When an OEM discontinues a model, that doesn’t mean that all extant examples instantly vanish as though snapped out of existence by Thanos. Dealerships will sell off the vehicles they have, producing the bizarre effect of sales figures for cars that don’t technically exist anymore.
Here are five models that are gone but still purchased last year by satisfied customers and collectors.
2016 Dodge Dart
This compact lasted three years, but had trouble competing with the Honda Civic or the Toyota Corolla. This is already a resurrection of the Dart name, as it was a compact offering from Dodge from 1963-1976. Still, Dodge sold seven of these zombies last year.
2017 Dodge Viper
While initially popular, the Viper fell off over the course of its existence, and was one of the models discontinued during Chrysler’s monetary difficulties. It’s a shame, because it’s pretty styling. A few buyers agreed with me in 2020, taking four of these machines off the market.
Image Source: Kelley Blue Book
2017 Jeep Patriot
The Patriot was riding high, no pun intended, when it was suddenly discontinued in 2017. You might be noticing a theme here among Chrysler offerings. Three were sold last year, though, and if you want one I’d guess there’s more than one still out there.
2012 Lexus LFA
The Lexus LFA was a highly anticipated vehicle, a luxury ride with sports car power. It lasted all of two years, in distant 2011-2012. This year, Lexus managed to sell three of these, and there should be one more out there, waiting for a lucky driver.
Image Source: Kelley Blue Book
2016 Honda CR-Z
Honda is going to have a tough time marketing another compact since they already have a juggernaut in the Civic. A sporty two-seat hybrid, the CR-Z seemed to have a bit of an identity crisis right from the jump. Only a single one was sold in all of 2020.
As long as OEMs continue to phase models out, zombie cars will continue to be a fun footnote in car sales. If there’s any lesson to be learned, it’s this: if you have a zombie on your lot, don’t despair. It’ll find a home. Unless it’s a real zombie… then maybe think about running.
