10 Risky Car Features from the 1950s to 1980s That Were Thankfully Removed

Buckle up, folks! We’re taking a joyride back to the golden age of automobiles—when cars weren’t just a way to get from A to B, but rolling science experiments packed with ideas that ranged from genius to downright questionable.

The 1950s to 1980s were a time of bold innovation, but let’s be honest—some of these so-called “features” were more “Final Destination” than futuristic convenience.

Ever wanted a car with a built-in record player? How about a steering wheel that doubled as a speedometer? And let’s not forget the pop-up headlights that worked… until they didn’t. Seat belts? Optional. Airbags? Who needs ‘em when you’ve got a steel dashboard and nerves of steel to match?

From shatter-prone glass roofs to turbo systems that had a habit of *self-destructing*, these ten risky car features prove that not every idea deserves a comeback.

So, grab your fuzzy dice, hold on to your (probably unsafe) lap belt, and join us for a hilarious cruise through automotive history—where some inventions were ahead of their time, and others should’ve never left the garage!

1. Tailfins

Tailfins soared to popularity in the 1950s, adding flair and flamboyance to cars. But these sharp, angular fins were more than just fashion statements. They were wind-catching hazards that could turn a casual drive into a high-flying adventure.

Many drivers felt like they were piloting a plane rather than a car. Tailfins made parallel parking a nightmare, earning them the nickname “fender benders.”

While they looked cool, they were as practical as bringing a sword to a pillow fight. Fortunately, this risky feature was grounded by the 1960s, leaving us with less turbulent rides.

2. Bench Seats

Bench seats were the epitome of cozy closeness, even if you weren’t quite prepared for it. With no seat belts in sight, passengers could slide around like they were on a funfair ride.

While great for snuggling, they were less ideal during sharp turns, sending occupants to the side quicker than you could say “hold on tight.”

Safety concerns eventually buckled this trend. By the 1980s, bucket seats became the new norm, offering a more secure ride. So, remember, sometimes it’s good to have a little distance in relationships and in car seats.

3. Asbestos Brake Pads

Brake pads with asbestos were a hot commodity until they became too hot to handle. Known for heat resistance, these pads were ironically a bit too deadly.

Exposing drivers to harmful particles, they turned routine brake checks into hazardous endeavors. The phrase “stop and smell the roses” took on a different meaning when roses were replaced by asbestos fibers.

Thankfully, they were phased out by the late 1970s, replaced by safer materials. Now, you can stop your car without stopping your heart, which is always a brake-tastic improvement.

4. T-Tops

The T-top design was like having a convertible with commitment issues. These removable roof panels were meant to deliver the open-air experience without going full convertible.

However, they often leaked like a sieve in the rain, inviting unexpected showers inside. Forget your umbrella? No problem, just open the T-top and let nature in!

These tops were a quirky compromise that left many drivers all wet until they were sealed away in the late ’80s. Nowadays, cars keep the rain outside where it belongs, leaving drivers high and dry.

5. Pillow Dashboards

Pillow dashboards were introduced to cushion the blow during a crash. Unfortunately, they were as comforting as a brick wrapped in velvet.

These padded dashes might have reduced injury in theory, but in practice, they were more of a decoration than a deterrent. Like hitting the snooze button on a cactus, they offered little comfort when needed most.

By the ’80s, these cushions were deflated in favor of sturdier, more effective materials. Now, modern dashboards offer real protection, proving that sometimes, it’s better to ditch the fluff for safety.

6. Retractable Seat Belts

Retractable seat belts were a classic case of good intentions, questionable execution. Designed to automatically fasten passengers, they sometimes had a mind of their own.

You’d sit down, and they’d snap into action, often catching clothing or unsuspecting body parts. It was like having a hyperactive robot assistant that needed a timeout.

While they aimed to improve convenience, they often delivered surprise hugs instead. Eventually, they were replaced by safer, more user-friendly designs. Today, seat belts are both reliable and gentle, ensuring safety without the unsolicited embrace.

7. Dashboard Ashtrays

Ah, the dashboard ashtray – a relic of when smoking was as common as using the horn. These built-in hazards were a hotspot for fire risks.

Imagine flicking ash with precision only to discover the smoldering surprise later. Dashboard ashtrays seemed like a good idea until they became mini chimneys.

As smoking trends declined, so did these fiery features. Nowadays, cars are smoke-free zones, preventing the dash from becoming a smokescreen. Remember, it’s better to keep the ash outside, not on your dashboard.

8. Curb Feelers

Curb feelers, the whiskers of the automotive world, were designed to help drivers park without scraping their tires. Yet, they often ended up causing more embarrassment than assistance.

Their metallic sound against a curb was akin to nails on a chalkboard. While they aimed to prevent damage, they often drew attention for all the wrong reasons.

By the 1980s, modern parking sensors took their place, saving our ears from the curb feeler’s serenade. Now, parking is less of a public spectacle, allowing for peace and quiet.

9. Pop-up Headlights

Pop-up headlights added an element of surprise, like car eyes playing peek-a-boo. They were the epitome of cool until they malfunctioned, leaving cars with a permanent wink.

These headlights were notorious for refusing to budge in cold weather, keeping drivers in the dark – literally. While they were fun, they were as reliable as a shady forecast.

Eventually, they faded away in favor of fixed headlights, providing consistent illumination. Now, you can see the road without playing a guessing game with your car’s lights.

10. Motorized Antennas

Motorized antennas were the cat’s whiskers of car tech, raising and lowering with the ignition. Unfortunately, they often got stuck, leaving drivers with a permanent antenna salute.

They were prone to breaking or jamming, providing a source of endless entertainment and frustration. Imagine your car waving goodbye as you drive off.

By the late 1980s, these waving wonders were mostly replaced with fixed antennas. Today, you can enjoy your radio without your car performing an antenna dance at every stop.