Today we explore the instrument panel of a 1955 Oldsmobile Super 88. There's no GPS, no back-up camera, not a heads up display or LED to be found.
The interiors of these classic cars featured beautiful, artistic design that emphasized function as well as form.
The speedometer and odometer were prominent- usually right in front of the driver. These were mechanical devices loaded with intricate gears and springs. I've heard that the odometer in some of the old cars could be rolled back by lifting the rear wheels and driving in reverse. I've never had a car that did this so I can't confirm.
The radio was most often an AM only unit- sometimes with vacuum tubes- and push button presets.
You also got a cigarette lighter and an ashtray, sometimes gauges for water temp and oil pressure. And warning lights- don't forget the warning lights.
There is a nice write up on the "10 Coolest Dashboards of the 50's" on the web site The Daily Drive
Well worth a read.
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