In 1989 Solar was created when Upward, an American company wanted to expand into the luxury vehicle market.
In 1989 they shipped off their first design the Solar Tide. With a top speed of 130 and a premium luxury interior with expensive leather seats and a high price tag, the Tide was designed to be a car filling the Sports Luxury market of vehicles.
In 1990 the Solar Aero was released. Using a turbocharged Tide engine with an increased 225 hp and AWD, the sporty characteristics along with the wagon body, the Aero proved itself to be a fast luxurious car.
In 1992 the Solar Fire was released. The fastback had a powerful turbocharged 450 hp V6. The car is only 2949 lbs and has a top speed of 180 mph. The powerful engine and light body made this car have a high price tag.
In 1995 the Solar Hunter was released. Originally a joke, a small hatchback with a Fire engine, it became a reality when the turbo was removed for a more reasonable 244 hp. A light weight, and fast engine proved to be good for the RWD manual.
Light truck monocoque and a 4 speed manual in a sports car, I can see why the brand was short lived. I like the names though. Somehow remind me Pontiac with their “Sun…” and “Fire…” series.
