Automotive technology has come a long way since the 1970s. Compared to today’s sleek and smartly designed vehicles, many of the features that were popular in the ‘70s seem downright ridiculous. However, there was a time when things like wood-paneled exteriors and 8-track tape players were top-of-the-line additions. To refresh your memory about the unique ‘70s features that can now only be found on collector cars, take a look at the list below.

Obsolete Auto Features of the 1970s

1. Faux Wood Paneling

In the 1940s and ‘50s, genuine wood trim on an automobile was a sign of luxury and fine craftsmanship. The materials weren’t cheap, however, and eventually auto manufacturers found a way to replicate the look with plastic and vinyl decals featuring wood-grained details. This “woodie" trend reached its peak in the 1970s when station wagons embraced the fad wholeheartedly. 

2. Fancy Hood Ornaments

In an effort to make midrange vehicles look more upscale, many manufacturers added overly ornate ornaments to the hoods and trunks of their vehicles. From faux royal crests and fighter jets to majestic animals and mythical creatures, these overblown statuettes quickly became a standard ‘70s car feature.

3. Opera Windows & Lamps

Opera windows were a popular design element of luxury two-door cars in the ‘70s. Located at the rear, they served next to no purpose (most didn’t even open) other than to make backseat passengers feel special by giving them their own private, porthole-size window.

On some cars, thin strips of light called opera lamps (which were factory features on limousines of the ‘70s) were mounted next to the window to add an extra dose of “elegance.” Both dwindled in popularity by the 1980s and are now only seen on collector cars, where they’ve gained an undeniable nostalgic charm.

4. 8-Track Players

It makes sense that 8-track players were once one of the most sought-after automobile features, as it was the country’s reigning sound system for more than a decade The first car manufacturer to offer an 8-track as an option was Ford with its 1965 Mustang.

By the 1970s, most  manufacturers were selling them either as a factory option or a dealer-installed accessory. Of course, once the format was usurped by the compact cassette in the early ‘80s, the 8-track became a a collector’s item.

To learn more about the unique features of 1970s vehicles—and see some of them up close on collector cars—make sure to check out the Charlotte AutoFair at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina. This famous car show attracts more than 150,000 guests and features all kinds of antique and vintage vehicles for sale or display. To learn more about the event or reserve a space for your prized possession, call (708) 841-1990 or visit the website.