Everyone was wowed by the design of the original Audi TT when it was unveiled in 1998.
Incredibly, the ignition switch in the first-generation Cobalt was designed in such a way that it could easily rotate inside the barrel without being turned a by human hand.
The convertible version of the PT Cruiser was notable for its scuttle shake, which was once compared to that of the Morris Minor convertible.
This is not going to go down well with fans of the 100HP, who regard it as a brilliant little hot hatch. They make a good case.
For complicated reasons, the speed of the wipers in the first Ford developed specifically for European markets was related to conditions inside the engine.
The MKC crossover had one button to switch the engine on and off, and another to engage Sport mode.
Very early examples of the Rancho did not have catches on their sliding side windows, which created a spectacular security risk.
The RX-8 was rightly praised for its excellent handling but criticised for its poor economy and lack of mid-range performance.
The first-generation A-Class had only just gone on sale in 1997 when Swedish magazine Teknikens Värld turned one rubber side up during what has become known as the elk test.