Cars are among the most popular vehicles in the world. They form a large part of our culture and captivate people from all walks of life. Whether it be racing, cruising, or simply driving around town, cars have managed to engage with millions of people around the globe.
Not surprisingly, these beautiful little machines have been the subject of some of the best movies of all time. From classic films to more modern stories, car films have continued to captivate audiences for decades. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best car movies of all time.
- The Fast and the Furious Franchise (2001-2021)
It would be impossible to have a list of the best car movies without including The Fast and the Furious franchise. Since the first movie hit theaters in 2001, the franchise has become one of the highest-grossing movie series of all time.
The series follows an undercover police officer tasked with infiltrating a gang of street racers and gaining their trust. What follows are a series of thrilling and often spectacular races, hijackings, and other automotive hijinx. All set to a thrilling soundtrack, the series has become one of the all-time greats.
- Bullitt (1968)
Bullitt is one of the first great car movies. Starring iconic actor Steve McQueen, the film tells the story of a San Francisco cop tasked with pursuing and arresting a dangerous mob kidnapper.
The movie is known for its even more legendary car chase. Shot on the streets and hills of San Francisco, the chase features a Ford Mustang and a Dodge Charger battling it out in a classic scene that still stands the test of time.
- Gone in 60 Seconds (2000)
Starring Angelina Jolie and Nicholas Cage, this smash hit crime movie follows a group of car thieves tasked with stealing a priceless car. The high-stakes movie also features one of the greatest car chases of all time. Through the highways and byways of Los Angeles, the movie features a spectacular display of stunt driving, give the audience an adrenaline rush.
- Taxi Driver (1976)
Taxi Driver is one of the great American films of all time. Starring Robert DeNiro, this cult classic follows a mentally unbalanced Vietnam veteran working a night shift as a taxi driver.
The movie isn’t centered on car-related action, but it has some thrilling car-related scenes. In one memorable sequence, DeNiro chases after a vandal through the streets of New York City. This movie is definitely one to check out.
- The Italian Job (1969)
The Italian Job is an action-filled heist movie starring Michael Caine. The film follows a group of criminals planning a massive gold heist in Italy. The catch is they have to maneuver their way through the Italian Alps, driving Mini Coopers and other vehicles.
The movie features thrilling car chase sequences, intense driving through the mountains, and of course, plenty of explosions. This is definitely one of the all-time great car movies and it’s a must-watch for any car enthusiast.
- Le Mans (1971)
This legendary racing movie is a classic car movie. Directed by screen legend Steve McQueen, the film follows an American driver as he takes part in the grueling 24-hour Le Mans auto race.
The movie features some of the most exciting racing scenes ever seen in a movie. With it’s raw, visceral, in-car camera angles, this movie leaves no doubt as to why Steve McQueen is still considered one of the greatest racecar drivers of all time.
- Duel (1971)
Duel is a classic psychological thriller that follows a driver on a remote desert road who is terrorized by an unseen truck driver. The movie stars Dennis Weaver as the unsuspecting driver and is considered one of the best car movies of all time.
The thrilling movie is suspenseful and nerve-wracking, filled with intense car chases and a surprisingly brutal climax. This movie is definitely one you don’t want to miss if you’re a fan of car movies.
- Death Race 2000 (1975)
This classic B-movie is a cult hit and one of the greatest car flicks of all time. The movie is set in a dystopian future and follows a race across the country in which the drivers are encouraged to mow down innocent bystanders for points.
The movie features some spectacular car chase scenes, over-the-top kills, and plenty of explosions. Whether you’re a fan of B-movies or car movies, you’re sure to find something to love here.
- The Wraith (1986)
The Wraith is an often overlooked but highly enjoyable car movie. The film follows a mysterious driver who shows up to a small town and engages a violent gang in an all-out war.
The movie features some spectacular car chase scenes, with some of them even featuring a mysterious and powerful Dodge Turbo Interceptor. The movie also features some beautifully shot car stunts, and a very 80s soundtrack to boot.
- Mad Max (1979)
This Australian classic follows an outlaw biker as he battles against a psychotic gang in a post-apocalyptic world. The movie invented the car chase genre and still stands as one of the greatest car movies of all time.
The movie features some unbelievable stunt driving, along with some truly original action sequences. It’s a classic movie and certainly one for the ages.
These are just some of the greatest car movies of all time. From classic race films to modern thrillers, these movies all have one thing in common: they’re all great. Whether you’re a fan of classic films or modern spectacles, you’re sure to find something to love in these movies. So be sure to check them out if you love cars.
