While cars with clamshell doors are unique, they can also be dangerous. Also referred to as suicide doors, clamshell doors are rear-hinged rather than front-hinged doors. While still featured on some modern cars, they are relatively uncommon as they’re considered less safe.
Sure, they make getting in and out of vehicles much easier. However, their biggest benefit may be their biggest drawback.
Clamshell Doors Present Some Risks When Traveling at High Speeds
According to J.D. Power, driving at high speeds with unlocked doors could cause them to be flung wide open.
That could mean an unpleasant exit for a passenger who is not wearing a seat belt. You can imagine how that unfortunate scenario could play out.
But They Look So Cool, Though
While the potential dangers clamshell doors present are worth knowing about, there’s no denying they look cool. For one thing, they’re relatively uncommon. If you prefer to have something different, a vehicle with clamshell doors is worth considering.
Even though we acknowledge it’s best to get a car with front-hinged doors if you’re particularly safety conscious, here are 14 of the best-looking vehicles with clamshell doors. You may disagree with our 13th entry, but you’ll see our rationale for including it.
Ford Model B
The 1932 Ford Model B is an early example of a classic vehicle with clamshell doors. It’s a beauty to behold. Although it’s a slowpoke compared to modern vehicles, that’s probably a good thing, given that it’s fitted with suicide doors. The Model B has a 4-cylinder engine under the hood and a look that still turns heads today.
Ford Deluxe
Another good example of a vehicle with clamshell doors is the 1934 Ford Deluxe. One source says the car was a direct challenge to Chevy, which had a 6-cylinder engine, versus the 1934 Ford Deluxe, which had a V8.
Lincoln Zephyr
The Henry Ford Museum states that the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr’s “flowing teardrop shape suggests motion.” It adds that the car “joined aerodynamic styling with attractiveness.” The suicide doors only add to the Zephyr’s elegance and classic appeal.
Lincoln Continental Mark II
Hagerty says a 1956 Lincoln Continental Mark II in good condition can cost about $51,400. That said, one was recently sold for $27,825, while the highest sale ever was $715,000. It’s a 2-door sport coupe with an 8-cylinder engine generating 285 horsepower. The luxury car’s unique design and clamshell doors make it a classic.
Lincoln Continental
There’s no denying that the 1958 Lincoln Continental features a bold style. While a safety hazard, the clamshell doors are nonetheless an eye-catching feature that ups its aesthetic.
Rolls-Royce Phantom V
The 1967 Rolls-Royce Phantom V is a large four-door vehicle manufactured by Rolls-Royce. The brand is synonymous with luxury and is still a favorite among celebrities and business execs.
And, yes, the Rolls-Royce Phantom V incorporates rear clamshell doors that give the vehicle its distinctive classic look.
Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow
The 1969 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow features a V8 engine that produces 300 hp and 400 ft-lbs of torque. It wasn’t the fastest car around when manufactured—it did 0-60 mph in around 11 seconds—but that wasn’t the point. You don’t drive a Rolls-Royce like a maniac.
Rolls-Royce Phantom
Can we take a moment to appreciate the cool names Rolls-Royce chooses? Take the Phantom, for example. In addition to a classic look enthusiasts won’t mistake for any other car, the Rolls-Royce Phantom incorporates clamshell doors that give the vehicle its unique look.
Rolls-Royce Wraith
The Rolls-Royce Wraith is a luxurious grand tourer that turns heads. It is regarded as “one of the most powerful models in Rolls-Royce history.” While the clamshell doors don’t make the car, they add to its mystique.
Lincoln Continental Coach Door Edition
When the 2019 Lincoln Continental Coach Door Edition hit the market, it was announced that the base price would be north of $100,000. It has AWD, 400 HP, and a 3.0T twin-turbocharged V6 engine. The 2019 model is actually a modern reissue of the classic 1960s model.
1960 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham
When the 1960 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham was released, it was offered as a luxury car. Its clamshell doors add to Cadillac’s reputation for style and premium aesthetic appeal.
Mazda RX-8
Another vehicle that fits the bill is the Mazda RX-8. The four-door coupe is a sporty vehicle designed so that the two rear doors of the clamshell variety are almost hidden. In other words, it’s a four-door car that looks like a two-door. They were manufactured from 2002 to 2012.
Saturn Ion Quad Coupe
While CNN refers to the Saturn Ion Quad Coupe’s “two small hatch-like rear doors” as “another failed innovation by Saturn,” it might be the car for you if you like quirky vehicles that stand out.
One potential issue is that the two rear clamshell doors can only be opened if the front doors are open—but then again, that would eliminate some of the potential safety drawbacks of these doors.
Facel Vega Excellence
The Facel Vega Excellence has a pillarless four-door configuration that makes entering and exiting through the rear doors easier. According to Hagerty UK, it was manufactured “for the rich and famous.”
Clamshell Doors at Their Finest
These are just some of the best clamshell vehicles you’ll find. Thankfully, not all of them will cost you an arm and a leg. So, if you want to add another vehicle to your collection and desire something different, consider a car with this distinctive feature. Just ensure you do your research and choose wisely.
More From Driver’s Drift
17 Cars That Are Incredibly Fun to Drive
13 SUVs with the Most Luxurious Interiors
13 Cars Owners Wish They’d Never Purchased
16 Reasons Why Some Americans Will Never Embrace Electric Vehicles
