Modern vehicles are made built with an incredible amount of safety features and technology, but it is worth considering some elements from past decades. The details in construction from previous decades didn’t just add character, often the touch points served a purpose that are often overlooked but provided utility that could be argued that the available tech fails at. Below are a few of the discontinued features that should be brought back.
Table of Contents
1. Vent Windows
These small triangular windows in front doors provided perfect ventilation without the wind noise of fully open windows. They could direct fresh air exactly where needed and were ideal for clearing foggy windows. While modern climate control systems do their job, they will never replicate the effectiveness of a windscreen vent.
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2. Floor-Mounted High Beam Switch
A foot dimmer switch would be intentional and a driver could keep both hands on the steering wheel. It was designed on the floor left side of the brake pedal, so it would become second nature to drive it. Modern steering wheel column switches are simply more distracting.
3. Bench Seats
The front bench seat would give more versatility than the standard five offered today. The center armrest would lift up for a passenger to sit and go down for comfort. These bench seats would make the vehicle feel like a living room rather than the cockpits we have today.
4. Pop-Up Headlights
For a less technical note, hidden headlights are something of the past. The modern LED lights are more efficient, but the stylish pop up lights will always be more interesting.
5. Quarter Windows
Ventilation was made better with openable rear windows. They improved airflow without the turbulence that main windows give. Modern climate technology can’t match rear windows when it comes to clearing stagnant air.
6. Metal Dashboards
Metal dashboards that matched the body of the car made the interior more unique and added character. Simple and stylish dashboards are missed despite the lack of safety compared to modern dashboards that are padded. A modern version with the same principles and features for safety would allow for the classic look to return.
7. Wing Windows
Modern cars miss the simplicity of the targeted ventilation that angled adjustable windows offered. They were useful for everyone with directed airflow, and especially with smokers.
8. Trunk-Mounted Spare Tire
External spare tire mounts visually changed the appeal of cars. They also created more trunk space. Continental kits added style statements and practicality. Saving trunk space could help modern SUVs.
9. Vent Pull Knobs
Modern touch screen controls lack the simplicity and feedback that knobs and knobs ventilation controls do. They were easy to use, don’t need to take your eyes off the road, and operate without needing complicated electronics. Touch screen controls are not as reliable.
10. Proper Window Cranks
Manual controls are dependable, and simple. Although power windows provide more convenience, the satisfaction of a manual window crank is missed.
11. Hood Ornaments
Hood ornaments used to help drivers estimate the dimensions of their vehicles. They are missed despite modern pedestrian standards having eliminated them. They would bring back a modern classic to reimagine style and functionality.
12. Flip-Out Turn Signals
Semaphore-style turn signals that extended out from the car’s body are easily visible and distinctive. Although modern LED signals are more efficient, they do not have the character and clarity of purpose that these mechanical indicators possess.
