Slang Words for Car (and How to Use Them Correctly)

Written by Gabriel Cruz - Foodie, Animal Lover, Slang & Language Enthusiast

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Anything that’s important to pop culture will see the development of a whole vernacular of slang terms and phrases. Cars, which are frequently a status symbol, are no exception.

If you’re wondering what other things you can call your car, you’ve found the right page. We’ll be discussing some slang words for car and car-related topics in this vehicle-themed guide.

Whip

Whip

Definition: A slang term for a car.

Sentence: He rolled up in his brand new whip, turning heads as he drove by.

Ride

Definition: A slang term for a car, often emphasizing the experience of driving or being a passenger.

Sentence: I hopped into my ride and cruised down the highway, enjoying the smoothness of the journey.

Ride

Wheels

Definition: A slang term for a car, referring to the tires as a symbol of the vehicle.

Sentence: Check out his new set of wheels; he’s got some impressive rims on that car.

wheels

Machine

Definition: A slang term for a car, emphasizing its mechanical nature.

Sentence: His sleek sports car is a well-oiled machine that roars to life as soon as he starts the engine.

Machine

Buggy

Definition: A slang term for a car, typically used to refer to an older or vintage vehicle.

Sentence: He restored a classic buggy from the 1920s and loves taking it out for a spin on the weekends.

Buggy

Motor

Definition: A slang term for an automobile engine or the car itself.

Sentence: That car has a powerful motor that can go from 0 to 60 in just a few seconds.

Motor

Chariot

Definition: A slang term for a car, often used humorously to evoke images of ancient times.

Sentence: She arrived at the party in her trusty chariot, a reliable car that never lets her down.

Chariot

Beast

Definition: A slang term for a powerful and impressive car.

Sentence: The new sports car is an absolute beast, with a roaring engine and breathtaking speed.

Beast

Cruiser

Definition: A slang term for a car that is comfortable and suitable for long drives.

Sentence: His luxury sedan is a cruiser, perfect for enjoying a smooth and relaxing ride on the open road.

Cruiser

Wagon

Definition: A slang term for a station wagon or a car with a large cargo space at the back.

Sentence: They loaded up the wagon with camping gear and set off for a weekend getaway in the countryside.

Wagon

Jalopy

Definition: A slang term for an old, dilapidated, or rundown car.

Sentence: His jalopy barely made it to the destination; it’s time for him to get a new ride.

Jalopy

Hooptie

Definition: A slang term for an old, unreliable, or inexpensive car.

Sentence: They all piled into his beat-up hooptie, praying it would survive the road trip.

Hooptie

Bucket

Definition: A slang term for an old, worn-out, or cheap car.

Sentence: He bought a rusty bucket as his first car, but it got him from point A to point B, albeit with some struggles.

Bucket

Banger

Definition: A slang term for a car, often used to describe an impressive or powerful vehicle.

Sentence: His modified race car is

an absolute banger, winning multiple championships on the track.

Banger

Tin Lizzie

Definition: A slang term for an early Ford Model T car, known for its lightweight metal construction.

Sentence: The vintage car show featured several beautifully restored Tin Lizzies, showcasing the early days of automotive history.

Tin Lizzie

Clunker

Definition: A slang term for an old, unreliable, or poorly performing car.

Sentence: He finally got rid of his clunker and upgraded to a more reliable and efficient vehicle.

Clunker

Bomb

Definition: A slang term for a car, often used to refer to an old, beat-up, or unreliable vehicle.

Sentence: His old bomb finally gave out on him, leaving him stranded on the side of the road.

Bomb

Lemon

Definition: A slang term for a car with constant mechanical problems or defects.

Sentence: Unfortunately, he ended up with a lemon that spent more time at the repair shop than on the road.

Lemon

Gas-guzzler

Definition: A slang term for a car that consumes a large amount of fuel.

Sentence: His SUV is a real gas-guzzler, but he loves the power and versatility it provides.

Gas-guzzler

Horseless Carriage

Definition: A slang term for an early automobile, often used humorously to refer to vintage or antique cars.

Sentence: The local parade featured a display of beautifully restored horseless carriages, taking spectators back in time.

Horseless Carriage

Hot Rod

Definition: A slang term for a car that has been modified or customized for high performance.

Sentence: He spent months working on his hot rod, installing a powerful engine and customizing the body for a sleek and aggressive look.

Hot Rod

Roadster

Definition: A slang term for a small, open-top sports car with two seats.

Sentence: She loves driving her convertible roadster along the coastal highway, feeling the wind in her hair.

Roadster

Muscle Car

Definition: A slang term for a high-performance car, often with a powerful engine and aggressive styling.

Sentence: The classic muscle car roared down the street, turning heads with its sleek design and powerful presence.

Muscle Car

Import

Definition: A slang term for a car that is manufactured in a foreign country and imported to another country.

Sentence: He has always been a fan of import cars, appreciating their unique design and performance capabilities.

Import

Hatchback

Definition: A slang term for a car with a rear door that opens upward, providing access to a storage area.

Sentence: Her compact hatchback is perfect for city driving, with its small size and convenient cargo space.

Hatchback

Sedan

Definition: A slang term for a car with a closed body, separate compartments for passengers and cargo, and four doors.

Sentence: The sedan’s spacious interior and comfortable ride make it a popular choice for families.

Sedan

Coupé

Definition: A slang term for a car with two doors, a fixed roof, and a compact size.

Sentence: The sleek coupé turns heads with its stylish design and sporty performance.

Coupé

Ragtop

Definition: A slang term for a convertible car with a soft top that can be folded down.

Sentence: He loves driving his ragtop with the top down, enjoying the feeling of the wind on his face.

Ragtop

Convertible

Definition: A slang term for a car with a removable or retractable roof, allowing the driver to experience open-air driving.

Sentence: She enjoys the thrill of driving her convertible with the top down, especially on sunny days.

 Convertible

Hardtop

Definition: A slang term for a car with a roof that does not fold or retract, providing a more solid and enclosed structure.

Sentence: The hardtop coupé provides a sleek and stylish design while still offering a comfortable and enclosed driving experience.

Hardtop

Limousine

Definition: A slang term for a luxury car with an extended wheelbase and a partition between the driver and passenger compartments.

Sentence: The bride and groom arrived at the wedding in a luxurious limousine, making a grand entrance.

Limousine

Limo

Definition: A slang term for a limousine, often used informally.

Sentence: They hired a limo for their prom night, enjoying the luxurious and stylish ride to the event.

Limo

Taxi

Definition: A slang term for a car used for providing transportation services for paying passengers.

Sentence: She hailed a taxi to get to the airport quickly, not wanting to miss her flight.

Taxi

Cab

Definition: A slang term for a taxi, often used informally.

Sentence: They flagged down a cab to take them to the restaurant, avoiding the hassle of finding parking.

Cab

Truck

Definition: A slang term for a large, heavy-duty vehicle designed for transporting goods or materials.

Sentence: He uses his pickup truck for hauling furniture and supplies for his home improvement projects.

Truck

Pickup

Definition: A slang term for a truck with an open bed for carrying cargo.

Sentence: The farmer loaded up his pickup with fresh produce to take to the local market.

Pickup

Van

Definition: A slang term for a large vehicle with a spacious interior, designed for transporting passengers or goods.

Sentence: They rented a van to move their furniture to their new house, taking advantage of the vehicle’s ample space.

Van

SUV

Definition: A slang term for a sport utility vehicle, characterized by its high ground clearance and versatile capabilities.

Sentence: Her SUV allows her to navigate rough terrains and provides plenty of space for her outdoor adventures.

SUV

Jeep

Definition: A slang term for a rugged, off-road vehicle, often associated with the brand Jeep.

Sentence: The group of friends went on a thrilling off-roading adventure in their trusty Jeep.

Jeep

Off-roader

Definition: A slang term for a vehicle designed for driving on rough terrains or off-road conditions.

Sentence: His off-roader is equipped with all-terrain tires and sturdy suspension, making it capable of conquering challenging trails.

Off-roader

Four-by-four

Definition: A slang term for a vehicle equipped with a four-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and off-road capabilities.

Sentence: The mountain rescue team relies on their trusty four-by-four vehicles to reach remote and treacherous locations.

Four-by-four

4×4

Definition: A slang term for a vehicle with four-wheel drive, denoting its capability to power all four wheels simultaneously.

Sentence: He enjoys taking his 4×4 on off-road adventures, exploring rugged terrains and challenging trails.

4x4

Compact

Definition: A slang term for a small-sized car, often characterized by its fuel efficiency and maneuverability.

Sentence: Her compact car is perfect for navigating through crowded city streets and finding parking in tight spaces.

Compact

Beater

Definition: A slang term for a car that is old, worn-out, or in poor condition.

Sentence: He bought a cheap beater to get him through college, not worrying too much about its appearance or performance.

Beater

Roller

Definition: A slang term for a car, often used to refer to a luxurious or expensive vehicle.

Sentence: He stepped out of his sleek roller, turning heads with its elegant design and smooth ride.

Roller

Dragster

Definition: A slang term for a car specially designed for drag racing, known for its high speed and acceleration.

Sentence: The dragster sped down the track, leaving a trail of smoke and impressing the crowd with its lightning-fast performance.

Dragster

Racer

Definition: A slang term for a car designed or modified for racing, emphasizing its speed and performance capabilities.

Sentence: The sports car is a real racer, with its aerodynamic design and powerful engine designed for maximum speed.

Racer

Stock Car

Definition: A slang term for a car used in stock car racing, often referring to a car with minimal modifications.

Sentence: The stock car zoomed around the track, competing in a thrilling race against other drivers.

Stock Car

Classic

Definition: A slang term for a car that is of historical or cultural significance, often referring to older or vintage models.

Sentence: The car collector owns several classic cars, preserving the beauty and nostalgia of automotive history.

Classic

Antique

Definition: A slang term for a car that is old, usually referring to models that are at least 50 years old.

Sentence: They participated in the antique car show, displaying their meticulously restored vintage automobiles.

Antique

Vintage

Definition: A slang term for a car that is from a previous era or time period, often considered desirable or collectible.

Sentence: The vintage car rally showcased a stunning collection of cars from different eras, capturing the essence of automotive heritage.

Vintage

Model T

Definition: A slang term for the Ford Model T, a groundbreaking automobile produced by Ford Motor Company from 1908 to 1927.

Sentence: The vintage car enthusiast was proud to own a fully restored Model T, appreciating its historical significance in revolutionizing the automotive industry.

Model T

Pony Car

Definition: A slang term for a small, sporty car with a stylish design, often associated with the Ford Mustang.

Sentence: The pony car market became popular with the introduction of iconic models like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro.

Pony Car

Lowrider

Definition: A slang term for a car modified with hydraulic or air suspension, allowing the vehicle to be lowered closer to the ground.

Sentence: The lowrider cruised down the street, bouncing and gliding on its custom suspension, drawing attention with its unique style.

Lowrider

Sports Car

Definition: A slang term for a high-performance car designed for speed, agility, and exhilarating driving experiences.

Sentence: He fulfilled his dream of owning a sports car, enjoying the adrenaline rush and precision handling it provides.

Sports Car

Luxury Car

Definition: A slang term for a car designed with luxurious features, high-quality materials, and advanced technology.

Sentence: The luxury car boasts plush leather seats, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and refined craftsmanship throughout.

Luxury Car

Exotic

Definition: A slang term for a rare, distinctive, and high-end car, often imported and known for its unique design and performance.

Sentence: The exotic car turned heads as it glided through the city, its sleek lines and roaring engine attracting attention from onlookers.

Exotic

Coupe

Definition: A slang term for a car with a fixed roof, two doors, and a compact size, often emphasizing its sporty or stylish design.

Sentence: The coupe’s elegant silhouette and aggressive stance make it a true head-turner on the road.

Coupe

Ragtop

Definition: A slang term for a convertible car with a soft top that can be folded down.

Sentence: He enjoys driving his ragtop convertible on sunny days, experiencing the joy of open-air motoring.

Ragtop (2)

Two-Door

Definition: A slang term for a car with two doors, providing access to the front seats and potentially rear seats.

Sentence: The two-door sports car is sleek and streamlined, offering a dynamic and sporty appearance.

Twodoor

Four-Door

Definition: A slang term for a car with four doors, providing easy access to both front and rear seats.

Sentence: The four-door sedan offers practicality and convenience, allowing passengers to easily enter and exit the vehicle.

Four-Door

Hatch

Definition: A slang term for a car with a rear door that opens upward, providing access to a cargo area behind the rear seats.

Sentence: The hatchback is versatile, allowing for ample storage space and convenient loading and unloading.

Hatch

Estate

Definition: A slang term, primarily used in British English, for a car with a spacious cargo area behind the rear seats.

Sentence: They chose an estate car for their family road trip, appreciating the generous space for luggage and comfort.

Estate

Saloon

Definition: A slang term, primarily used in British English, for a car with a closed body, separate compartments for passengers and cargo, and four doors.

Sentence: The executive saloon combines elegance and performance, offering a luxurious driving experience.

Saloon

Wreck

Definition: A slang term for a car that is severely damaged or in poor condition.

Sentence: After the accident, the car was reduced to a wreck, beyond repair and ready for the scrapyard.

Wreck

Pile

Definition: A slang term for a car that is in extremely poor condition or non-functional.

Sentence: That old car sitting in the junkyard is nothing more than a pile of metal and rust.

Pile

Junker

Definition: A slang term for a car that is old, worn-out, and of little value.

Sentence: He managed to get the old junker running again, but it still requires constant repairs to keep it on the road.

Junker

Rust Bucket

Definition: A slang term for a car that is heavily rusted and in deteriorating condition.

Sentence: The abandoned car in the field is a rust bucket, corroded and long forgotten.

Rust Bucket

Death Trap

Definition: A slang term for a car that is considered extremely unsafe or hazardous to drive.

Sentence: They refused to get into that old car, deeming it a death trap with its faulty brakes and worn-out tires.

Death Trap

Land Yacht

Definition: A slang term for a large, luxurious car or sedan that provides a smooth and comfortable ride.

Sentence: The classic Cadillac is a land yacht, gliding effortlessly on the road with its spacious interior and plush seats.

Land Yacht

Oil Burner

Definition: A slang term for a car that consumes a significant amount of oil due to engine issues or wear.

Sentence: His old car became an oil burner, requiring frequent top-ups and maintenance to keep the engine running.

Oil Burner

Grocery Getter

Definition: A slang term for a car used primarily for running errands or daily commuting.

Sentence: Her compact hatchback serves as a reliable grocery getter, allowing her to easily transport groceries and everyday essentials.

Grocery Getter

Boat

Definition: A slang term for a large car, often characterized by its size and long length.

Sentence: The luxury sedan is a real boat, offering spacious seating and a smooth ride for its passengers.

Boat

Lead Sled

Definition: A slang term for a car, typically an older model, that has been customized with a lowered suspension and modified bodywork.

Sentence: The lead sled glided along the road, its sleek design and lowered stance paying homage to classic custom cars.

Lead Sled

Monster Truck

Definition: A slang term for a large and powerful truck, often modified with oversized tires and suspension for off-road performances and exhibitions.

Sentence: The monster truck crushed obstacles and performed impressive stunts, thrilling the audience at the monster truck show.

Monster Truck

Rice Burner

Definition: A slang term, often considered derogatory, for an imported car, especially those from Asian manufacturers.

Sentence: He proudly showed off his modified rice burner, featuring aftermarket enhancements and a distinct appearance.

Rice Burner

Euro

Definition: A slang term for a car manufactured by a European brand or in the European market.

Sentence: The Euro car boasts elegant design, sophisticated features, and precise engineering.

Euro

Jap

Definition: A slang term, considered derogatory,

for a car manufactured by a Japanese brand.

Sentence: Despite the derogatory term, Japanese cars have gained a reputation for reliability and performance.

Jap

Diesel

Definition: A slang term for a car powered by a diesel engine, known for its fuel efficiency and torque.

Sentence: He prefers driving diesel cars for their impressive fuel economy and excellent pulling power.

Diesel

Autocar

Definition: A slang term for a car, often used in British English.

Sentence: The Autocar magazine featured a review of the latest models, providing insights and recommendations for car enthusiasts.

Autocar

Choo-choo

Definition: A slang term for a car, playfully associating it with the sound of a train.

Sentence: They referred to his souped-up car as the choo-choo, with its loud engine and impressive acceleration.

Choo-choo

Lorry

Definition: A slang term, primarily used in British English, for a large truck used for transporting goods.

Sentence: The delivery company used lorries to transport packages and cargo across the country.

Lorry

Motorcar

Definition: A slang term, often used in formal or old-fashioned contexts, for a car.

Sentence: The vintage car show displayed an impressive collection of motorcars from different eras.

Motorcar

Motorbike

Definition: A slang term for a motorcycle, often used interchangeably in informal conversation.

Sentence: He enjoys the thrill of riding his motorbike, feeling the freedom of the open road.

Motorbike

Scooter

Definition: A slang term for a small, lightweight motorcycle or moped, often used for short-distance urban commuting.

Sentence: Many people in the city rely on scooters for their daily transportation, maneuvering through traffic with ease.

Scooter

Big Rig

Definition: A slang term for a large and powerful truck, typically used for long-haul transportation.

Sentence: The big rig cruised down the highway, hauling a massive load of cargo across the country.

Big Rig

Eighteen-Wheeler

Definition: A slang term for a large truck or tractor-trailer with a total of 18 wheels.

Sentence: The eighteen-wheeler navigated tight turns and long stretches of highway, delivering goods across the region.

Eighteen-Wheeler

Semi

Definition: A slang term for a semi-trailer truck or tractor-trailer combination.

Sentence: The semi pulled into the rest area, allowing the driver to take a break and refuel before continuing the journey.

Semi

Tractor

Definition: A slang term for a truck used to tow trailers or transport heavy loads.

Sentence: The tractor effortlessly hauled the heavy cargo, demonstrating its power and towing capabilities.

Tractor

Rig

Definition: A slang term for a truck, often used in the context of large commercial vehicles.

Sentence: The construction site was bustling with rigs, transporting materials and equipment for the ongoing project.

Rig

Tanker

Definition: A slang term for a truck or trailer designed to transport liquids or gases.

Sentence: The tanker delivered fuel to the gas station, ensuring a steady supply for the customers.

Tanker

Bus

Definition: A slang term for a large vehicle used for public transportation, capable of carrying multiple passengers.

Sentence: They waited at the bus stop for the arrival of the city bus, ready to board and reach their destination.

Bus

Mini Bus

Definition: A slang term for a smaller bus that can accommodate a limited number of passengers.

Sentence: The mini bus picked up the group of tourists, taking them on a guided tour of the city’s landmarks.

Mini Bus

School Bus

Definition: A slang term for a bus used to transport students to and from school.

Sentence: The school bus arrived at the designated stop, allowing the children to board and start their day.

School Bus

Double Decker

Definition: A slang term for a bus with two levels or decks, offering additional seating capacity.

Sentence: The double-decker bus tour provided a panoramic view of the city, allowing tourists to enjoy the sights from the upper deck.

Double Decker

Coach

Definition: A slang term for a large and comfortable bus, often used for long-distance travel or luxury transportation.

Sentence: The coach whisked the sports team away to their away game, providing them with a comfortable and spacious ride.

Coach

Tour Bus

Definition: A slang term for a bus used for touring, typically equipped with amenities and facilities for extended trips.

Sentence: The tour bus stopped at various attractions, allowing the passengers to explore and enjoy the sights.

Tour Bus

Artic

Definition: A slang term, primarily used in British English, for an articulated lorry or truck with a jointed trailer.

Sentence: The artic maneuvered through the narrow streets, skillfully navigating tight corners with its flexible trailer.

Artic

Articulated Lorry

Definition: A slang term for a truck with a trailer that has a pivot joint, allowing for better maneuverability.

Sentence: The articulated lorry delivered a large shipment of goods, efficiently transporting the cargo to its destination.

Articulated Lorry

Trailer

Definition: A slang term for a vehicle or container towed by another vehicle, typically used for transporting goods or equipment.

Sentence: The trailer was loaded with construction materials, ready to be towed to the construction site.

Trailer

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