition to the main list, the team presented an interesting challenge: find a running Ford Aspire (1993–1997). This model was manufactured by Kia and sold under the Ford brand, and has been completely removed from American roads since 2005.
The first person to submit a ‘proof of survival’ for a registered and operating Aspire will receive a set of Cocomats premium car mats.
“List of Endangered Cars”
- Renault LeCar 1977 – Rusts easily, and parts shortages occurred after Renault withdrew from the United States. It is estimated that there are less than 50 vehicles in operation in North America.
- Isuzu Impulse RS Turbo 1987 – Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro. Parts shared with Chevrolet Chevette. No vehicles seen on the road since the 1990s.
- Plymouth Arrow Pickup 1980 – Produced by Mitsubishi for Chrysler. One of the early ‘captive imported cars’. Currently rarely seen outside of California.
- Audi 5000S Diesel 1981 – Became popular in the 1980s but disappeared from American roads. A total of 6 vehicles were auctioned on Bring a Trailer.
- Chevrolet LUV 1977 – Made by Isuzu. Despite the durability of the engine, most of it is lost to corrosion in areas that are not humid.
- Ford Aspire 1996 – Korean-made compact hatchback, sold under the Ford brand. Considered ‘virtually extinct’.
Between nostalgia and preservation
According to the founders, The Best One on the Planet was founded as a fun and educational space for collectors and people interested in cars. The project is operated by Michigan-based BOOT-P Media, LLC, co-founded by Peter Zawadsky, Matt Lewis and Steve Haas.
Sources and images: Tbootp. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
