15 Car Features That Were Once Luxuries but Are Gone Today

Cars have come a long way, evolving from symbols of luxury to everyday tools of convenience and efficiency. Many once-coveted features have quietly faded into history, replaced by more modern technology or changing consumer needs. As innovation redefined what drivers expect, certain features that once impressed now seem unnecessary or outdated.

Tricia Quitales
June 29, 2025
6 min read

15 Car Features That Were Once Luxuries but Are Gone Today — Markus Spiske on Pexels

Automobiles once packed with premium features have undergone dramatic changes, leaving many past luxuries behind. Items once considered the height of convenience or sophistication are now either obsolete or fully integrated in simpler, more efficient forms. From cassette players to ashtrays, drivers once valued these touches, but shifting tastes and tech advancements have replaced them. Looking back, these 15 forgotten features highlight how far the automotive world has traveled and how expectations have shifted over time.

1. Manual Crank Windows

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Rolling down a window with a crank handle was once standard in most vehicles. It gave passengers a sense of physical interaction with the car. However, as power windows became more affordable, the manual crank fell out of favor. Today, nearly every new car comes with electric window controls, making manual cranks a rare sight. Their disappearance marks the push toward convenience and automation in vehicle design.

2. Cigarette Lighters and Ashtrays

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Cars used to come equipped with built-in cigarette lighters and ashtrays as the norm. Smoking while driving was a common habit, and car interiors reflected that lifestyle. Over time, rising health concerns and cultural changes reduced the popularity of smoking. Manufacturers phased out these features in favor of cleaner, healthier interiors. Modern vehicles now often replace them with USB ports and storage spaces.

3. Pop-Up Headlights

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Pop-up headlights were once a design icon, adding a touch of sportiness and mystery to cars. They were popular in the ’80s and ’90s for their futuristic appearance. However, they added mechanical complexity and didn’t align with evolving safety standards. Aerodynamics and pedestrian safety laws also contributed to their decline. Today, pop-up headlights are a collector’s memory rather than a common feature.

4. Cassette Players

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Once a prized feature for music lovers, cassette players were the gateway to in-car entertainment. They allowed drivers to enjoy personal playlists before digital media existed. As CDs, MP3s, and eventually streaming took over, cassette decks quickly became irrelevant. Modern infotainment systems offer far greater capabilities and storage. Now, cassette players survive mostly in vintage car models or for nostalgic value.

5. Manual Door Locks

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Physically pushing or pulling a door lock used to be the only way to secure a vehicle. It was a simple and functional feature, though not particularly convenient. As keyless entry and central locking systems became more widespread, manual locks began to vanish. Today’s drivers expect to lock and unlock with a remote or touch sensor. This shift reflects the broader trend toward convenience and security in modern cars.

6. Vent Windows (Wing Windows)

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Small triangular vent windows were once a clever solution for airflow. They let in fresh air without opening the entire window and were especially useful before air conditioning became common. Over time, they added extra manufacturing complexity and created wind noise. As climate control systems improved, vent windows lost their purpose. Now they are mostly remembered by classic car enthusiasts.

7. Retractable Antennas

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Retractable radio antennas would rise automatically when the radio was turned on. They were both functional and a bit flashy, giving cars a tech-forward look. Unfortunately, they were prone to damage and didn’t always perform well. Today’s vehicles use sleek, integrated antennas hidden in the glass or roof. This upgrade improves durability and reduces aerodynamic drag.

8. Bench Seats in the Front

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Front bench seats allowed for three passengers across and were once common in family sedans. They provided a roomy and social layout, especially in American cars. As center consoles and bucket seats gained popularity, the bench seat gradually disappeared. Modern designs favor ergonomics, safety, and added features like cupholders and infotainment controls. Now, front bench seats are largely found in older trucks or vintage vehicles.

9. Choke Knobs

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Older vehicles with carbureted engines required a manual choke to help start the engine. Drivers had to know how to adjust it based on temperature and engine needs. This was a skill new drivers no longer need, thanks to fuel injection systems. Electronic fuel management has made choke knobs obsolete and unnecessary. The user experience improved significantly with this change.

10. Full-Size Spare Tires

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A full-size spare tire used to be a standard inclusion in most vehicles. It provided peace of mind during long road trips or unexpected flats. However, cost-saving measures and a focus on fuel efficiency led to the rise of compact spares or tire repair kits. Trunk space and weight savings were additional motivations for this shift. Today, many drivers might not even realize their car lacks a full-size spare.

11. Analog Clocks

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An analog clock was once a hallmark of luxury, symbolizing elegance and class on a car’s dashboard. These timepieces were often framed in chrome or wood for extra flair. Digital displays gradually replaced them as technology evolved. Modern cars integrate timekeeping into digital instrument clusters or infotainment screens. Though still appreciated in some luxury brands, analog clocks have mostly faded out.

12. Power Antennas

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Power antennas rose automatically with the ignition or when using the radio. They were once a futuristic touch that impressed drivers. Like retractable antennas, they were susceptible to wear and malfunction. Fixed or integrated antennas offer better reliability and are less intrusive. As tech improved, the appeal of moving parts diminished.

13. Two-Door Sedans

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Two-door sedans were popular for their sleek design and sporty feel. They combined the practicality of a sedan with coupe aesthetics. Over time, consumers prioritized convenience, especially for families and daily driving. Four-door models took over because of easier rear seat access and resale value. As a result, two-door sedans have nearly vanished from mainstream lineups.

14. Hardwired Car Phones

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Hardwired car phones once represented cutting-edge communication technology. Reserved for luxury models or business users, they allowed calls on the go before cell phones became common. Their bulky units and limited coverage made them less practical over time. With smartphones and Bluetooth integration, there’s no need for fixed phones anymore. They remain an interesting piece of automotive history.

15. Tilt-Out Rear Windows

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Tilt-out rear windows were a ventilation option in some hatchbacks and wagons. They allowed a breeze without fully opening a window, especially useful for rear passengers. As rear-seat air conditioning vents and climate systems improved, this feature lost its appeal. Vehicle design trends also moved away from this mechanism. Today, it’s a rare find even among retro-inspired models.