Car enthusiasts often get excited about new models and innovative features. However, it’s easy to forget that some popular features disappear from vehicles over time. This article takes a closer look at seven car features that have recently been discontinued.
Understanding which features are no longer available helps drivers make more informed decisions when buying a new car. Trends in the automotive industry constantly evolve, and staying up to date can be both informative and surprising.
1) Pop-Up Headlights
Pop-up headlights were a hit in the car industry for a good reason. First appearing on the Cord 810 at the New York Auto Show in November 1935, these headlights wowed car enthusiasts with their sleek, hidden design. The Cord 810 helped set the stage for pop-up headlamps to become a trend.
By the time the 1970s and 80s rolled around, pop-up headlights had become a signature feature in many sports cars. They didn’t just add to the car’s style but also offered a fun flair, making cars look like they had “eyes.” Streamlined and futuristic, these hidden headlights made cars appear more aerodynamic.
Enthusiasts loved using pop-up headlights to “wink” at other cars, adding a playful touch to driving. While they were a visual treat, they also served a functional purpose, reducing drag by providing a smooth surface when not in use. This was especially appealing for sports car designs.
Pop-up headlights began to fade away in the 2000s. The issue was safety concerns, particularly for pedestrians. Designers eventually moved towards more conventional headlight designs to meet safety regulations. Despite their disappearance, many car fans still hold a soft spot for these nostalgic features.
2) Bench Front Seats
Bench front seats used to be a common feature in cars, especially in older American models. They provided a wide, flat seating area that allowed three people to sit comfortably in the front row.
Safety regulations played a big role in their decline. Modern vehicles need to meet strict safety standards, and individual seats with seatbelts provide better protection for passengers.
Changing tastes also contributed to their disappearance. People began to prefer bucket seats, which offer more support and are often seen as more stylish and sporty.
Automakers like Chrysler phased out bench seats by 2004. Ford followed by discontinuing them in 2011 across all their car models.
There’s a little nostalgia attached to bench seats. They were great for drive-in movies and allowed couples to sit close together. This feature symbolized a simpler time in car culture.
As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity, some believe bench seats might make a comeback. EVs have more interior space due to their design, potentially allowing the reintroduction of this classic feature. Bench seats might soon pop up in new, innovative ways in modern cars.
Check out more details on the demise of bench seats on Jalopnik and CNBC.
3) Manual Window Cranks
Manual window cranks used to be a standard feature in cars. A simple crank handle allowed drivers to roll windows up or down manually. Though they were practical, they often broke or fell off, making them less reliable over time.
Many drivers remember the struggles with these cranks, needing to twist and turn to get the window in the right position. It definitely required more effort compared to today’s power windows.
Nowadays, manual window cranks are rare. Some base models like the Ford F-150 XL and Ram 1500 Tradesman still offer them, but most new cars have switched to power windows for ease and convenience.
Manual windows are mostly found in older or budget vehicles. They still serve a purpose by keeping manufacturing costs down and offering a simple, mechanical option. But as technology advances, these hand-crank windows are becoming more of a nostalgic memory.
4) Cassette Decks
Cassette decks were once a staple in cars, letting drivers enjoy their favorite tapes on the go. By the late 1960s, it became common for car manufacturers to include them. Philips introduced one of the first in-dash car cassette players in 1968, which helped popularize this feature.
In the 1980s and 1990s, cassette decks were everywhere. People loved making mixtapes and swapping them with friends. It was a fun way to share music and personalize listening experiences.
Unfortunately, cassette decks started to decline with the rise of CDs in the 2000s. The last new car to come with a factory-installed cassette deck was a 2010 Lexus SC 430 convertible. Today, it’s rare to find these in modern vehicles.
For those who miss the nostalgia, some still turn to aftermarket cassette decks for their vintage cars. Yet, for many, the era of the cassette deck has long spun its last reel. The shift to digital music players and streaming services has forever changed the landscape.
5) Antenna Whips
Antenna whips used to be a common sight on cars. These long, flexible antennas were mostly found on vehicles from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. They played a crucial role in catching radio signals, allowing drivers to listen to their favorite stations.
In recent years, antenna whips have disappeared from most cars. Manufacturers have moved towards built-in antennas and smaller, more modern designs. Built-in antennas can be hidden in the windshield or rear window. This not only improves the look of the car but also reduces vulnerabilities to damage.
Compact designs like shark fin antennas have gained popularity. These designs are both functional and stylish. They offer the same radio signal reception without the hassle of an external whip antenna.
Whip antennas had their own charm and nostalgia, but modern car designs have made them unnecessary. Today’s cars focus on sleek, aerodynamic looks which don’t accommodate the older antenna whips.
Advancements in technology have also played a role. Modern antennas are more efficient and blend seamlessly with the car’s aesthetics. While antenna whips may be missed by some, the evolution of car design has paved the way for more integrated solutions.
For more details on this shift, Engirette explains the evolution of car antennas.
6) Chrome Bumpers
Chrome bumpers used to be a signature feature on many classic cars. They were especially popular from the 1950s through the early 1980s.
Back then, chrome bumpers symbolized style and durability. The shiny, reflective metal not only looked great but was also built to last.
One of the last Corvettes to feature chrome bumpers was the 1972 Corvette. This year marked the end of an era for America’s sports car.
By the early ’90s, only a few car models like the 1992 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham still had traditional chrome bumpers.
Nowadays, chrome bumpers are rarely seen on new cars. Changes in safety standards and production costs have made them less practical.
Most modern cars now feature plastic or fiberglass bumpers. These materials are lighter, more affordable, and easier to mold into aerodynamic shapes.
Chrome bumpers hold a nostalgic value for car enthusiasts. They serve as a reminder of a time when car design focused more on visual appeal and craftsmanship.
Some car owners still retrofit their vehicles with chrome bumpers to capture that retro look. Yet, in the mass market, chrome bumpers have largely become a thing of the past.
7) Full-Size Spare Tires
Full-size spare tires were once a common feature in many cars. They provide a real backup tire, matching the other tires in size and type. Drivers could swap out a flat and keep driving without any issues.
In recent years, full-size spare tires have become less common. Manufacturers are moving towards repair kits or compact spares instead. These alternatives save space and reduce the overall weight of the car, which helps improve fuel efficiency.
Repair kits are now found in 110 car models. This is a significant increase from 2009, when only 23 models had them.
Compact spares can only be used for short distances, usually up to 50 miles, before needing a permanent replacement. Full-size spares, on the other hand, can be used like a regular tire.
Some newer car models still offer a full-size spare. However, it’s becoming a surprise rather than an expectation. This shift means drivers might need to check their car’s trunk carefully before assuming they have a full-size spare.
Having a full-size spare means buying a set of five tires, rather than four. This can be more costly but offers a seamless transition if you get a flat.
