Exotic Car Naming Conventions: The Stories Behind the Names

 Posted on September 05, 2025 in Exotic Car Maintenance

There is more to exotic cars than their looks and superior engine performance. Legends and romance are intertwined in the naming of exotic cars. Unlike "regular" vehicles, which are often identified by practical model names or even numbers, exotic brands bring heritage and mythology into the naming process.

From Lamborghini car names inspired by legendary bulls to Ferraris named after famous racetracks, these exotic cars carry stories and history in their names. Collectors and exotic car enthusiasts can add another layer to their ownership experience by learning the story behind their car’s name. Regardless of your exotic car’s name, it can benefit from the services of the highly trained technicians at Rosso Service who have the skills, training, and experience necessary to ensure your exotic vehicle remains in exemplary condition.

Our Washington, D.C. exotic vehicle technicians can maintain and service your exotic car, allowing you to enjoy it for many years to come. We also offer comprehensive pre-purchase inspections as well as scheduled drop-offs 24 hours a day. We provide tours of our state-of-the-art facility, and transportation services may be available.

Why Do Exotic Car Names Matter?

The name of a vehicle can reflect branding and heritage. In some cases, the name of an exotic car builds as much prestige as the car’s performance. Exotic car manufacturers choose names that not only reinforce the vehicle’s "identity," but also create images of elegance, speed, and power.

An exotic car’s name can help build customer loyalty and, as such, can be an essential marketing tool. The name of an exotic car allows consumers to see the logo and immediately associate it with speed, luxury, quality, superior engineering, or all of the above.

Naming Exotic Cars – the Myths and the Marketing Strategies

Each exotic car brand has its own way of naming its line of cars. Below are some of the most high-profile exotic car naming strategies:

The Italian Legend of Maserati

Maserati has a tradition of naming cars after winds (Ghibli, Mistral, Levante, and Bora). The tradition began in the 1960s and continues today. Other Maserati names like Modena, Quattroporte, and GranTurismo celebrate the culture, history, and beauty of Italy.

Ferraris and Racetracks Go Hand in Hand

The Ferrari logo – a prancing horse – is a nod to a WWI flying ace and is a symbol of bravery.  Enzo Ferrari then added the yellow color of his hometown. Many of the Ferrari models are named after racetracks (Monza, Fiorano), while others reference Italian cities (Modena and Maranello). The numbers in the Ferrari names represent anniversaries, cylinders, or engine displacement.

The Mythology of Lamborghini Names

Lamborghini uses mythological names, or names inspired by fighting bulls, to symbolize strength and ferocity. The Diablo and the Murciélago are both named after legendary bulls and are meant to suggest power. Ferruccio Lamborghini, the founder, is the zodiac sign Taurus, further influencing the bull-themed names.

Other Exotic Car Naming Traditions

The names of Aston Martin cars convey a sense of elegance, luxury, and heritage, such as the DB series, named after David Brown. Rolls-Royce has a tradition of naming its luxury cars after spirits or supernatural entities, such as Ghost, Spectre, and Phantom.

Porsche named its Carrera (Spanish for "race") to honor its more powerful engine versions. Regardless of your exotic car’s name, it can significantly impact its collectability and resale value. In fact, some limited editions became even more desirable because of the story behind the name.

Contact a Forest Hill, MD Exotic Car Maintenance and Repair Expert

Exotic cars are more than machines; they are legends on wheels with a rich history and culture.   Regardless of the exotic car you have chosen or are thinking of buying, having a Washington, D.C. exotic car maintenance and repair expert from Rosso Service will ensure your car will always be well cared for. We are specially trained and factory-certified in all categories by Maserati, Lamborghini, and Ferrari. Call 410-638-2886 to schedule your appointment.