UNUSUAL CARS

From minimalist cars -- such as the King Midget -- to the Batmobile, the Unusual Cars section boasts extraordinary vehicles. Also in the mix: the Jeep Hurricane, smart cars and the Gibbs Aquada.

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How the Smart Car Works

Already popular in Europe, the Smart Car is small in stature but big on economy. Learn how it came to be and explore the different models and versions.

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  • 5 Strangest Vehicles Ever Made
    5 Strangest Vehicles Ever Made

    Is designing a car a science or an art? Actually, it's both. But sometimes the final product is simply too bizarre, expensive, impractical (or even dangerous) to gain much public interest. See more »

  • How Art Cars Work
    How Art Cars Work

    Some people see the world in an entirely different light. Art car artists, for example, see a car as a blank canvas they can cover with doll heads, stained glass, rubber ducks, silverware and fur. See more »

  • How big is the world's smallest electric car?
    How big is the world's smallest electric car?

    Scientists in Switzerland and the Netherlands have created what can be called the world's smallest electric car. With standard four-wheel-drive, could this be your next new car? See more »

  • How Hearses Work
    How Hearses Work

    Most people would agree that there's something a little bit spooky about a hearse. But at the same time, there's something mysterious and fascinating about them, too. Why are we intrigued by hearses? See more »

  • How Monowheels Work
    How Monowheels Work

    So, you're getting a little bored with vehicles with four, two or even three wheels? How about a motorized vehicle with just one wheel? A monowheel just might give you the thrill you're looking for. See more »

  • How Mousetrap-powered Cars Work
    How Mousetrap-powered Cars Work

    If you're looking for a really neat school project, an activity that's hands-on (and a way to put those old Victor-brand traps to work on a peaceful purpose), try building a mousetrap-powered car. See more »

  • How Police Cars Work
    How Police Cars Work

    Police cars (in most cases) are equipped with a variety of paint schemes, decals and flashing lights in order to stand out from other cars on the road. But is there more to police cars than meets the eye? See more »

  • How Prop-driven Cars Work
    How Prop-driven Cars Work

    In many ways, a propeller-driven car is much simpler than our modern autos, but its drivetrain has potential for peril. Spinning propeller blades present a considerable hazard to the driver and pedestrians. See more »

  • How Rat Rods Work
    How Rat Rods Work

    Rat rodders build cars meant to be mean, fast and even a little scary. If you think they're just rusty, old junk -- maybe you should take a closer look. See more »

  • How Screw-Drive Vehicles Work
    How Screw-Drive Vehicles Work

    Looking for a way to traverse large areas of snow, muck or mud? A screw-drive vehicle might be exactly what you need. They perform in off-road conditions that would make other 4x4s cry out for mercy. See more »

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