Introduction

Have you ever wondered why modern cars do not resemble those from the 1980s? This article explores the reasons behind the transformation in automotive design, focusing on safety, changing fashion, and technological advancements.

The 80s Car Aesthetic: A Boxy, Ugly Epoch

The cars from the 1980s were often seen as oversized and boxy, with sharp edges and square headlights. These designs were not aesthetically pleasing but were a direct result of the automotive industrial and aesthetic preferences of the time. Sedans had a drag coefficient that was almost as high as a microwave oven, and smaller vehicles were often bulky and unappealing. Even sports cars from the 1980s were not much to look at, with their square and angular designs.

The Safety and Design Evolution

Designing cars today is more about safety and aerodynamics than the designs of the past. Cars from the 1980s were not only unattractive but also often poorly built, leading to issues such as rust. This is why many of these cars are considered rust traps and are not worth restoring. Additionally, poor build quality was a significant issue with American and 1970s cars, further contributing to their dislike and subsequent lack of restoration.

Safety regulations in recent years have played a crucial role in modern car design. One of the primary concerns is pedestrian safety. Car designers must now show data on pedestrian crashes, which means that modern cars have a more bulbous, rounded shape. This design serves to deflect the head of a pedestrian in a collision, reducing the risk of fatal injuries. Aggressively angular designs are now more commonly used as styling elements rather than as body shapes, as they can act as impalement devices. A good example of this is the front of SUVs, which have curves designed to break falls.

For instance, while cars from the previous decades often had 90-degree corners that were nearly square, modern designs prioritize safety over aesthetics. Cars like the Mazda, with its more angular front end, are exceptions. However, even these angular designs are more functional and serve styling purposes rather than being purely aesthetic.

As technology continues to advance, so does the focus on safety. The current trends in car design reflect a shift towards more safety-centric features, which means that cars will continue to evolve into a more rounded and practical shape. This evolution is not unique to the 1980s; cars have evolved over time, as seen in the comparison between the 1940s, 1980s, and 2020s.

Conclusion

While the 1980s cars were notable for their distinctive boxy, angular designs, the evolution of car design has moved beyond those aesthetics. Modern cars are not just about style; they are designed with safety and practicality in mind. This shift is a result of changing consumer preferences, regulatory requirements, and advancements in technology. As a result, the cars of today have a much more bulbous and rounded shape, which reflects the priority of safety in automotive design.

By understanding the reasons behind the evolution of car design, we can appreciate the challenges and innovations that have shaped the vehicles of today. This article aims to provide insight into the transformation of car aesthetics and the constant pursuit of safety and practicality in the automotive industry.