Ever since cars entered the realm of the common person, they’ve been one of the major status symbols in this world. As the different eras have come and gone, different types of cars have been invented and become popular. While there is no universal definition of coolness when it comes to automobiles, some things are universal. A car needs to show off its owner’s traits. The following are some characteristics cars throughout the ages have shown off.

The 1920s

In the 1920s, just having a car was something of an accomplishment. The dominant style in those days resembled a carriage, and the hard top had yet to be invented. While the Model T has been called one of the ugliest cars ever produced, it sold like four-wheeled hot cakes.

The 1950s

In the 50s, style was everything with big tires, big fins and big bodies. In that era, if your car looked like a tank you were the king of the road. Gas cost about a nickel a gallon and it looked like there was an unlimited supply after the war ended, so “get in your car and drive” became a national commandment.

The 1960s

In the 60s, speed was more important than size. With a fast car you ruled the road, while a big car was often thought of as a lumbering beast. As the green movement took hold, the first economy cars were produced with the specific goal of being easy to drive and using less fuel.

The 1970s

The 70s were dominated by the gas crisis and a serious recession. Waiting in a long line for gas that might easily run out before you got to fill up wasn’t fun, and cars of this era got downright tiny. Just like dinosaurs, huge vehicles starve too easily for this kind of environment. So cars went lean and mean, and fuel economy first came to the national consciousness.

The Last 30 Years

Since the 80s, cars have run the gamut from high safety in an SUV to extreme fuel economy in tiny hybrid vehicles. While clean lines and computer-designed components rule the day, today cars can show off a wider variety of traits than ever before. You can find all types of cars on eBay.

The Future

As fascinated as people are with cars, they’re even more fascinated with the future. Since the 50s it’s been obvious that a lot of people want something on the cutting edge, if not borrowed from the future. The designs of tomorrow are visible in concept cars, which tend to have extremely sharp lines and alternative fuel sources. Many of their looks borrow from the 20s and 50s.

Every era’s cars have shown off a desirable trait in their owners. Some eras have valued size, while some value safety. Still others venerate speed. No matter what era of car your preference comes from, you can tell a lot about who you are by the kinds of cars you love.