Car by Decade
This page is dedicated to the period car fans. Looking to learn more about early 1900s pioneering cars? This is your page. Looking to learn more about your favorite 1900s supercars? This is your page. We have most of the most interesting cars from each decade and era in our database of 7,000 cars. We tried to focus on just the iconic and most interesting cars from each decade versus every car made.
Below, we have selected hundreds of automobiles from each decade as well curated lists of the best cars from each decade, the cars that became intertwined into the very heart of their respective decades. We have covered a lot of ground, from the early 1900s right up to todays model lineups from the most important manufacturers. Don't forget we have in-depth guides for each decade and era so if you want more information just dive into each decade and enjoy
1890s Cars
The 1890s were the dawn of the automobile age, with pioneers like Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler developing the first practical gasoline-powered vehicles. These early cars were rudimentary, often resembling horseless carriages, but they laid the foundation for the rapid development and popularization of the automobile in the coming decades.
1900s Cars
The 1900s saw the automobile transition from a novelty for the wealthy to a more common mode of transportation. Mass production techniques, like those pioneered by Henry Ford, began to make cars more affordable, while innovations in design and engineering improved their reliability and performance. This era laid the groundwork for the automobile's widespread adoption.
Featured 1900s Stories, Cars, History & More
1910s Cars
The 1910s were a decade of rapid innovation and growth for the automobile, with mass production significantly increasing affordability and accessibility. This era saw the rise of iconic models like the Ford Model T, advancements in engine technology, and the development of key features like electric starters and headlights, further solidifying the automobile's place in modern society.
Featured 1910s Stories, Cars, History & More
1920s Cars
The 1920s roared with automotive advancement, as car ownership boomed and designs shifted from purely utilitarian to stylish and comfortable. Closed-body sedans gained popularity, and technological innovations like electric starters and improved braking systems became commonplace. This era saw the rise of manufacturers like Chrysler and the emergence of the "muscle car" concept with powerful engines in otherwise ordinary-looking cars.
Featured 1920s Stories, Cars, History & More
1930s Cars
The 1930s, despite the Great Depression, saw significant advancements in car design with a focus on streamlining and integrated styling, exemplified by cars like the Chrysler Airflow. While the economic downturn impacted sales, innovation continued with the introduction of independent front suspension and more powerful engines, laying the groundwork for the modern automobile.
Featured 1930s Stories, Cars, History & More
1940s Cars
The 1940s saw automobile production largely shift to military vehicles due to World War II, but advancements in technology continued behind the scenes. After the war, these advancements, including developments in automatic transmissions and more powerful engines, fueled a surge in car production and a shift towards larger, more comfortable vehicles.
Featured 1940s Stories, Cars, History & More
1950s Cars
The 1950s were a decade of flamboyant style and horsepower in the automotive world, as the post-war economic boom and suburban expansion in America fueled a love affair with the automobile. Cars became symbols of freedom and prosperity, with designs emphasizing chrome accents, tailfins, and powerful V8 engines. This era saw the rise of iconic American muscle cars, stylish European sports cars, and the birth of the "hot rod" culture.
Featured 1950s Stories, Cars, History & More
1960s Cars
The 1960s were a golden age for car culture, where style and performance reigned supreme. This era saw the rise of iconic muscle cars, sleek European sports cars, and a burgeoning focus on safety features like seat belts. It was a decade of automotive innovation and self-expression, where cars became more than just transportation – they were symbols of freedom, rebellion, and individual identity.
Featured 1960s Stories, Cars, History & More
1970s Cars
The 1970s were a turbulent time for the car industry, as the oil crisis and rising fuel prices led to a focus on fuel efficiency and the rise of smaller, more economical cars. This era also saw increasing government regulations on safety and emissions, leading to innovations like catalytic converters and the adoption of new technologies like fuel injection.
