Actually, that’s not entirely true. It might be better to say that the younger generations in New Jersey don’t understand the characteristics of old cars.
Because I can tell you. For me? I miss some of these features. It reminds me of simpler times when cars weren’t completely controlled by computers and electronics.
For those of you in my camp? Let’s just say our cars had style. Our cars had attitude. Our cars had unique features. But most importantly? They were fun to drive. I’m not saying that today’s cars aren’t fun. They’re just not the same.
Yes, they’re safer. And yes, all the computer electronics make everything more convenient. Not to mention, today’s cars are more fuel efficient than ever before. All good points, but with one major drawback. Style and personality aside, today’s cars are just so damn expensive.
Maybe that’s why many younger drivers in New Jersey don’t enjoy getting behind the wheel as much as some of us older people did when we learned to drive.
I don’t know. There’s something about these old-school features that just brings back so many memories. I mean, can you even imagine cars with pop-up headlights as standard?
LOOK: Cool car features that we somehow miss
Kids today don’t know what they’re missing out on! But let’s be honest: some of those old car features were pretty awesome. Yes, they might have been a little risky and even tried to kill us, but they made our rides a lot cooler.
Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz
Gear lever for manual transmission
Manual transmission
When was the last time cars came with a manual transmission as standard? Maybe some do, but good luck finding one.
But it wasn’t really one particular detail that made our cars cool. It was the combination of everything. All those manual controls and old-fashioned features really gave a car personality. That and the fact that not almost every car was silver or gray.
The most beautiful State Patrol cars in (almost) every state
For the past 10 years, the American Association of State Troopers has held a contest to determine which state has the most beautiful patrol cars. Nearly every state police agency submits its best photo of its most beautiful patrol car for a chance to win the coveted cover image for the association’s annual calendar. From police cars speeding through snowstorms to vehicles on the stage at the Grand Ole Opry, here are this year’s nominees.
Gallery credit: Rob Carroll
A marked New Jersey State Police vehicle
New Jersey State Police
Vintage cars parked in a row on asphalt parking lot
20 classic cars from 20 classic movies
Gallery Credit: Dave Roberts
The above post reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5’s Sunday morning host and content writer Mike Brant. All opinions expressed are his own.
