New cars. New technology.
Since the invention of the automobile, engineers and designers have taken the latest developments in aerodynamics and efficiency and put them together in the most appealing package they could build. The cutting-edge results often seemed "space age," at least for their time.
On CNBC's "Jay Leno's Garage," auto appraiser Donald Osborne and Jay Leno examine three different cars that were all once thought of as space age, to see which one appreciated best.
1. 1937 Panhard Dynamic
Panhard designed this futuristic car to be as advanced as it could be. Engineers used all their knowledge of aerodynamics to perfect the flow of air around the Dynamic, including a special front grille as well as fenders that were integrated into the car's body to cover the wheels.
To enhance the driving experience, Panhard also added extra glass that curved around the edge of where the windshield normally stopped. This allowed for a panoramic view.
2. 1961 Chrysler 300G
When people debate the origin of muscle cars, there's a strong argument to be made for the Chrysler letter cars. This one is the G.
The Chrysler letter cars broke performance records that had been held for decades, records previously held by the Duesenberg SJ.
The 300G was big and heavy, but it was also fast. It had 375 horsepower, which was amazing in 1961.
But it was the styling that really turned heads. And not always in a good way. Many people disliked the design because it felt a bit too rocket-like. However, there's something about it now that, as Leno puts it, is "classically American."
3. 1972 Citroën SM
This is one of Donald Osborne's favorite cars ever. He raves about the pairing of a French body with a Maserati engine. The results simply didn't look like anything else out there.
Especially under the hood.
There you find several thick rubber spheres. They were once filled with fluid on one side and nitrogen on the other. A compressor caused the rubber to push the fluid, which would then raise the car up and down without springs.
The car is quiet and intimidating. But how does it compare to the two other formerly space age cars when it comes to appreciation? You'll have to watch the video to find out.
CNBC's "Jay Leno's Garage" airs Wednesdays at 10 p.m. ET.
