It’s easy to get caught up in all the excitement that surrounds concept car designs from the world’s leading automakers. But to fully appreciate the elegant lines and trim chassis that populate 21st-century roadways, it’s important to realize just how far we’ve come since the first Model T’s rolled off the lot.
From the purely utilitarian designs of the early 20th century to the double-take-inducing designs of today, car styling has evolved over the decades. We’re taking a look back at automobile history and highlighting some of the details that defined each era.
Evolution of Automobile Design: 1910s
Automobiles had been in existence for over 100 years by the time Henry Ford applied the concept of assembly line production to them, but it was not until 1908 that affordable and dependable vehicles became widely available.
The Model T sold 15 million units between its debut in 1908 and its discontinuation in 1927 and set the standard for car design going forward. The first iterations of the Model T carried over the “runabout” body style from earlier automobiles, bereft of doors, windshields, or windows and more reminiscent of horse-drawn buggies than modern automobiles to come.
Here are some of the key design characteristics of the 1910s:
Taller and narrower body styles:
In the early years of the decade, many cars had tall, narrow body styles with high ground clearance. This was partly due to the poor quality of roads at the time, as cars needed to be able to navigate over uneven terrain and deep ruts.
Wood and metal construction:
Many cars from the 1910s were built with a combination of wood and metal, with the wooden frame providing structural support and the metal sheeting forming the outer skin of the car.
Chain-driven powertrain:
Most cars in the early 1910s had a chain-driven powertrain, with the engine located in the front of the car and the drive chain transmitting power to the rear wheels.
Large, exposed radiators:
Many cars of the era featured large, exposed radiators that were located at the front of the vehicle. These often had a distinctive shape, with a round or oval core surrounded by a decorative grille.
Simple, functional interiors:
Interiors of the cars from the 1910s were often sparsely appointed and focused on functionality rather than luxury. Dashboards were typically simple, with just a few gauges and controls, and seats were often made from plain materials like leather or canvas.
Brass accents:
Brass was a common accent material on many cars of the 1910s, and was often used for things like headlights, door handles, and other exterior details.
Improved suspension systems:
As the decade progressed, manufacturers began to experiment with new suspension systems that could provide a smoother, more comfortable ride. Many cars featured leaf springs or other advanced systems that helped to improve handling and reduce vibration.
Evolution of Automobile Design: 1920s
In the 1910s and 20s, car makers replaced the boxy chassis and wheelbase of the Model T with longer, lower designs. This was a result of better roads being built across America, which meant that rugged tractor-like vehicles could be replaced by ones that were more elegant and glamorous.
These longer cars often featured engines with eight or more cylinders that required long noses and curved boards to cover them up. They were painted in pearlescent paint jobs with enamel details inspired by art deco designs from this era.
Here are some of the key design characteristics of the 1920s:
Streamlined bodies:
As manufacturers began to focus more on speed and performance, they began to develop more streamlined body styles that were designed to reduce wind resistance and improve aerodynamics. Many cars of the 1920s featured curved fenders, sloping hoods, and other design elements that helped to give them a more streamlined look.
Closed bodies:
In the early part of the decade, most cars were still open-air designs with soft tops that could be removed or lowered. However, as the decade progressed, more and more cars featured fully enclosed bodies with windows and doors that could be closed for greater comfort and protection from the elements.
Art Deco styling:
The 1920s was also a time of great artistic and cultural change, and this was reflected in the design of cars. Many cars of the era featured Art Deco-inspired design elements like geometric shapes, streamlined curves, and bold colors.
Four-wheel brakes:
In the early 1920s, most cars still had brakes on only two wheels, which made them difficult to stop and prone to skidding. However, by the mid-1920s, most cars had been upgraded to four-wheel brakes, which made them much safer and easier to control.
More powerful engines:
As car manufacturers focused more on speed and performance, they began to develop more powerful engines that could deliver greater horsepower and torque. Many cars of the 1920s featured engines with overhead valves and other advanced features that helped to improve performance and reliability.
Higher ground clearance:
Unlike the low-slung designs of the 1930s and 1940s, many cars of the 1920s had higher ground clearance to help them navigate rough roads and uneven terrain. This was particularly important in rural areas, where roads were often poorly maintained and difficult to travel.
Wood and metal construction:
Cars of the 1920s featured all-metal construction, some manufacturers continued to use wood framing in their cars, particularly for the roof and door frames. This helped to provide additional support and strength to the car’s body.
The 1920s was a decade of rapid growth and change in the automotive industry. The end of World War I and the growth of mass production techniques led to a surge in car ownership and production, and manufacturers began to experiment with new materials and design techniques to create faster, more reliable cars.
Evolution of Automobile Design: 1930s
The 1930s was a decade of major changes in the automotive industry, marked by the Great Depression and the rise of mass production techniques. Car designs of the 1930s were heavily influenced by the Art Deco movement and the need for efficiency and affordability.
A design innovation called the monocoque chassis made cars lighter, easier to produce, and more structurally sound. It also had a major impact on aesthetics, as formerly distinct features like fenders, headlights, and runnerboards all started to be integrated into the body. Two-tone exterior color schemes fell out of favor; instead, cars like the Cadillac Sixty Special were incredibly popular as family vehicles that offered a sleek look via a teardrop-inspired design that would dominate for decades to come.
Here are some of the key design characteristics of car designs in the 1930s:
Sleek aerodynamic design:
With a growing focus on speed and performance, car designers began to emphasize aerodynamics in their designs, creating cars with sleek lines and rounded fenders. This was particularly true for high-end luxury cars, which were designed to look fast even when they were standing still.
Art Deco styling:
The Art Deco movement was at its peak during the 1930s, and this was reflected in the design of cars. Cars of the era featured curved lines, streamlined shapes, and bold colors, along with artful touches like chrome accents, fender skirts, and hood ornaments.
Use of chrome:
The 1930s saw the introduction of chrome as a decorative element on cars. Chrome trim was added to fenders, grilles, and other parts of the car to provide a shiny, reflective surface that caught the eye.
Dual headlights:
Another feature that became popular during the 1930s was dual headlights. Many cars of the era featured two headlights on each side of the grille, which provided better visibility at night and added to the car’s overall visual appeal.
Steel construction:
The 1930s saw a shift away from the use of wood in car construction and towards all-steel bodies. This made cars stronger and more durable, and also made them less expensive to produce.
Independent front suspension:
Many cars of the 1930s featured independent front suspension, which allowed for a smoother ride and better handling. This was particularly true for luxury cars, which were designed to provide a more comfortable driving experience.
Wide whitewall tires:
The 1930s saw the introduction of wide whitewall tires, which became a popular design element on cars of the era. These tires provided a more luxurious look and helped to make cars stand out on the road.
Another vehicle, the Chevrolet Suburban, was introduced as a forerunner to the modern sports utility vehicle (and remains the oldest nameplate still in production).
Henry Ford said that customers could have their Model T’s in any color they wished so long as it was black. However, as cars became status symbols for middle-class families as well as upper-class families, styling and aesthetics became ever more important and eventually an integral part of car design.
Overall, the design characteristics of cars in the 1930s were marked by a focus on efficiency, affordability, and style. As the automotive industry continued to evolve and adapt to changing economic and cultural conditions, designers worked to create cars that were both practical and aesthetically pleasing, and that reflected the spirit of the era.
Evolution of Automobile Design: 1940’s
The 1940s was a decade of rapid change in the automotive industry, marked by the challenges of World War II and the post-war economic boom. Car designs of the 1940s were influenced by wartime needs and the drive for efficiency and affordability.
During WWII, cars were not produced for commercial use. However, the war resulted in one of the most important car design innovations: ponton styling.
French for “pontoon,” this styling was a culmination of the decade-long trend to blend things like headlights and fenders into a single uninterrupted form. First refined for popular consumption in the USSR with the 1946 Gaz-M20 Pobeda sedan, this design dominated the US and Europe as the design lynchpin of 1940s, all the way into the 1960s. The bulging hoods and bulbous headlights that flowed continuously with the car’s surface created a sleek look that jived well with cultural attitudes during the James Bond era.
Here are some of the key design characteristics of cars in the 1940s:
Streamlined design:
With a growing focus on speed and performance, car designers continued to emphasize aerodynamics in their designs, creating cars with sleek, streamlined lines and rounded fenders. However, due to wartime materials shortages and production limitations, some of the more extravagant design features of the 1930s were toned down.
Simple, functional design:
As the war effort required many resources, including steel, rubber, and gasoline, car designs of the 1940s became more utilitarian, with a focus on simplicity and function. Many cars featured basic, boxy designs with minimal decoration.
Use of plastics:
Due to wartime materials shortages, car manufacturers began experimenting with the use of plastics for car parts, including dashboards, steering wheels, and knobs. While not as durable as traditional materials, plastics were lightweight and allowed for greater design flexibility.
Chrome accents:
Despite the emphasis on simplicity, chrome accents remained a popular design feature on cars of the 1940s. These accents added a touch of glamour and helped to distinguish high-end models from more basic ones.
Integrated headlights:
While dual headlights remained popular on some models, many cars of the 1940s featured integrated headlights that were built into the fenders or grille. This provided a more streamlined appearance and improved aerodynamics.
Use of hydraulic brakes:
The 1940s saw the widespread adoption of hydraulic brakes, which provided better stopping power and improved safety. This was a significant improvement over earlier mechanical brake systems.
Wider use of automatic transmissions:
While automatic transmissions had been available on some high-end models in the 1930s, they became more widely available in the 1940s. This made driving easier and more accessible for a wider range of people.
Overall, the design characteristics of cars in the 1940s were marked by a focus on functionality and efficiency, while still incorporating some of the sleek design elements of earlier decades. As the automotive industry continued to adapt to changing economic and cultural conditions, designers worked to create cars that were practical, affordable, and functional, but also stylish and appealing.
Evolution of Automobile Design: 1950’s
After World War II, American cars became increasingly bulkier, while European manufacturers were scaling down to more economical, compact designs. Some of the most enduring cars of the era include the Cooper Mini, Volkswagen Beetle, and Citroen DS–all of which deviated from the excessively finned chrome-plated designs that characterized US auto production of the time.
Cars like the Chevy Corvette and Cadillac Eldorado typified the brawny swaggering aesthetic of American cars during the decade, though few managed to outlive their more economical European counterparts like the Fiat 500. Carmakers also started experimenting with new colors during this time period; pastel ice cream parlour hues and multi-colored exteriors defined this era in automotive history.
Some of the key design characteristics of the 1950s include:
“Jet Age” styling:
With the end of World War II came a renewed fascination with aviation, and this was reflected in the design of many cars from the 1950s. Features like wraparound windshields, curved bodies, and tailfins were inspired by the look of airplanes, and helped to give many cars a futuristic, high-tech appearance.
Emphasis on chrome and trim:
The 1950s was also a time of increased affluence, and many cars of the era featured extensive use of chrome and other decorative trim. This helped to give cars a sense of luxury and style, and was often used to draw attention to key design features like grilles, taillights, and door handles.
Two-tone paint schemes:
Many cars from the 1950s were available in two-tone paint schemes, with the body and roof painted in contrasting colors. This trend helped to give cars a bold, eye-catching appearance, and was often used to highlight the distinctive lines and curves of a particular model.
Tailfins:
As mentioned earlier, tailfins were a key feature of many cars from the 1950s. These were often large and dramatic, and helped to give cars a sense of speed and motion even when they were parked.
Wraparound windshields:
Wraparound windshields were another key design characteristic of many cars from the 1950s. These were often curved and streamlined, and helped to improve visibility for drivers while also contributing to the overall futuristic look of the vehicle.
Large, powerful engines:
Many cars from the 1950s were equipped with large, powerful engines that provided impressive performance and acceleration. This was partly a result of the newfound prosperity and optimism of the post-war era, as consumers were more willing to invest in high-performance vehicles.
Evolution of Automobile Design: 1960’s
The 1960s was a decade of significant change in the automotive industry, both in terms of technological advancements and design aesthetics. Some of the key design characteristics of the 1960s include:
Sleek lines and aerodynamic shapes:
Cars of the 1960s tended to feature smooth, flowing lines and aerodynamic curves. This was partly due to the increasing emphasis on fuel efficiency, which prompted manufacturers to look for ways to reduce wind resistance and drag. As a result, many cars of the era had a streamlined, futuristic look.
Larger, more powerful engines:
Despite the emphasis on fuel efficiency, the 1960s also saw a shift towards larger and more powerful engines. Many of the era’s most iconic muscle cars, such as the Pontiac GTO and the Chevrolet Camaro, were known for their high-powered V8 engines and impressive acceleration.
Bold color choices:
Cars of the 1960s were often available in bright, eye-catching colors. Popular choices included shades of blue, green, red, and yellow, as well as more unusual colors like pink and purple. This trend reflected the era’s broader cultural shifts towards individualism and self-expression.
Emphasis on safety features:
The 1960s saw the introduction of a number of important safety features, including seat belts, padded dashboards, and collapsible steering columns. Many car manufacturers began to prioritize safety as a selling point, with some even advertising their vehicles as “safety cars” or “safety-mobiles.”
Space-age styling:
The 1960s was a time of rapid technological advancement, and many car manufacturers sought to capitalize on this by incorporating space-age styling into their designs. This led to the use of futuristic materials like fiberglass and aluminum, as well as the inclusion of unique features like hidden headlights and rocket-like tail fins.
Increased customizability:
Cars of the 1960s were often highly customizable, with many manufacturers offering a range of options and accessories to suit individual tastes. This trend helped to fuel the era’s growing car culture, as drivers sought to express their identities through their vehicles.
Overall, the design characteristics of the 1960s were marked by a combination of forward-thinking technological advancements and a desire for bold, expressive design. Often referred to as the “Muscle Car Era”, 1960’s cars remain an important part of automotive history and continue to inspire car enthusiasts and collectors around the world.
Evolution of Automobile Design: 1970’s
The auto industry was influenced by the oil embargo of the early 70s, which forced affordability to the forefront of considerations. The muscle car era had its last gasps with the likes of the Pontiac Firebird, as American companies began to create their own compact and subcompact designs to meet the trend and counter the influence of imports.
While petite makes like the Ford Pinto or infamous AMC Gremlin gained popularity as economy cars, larger body vehicles courted customers with options like shag interiors and vinyl roofs that were [for some reason] massively popular.
Here are some of the key design characteristics of cars in the 1970s:
Boxier designs:
While the 1960s saw an emphasis on curved lines and sleek designs, the 1970s marked a shift toward boxier, more angular designs. This was partly due to the influence of European car designs, known for their sharp, minimalist lines.
Use of plastic:
Car manufacturers continued to experiment with the use of plastics in the 1970s, as a way to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency. Plastic was used for everything from body panels to interior trim and helped to create a more futuristic, modern look for cars.
Safety features:
In response to growing concerns about automobile safety, car manufacturers began incorporating various safety features into their designs in the 1970s. This included everything from seat belts and airbags to anti-lock brakes and crumple zones.
Smaller engines:
As fuel prices rose and emissions regulations became stricter, car manufacturers began to downsize their engines in the 1970s. This led to the development of more efficient, four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines capable of delivering good performance while meeting emissions standards.
Bright colors:
It was a big decade for color experimentation: models popped up in arrays of bright colors –yellows, oranges, blues, greens –after Porsche issued their 911 in 39 choice hues; however earthy browns and greens remained popular in the U.S.
Muscle cars:
While the oil crisis and emissions regulations had a negative impact on many car designs in the 1970s, muscle cars continued to be popular among car enthusiasts. Manufacturers like Chevrolet, Dodge, and Ford continued to produce high-performance cars like the Camaro, Challenger, and Mustang.
Station wagons:
In the 1970s, the station wagon was a popular family car design, offering plenty of space for passengers and cargo. These cars often had wood-grain paneling and a boxy, practical design.
Overall, the design characteristics of cars in the 1970s were marked by a response to changing economic and regulatory conditions, as well as a shift toward more minimalist and functional designs. While there was still plenty of room for stylistic experimentation, car manufacturers were increasingly focused on creating cars that were efficient, safe, and affordable. Despite these challenges, the 1970s still produced many iconic car designs, from muscle cars to station wagons, that continue to be celebrated by car enthusiasts today.
Evolution of Automobile Design: 1980s
The 1980s was a decade marked by a transition in automobile design as the industry moved from the classic looks of the past to more modern, aerodynamic designs.
During this time, automotive manufacturers began experimenting with new materials and technologies to improve fuel efficiency, power, and safety.
Some of the notable automobile design characteristics of the 1980s include:
Aerodynamic Shapes:
Automakers began to focus on aerodynamics to improve fuel efficiency. Cars were designed with sloping hoods, curved windshields, and streamlined bodies to reduce drag.
Pop-up Headlights:
Pop-up headlights were a popular design feature of the 1980s. They were used on many sports cars and gave them a futuristic look.
Digital Dashboards:
The 1980s saw the introduction of digital dashboards that replaced the traditional analog gauges. These digital displays were more accurate and provided more information to the driver.
T-tops:
T-tops were a popular design feature of the 1980s. They were removable roof panels that gave the car a convertible-like feel but with the added security of a hardtop.
Boxier Shapes:
As the decade progressed, automakers began to move away from the aerodynamic shapes of the early 1980s and towards more boxy designs. This was evident in the popular “square” designs of the Cadillac DeVille, the Chevrolet Caprice, and the Ford Crown Victoria.
High-Tech Interiors:
The 1980s saw the introduction of many high-tech features in car interiors, including digital displays, touch screens, and voice-activated controls. Many cars also came with advanced sound systems and electronic climate control.
Fuel Injection:
Fuel injection became a standard feature on most cars in the 1980s, replacing carburetors. This allowed for better fuel efficiency and improved performance.
Safety Features:
The 1980s saw a significant improvement in safety features, with many cars now coming equipped with airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control.
Performance Cars:
Despite the focus on fuel efficiency, the 1980s also saw the introduction of many high-performance cars. Models such as the Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, and Porsche 911 were designed for speed and power.
Overall, the 1980s was a time of significant change in automobile design. As the industry shifted towards more modern, aerodynamic designs, it also introduced many new features and technologies that have become standard on cars today.
Evolution of Automobile Design: 1990s
Though not all cars from the 90’s have aged well, there was a definite reaction to the humdrum concepts of the previous decade; fluid curves and contours had a renaissance, especially with higher-end sports cars like the Porsche 911 or even the more modest Mazda Miata.
The wedge-shaped sports cars and breadbox sedans of the 80’s were being phased out in favor of elegant lines indicative of cyclical tastes in automotive design.
Here are some notable automobile design characteristics of the 1990s:
Curvier, More Organic Shapes:
In contrast to the boxy designs of the 1980s, the 1990s saw cars with smoother, more organic shapes. Curved lines, rounder edges, and softer forms became more popular.
Sleeker Headlight Designs:
The decade saw a shift from the pop-up headlights of the 1980s to sleeker, integrated headlight designs that blended more seamlessly into the car’s overall form.
More Aerodynamic Design:
Aerodynamics continued to be an important focus for designers, and the 1990s saw the development of new technologies, such as wind tunnels, that allowed for greater precision in designing more aerodynamic shapes.
Increased Safety Features:
The 1990s saw a further increase in the number and sophistication of safety features, with the introduction of features such as side airbags, stability control, and more advanced crash-avoidance technologies.
Increased Use of Plastics and Composites:
The use of plastics and composites in automotive design increased significantly in the 1990s, as these materials offered greater flexibility and design possibilities, while also being lighter and more fuel-efficient than traditional materials.
Greater Use of Electronics:
The 1990s saw the increasing use of electronics in automotive design, as cars were equipped with new features such as advanced sound systems, navigation systems, and electronic climate control.
Rise of SUVs:
The popularity of SUVs exploded in the 1990s, with many automakers introducing new models to meet the demand for more versatile, family-friendly vehicles.
Improved Fuel Efficiency:
Environmental concerns drove improvements in fuel efficiency during the 1990s, as automakers focused on making cars lighter, more aerodynamic, and more fuel-efficient.
Focus on Luxury:
The 1990s saw a shift towards luxury and high-end features, with many automakers introducing premium models with features such as leather interiors, premium sound systems, and more advanced climate control systems.
Popularity of Retro Design:
Towards the end of the decade, there was a trend towards retro design, with many automakers introducing new models that evoked classic designs from the 1950s and 1960s.
Overall, the 1990s saw a wide range of changes in automobile design, as automakers adapted to changes in technology, consumer preferences, and environmental concerns. The decade saw a focus on safety, fuel efficiency, and luxury, as well as a greater emphasis on aerodynamics and the use of new materials and electronics.
Evolution of Automobile Design: 2000s
During the 2000s, there was an explosion of car design in all shapes, forms and styles. While there is no common thread linking their look, there are definite trends in color: white, silver and black are the most popular exterior colors of the day.
However, it’s undeniable that the SUV has cemented its place as America’s favorite car over the course of the last decade. Third generation Range Rovers carried on 70s and 80s design themes with hard lines and a well-defined chassis while the ubiquitous Lexus RX embodied tear-drop styling that has proven durable since the 1930s.
Some notable design characteristics of cars from this decade include:
Streamlined shapes:
Many cars from the 2000s featured smoother lines and more streamlined shapes, designed to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency.
Use of advanced materials:
Carbon fiber and other lightweight materials became more common in high-end sports cars, helping to reduce weight and improve performance.
Integration of technology:
The 2000s saw a significant increase in the integration of technology into cars. This included the widespread adoption of GPS navigation systems, advanced sound systems, and digital displays.
Emphasis on safety:
As crash-test ratings became more important to consumers, car manufacturers began to place a greater emphasis on safety features. This included the widespread adoption of airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control systems.
LED lighting:
LED lighting became more common in the 2000s, with many cars featuring LED taillights and headlights.
Bold styling:
While many cars of the 2000s were more streamlined than their predecessors, some models also featured bold, attention-grabbing designs. This was particularly true of performance-oriented models, which often featured large air intakes, aggressive body kits, and other bold styling cues.
Increased use of hybrid and electric powertrains:
The 2000s saw a significant increase in the adoption of hybrid and electric powertrains, particularly as gas prices rose and concerns about climate change became more pressing.
Overall, the 2000s marked a significant shift in automotive design, with a greater focus on technology, safety, and fuel efficiency. The decade also saw the rise of alternative powertrains, as well as a renewed emphasis on bold, attention-grabbing styling cues.
Evolution of Automobile Design: 2010s
The 2010s continued the trend towards sleek, modern automotive design that began in the 2000s, but also saw some new design trends emerge.
Some notable design characteristics of cars from this decade include:
Aggressive front fascias:
Many cars from the 2010s featured bold, aggressive front fascias, often with large grilles, angular headlights, and sharp lines.
Increased use of LED lighting:
LED lighting continued to become more common in the 2010s, with many cars featuring full LED headlights and taillights.
Use of advanced technology:
The 2010s saw a significant increase in the use of advanced technology in cars. This included the widespread adoption of touchscreens, gesture controls, and advanced driver assistance systems such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control.
Simplified interior designs:
Many cars from the 2010s featured simplified, minimalist interior designs, with fewer buttons and knobs and more emphasis on digital displays and touchscreens.
Greater use of lightweight materials:
As fuel efficiency continued to be a key concern, many car manufacturers began to place a greater emphasis on reducing weight through the use of lightweight materials such as aluminum and carbon fiber.
Emphasis on sustainability:
The 2010s saw a growing emphasis on sustainability in the automotive industry, with many car manufacturers introducing hybrid and electric models, as well as vehicles powered by alternative fuels such as hydrogen.
Coupe-like rooflines:
In an effort to make their cars look more modern and sporty, many car manufacturers introduced models with coupe-like rooflines, even on four-door sedans and SUVs.
Bold color options:
While black, white, and silver remained popular car colors in the 2010s, many car manufacturers also began to offer more bold and unusual color options, including bright blues, greens, and oranges.
Overall, the 2010s continued the trend towards sleek, modern automotive design, with a growing emphasis on technology, sustainability, and bold, attention-grabbing styling cues.
As we move into 2024, it will be interesting to see how these design trends continue to evolve and what new design trends will emerge.
