16 Forgotten ’80s Auto Accessories That Feel Ancient
Back in the 1980s, drivers had a completely different relationship with their cars and the gadgets inside them. Many auto accessories that were once common are now practically museum pieces, having been replaced by more advanced technology or simply faded from relevance.
- Tricia Quitales
- 5 min read
The 1980s were a golden era for automotive innovation, but not every trend aged gracefully. Many accessories once considered must-haves are now obsolete, quirky relics of a time gone by. Some offered real convenience, while others were just passing fads. Today, these forgotten items offer a nostalgic glance into what car culture used to be.
1. Car Phones
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The car phone was the ultimate symbol of status and mobility during the 1980s. Bulky and often hardwired into the vehicle, it provided limited portability. Reception was usually poor, and usage costs were sky-high. Drivers had to deal with huge antennas and heavy handsets. Smartphones have since rendered these once-impressive devices completely irrelevant.
2. Cassette Tape Holders
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Cassette tape holders were a necessity for any music-loving driver. These holders usually strapped to visors or were built into center consoles. They kept your favorite tapes organized and within reach. Today, digital streaming and Bluetooth connectivity have erased the need. The physical bulk of tapes and their containers now seems excessive.
3. Pop-Up Sunroofs
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Pop-up sunroofs were a popular aftermarket upgrade in the 1980s. They were manually operated and required physically removing the panel to enjoy the open air. Leaks were common, and security was minimal. Nowadays, powered and panoramic sunroofs have taken their place. The original pop-up design is rarely seen on modern vehicles.
4. Cigarette Lighters and Ashtrays
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Nearly every car in the 1980s came equipped with a cigarette lighter and a built-in ashtray. Smoking in cars was socially acceptable and even expected by many drivers. Today, cigarette lighters have largely disappeared, replaced by USB ports. Ashtrays are now optional or completely gone. The change reflects both health trends and evolving design priorities.
5. Fuzzy Dice
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Fuzzy dice hanging from the rearview mirror were a kitschy staple of 1980s car culture. They were meant to represent luck and individuality. While technically originating earlier, they saw a big resurgence during the ’80s. Nowadays, most drivers avoid anything that obstructs their view. Safety laws have also contributed to the decline of such decorations.
6. CB Radios
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Citizens Band radios were essential for road communication before mobile phones. Truckers and enthusiasts used them to share traffic updates and chat. Their popularity peaked in the ’70s and lingered into the ’80s. Modern GPS and messaging apps have replaced their utility. CB radios now exist mostly in nostalgia and hobbyist circles.
7. Car Bras
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Car bras were vinyl covers designed to protect the front end of vehicles. They were marketed as both stylish and functional. In reality, they often trapped moisture and caused paint damage. Their look became dated as automotive styling evolved. Paint protection films have since taken over in both form and function.
8. Window Louvers
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Window louvers were both a fashion statement and a sunshade. Popular on sports cars and muscle cars, they gave a sleek, aggressive look. Unfortunately, they limited rear visibility and collected debris. By the ’90s, they were already on the way out. Most modern vehicles now use tinted glass instead.
9. Hood Ornaments
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Once a luxurious detail, hood ornaments added a touch of flair to many ’80s cars. They ranged from simple logos to intricate sculptures. Over time, they became safety hazards and targets for theft. Manufacturers phased them out in favor of flat badges. Today, they are mostly found on vintage or luxury models.
10. Dashboard Compasses
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Dashboard compasses were common before GPS technology became mainstream. They were typically suction-mounted and sometimes lit up for nighttime use. Drivers used them to stay oriented on long road trips. They were not always accurate, especially in urban settings. Navigation systems have made them largely unnecessary.
11. Seat Bead Cushions
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Beaded seat cushions were touted for improved circulation and comfort. Taxi drivers and commuters swore by them during long drives. They added a unique tactile feel but looked out of place in many interiors. New ergonomic designs and seat materials have replaced them. Today, they are rarely spotted outside of nostalgic displays.
12. Steering Wheel Spinners
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Also known as “suicide knobs,” these devices made one-handed turning easier. They were popular among truck drivers and those with limited mobility. Although convenient, they were also hazardous in high-speed situations. As power steering improved, their use diminished. Most drivers now consider them unsafe and unnecessary.
13. Graphic Equalizers
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Audio systems in the 1980s often featured separate graphic equalizers. These panels allowed drivers to fine-tune their music output visually. Flashing LED bars and sliders added a futuristic vibe to dashboards. Today, most sound systems come pre-calibrated with digital settings. The once-advanced equalizers now feel like overcomplicated relics.
14. Retractable Antennas
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Retractable antennas were a high-tech touch during the ’80s. They extended when the radio turned on and retracted when it was off. While sleek, they were prone to jamming and breakage. Fixed or shark-fin antennas have now taken over. Retractable models have mostly disappeared from newer designs.
15. Glove Box Maps
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Before digital navigation, paper maps were a travel essential. They were stored in glove compartments and unfolded to reveal large, detailed layouts. Reading them required stopping the car and a good sense of direction. Apps and GPS units have completely replaced the need. Physical maps are now more of a collector’s item than a tool.
16. Floor-Mounted High Beam Switches
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In many ’80s cars, high beams were activated by a button on the floor. Drivers would tap it with their foot to toggle the lights. It was a clever solution at the time but awkward by today’s standards. Modern cars now use stalk-mounted switches or automatic systems. The floor switch has quietly vanished from automotive design.