Obscure Auto Classics – Models Starting with "Y"

Dear reader, have you ever wondered about the forgotten vehicles of automotive history, the short-lived experiments and flashes-in-a-pan models that blaze brightly but briefly? As an auto analyst and self-proclaimed car nerd, I have a fascination with this consumer niche. Join me on an alphabetical journey starting with "Y" to unearth little-known cars that left an outsized cultural footprint.

Why "Alphabet Cars" Merit Attention

Before diving in, let‘s level-set on why spotlighting alphabet cars makes sense. Romania-based Dacia sells over 500,000+ vehicles annually[1], mostly in Europe. But have you heard of Young Engineers Sportscar (YES!) based in Germany? Likely not, given their boutique production runs. Still, YES!‘s lightweight roadsters embody the relentless pioneering spirit central to automotive innovation.

Obscure models may never top sales charts, but they reveal key insights on manufacturing trends, buyer sentiment shifts, and the very human desire for four-wheeled self-expression. By documenting these lesser-knowns, we honor the passion and creativity that comprehensively shaped the industry over decades.

Now, onto the models! Refer to Table 1 as we go for key dimensional and performance specifications.

Table 1: Key specifications comparison across models starting with "Y"

Yamaha – When Motorbikes Met Automotives

Yamaha expanded beyond motorcycles and instruments in the 1960s-70s to support major automakers‘ concept cars. The Yamaha OX99-11 jointly built with Toyota in 1974 stands out for its Formula 1-inspired design and 340 HP V8 racing engine[2]. Though never mass-produced, it showcased successful collaborations between the iconic Japanese brands. Yamaha also contributed performance components to production vehicles like the Ford Taurus SHO, Volvo XC90 SUV, and Toyota‘s own 2000GT sports car.

Video: The Yamaha OX99-11 concept car at Goodwood Festival of Speed

Toyota Echo/Yaris/Vitz – Catering To You, Whatever Your Location

Debuting in 1999, Toyota‘s Yaris economical subcompact adopted various names globally like the Echo in Asia and Vitz in Japan, but value positioning remained consistent. As Toyota President Fujio Cho said, “We were trying to build a car that would appeal to young people, one that would make them feel enriched."[3]

The zippy, durable, and affordable 5-door hatchback struck a chord across continents and demographics to become Toyota‘s top-selling model in markets like Europe. Fun fact – "Yaris" derives from Charis, the Greek goddess symbolizing charm and beauty[4]. An apt choice for a petite people-pleaser punching above its weight.

Image: 5 generations of the Toyota Yaris model lineup across global markets 

Skoda Yeti – The Family-Friendly Snow Beast

Rugged SUVs hailing from Eastern Europe evoke Cold War-era designs bereft of elegance. But in 2009, Czech automaker Skoda daringly fused utility with refinement in the Yeti compact crossover[5].

Named after the Abominable Snowman mythical creature, the handsomely capable 5-seater won Top Gear’s 2011 Family Car of the Year award. All-wheel drive variants with raised suspension expertly handled Northern European winters and light off-roading. While discontinued in 2017 and replaced by the Skoda Karoq, Yeti‘s balance of space, capabilities and Euro-flavored sophistication set expectations for future small SUVs.

Video: Skoda Yeti off-road customer review

Bespoke American Muscle – The Yenko Camaro

Stock 1960s-era Chevrolet Camaros gained head-turning ferocity when modified by Don Yenko‘s dealership[6]. These Pennsylvania-tuned Yenko Camaros became icons of the American muscle car era. What modifications were involved?

As Car and Driver described, Yenko swapped in the largest allowable V8 paired with racing rear axles and gears, heavy duty suspensions, and large carburetors[7]. Strip-racing and street-legal versions cranked out hard-charging 400-500+ HP to defeat rivals. Surviving ‘67 Yenkos now command $200,000+ valuations from collectors[8].

Only personalizing 54 originals, Yenko‘s exclusivity and brute power contrasts starkly with mass-market models!

Image: Modified 1967 Yenko Camaro outpacing rivals

And we‘ve just scratched the surface here. For even more obscure finds, check out our compendium of the most unique debuts at key Auto Shows worldwide. No matter your destination, may the drive there bring you joy and precious memories ahead!

Best regards,
VJ

Sources

[1] 2022 Dacia Annual Sales
[2] Yamaha OX99-11 Concept Details
[3] 2001 BusinessWeek Interview with Toyota President
[4] Wikipedia etymology notes on Toyota Yaris name
[5] 2009 Skoda Yeti Press Kit
[6] Hemmings piece on Don Yenko tuning Camaros
[7] Car & Driver Retrospective on 1967 Shelby GT500 vs Yenko Camaro
[8] Classic.com stats on 1967 Yenko Camaro value