The Iron Man Makeover

Stan Lee reveals that of all the superheroes they've created at Marvel, Iron Man received the most fan mail, usually from women. 

Below is the original costume of Iron Man when he first appeared in Tales of Suspense #39 (March 1963).  Evidently, they took iron too literally.  The costume looked unmistakeably iron, and so bulky and cumbersome, it makes the knights of the Middle Ages seem graceful and flexible.

Thankfully, on the next issue (see below) he had a makeover--from a gray armor suit to a golden one. 

Tales of Suspense #40

Thankfully again, eight issues later (December 1963), Iron Man gets his present day look: the sleeker, more badass red and gold suit.  Lucky for Robert Downey, Jr, and lucky for us all.

The Ten Crappiest Villains of Iron Man:

http://www.toplessrobot.com/2008/05/the_10_crappiest_iron_man_villains_who_wont_and_sh.php