Best Shooting Brakes: Sleek, Sporty and Not Station Wagons

Surprisingly, shooting brakes can be somewhat controversial. First, some people think a shooting brake is just a station wagon. Google’s dictionary thinks so, and even some enthusiasts agree.The origin of the name comes from England, back around 1900. It was supposed to be a vehicle that hauled people and gear for a hunting excursion. Coincidentally, the cars that evolved from the horse-drawn shooting brake wagons all had two doors.Later, these vehicles became sleek and sporty by nature. You can get into the technical nature of dimensions between the different pillars, and how a shooting brake isn’t a two-door hatchback, but likely you have a basic understanding of shooting brakes.Not everyone enjoys the looks of a true shooting brake. Apparently, automakers think Americans abhor them, because we essentially have none here. Europeans, on the other hand, must be the biggest fans. If you do like this style, what follows are the best shooting brakes.Ferrari FFNot too long ago, the concept of a Ferrari shooting brake would’ve been enough to stir the faithful into a frenzy. That will help you understand the outrage when the Italian automaker unveiled the 612 Scaglietti’s replacement.For a shooting brake, the Ferrari FF is one of the more attractive examples out there. Even better, it combines all-wheel drive with a potent V-12. You get great driving enjoyment, and can throw in the bags for a fun weekend getaway.Today, this shining example of a shooting brake lives on in the GTC4Lusso, which also is hated by purists.Lotus EliteNot only is this a shooting brake, it could provide the right template for the future Lotus SUV. True to form, the Brits incorporated lightness and simplicity in the design of this vehicle. That means you could take it to the track and surprise quite a few people. So, you get a practical car that’s super fun to drive, which is a big win.Some people really hate the way the Elite looks. I get it. But some people really hate the way the Lambo Countach looks. Something about this car reminds me of the Lancia Stratos, and that’s always a positive association. But yeah, this one’s kind of an ugly duck.BMW M CoupeThe Z3 was a great little roadster. The M version was even better. Topping both is what enthusiasts affectionately refer to as the “clown shoe.” If you look at it for two seconds, you’ll see why.Admittedly, this isn’t the best-looking shooting brake out there. But it does allow you to enjoy the fun of a roadster in the cold winter months. Also, you can throw all kinds of junk in the back, which you just can’t do with the Z3. Score one for practicality and fun.Volvo 1800ESPeople lust after the 1800 series in general, but the 1800ES is arguably the most attractive of the bunch. When Volvo unveiled it in 1971, the revised rear and longer roofline made it feel more premium. That also meant more cargo space, increasing the practical nature of this shooting brake.The 1800ES had the same platform and engines as the other 1800 models. That was a solid setup. Unfortunately, these shooting brakes were only made until 1973, so supply is short.Aston Martin Zagato Shooting BrakeThe Aston Martin Zagato Shooting Brake is everything a shooting brake should be: sleek, sexy and fast. Swooping lines include the roof, where plenty of glass and gloss black panels meld together. Aggressive vents in the hood and behind the front wheels remind you this shooting brake is made for serious driving. It’s a decidedly modern take on this beloved vehicle form, and really you have no reason to not love it.Some might be turned off by the interior. Yes, there are two seats, like a proper shooting brake. That means you can throw all kinds of stuff in the rear, making for a perfect couple’s weekend getaway vehicle.Since this shooting brake shares the same basic setup as the Vanquish S, you get a healthy 5.9-liter V-12 under the hood. It pumps out 580 horsepower, meaning you can really get up and go.Sadly, this model is expensive and rare. But what would you expect when Aston Martin and Zagato get together? Only 99 will be made, and you’ll be lucky to see one in person.Callaway C12 AeroWagenAmerican tuning shop Callaway finally did what everyone wanted, make a kit that transforms a Corvette into a shooting brake. This one is for the C7, and it looks incredible. That means you can have a bone-stock ‘Vette and slap this kit on it, instead of having to get the expensive Callaway tune.Just as important, this mod is completely reversible. Sure, you might not think you’ll get sick of a having a shooting brake Corvette, but you never know.Everyone knew this was coming, just not when. A few years ago, Callaway unveiled a shooting brake conversion concept, using a 2014 Corvette Stingray. Over three years later, a production version came out, and it was worth the wait.

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