The Most Outrageous Special Edition Cars Ever Made

Discover the top 3 wildest special edition cars ever made — from rainbow-colored Golfs to winged Smarts and doorless Lotuses.

The world of cars occasionally abandons logic and embraces the absurd. Special editions often walk the fine line between innovation and provocation, but some go far beyond — into the territory of eccentricity. Out of many limited-run oddities, three stand out for their boldness, backstory, and sheer visual defiance.

Volkswagen Golf Harlequin (1995)

What started as a simple paint demonstration ended up becoming one of Volkswagen’s most unexpected cult cars. The Golf Harlequin combined four different body colors — red, blue, green, and yellow — with panels mismatched on purpose. Originally intended only as a dealership marketing tool, public enthusiasm led to a short production run of around 260 units.

This wildly colorful hatchback was anything but subtle. Most owners eventually tried to repaint their cars due to the overwhelming palette, making surviving originals extremely rare today. Over time, Harlequin became a collector’s curiosity and a symbol of playful design.

Smart ForJeremy (2012)

The Smart ForJeremy was born from a collaboration between Smart and fashion designer Jeremy Scott. Visually, it was unlike anything else on the road. Chrome panels, a glowing white interior, and most notably, large molded wings at the rear — integrated directly into the taillights.

Initially presented as a concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show, its reception prompted the release of a limited production series. Despite its fashion-forward appearance, the car was fully electric and road-legal, blending urban practicality with runway-style excess.

Lotus 340R (2000)

Unlike its flashy counterparts, the Lotus 340R was a statement in minimalism. It had no doors, no roof, and no extra weight. This was a car designed purely for performance, optimized for track use while remaining street legal. It weighed just 701 kg and delivered 177 horsepower through a stripped-down body designed like a racing skeleton.

Only 340 units were produced, all of which sold out before the model officially launched. The 340R wasn’t built for comfort — it was created for those who believe driving is best when it’s raw, physical, and uncompromising.

These cars weren’t practical. They weren’t safe bets. But they were memorable — and perhaps that was the point. In a world of sensible sedans and predictable SUVs, they stand as proof that automotive design still has space for madness. And maybe, just maybe, that’s what keeps the spirit of innovation alive.