Which car had the coolest spoiler or wing?

Spoiled much? Mercury

Spoiler alert! We’re talking about a subject that may prove divisive along generational lines. I’m not even gonna mention the most obvious spoiler or wing; it will undoubtedly be the most-cited submission in the comments section below. Instead I wish to expand everyone’s horizons with some lesser-known examples.

First, for the record, we’ll make a distinction between wings and spoilers. Put in the simplest terms, wings are usually elevated off of the decklid and larger in surface area, using the air coming off of the car to push down on the rear end and thus increase stability at speed. Spoilers—often positioned lower down and somewhat flush with the body, also involve airflow, but in this case for the purpose of directing up and air away from the car. Doing so prevents air turbulence that would otherwise result from the interaction of the high-pressure airflow and the low-pressure air behind the car.

Toyota

Because there have been insane spoilers from all generations, and from all corners of the world. The Mk. IV Supra Turbo is far from an obscure, deep cut in the world of automotive downforce, but it’s gone from niche, tuner curiosity blue chip investment—and modern performance icon. That wing is unmistakable.

Ford

But here’s one I bet you didn’t remember: The 1980s was a time when spoilers went mainstream, promoting themselves as beneficial to both high performance and fuel efficiency. The little dovetail at the end of the 1983–1986 Ford Thunderbird personified a newfound interest in aerodynamics for everyone. It’s also a beautifully subtle touch that introduced the styling flair to a buying public, one that now expects this stuff built into the product from Day One. And how great is that?

2019 McLaren Senna rear three quarter
Sajeev Mehta

Then there’s the complete opposite side of the spectrum. How about an insane wing mounted to am equally insane English body, purpose-built maximize downforce depending on the dynamics of the given moment? In some circles, the McLaren Senna’s could very well be the ultimate spoiler, as it’s both adjustable and hangs in the air instead of being firmly attached by two pillars. Has any manufacturer put more thought into a wing?

Yes, there’s that oh-so-famous, extremely rare/desirable/valuable, radically bewinged muscle car that I haven’t included in my diabolical brain teaser. Because what good is giving you what you already have in mind?

So without any further ado, which car had the best spoiler or wing?

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