Peel Trident

As far as weird cars go, the Peel Trident is one of the best-known. For good reason: it looks like something from the Jetsons, only grounded and a bit more cute than even the cartoon could muster. We can thank designer Cyril Cannell for this.

Both are still in limited production on and off, now and then, meaning getting yourself caught up in Peel ownership is an easier hobby than most of the vehicles at this website. Now, Peels are electric, replacing the dreadful small-displacement scooter engines.

To my eyes, the Jetsons-esque Trident is more practical. With a hinged top, it does away with the P50's comically tiny door. With a second seat, you're able to carry a passenger…whose comfort level depends on humidity levels from ‘Fun & Breezy’ to ‘Nudist Camp Sweat Lodge’.

For Peel, the Isle of Man was the ideal breeding ground for these “shopping” cars. 

As mentioned above (and linked below), the modern version is sold in both gasoline and electric, with a quoted top speed of 50 km/h (31 mph). Named as one of the worst cars of all time by auto writer Dan Neil, who am I to argue with someone who made a reference to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in his opine on the car?

There's a whimsical quality to the car, especially with the canopy open. 

It's like, "Where's the engine? How does it work? Where do the people go?" as the Trident has slowly become a mysterious, fragile, adult toy from a different era. 

My favourite version is the all-electric prototype from 1966, because the factory finally saw fit to add a second rear wheel — somehow making it look even more hilarious.

Story continues below…