Want to know if your car has a rare or unique color for its model? Maybe wondering how likely you’ll be able to resell your car at a competitive price when you’re ready for an upgrade?
A lot of the times it can be obvious, since most cars always come in neutral colors and a few “flashier” ones, but it doesn’t hurt to do some research first, especially when it comes to used cars.
The Breakdown
According to DuPont, the most popular colors of cars globally tend to be silver and white, with other neutral colors such as black and grey following close behind. White or pearl soared in popularity within the past few years, averaging at 35% when combining solid white and pearl white. Red and blue are a little more popular at 7% and 6%, respectively. Gold, yellow, and green are three of the least bought and offered colors on the market, switching between 1 to 2% of cars. The report lists orange or purple at 2% combined, so it’s safe to assume not many people go for a tangerine or plum scheme.
By Model
Some cars offer limited runs of certain colors. Some colors were discontinued after lack of sales, instantly turning them into rare car colors. Here are just a few examples:
Volkswagen
(Flickr)
In the 90’s, Volkswagen had a menagerie of special editions and rare colors on their cars. The Volkswagen Golf MK3 came in the “Harlequin” paint scheme from the Design series specifically for touring shows. VW made them by swapping other exteriors from the same model and mixing them together for a new take on a clown car. The multi-color cars have lots of character and VW only made 264 in 1996. Additionally, Volkswagen sponsored three band’s tours and released one special edition per year in the same decade. The first was the Golf Pink Floyd Edition in 1994, the Golf Rolling Stones Edition in 1995 and the Golf Bon Jovi Edition in 1996.
Cadillac
(Wikimedia)
GM made an exclusive deal with Mary Kay in 1968 to offer the custom-made limited pink Cadillac to match their latest blush color and has been a tradition ever since, expanding to other car models and colors. But the pinks and pearlescent color scheme is a tradition that has lasted since GM made the first one in Dallas. What makes these cars extra rare is that you must be a Mary Kay consultant that has sold a sizeable amount of products. Top consultants have the option of getting the car as a reward. Once the lease is up, consultants may only sell it to authorized dealers, who then repaint it a different color before selling it. The iconic cars are instantly associated with Mary Kay consultants, as no one else can own it.
Subaru
(Youtube)
Subaru very briefly offered the 2010 Forrester 2.5X Limited in Paprika Red Pearl, Cherry Pearl and Sky Blue Pearl. If you’re lucky, you may be able to spot one out in public.
