14 Iconic Car Commercial Slogans Boomers Still Quote
Some advertising slogans fade into obscurity, but others become a permanent part of pop culture. Back in the golden age of car commercials, automakers knew how to craft catchphrases that stuck in people’s minds for decades.
Boomers who grew up hearing these jingles and taglines can still recall them with ease—even if the cars themselves are long gone. Let’s take a nostalgic ride through some of the most memorable car slogans from the past.
1. “See the USA in Your Chevrolet” (Chevrolet, 1950s-1960s)
This jingle was more than just a slogan—it was an anthem. Sung by Dinah Shore on her variety show, it encouraged Americans to hit the open road in their Chevy. It was synonymous with adventure and freedom.
The catchy tune invited families to explore the country, making memories along the way. Even today, the slogan resonates with those who remember the golden age of American road trips, embodying a spirit of exploration and wanderlust.
2. “Built Ford Tough” (Ford, 1970s-Present)
Though this slogan is still in use today, it first gained traction in the ’70s. It cemented Ford trucks as the go-to choice for durability and strength. Many boomers still throw this phrase around when talking about any hard-working vehicle.
The words ‘Built Ford Tough’ evoke images of trucks that can withstand the toughest conditions. It’s a testament to Ford’s commitment to quality, driving home the idea of resilience and power.
3. “The Ultimate Driving Machine” (BMW, 1970s-Present)
BMW introduced this tagline in the ’70s, and it’s been a defining slogan ever since. It positioned BMW as the car for those who loved performance and precision. Not just transportation, but an exhilarating experience.
The phrase ‘The Ultimate Driving Machine’ captures the essence of driving pleasure, appealing to enthusiasts who seek thrills on the road. It’s a promise of quality and innovation, making every drive a memorable journey.
4. “Oh What a Feeling! Toyota” (Toyota, 1980s)
Accompanied by a freeze-frame jump in mid-air, this catchy slogan made Toyota cars seem fun and exciting. It’s one of those lines that instantly brings back memories of ’80s car commercials. The phrase ‘Oh What a Feeling!’ embodies joy and enthusiasm.
It connected drivers with a sense of happiness and reliability. Toyota’s clever marketing made its cars synonymous with positive emotions, creating lasting impressions that continue to evoke smiles.
5. “At 60 Miles an Hour, the Loudest Noise in This Rolls-Royce Is the Ticking of the Clock” (Rolls-Royce, 1958)
This incredibly elegant slogan emphasized the brand’s luxury and superior craftsmanship. It was so effective that it still gets referenced in discussions about high-end vehicles. The phrase paints a picture of serenity and refinement.
It highlights Rolls-Royce’s dedication to perfection, where even at high speeds, tranquility reigns. This slogan became a benchmark for luxury, showcasing the brand’s commitment to providing an unparalleled driving experience.
6. “Ask the Man Who Owns One” (Packard, 1900s-1950s)
Packard cars are long gone, but this slogan lived on as a symbol of prestige. It implied that Packard owners were so satisfied that they would do all the advertising for the company. The phrase ‘Ask the Man Who Owns One’ suggests confidence in quality and performance.
It was a word-of-mouth strategy that resonated with consumers. This approach created a strong sense of community among owners, fostering trust and admiration for the brand.
7. “You Meet the Nicest People on a Honda” (Honda, 1960s-1970s)
This campaign helped reshape the image of motorcycles, making them more approachable and friendly instead of rebellious. It worked so well that boomers still remember it as one of the best marketing shifts in automotive history.
The slogan ‘You Meet the Nicest People on a Honda’ broke stereotypes. It invited everyone to enjoy the ride, creating a sense of community and acceptance. The campaign was a success, establishing Honda as a brand for all.
8. “Wouldn’t You Really Rather Have a Buick?” (Buick, 1950s-1970s)
Buick positioned itself as a smart choice, implying that deep down, every driver secretly wished they had one. The tagline is still quoted by those who recall its golden days. The phrase ‘Wouldn’t You Really Rather Have a Buick?’ played on desires and aspirations.
It suggested that owning a Buick was a mark of good taste. This clever marketing appealed to consumers’ ambitions, making Buick a coveted brand in its era.
9. “Have You Driven a Ford Lately?” (Ford, 1980s-1990s)
This campaign was all about changing perceptions and reminding people to give Ford another try. It stuck with drivers, and even today, some people jokingly repeat it when talking about trying out an old favorite.
The slogan ‘Have You Driven a Ford Lately?’ encouraged exploration and rediscovery. It was a call to action for those seeking something familiar yet new.
10. “Pontiac—We Build Excitement” (Pontiac, 1980s-1990s)
Pontiac leaned into performance and thrill-seeking with this slogan, making cars like the Firebird and Trans Am feel like adrenaline-packed machines. Even though the brand is gone, the excitement still lingers in conversations.
The phrase ‘We Build Excitement’ captured the essence of adventure. It appealed to those who craved speed and innovation. Pontiac’s commitment to performance created a legacy of thrilling driving experiences that remain memorable.
11. “Like a Rock” (Chevrolet Trucks, 1991-2004)
Paired with Bob Seger’s unforgettable song, this Chevy truck slogan became one of the most powerful ads of the ’90s. Boomers still quote it when talking about something strong and dependable. The words ‘Like a Rock’ evoke images of unwavering reliability.
It’s a testament to Chevrolet’s commitment to building trucks that endure. This slogan resonated with consumers, reinforcing the idea of resilience and trust in a brand that delivers.
12. “The Heartbeat of America” (Chevrolet, 1987-1994)
Chevy struck gold with this emotional slogan, reinforcing the idea that its cars were deeply connected to American culture. To this day, people associate Chevrolet with this phrase. The slogan ‘The Heartbeat of America’ emphasized unity and pride.
It celebrated the brand’s role in everyday life, creating a sense of belonging among drivers. Chevrolet’s marketing success lay in its ability to connect emotionally, making it a beloved part of American history.
13. “Zoom-Zoom” (Mazda, 2000s)
Mazda’s playful slogan might be more recent, but it’s been quoted endlessly by those who love the brand’s sporty appeal. It’s simple, catchy, and still fun to say. The phrase ‘Zoom-Zoom’ embodies the joy of driving. It conveys a sense of energy and spontaneity.
Mazda’s campaign successfully captured the spirit of youthful enthusiasm, making driving feel like an adventure. This catchy slogan continues to resonate with fans who appreciate its lively vibe.
14. “This Is Not Your Father’s Oldsmobile” (Oldsmobile, 1980s-1990s)
Intended to modernize Oldsmobile’s image, this slogan ironically became a reminder of the brand’s downfall. Instead of attracting younger buyers, it mostly stuck in the memories of boomers who remember when Oldsmobile was still around.
The phrase ‘This Is Not Your Father’s Oldsmobile’ aimed to redefine tradition. It suggested innovation and change, a bold move that highlighted generational shifts. Despite its unintended consequences, it remains a memorable piece of marketing history.