Why Old Car Models Have Bad Designs: Examining the Evolution of Automotive Style
Car model design doesn't have the same limitations and slow evolution of technology. However, this doesn't mean that past car models were automatically bad. The assumption that older car models inherently lack design innovation is often a misinterpretation. The 2017 Honda Civic, for example, could not have been designed 15 years ago in the same way. Several factors, such as cost, technology, and changing tastes, contribute to the evolution of automotive design.
The Case of Honda Civic Design
The Honda brand has a history of forward-looking designs. Models like the 80s and 90s Civic were minimalist and beautifully unadorned, showcasing design elements that have stood the test of time. This does not mean that new designs are inherently outdated. The new Civic, for instance, introduces a front grill, which some might see as vestigial, but it represents an integration of modern design elements while maintaining the timeless aspect of a car's form. Shiny wheels and fancy paint, while luxurious, are not the sole indicators of a car's modernity. Cost and technology play significant roles in design evolution.
The Role of Cost and Technology
In the past, the absence of certain technologies meant that designing a car with modern features was out of the question. For example, before the 1920s, plastic was not mainstream, and crafting complex surfaces with it would have required tremendous amounts of work by hand. This would have increased the cost to an extent that would have made such designs unachievable. The same applies to other futuristic elements that could not be incorporated due to economic constraints. The limited production of cars like the Bugatti Aerolithe is a testament to this challenge. These early cars often lacked the expansive creative freedom of modern design.
Evolution of Design Tastes
Style is also an evolving phenomenon. What was considered attractive in one era looks outdated in another. Today's Civic may be seen as understated and unremarkable in 20 years. This constant change in taste means that designing for the future often leads to failed attempts. However, certain design elements remain timeless. Aerodynamic appearances, for instance, always find favor with the public and are often retained in new models.
Timeless Design Elements
Take a look at classic production cars like the Jaguar E-type, the Porsche 911 from the 70s, the Datsun 240Z, and the Bugatti Veyron concept car. These cars have modern successors that retain the original design cues while also offering modern updates. The aerodynamic qualities of these cars are universally appreciated, and this timeless aspect is a constant in automotive design.
Conclusion
To summarize, the evolution of car design is not linear but is influenced by a combination of costs, technological limitations, and changing consumer tastes. Old car models, while sometimes viewed critically, often contain design elements that remain relevant. The key to future design is understanding what will be timeless and how to integrate new features without compromising on established principles. When one looks at the past through the lens of modernity, it becomes clear that the evolution of car design is a continuous process, driven by innovation and a deep understanding of what will appeal to the public in the long term.