As an auto analyst and self-proclaimed motorhead, few topics excite me more than surveying sizzling vehicles across the automotive spectrum. I especially enjoy models starting with the letter C, which run the gamut from all-American muscle machines to electrified family haulers. Come along as I shift into gear to offer my takes as your personal guide to these celebrated nameplates!
Overview – What‘s In Store
In this epic electric and eclectic tour, you‘ll discover why car brands wearing the prominent C generate plenty of power, prestige, and passion. We‘ll navigate icons like the Corvette along with new trailblazers like the electric Cadillac Lyriq. You‘ll find family-friendly functionality from Chrysler and Chevrolet too. Legendary labels like Citroën demonstrate that driving excitement need not be expensive. Let‘s hop into the driver’s seat to experience why these fantastic C-cars occupy prime parking places in motoring history!
An overview of cars starting with C covered here
Now, let’s get this 24-cylinder motor revving to survey each car in detail!
Chevrolet – Milestone Models for the Masses
Founded by racer Louis Chevrolet in 1911 alongside General Motors, Chevy has delivered transportation for the masses along with legendary performance ponies. Its diverse modern lineup includes the all-electric Bolt hatchback vying with Tesla for EV dominance. Flaunting comparable range up to 259 miles for under $27,000, the Bolt makes electrons excitingly affordable.
However, Chevy’s most coveted creation remains the Corvette sports car. Powered by a 495 horsepower V8 planted behind the driver, the latest C8 generation finally brings mid-engine dynamism to the ‘Vette formula starting under $60,000. This masterpiece melds thrilling 5.5 second 0-60 mph runs, track-taming handling, and head-turning aesthetics into an American icon. As Corvette chief engineer Tadge Juechter stated to MotorTrend: “We’ve taken the input of our passionate and loyal enthusiasts and used it to drive every decision.” This bond with devotees distinguishes Chevrolet across categories.
Chevrolet Key Models
| Model | Powerplant | Efficiency | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bolt EV | 200 hp electric motor | 259 mile range | $26,595 |
| Corvette | 495 hp 6.2L V8 | 16 mpg city/26 highway | $61,900 |
Cadillac – Art That Moves
Contrasting Chevrolet’s populism, Cadillac unabashedly channels opulence. As the tip of General Motors’ spear since 1902, Cadillac sedans and SUVs treat owners like aristocracy. No model encapsulates its majesty quite like the Escalade full-size luxury SUV. With imposing proportions matched by its supercharged 6.8L V8 churning out 682 horsepower, the 2023 Escalade-V epitomizes unrestrained excess. Yet high-tech handling systems still ensure composure around corners. This machine made rap-royalty sit up and take notice decades ago for good reason!
If its scale seems intimidating, Cadillac’s recent Lyriq SUV crossover electrifies expectations using the latest Ultium battery architecture. The Lyriq’s 100 kWh battery enables a 300 mile range rivaling Tesla’s offerings with indulgent cabin comfort. By blending the best of old-world opulence with tomorrow’s tech, the 2023 Lyriq puts other luxury EVs on notice according to analysts at Kelly Blue Book. Get behind its wheel to taste why Cadillac remains the undisputed “standard of the world” for refinement.
Cadillac Key Models
| Model | Powerplant | Efficiency | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Escalade-V | 6.2L Supercharged V8 | 14 mpg | $149,990 |
| Lyriq (AWD) | 191 hp electric motor | 300 mile range | $64,990 |
Chrysler – Heritage With Hustle
Representing over 96 years of motoring milestones, Chrysler has delivered distinctive designs housing horsepower that humbles rivals. The brand channels its roots most visibly through their 300C full-size sedan, a tribute to 1950s letter series cars beloved by early rock icons. With an available 6.4L Hemi V8 underhood producing 485 stallions, this model mixes its retro flavor seamlessly with unapologetic grunt. Engaging dynamics and AWD ensure its bark matches its bite.
Further expanding powertrain options for Pacifica minivan customers, Chrysler now integrates a plug-in hybrid variant harnessing electric torque for efficiency without sacrificing practicality. Its 82 MPGe and 33 mile electric driving range shames Toyota and Kia rivals. By electrifying an unexpected segment, Chrysler continues demonstrating Yankee ingenuity that‘s always punched above its weight class.
Chrysler Key Models
| Model | Powerplant | Efficiency | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 300C | 6.4L Hemi V8 | 19 mpg | $56,000 |
| Pacifica PHEV | 260 hp combined output | 82 MPGe | $46,000 |
Citroën – Avant-garde Adventurers
Tracing its origins to post World War I France in 1919, Citroën has approached mobility from unexpected angles in incredibly fun ways. Who needs luxury when models like the famously floaty Citroën DS introduced self-leveling hydropneumatic suspension in 1955 bringing Rolls-Royce cloud-like comfort to the common man. Later variants stretched executive-class roominess into a still tiny overall package.
Today, the brand channels this tradition of innovation into new models like the quirky ë-C4 compact EV hatchback. Its 50 kWh battery feeds a 100 kW (136 hp) electric motor for peppy performance, while sci-fi styling keeps this A-to-B machine interesting. Analysts at WardsAuto loved its smooth and silent power delivery plus comfortably appointed cabin that really showcases Citroën’s creative capabilities. If standout solutions to modern mobility speak to you, a test drive reveals why this company warrants attention.
Citroën Key Models
| Model | Powerplant | Efficiency | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| ë-C4 | 100 kW electric motor | 217 mile range | $34,000 |
Cooper – Captivating Compacts
While the quintessential Mini debuted in 1959 from the British Motor Company, it was racing legend John Cooper who unlocked its performance promise for the street through factory tuning. Nimble handling made the Austin-powered Mini 90 outright victorious over more powerful cars in events like 1964‘s Monte Carlo rally. That giant-killing DNA endures today through Mini Coopers sold globally under BMW ownership blending style, space efficiency and surprising speed.
The Cooper S employs a zesty 2.0L turbocharged engine generating 189 horsepower through an available 8-speed automatic gearbox or standard 6-speed manual. Prices open at just over $30,000, retaining that original Mini magic equation. JD Power named it top premium subcompact car this year, noting driving enjoyment shines through for owners despite its compact dimensions. For maximum excitement per inch, nothing captivates quite like this iconic compact.
Mini Cooper Models
| Model | Powerplant | Efficiency | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini Cooper S Hardtop 2 Door | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 | 28 mpg | $32,400 |
Cisitalia – Forza And Form
After establishing Scuderia Cisitalia to participate in 1940s motorsport, namesake founder Domenico Saviero sequentially constructed captivating cars praised as “rolling sculpture.” Most legendary is the curvaceous 202 GT designed by style legend Pininfarina himself. Despite modest 1.1L inline-4 output, its seductive silhouette cut through the air to top 105 mph in period. Today, this lithe coupe resides proudly within NYC’s Museum of Modern Art permanant collection for fusing function and beauty.
Around 170 graced roads before the company ultimately folded in 1964 after Saviero’s passing. But the graceful 202 GT’s razor-edge finesse foreshadowed automotive aesthetics for decades. Bravo Cisitalia!
Which C-Car Suits You?
As our tour confirms, automakers carrying the letter C have contributed icons running the gamut from Chevrolet’s affordable performers like the Corvette or electric Bolt to the opulence of Cadillac. Citroën channeled creativity over outright power, while MINI and Cisitalia maximized mighty driving fun despite compact dimensions.
I hope this breakdown offers insight to find your perfect companion whether seeking prestige, utility, innovation or that perfect balance of all three. Beyond covering key model details, my goal was to convey each car‘s personality so you can best align selections with your priorities and passions. Sound good? If craving even more details as you deliberate drops by my website or YouTube channel for video reviews. Please reach out with any other questions too!
Now if you’ll excuse me, those winding backroads are calling my name in my beloved classic Cadillac…
