The Future of Cars Looks Surprisingly Retro

At just about every automotive event, you expect to see the future. Monterey Car Week 2026 had a bit of that, epitomized by high-revving manual hypercars, a glimpse at Jaguar’s forthcoming electric angle, and head-turning moments like the Aston Martin Valen, its most powerful front-engined car ever (unsurprisingly available in an ultra-limited edition of 150 models). But there was also an abundance of peeks at the past.

Some of the coolest moments came from throwbacks like V12 engines and manual transmissions, the latter of which are becoming increasingly hard to come by as the automotive industry leans into ease of use (and automatics). V12 are similarly uncommon in light of emission regulations and a desire for smaller (and more manageable cars).

But the shadow of yesterday was cast over much of Monterey, and I mean that in a good way. Yesterday's biggest hits were played loud and proud.

Eccentrica unveiled an open-top version of its comprehensively reworked Lamborghini Diablo, while Porsche showed the Flachbau RS, a road-legal GT2 RS inspired by the 935 Moby Dick.

Hennessey went in a more old-school direction with the Blackbird, pairing a naturally aspirated V8 with a six-speed manual gearbox, while Gordon Murray followed a similar formula with the S1, which gets a 12,100rpm Cosworth V12, a manual gearbox and a central driving position.

And Louis Vuitton debuted two bespoke Porsche 911 restorations remastered with Singer to include custom leather, luggage and removable mechanical dashboard clocks. This feels like the single most car of the now: a contemporary reclamation of an all-time automotive classic, tastefully updated to the first-come sensibilities of the present.

Even the emphasis on manual transmissions felt like a real throwback, even if they did come on all-new rides.

McLaren previewed the V8-powered McL 6GT, its first manual road car since the F1, while Spyker returned with the 800hp C8 Preliator XXV. RUF also introduced the EHRA, a 650bhp all-wheel-drive model with a seven-speed manual. Ferrari revealed the one-off SF90-based CZ26, while Lanzante confirmed a new high-downforce package for its three-seat 95-59 supercar.

But one of the biggest debuts was clearly Jaguar putting forth its latest and greatest electric innovation. Its Type 01 showcases a four-seat interior that uses a central spine, minimalist controls and technology designed to stay hidden until needed. Now, this is the car of the future.

So, you really can give Monterey credit for walking the line between of both sides of the modern car world: futuristic luxury on one hand, and lightweight, analogue performance on the other, all in the name of classic motifs made modern.

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