They sure were popular with the slot car world back in the day.
https://www.google.com/search?q=cox+cheetah+slot+cars&espv=2&biw=989&bih=753&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjjzI-fmYzNAhVIJCYKHcaNAVkQ_AUICCgD#imgrc=_
http://www.redfroghobbies.com/products.php?cat=62&scat=334&prodline=Historic_Racing_Miniatures
The problem with all of these examples, not that they aren't worthy, is price, availability and media. Make it plastic and affordable.
The Buick Riviera didn't have port holes. Buick called them "Ventiports". I think you are confusing "portholes" with the round side windows found on early Thunderbirds.