Jowett Javelin (1947)Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jowett Javelin

1947 — UK

Post-War (1946-1959)British
Engine1,486 cc
DrivetrainRWD

Jowett Javelin

The Javelin represented one of Britain's most technically advanced post-war designs, featuring a horizontally-opposed engine, unitary body construction, and all-independent torsion bar suspension. Its streamlined aerodynamic body achieved exceptional fuel economy and surprising performance from the modest 1.5-liter flat-four engine. Handling was outstanding for the era, making it popular in rallying and saloon racing. Unfortunately, early reliability issues with the unconventional engine design and Jowett's limited resources ultimately doomed this innovative car to commercial failure despite its technical brilliance.