BACK IN THE HEYDAY: 10 Old-School Car Features We’d Love to See Again

February 19, 2025
Posted by Barrett-Jackson

Classic and collector cars have evolved remarkably over the decades. The glitz and glamour of the 1930s vehicles gave way to the raw, rebellious golden era of muscle cars in the 1960s and ’70s, and then the sophisticated, high-performance machines of the modern era. Today’s vehicles are a testament to how far automotive engineering truly has come.

Yet despite all this incredible progress, some favorite and fun features have been lost along the way, and there remains a sense of nostalgia among car enthusiasts for certain elements discarded in the name of progress. Many yearn for the primeval thrill of a naturally aspirated V8 engine’s roar … the raw, unfiltered driving experience without electronic aids … the iconic designs that once ruled the streets. Here are ten car features from days gone by that we’d love to see again.

Chrome Bumpers, Shaker Scoops and Supercharger Blowers

Among the characteristics that made vintage cars so appealing to enthusiasts were the aesthetics. Details like gleaming chrome bumpers gave any front end a classic flashy vibe. Picture the unmistakable bumper guards on the front end of a 1950s Cadillac or the center point of a ’Cuda’s grille. Shaker scoops seen popping out of the hood of many a muscle car vibrated with the engine’s pulse, which gave drivers an almost visceral connection to the car’s power. Supercharger blowers jutting out of the hood always made a bold statement, letting everyone know that this was a machine to be reckoned with.

Pop-Up and Hideaway Headlights

Pop-up and hideaway headlights are iconic features of many collector cars, beloved for their unique blend of style and function. These headlights allowed designers to create sleek, low-slung front ends, such as on the 1968 Camaro or the 1990 Mazda Miata MX-5, while still ensuring drivers had the lighting they needed.

There is No Replacement for Displacement

Big-block V8 engines were the heart and soul of the muscle car era. These engines ‒ known for their massive displacement, raw power and unmistakable rumble ‒ delivered an experience that defined American muscle cars of the 1960s and ’70s. Their dominance on the streets and drag strips cemented them as legends among car enthusiasts.

Key Component

One of the most beloved aspects of collector cars is the simple pleasure of using an ignition key to bring the engine to life. Starting up a classic wasn’t just routine ‒ it was an engaging, hands-on connection to the machine. The experience became even more exciting if a few pumps of the throttle were needed to prime the carburetor or, better yet, if the car had separate switches for the fuel pump and ignition ‒ each step adding to the anticipation before the engine roared to life.

Analog Gauges

Analog gauges offer a direct and engaging connection between driver and machine. Their simple, intuitive design made speedometers, tachometers and fuel gauges easy to read at a glance. There’s a unique satisfaction in watching the RPMs climb to redline or the speedometer needle sweep toward the car’s top speed.

Manual Hand Brake

Mechanical hand brakes have stood the test of time because of their simplicity, effectiveness and reliability. As a dependable backup in emergencies, they provided drivers with essential control and confidence when it mattered most.

More Buttons, Please

The interior design of many classic and collector cars was beautifully enhanced by an array of functional three-dimensional buttons, switches and knobs that controlled nearly everything. Their thoughtful layout allowed drivers to adjust the air conditioning or change the radio station effortlessly, all without taking their eyes off the road.

Hold On, Let Me Grab My Stereo

The removable stereo faceplate was an iconic modification for many cars in the 1980s and 1990s. Today, enthusiasts cherish it for its perfect mix of practicality and cool factor. With a simple flip of a switch, drivers could detach the DIN-sized faceplate from their Clarion or Sony stereo, taking it with them for both security and style. More than just a theft deterrent, it was a symbol of the era’s innovation and a badge of personal expression.

Front Bench Seats

Front bench seats were a beloved feature of classic cars, embodying the perfect blend of style and practicality. Their wide, comfortable design could accommodate up to three people, fostering a sense of spaciousness and camaraderie. (And who didn’t love cuddling up to that special someone for a cruise on America’s highways?)

Spare Wheel and Tires

The spare tire and wheel are valued for their practicality and reliability. A full-sized spare in the trunk wasn’t just a precaution ‒ it was evidence of a car’s readiness for any road challenge. Enthusiasts appreciated the peace of mind of having a matching wheel and tire on hand, ensuring they were always prepared for the unexpected.