The One That Got Away: Cars We Wish We Kept

The One That Got Away: Cars We Wish We Kept

In this business, we see a lot of beautiful, powerful, rare machines come and go. And while we’re proud to match them with new owners, there are a few that haunt us... in the best way possible.

These are the ones that stopped traffic, dropped jaws, and made us say, “Dang… maybe I should’ve kept that one.”

Here are five legendary rides that rolled through Dream Work—and left a hole in our hearts (and our group chats).

2023 BMW M3 Competition – Red on Rage Mode

This beast came through with precision power and a punchy twin-turbo inline-6, dressed in a sinister red that turned heads before the engine even started.

With xDrive AWD, carbon fiber trim, and track-tuned suspension, it felt like it belonged on a racetrack—but still crushed the daily drive.

Why we miss it: The growl. The grip. The way it demanded respect.

We said: “If you hear it start and don’t smile, you’re lying.”

2023 Rivian R1T Adventure – Mustang Yellow Brilliance

Not your average EV. This electric truck came in like a concept sketch come to life—with Quad-Motor AWD, insane torque, and that signature yellow paint that made it look like it was built by NASA and Ford’s design team on Red Bull.

Why we miss it: It had tech, torque, and trail-ready muscle—all in one shocking package.

We said: “This thing makes Teslas look... tired.”

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron Prestige – Metallic Gray Elegance

The future arrived wrapped in metallic gray sophistication. This Q8 e-tron was whisper quiet, lightning fast, and smoother than a jazz playlist at midnight. Loaded with top-tier tech and wrapped in a luxury finish that screamed class.

Why we miss it: It made “eco” feel like a flex—and the cabin was nicer than most condos.

We said: “You don’t drive this. You glide.”

2016 Porsche 911 GT3 RS – Bright Orange Track Weapon

This one broke hearts. Bright orange, winged, loud, and unapologetically bred for the track—complete with the sport and track packages, this GT3 RS wasn’t just rare... it was savage.

Why we miss it: Because nothing we’ve had before or since pulls like this car.

We said: “We should’ve locked the doors and hid the keys.”

2018 Audi S5 Prestige Quattro – Baby Blue Perfection

Aesthetic met agility with this baby blue beauty. With Quattro grip, a turbocharged punch, and Prestige-level interior, this S5 had class, speed, and comfort rolled into one flawless daily-driver dream.

Why we miss it: It was the kind of car that made every parking lot feel like a photo shoot.

We said: “If James Bond drove to brunch, this is what he’d take.”

Some Cars You Sell. Some You Remember Forever.

Every car has a story—but some are unforgettable.

At Dream Work Automotive, we’re proud to bring rare rides, dream builds, and performance legends to the Charlotte community.

And every now and then, we wish we had just one more lap with a few of them.