Retro car features that should be brought back

What are some retro car features that need to make a comeback? And what are those that should stay in the history book?

There are plenty of retro car features that still have a special place in our hearts.

Whether it’s nostalgia, sheer usefulness, or just the fact that they’re downright cute, some of these throwbacks deserve a comeback.

But then there are those features that really should stay in the history books – and honestly, I’d rather not think about them again.

I’m looking at you, crank windows.

The arm-ache from trying to wind that window up in the middle of a British downpour? Unforgettable.

But hey, let's focus on the positives and take a look at some of the retro features that we actually love and could totally get on board with bringing back.

Manual door locks

Ah, manual door locks—a true blast from the past.

Their main selling point? Childhood mischief.

Locking your sibling in the car or shutting your parents out just as they reached for the handle? Pure comedy gold (yes, I was that annoying youngest sibling).

But let’s be real – they were more hassle than help.

Nowadays, we’ve got remote key fobs that let you lock, unlock, and even pop the boot with the press of a button. No more juggling shopping bags while fumbling for the keyhole.

While they hold a special place in our hearts, I think it’s safe to say manual locks can stay firmly in the past.

Pop-up headlights

Let’s be honest – pop-up headlights are downright adorable. They look like little eyes winking at you, ready to brighten up your drive.

Practical? Not really.

But cute? Absolutely.

You don’t see many cars with these charming features anymore. Contrary to popular belief, they’re not illegal, but modern safety regulations have made it nearly impossible for manufacturers to bring them back.

So, where did it all begin? 

The Cord 810, the godfather of pop-up headlights, debuted in 1936. This American icon was also the first front-wheel-drive car in the U.S., leaving jaws dropped.

And if you’re lucky enough to drive a first-generation Mazda MX-5, do us all a favour: raise those headlights and give a little salute to the Cord 810 – the car that started it all.

Colour-pop interiors

Modern car interiors may be sleek and stylish, but let’s face it—the minimalist trend of neutral blacks, greys, whites, and beige can feel a bit clinical.

Sure, it’s sophisticated, but where’s the fun?

Back in the '80s and '90s, car interiors were a riot of colour. You could find seats and dashboards in every shade of the rainbow, often paired with bold patterns.

While I’ll pass on velour (no one needs to sweat that much), those quirky designs brought a sense of personality and joy to the cabin.

As a kid, I adored those patterned seats – they were pure fun, and who cares about “aesthetics” when you’re young?

Honestly, adding a splash of colour doesn’t just brighten up the car; it brings it to life.

A bit of character never hurt anyone.

Retro steering wheels and dashboard

If you’re craving some character in your car, retro steering wheels are another ultimate throwback accessory.

These beauties blended wood, leather, exposed metal, and plastic, creating a tactile masterpiece that felt as solid as it looked. Contrast that with today’s dashboards – often a sea of black and grey plastics that, while practical, can sometimes lack personality.

That’s not to say every vintage dashboard was a stunner. Some looked like they belonged in a discount furniture shop. 

But when they got it right, they nailed it.

Curb feelers

They might not win any awards for innovation, but curb feelers were undeniably handy.

These simple steel springs or metal wires were attached to the bottom of your car, and their sole job? To let out a scraping noise when you got too close to the curb.

A lifesaver for anyone who’s ever misjudged a parking spot – no more bashed wheels or scuffed alloys. And let’s be honest, we’ve all curbed the car at least once (or twice).

As a shorter human who often struggles to see the curb, I’m fully behind a comeback for these. 

Practical, simple, and a tiny bit retro-chic.

Thin A-pillars

Take a trip down memory lane to cars of the '70s and '80s, and you’ll notice a common design feature: thin A-pillars and generously sized windows.

Now, I don’t know about you, but this would make life so much easier.

Imagine no longer having to crane your neck around a chunky A-pillar just to check if there’s a car coming at a roundabout. The visibility these slender pillars offered was second to none, and honestly, that’s a big yes from me.

However, there’s a reason they stopped having this feature on cars. Having a bigger A-pillar makes the roof and windows stronger (for safety reasons).

Retro car features are more than just a trip down memory lane – they’re a reminder of a time when cars had character and charm.

From the adorable pop-up headlights to the practicality of curb feelers, some old-school features have earned their place in our hearts. Sure, some things are better left behind, but there’s no harm in reminiscing about the quirks that made driving a bit more fun.

As modern cars continue to evolve, perhaps we can find a way to blend the best of both worlds – sleek tech with a dash of retro flair.

Because let’s face it: a little personality in your ride never hurt anyone.