By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse
As car technology and design has moved apace, so features that once defined our cars have disappeared.
I’ve come up with ten accessories and gadgets that, sadly, have taken a ‘wrong turn’ down memory lane. I’m sure you can think of others.
Manual windows
Do you remember having a mini workout to open and close your side windows? Today, ‘one-touch’ electric windows are standard features. In fact, the US-made Packard 180 was the first car to have powered windows, way back in 1941.
Pop-up headlights
Once the cool finish to sports cars such as the Mazda MX5 or Porsche 944 pop up lights were finally killed off around 2004 by new EU safety issues.
Cassette and CD players
Remember when cassette tapes and CDs were essential features back in the 80s and 90s. Thanks to digital and streaming services the act of pushing a piece of plastic into your dashboard to hear your favourite band has gone.
Manual handbrakes
Once every car came with a physical handbrake you controlled by pulling a lever. Today, handling a hill start has been replaced by an electronic button!
Cigarette lighters
There are good health reasons to see this gadget disappear and it’s not just because they could burn your fingers! Nowadays, a charging point is a modern replacement.
Bench seats
Once a staple of a family car, the front bench seat allowed three passengers to sit side by side. Today, safety regulations mean bench seating is a rare find.
Ignition keys
Until recently, the car key has been a symbol of ownership going back over 100 years. Since the 90s the key has been disappearing in favour of keyless entry and push-button starts.
Vent windows
Do you remember when ‘wing windows’ offered instant ventilation and blasts of cool air. Now air-conditioning and changing car design have overtaken here.
Car phones
Long before mobile phones came on the scene, executive cars were fitted with car phones. Mobile phones and streaming mean these are hardly missed.
Chrome finish
Sadly, modern design and aesthetics have put paid to chrome trim. Carmakers can put it down to changing tastes, but for me, it’s at the expense of a touch of style!
It leaves you wondering has car design got a bit boring? The loss of many classic car features can be put down to changing tastes and the pursuit of efficiency and safety, but retro styling will always hold an enduring appeal.