Amongst the many vaguely sci-fi-inspired concept cars that appeared throughout the 1980s, the 1986 Oldsmobile Incas stands out due to its commitment to an unconventional design.

The most striking feature of the Incas is its steering wheel, or rather, “steering handle”. Unlike a traditional wheel, it is not circular in shape. Instead, it consists of two parallel metallic grips surrounded by an array of buttons commonly found on a car’s dashboard. This handle not only controls turning signals and windshield wipers, but also serves as the transmission shifter, hazard lights switch, headlight controls, HVAC controls, and more. In fact, there are no buttons or levers anywhere else on the dashboard, making it a unique design choice.

If the steering handle’s retro-futuristic design isn’t enough, the Incas also features innovative doors. While most may associate retro-futuristic car doors with the gullwing doors of the DeLorean, the Incas takes it a step further. It includes gullwing doors for the rear seats, whereas the driver and passenger seats are accessed by the front of the car’s hood folding up.

Although the Oldsmobile Incas never made it into production, it remains an intriguing concept car that showcases futuristic elements, such as its unconventional steering wheel and unique door design. Perhaps one day, we will see similar features implemented in everyday cars.