When it comes to exotic cars, it’s not just what’s under the hood or the sleek body design that makes an impact—it's also the doors. Unlike standard cars, exotic car manufacturers often add an extra layer of allure with unique door designs that make these vehicles unforgettable. Each door type carries a sense of purpose, aesthetic, and engineering that makes it a signature of its respective brand.
Dihedral Doors – McLaren
McLaren’s dihedral doors, also known as butterfly doors, are perhaps one of the most captivating door designs in the world of supercars. The dihedral doors open outward and upward at a 90-degree angle, pivoting on hinges that allow them to swing forward and out in a truly dramatic fashion. This design is not just for show; it also makes getting in and out easier in tight spaces, a practical advantage for city driving.
Scissor Doors – Lamborghini
Lamborghini’s scissor doors, famously associated with the brand’s iconic models like the Lamborghini Aventador, open by rotating vertically on a fixed hinge near the windshield. This design creates a striking, almost predatory look, capturing the spirit of the Lamborghini brand. Initially introduced to improve rear visibility in early models, scissor doors quickly became a staple, giving Lamborghini a unique silhouette.
Gullwing Doors – Pagani
Gullwing doors are both a visual marvel and a feat of engineering, with hinges at the roof that allow the doors to swing upward, resembling the wings of a seagull. This type of door requires clever engineering for balance and safety, as seen in the Pagani Huayra. Gullwing doors make a dramatic entrance, underscoring the exclusivity and extravagance of high-end models like Pagani, which combines Italian artistry with precision engineering.
Butterfly Doors – Ferrari and Ford GT
Butterfly doors are similar to McLaren’s dihedral doors but have a unique opening mechanism. The doors lift both upward and outward, creating a broader entry space that’s ideal for supercars with low seating. Models like the Ferrari LaFerrari and the Ford GT are known for their butterfly doors, which bring an element of elegance and ease to entering and exiting the vehicle.
Swan Doors – Aston Martin
Aston Martin’s swan doors, also known as "winged" doors, open outwards and slightly upward, mimicking the movement of a swan’s wing. This subtle elevation creates a sense of grandeur while preventing the door from hitting curbs. Swan doors are practical for real-world use, giving Aston Martin models like the DB11 a mix of functionality and classic British charm.
Canopy Doors – Koenigsegg
One of the rarest and most futuristic door designs, canopy doors open upward and forward along with the windshield and roof, creating an almost spaceship-like feel. This type of door design is usually reserved for ultra-high-performance hypercars like Koenigsegg. Known for their focus on pushing engineering limits, Koenigsegg’s canopy doors offer a unique entry that reflects the brand’s innovation and exclusivity.
Suicide Doors – Rolls-Royce
Rolls-Royce revives the “suicide door” concept, also known as coach doors, where the rear doors are hinged at the back, opening in the opposite direction of the front doors. This unique style offers a grand and gracious entry experience, especially popular with chauffeur-driven models. Unlike the sporty, performance-driven doors of other exotic cars, Rolls-Royce’s suicide doors enhance the luxury and sophistication that Rolls-Royce is known for.
Exotic car doors are more than mere design elements—they’re symbols of identity for each brand, blending engineering with artistry. From McLaren’s dihedral doors and Lamborghini’s scissor doors to Pagani’s gullwing doors, each design enhances the brand’s unique character and the car’s overall performance and appeal. These innovative doors showcase the craftsmanship, ingenuity, and passion that define exotic cars, adding to the mystique that keeps enthusiasts captivated.