By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse
If you think of some of the key design features in cars – old and new – a front grille like a bonnet, boot and headlights – is an important part of its styling.
The arrival of EVs, led by the likes of Tesla, has certainly made manufacturers re-evaluate the design value of the grille.
But, it’s not just a modern day thing that sees makers move away from the aesthetics of the front grille, going back rear-engined cars made manufacturers look with fresh eyes at the nose end.
Over decades, designers of ‘front-engine’ vehicles have also seen the value of the grille-less look and moving engine air intake underneath the front fascia.
Looking back there are many classic cars and retro 80s and 90s models without noticeable grilles that have been commercial successes.
Here are five models that spring to mind. You might have your own favourites!
The iconic front-engined Citroen DS was an aerodynamic classic, featuring a low-drag nose feeding cooling air to the radiator from underneath the front bumper. It might be 70 years old but this French classic still looks futuristic today.
There are many examples of rear-engined models and when it comes to ‘striking a pose’ for me the VW Karmann Ghia (produced between 1955 and 1974) is a beautifully designed model – picture those small slatted openings next to its headlights. The Porsche 356, also from the 50s had a similarly impressive design with its lightweight four cylinder engine mounted at the rear.
Between 1988 and 1993, the mass produced VW Passat famously removed its radiator grille. Like the DS this ‘bottom breather’ took airflow from beneath the bumper to cool the engine as well as a hidden intake behind the VW badge. This third-generation Passat was a fleet and family favourite selling 1.5 million units in five years.
The Italians love for sleek styling brought us the front-engined Alfa Romeo Spider which debuted in 1966. This classic 60s Pininfarina design featured a grille-less nose and a ‘boat tail’ rear. Sadly, these were rarely seen sports cars on our shores and few were sold in right-hand drive.
As we see more and more electric cars it seems inevitable that we’re likely to see less big front grilles It all adds up to a big challenge for car designers and you wonder – do they ‘save face’ or go grille-less?