Discover the fascinating stories behind car models named after horses—from Hyundai Pony to Ferrari Purosangue and beyond. Explore the legacy today!
When you hear the name of a car, it often evokes speed, power, or a certain lifestyle. Few automakers, however, choose a name that taps into the timeless spirit of the horse. From rugged mustangs to elegant mares, the equine world has inspired some of the most memorable vehicle names. Below we explore the stories behind these horse‑inspired car models.
Hyundai Pony
Designed by Italy’s Giorgetto Giugiaro in the early 1970s, the Hyundai Pony was the Korean manufacturer’s first mass‑produced car. The name “Pony” symbolises a new beginning and the potential of Hyundai’s first home‑grown vehicle, much like a young pony represents growth and promise. It also references the small, hardy horse breed that thrives in tough climates—from the British Isles to the high plateaus of Tibet.
Subaru Brumby (BRAT)
Produced between 1978 and 1994, the Subaru Brumby—known internationally as the BRAT (Bi‑Directional Runabout Truck)—draws its name from Australia’s wild Brumby horses. The rugged, hardworking nature of these feral horses mirrors the vehicle’s role as a compact, off‑road pickup built for farmers and adventurers navigating narrow, challenging trails.
Ford Pinto
Ford named its compact sedan “Pinto” after a spotted horse breed admired for its striking appearance and spirited temperament. Introduced as an affordable, easy‑to‑maintain car for short trips and weekend getaways, the Pinto later became infamous for fuel‑tank safety issues that led to massive recalls and lawsuits.
Mitsubishi Colt Ralliart Version‑R
The term “colt” refers to a young, uncastrated male horse—full of vigor and potential. Mitsubishi applied the name to a small, turbo‑charged hatchback that enthusiasts nicknamed “Baby Evo.” Produced for the Japanese market from 2006 to 2010, the Colt combined aggressive styling with lightweight performance.
Ford Mustang
No horse‑related car name is more iconic than the Mustang. Since its 1964 debut, the Mustang has embodied the wild, untamed spirit of the American West, becoming a symbol of muscle, freedom, and rebellion across six decades.
Ford Bronco
“Bronco” describes an untrained, bucking horse—perfect for a vehicle built to tackle rough terrain. The Bronco’s logo features a horse rearing on its hind legs, reinforcing the model’s rugged, adventurous character.
Hyundai Equus
“Equus” is Latin for horse, and Hyundai used the term for its flagship luxury sedan (1999‑2016). The name conveys strength, elegance, and prestige, reflected in the model’s V8 engine, meticulous interior craftsmanship, and chrome accents.
Porsche Taycan
Porsche’s logo references Stuttgart’s historic stud farms (Stutengarten), while the model name “Taycan” comes from Turkish, meaning “young, spirited horse.” The Taycan blends electric efficiency with Porsche’s legendary sports‑car DNA.
Ferrari Purosangue
Ferrari’s first SUV carries the Italian term “purosangue,” which translates to “pure blood” and refers to the thoroughbred racehorse. The vehicle aims to combine SUV practicality with the performance DNA of a true racing horse.
Bugatti Brouillard
Unveiled in late 2025, the one‑off Bugatti “Brouillard” is named after the founder Ettore Bugatti’s favorite horse. Inside, a bronze statue of the horse and equine‑styled stitching pay homage to the brand’s equestrian heritage.
Koenigsegg Sadair’s Spear
Christian von Koenigsegg named the limited‑edition Jesko after his father, and the “Sadair’s Spear” edition honors his father’s legendary racehorse. With a 5.0‑liter twin‑turbo V8 delivering 1,602 hp, the car is described as faster than any horse on the track.
These horse‑inspired names illustrate how automakers tap into the power, elegance, and heritage of the equine world to create lasting brand identities.