Automotive design has evolved over the decades to incorporate safety and as a way for the designer to express their art. You could argue that modern cars have gotten complacent when it comes to exciting styling. And I’d be inclined to agree. There’s something else.

Throughout the existence of the motor vehicle, cars have always had an innate human character not only from the way they behave, but also down to the way they look. What’s even better is that it’s not exclusive to personification.

Car manufacturers like reminding us that they like sharks. I do too. I like how it’s a precise creature that can sense blood from a distance and how it’s presence strikes fear in other creatures wherever it goes. Car manufacturers also replicate the design into great cars that have a look akin to a shark for the purpose emphasising the character of the car.

So let’s dive into it.

1. Mercedes-AMG F1 W13

When Mercedes revealed their updated W13 in Bahrain testing, many were taken aback at the radical design. The car has significantly reduced sidepods to improve airflow to the coke bottle area. Amongst many revisions, the car also received louvres that look a lot like gills. For now, it’s difficult to tell if it’ll be as ruthless as a shark. We’ll wait and see for the 2022 season to run its course.

2. Porsche 997 GT2

The last manual and non-RS GT2. It developed a reputation of terrifying inexperienced doctors and bankers. Much like the 930 of yesteryear. It has the typical 911 handling and is not made easier with having to manage lumps of torque from the twin-turbocharged Mezger flat-six. So it has the right character and, luckily, the way it looks is also fitting. The wider body with the massive rear wing that has air intakes below really complemented the car and is reminiscent of the 993 GT2. To top it off it has gills. The only disappointment of the GT2 is the sound. No matter, that’s an opportunity for SharkWerks to do something about that.

3. BMW M5 E28

There is much debate about what the first true M car is. And also what the first super saloon is. The E28 was something of a revelation for the Bavarians. it’s ferociously quick and has a fire breathing straight-six that was one step away from motorsports. Since it has an aggressive character, the styling needs to adhere to such too. Well simply put, it looks brilliant. The shark nose is menacing and sharp. Also fitting as M5s generally have a villainous look to them.

4. Ferrari 575M

When production for the 575 ended in 2006, Ferrari took a different approach on how they wanted their Berlinettas to behave on the track and in day-to-day operations. Although it has a pretty forward thinking F1 automated manual sequential, it’s an analogue car that completely leaves you to your own devices when the traction control is turned off. It’s sharper and faster than its predecessor (the 550). Unfortunately it’s not as good looking. Back when it launched, a lot of us weren’t so sure about the styling. With time, it has aged well. In silver, it especially looks like Jaws. The front bumper with the vents on the front wings add up and the result is a wonderful GT that possess a fearsome look.

5. Corvette Stingray C2

Now onto something different. You might struggle to see a shark when looking at this specific Corvette. And you’d be right, but this one looks like a close relative. The Ray. Sure it’s already evident since it’s named “Stingray”. What’s different about this Corvette is it’s very subtle and appears to be docile but if you poke it with a stick, it might sting you.

6. Jaguar XK-R

Yes looking at its face maybe you see a cat. And I agree. However, if you also look really hard, you might start to liken the face to that of a whale shark. The flat and rounded face with the oval grille opening are the sort of details that justify the comparison. Just like the whale shark, it’s not as vicious as its relatives.

7. Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

Finally we end this list with another Mercedes. Like the W13, This one was also built in Britain. Like the other cars in this list, the SLR also looks like a shark. From the F1-inspired pointy nose to the lower front bumper. It doesn’t end there. Along the side you’ll spot the vents that look like gills. This is a homage to the legendary 300SL. And at the back there is an active air brake that looks like a caudal fin. It’s a violent car that roars when you stamp the throttle, but it has immense grip and composure in typical McLaren fashion.