The Classic 1970s Penguin Car with Iconic Umbrella Logo

The Penguin Car, also known as the Penguin Mobile, was a unique vehicle that was popular in the 1970s. It was designed to promote Penguin Books, a well-known British publishing house. The car was instantly recognizable thanks to its iconic umbrella logo, which was prominently displayed on its side.

1. The Design of the Penguin Car

The Penguin Car was designed by a team led by Tom Karen, a British industrial designer. The car was based on a Hillman Imp, a popular British car of the time. However, the Penguin Car had a distinctive design that set it apart from other cars. It had a fiberglass body that was shaped like a penguin, complete with a beak and wings. The car was painted in the signature Penguin Books colors of orange and white, with the Penguin logo on the side.

2. The Purpose of the Penguin Car

The Penguin Car was created to promote Penguin Books and its authors. The car was used to travel around the UK, visiting bookstores and events. It was also used as a prize in competitions and as a promotional vehicle at book fairs and exhibitions. The Penguin Car was a popular sight on British roads, and many people have fond memories of seeing it driving past.

3. The Legacy of the Penguin Car

The Penguin Car was a unique and memorable vehicle that captured the imagination of the British public. It was a successful marketing tool for Penguin Books, and the company continued to use it for many years. The Penguin Car has become a cultural icon, and it is still remembered fondly today. In fact, a replica of the Penguin Car was created in 2016 to celebrate Penguin Books’ 80th anniversary.

In conclusion, the Penguin Car was a classic vehicle that remains an iconic symbol of British culture. Its distinctive design and iconic umbrella logo made it instantly recognizable, and it played an important role in promoting Penguin Books and its authors. Even today, the Penguin Car continues to capture the imagination of people around the world.

is a vintage car that was manufactured by Penguin Cars Limited in the 1970s. The car is known for its unique design and iconic umbrella logo, which has become a symbol of the brand.

Design and Features

The Penguin Car is a small, two-door car that was designed for urban driving. The car has a distinctive rounded shape with a sloping front and rear. It is powered by a 850cc engine that produces 40 horsepower, making it a zippy little car that is perfect for city driving.

Another unique feature of the Penguin Car is its sliding windows. The car has no external door handles, and instead, the windows slide forward to allow passengers to enter and exit the car. This design feature gives the car a sleek and modern look, and also makes it easier to park in tight spaces.

History and Legacy

Penguin Cars Limited was a British car manufacturer that produced the Penguin Car from 1970 to 1974. The company was founded by Alan Faulkner-Jones, who had previously worked for the British car manufacturer, Austin.

Despite its unique design and innovative features, the Penguin Car was not a commercial success. The company produced only 1,500 cars before it went bankrupt in 1974. Today, the Penguin Car is a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item, with some models selling for as much as $20,000.

The iconic umbrella logo of the Penguin Car has become a symbol of the brand, and is still recognized by car enthusiasts around the world. Although the car was only produced for a short time, its legacy lives on as a testament to innovative design and British engineering.