Remember These? 12 Mind-Blowing Classic TV Car Ads That Vanished From Our Screens (But Live On In Our Hearts!)

“MG MGB Roadster” by Alexandre Prevot is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Alright, buckle up, fellow nostalgia-seekers! There’s just something utterly magical about diving headfirst into the archives of classic TV commercials. Before the internet became our constant companion, these little masterpieces of persuasion were absolutely everywhere, shaping our perceptions of cars, culture, and what it meant to be cool on four wheels. Now, thanks to the internet, we get to rediscover these gems and remember a time when advertising was an art form all its own, full of big promises, grand pronouncements, and sometimes, a healthy dose of pure, unadulterated kitsch.

Flipping through old television advertisements is like traveling back in time, isn’t it? The energy, the earnestness, and yes, sometimes the sheer absurdity of it all can make for a seriously fun afternoon. Some of these ads were hilariously funny on purpose, others were incredibly serious for their time but now give us a good chuckle in retrospect, and some just meant serious business from start to finish. They were cultural touchstones, snippets of Americana that told us as much about the era as they did about the cars they were selling. It’s a testament to their impact that so many still resonate with us today, even if they’ve long since vanished from regular rotation.

So, prepare for a delightful journey down memory lane as we celebrate some of the most iconic car commercials that once graced our screens. These weren’t just ads; they were mini-stories, technological showcases, and sometimes, even philosophical debates on wheels. From humble vans to luxury sedans, each one offers a fascinating peek into the automotive world of yesteryear. Let’s rev those engines and dive into the first half of our epic list, exploring the legendary spots that truly defined an era and still have us talking!

1. 1950 Volkswagen Bus: The “Shoebox Shape” That Became a Legend

Before it became the symbol of counter-culture, road trips, and endless adventures, the Volkswagen Bus debuted for the 1950 model year as something truly unique—an “off-the-wall idea” that Volkswagen genuinely had to “sell people on the idea” of. Imagine trying to convince an American public, accustomed to big, sweeping designs, that a humble, shoebox-shaped vehicle was the next big thing! It’s a marketing challenge that, in retrospect, VW absolutely aced, planting the seeds for a global phenomenon that would last for decades.

The commercial likely had its work cut out for it, introducing a vehicle that broke all the traditional molds. Its distinctive, utilitarian “shoebox shape Transporter” was a stark contrast to the chrome-laden behemoths of the era. Yet, it was precisely this unconventional design, coupled with its practicality and efficiency, that would eventually win hearts. These days, the idea of owning an original VW Bus isn’t just appealing; people would practically “line up for a chance to own one,” a testament to its enduring charm and undeniable classic status.

The early ads weren’t just selling a car; they were selling a concept – a different way of life, perhaps even before anyone fully realized it. Volkswagen’s approach was often about highlighting the practical advantages and the smart engineering behind their vehicles. This early push for the Bus laid the groundwork for how VW would communicate with its audience for years to come, emphasizing innovation and utility over sheer horsepower or ostentatious luxury, setting a trend that many would follow.

It’s fascinating to think about how far ahead of its time the Bus truly was, a vehicle that required its creators to actively educate the market about its purpose and benefits. From being an oddity to a coveted collector’s item, the 1950 Volkswagen Bus commercial holds a special place, marking the beginning of an incredible journey for a vehicle that defied expectations and carved out its own iconic niche in automotive history.

2. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air: Where Life Seemed “Magically Wonderful”

Enter the mid-1950s, a time when “Life just seemed more magically wonderful,” and advertisements were a grand affair. The 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air commercials weren’t just selling a car; they were selling a dream, an aspiration wrapped in shimmering chrome and vibrant colors. Advertising narrators of this era took their job with the “seriousness of national newsreel commentators,” lending an air of gravitas and importance to every feature, no matter how mundane. It was an exercise in pure, unadulterated optimism.

The commercials were a sensory experience, with “Music had a happier tone” that perfectly complemented the era’s buoyant spirit. Even “the most basic features on the car had grand names,” elevating simple functionalities into luxurious innovations. This approach transformed the car-buying experience into an event, making potential owners feel like they were investing not just in transportation, but in a lifestyle of unparalleled joy and progress. The Bel Air was more than metal and glass; it was a passport to the American dream.

Beyond the iconic sedan, the advertisements captured the breadth of Chevrolet’s offerings. Imagine seeing a “BEL AIR CONVERTIBLE commercial” with the top down, cruising through a sun-drenched landscape, embodying freedom and style. And for those fascinated by the industrial marvels of the time, there was even a “1955 Chevrolet promotional video showing various cars and trucks on the assembly line.” These glimpses behind the curtain added a layer of authenticity and awe, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship that went into each vehicle.

These Bel Air commercials are more than just historical artifacts; they’re capsules of a bygone era, perfectly illustrating the hopeful, prosperous post-war period. They remind us of a time when the car was not just a mode of transport but a symbol of status, success, and the sheer joy of living. Watching them now, you can almost hear the happy music and feel the optimistic pulse of a nation on the move, making the 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air an unforgettable entry in the annals of classic TV advertising.

Car Model Information: 2020 Audi Q5 45 Premium
Name: Chevrolet Bel Air
Caption: 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Production: 1949–1980
ModelYears: 1950–1981
Class: Full-size
Layout: FR layout
Predecessor: Chevrolet Fleetline,Chevrolet Biscayne
Successor: Chevrolet Impala
Categories: 1950s cars, 1960s cars, 1970s cars, 1980s cars, Articles with short description
Summary: The Chevrolet Bel Air is a full-size car produced by Chevrolet for the 1950–1981 model years. Initially, only the two-door hardtops in the Chevrolet model range were designated with the Bel Air name from 1950 to 1952. With the 1953 model year, the Bel Air name was changed from a designation for a unique body shape to a premium level of trim applied across a number of body styles. The Bel Air continued with various other trim level designations, and it had gone from a mid-level trim car to a budget fleet sedan when U.S. production ceased in 1975. Production continued in Canada, for its home market only, through the 1981 model year.

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3. 1957 Chrysler Corporation 5 Models: The “Newest New Cars in 20 Years”

Chrysler in 1957 didn’t just introduce a new car; it unleashed an entire fleet, claiming to present the “newest new cars in 20 years.” This was a bold declaration in an industry notorious for hyping every annual refresh as revolutionary. The commercials for these five models – the Plymouth Fury, Dodge, DeSoto, Chrysler, and Imperial – were designed to introduce the public to Chrysler’s ambitious “forward look” bodies, a distinctive design philosophy that aimed to sweep away the past and propel automotive aesthetics into the future.

The concept of the “forward look” was all about sleek lines, lower profiles, and expansive glass, giving these cars a sense of motion even when standing still. The commercials had the monumental task of showcasing this unified vision across five distinct brands, each appealing to a slightly different segment of the market. It was a masterclass in brand architecture and coordinated marketing, proving that Chrysler was serious about making a splash and defining the look of the late 1950s with a coherent design language across its entire lineup.

Chrysler’s audacious claim that these were the “newest new cars in 20 years” was a powerful marketing hook, designed to grab attention and differentiate them from competitors who merely offered incremental changes. It tapped into a desire for true innovation, positioning Chrysler as the vanguard of automotive design. The ads would have meticulously highlighted the shared design elements while subtly showcasing the unique personality and luxury level of each model, from the sporty Plymouth Fury to the stately Imperial.

These commercials are a fascinating study in how a major automotive corporation attempted to reshape public perception and dominate a market through a unified design strategy. They speak to a moment when grand statements and sweeping changes were celebrated. The “forward look” cars, and the ads that launched them, represent a pivotal point in automotive design, marking Chrysler’s confident stride into a new era and leaving a lasting impression on the industry and the collective memory of car enthusiasts.

4. 1958 Plymouth Fury: The Slogan That Stuck (And the Horror Flick Connection!)

Oh, the 1958 Plymouth Fury! Even if you’re not a car enthusiast, the name likely rings a bell thanks to Stephen King. This is, indeed, “the make and model that starred in the Stephen King film ‘Christine’.” Imagine seeing the sleek, menacing lines of this car on your TV screen, long before it became the stuff of cinematic nightmares. The original commercials, of course, presented a much more benign (and persuasive) image, aiming to showcase its value and innovative features.

One memorable element from the showrooms, likely featured in the ads, was the “Plymouth ‘value finder’ comparison chart.” This was a clever way to visually demonstrate how the Fury stacked up against its competitors, emphasizing bang for the buck. But the real mic drop moment, the slogan that was “unforgettably good,” perfectly encapsulated the car’s promise: “More car for your money today, more money for your car tomorrow.” It was a potent message, appealing to both immediate gratification and future financial wisdom – a truly timeless pitch.

The commercials also playfully highlighted features that we now take entirely for granted, making them delightful to watch in retrospect. “It’s always enjoyable to see features we take for granted today treated as a big deal then,” the context reminds us. Take “full-time power steering,” for instance. Today, we’d scoff if a car *didn’t* have it, but back then, it was a convenience worthy of significant airtime, signaling a new level of ease and sophistication for the driver. “I sure hope so,” indeed!

The 1958 Plymouth Fury commercials, therefore, are a wonderful blend of aspirational marketing and historical quirk. They offer a glimpse into the art of salesmanship in the late 50s, using catchy slogans and feature spotlights to elevate the driving experience. And knowing its future cinematic role just adds another layer of intriguing pop culture history to an already fascinating piece of advertising. This Fury was definitely more than just a car; it was a character in the making.

Car Model Information: 1973 Plymouth Fury Custom Suburban
Name: Plymouth Fury
Caption: 1959 Plymouth Sport Fury
Manufacturer: Plymouth (automobile)
Aka: Plymouth Sport Fury (1959, 1962–1971),Plymouth VIP (1966–1969)
Production: 1958–1978
ModelYears: 1959–1978
Assembly: bulleted list
Class: Full-size,Mid-size,Full-size,Mid-size,Full-size,Mid-size
Layout: FR layout
Predecessor: Plymouth Belvedere,Plymouth Plaza,Plymouth Savoy
Successor: Plymouth Gran Fury,Plymouth Gran Fury
Sp: us
Categories: 1960s cars, 1970s cars, All articles needing additional references, Articles needing additional references from December 2018, Articles with short description
Summary: The Plymouth Fury is a model of automobile that was produced by Plymouth from 1955 until 1989. It was introduced for the 1956 model year as a sub-series of the Plymouth Belvedere, becoming a separate series one level above the contemporary Belvedere for 1959. The Fury was a full-size car from 1959 until 1961, then a mid-size car from 1962 until 1964, again, a full-size car from 1965 through 1974, and again, a mid-size car from 1975 through 1978. From 1975 until 1977, the Fury was sold alongside the full-size Plymouth Gran Fury. In 1978, the B-body Fury was the largest Plymouth, and by 1979, there was no large Plymouth. This product gap was filled in 1980 with the R-body Gran Fury, followed by the M-body Fury in 1982. Production of the last V8, RWD Plymouth Fury ended at the Kenosha Main assembly plant in Kenosha, WI, on December 23, 1988. Unlike its sibling brand, Dodge, Plymouth would not live to see the resurgence of the large, V8/RWD sedan.

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5. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle: The Unchanging Icon

When we talk about classic ads, the Volkswagen Beetle is an absolute must-mention, and the 1958 commercial is a fantastic example of its unique marketing philosophy. This particular ad offered a delightful scenario: “German VW execs meeting with a renowned Italian auto designer and asking him what changes would he make to the Beetle.” The suspense must have been palpable for viewers, wondering how a celebrated designer might revolutionize the already distinctive car.

The punchline, however, was classic Beetle. After much consideration, “The only design improvement he could come up with was to make the rear window larger.” That’s it! No radical redesign, no sweeping stylistic changes, just a pragmatic tweak. This ad brilliantly reinforced the core message that made the Beetle so enduring: it was designed right the first time, and its evolution was driven by function, not fleeting fashion. It was an anti-glamour, anti-planned-obsolescence statement in a world obsessed with newness.

The commercial then delivered its iconic, philosophical tagline, a mantra for the brand: “A Volkswagen is never changed to make it look different. Only to make it work better.” This wasn’t just advertising copy; it was a mission statement, a promise to consumers that they were buying into reliability, efficiency, and thoughtful engineering. In an era of flashy redesigns, VW’s steadfast commitment to practical improvement stood out, building incredible trust and loyalty among its owners.

This 1958 Beetle ad isn’t just about a car; it’s about a brand’s unwavering identity and a genius marketing strategy that turned a perceived lack of change into a strong selling point. It perfectly captured the essence of the Beetle – a car so thoughtfully designed that even a world-class expert could find little to improve upon beyond a simple functional enhancement. It’s a truly classic commercial that speaks volumes about Volkswagen’s enduring legacy and the power of consistent branding.

Car Model Information: 1969 Volkswagen Beetle (Pre-1980) Base
Sp: uk
Name: Volkswagen Type 1,”Beetle”
Caption: 1965–1966 Volkswagen Käfer
Manufacturer: Volkswagen
Alt: A front-three quarters view of a pale-yellow Volkswagen Käfer. It features 165/80R15 tires, which shod 15×4. 5″ silver, circular wheels. The Käfer features a beetle-like body, and its window is open. The picture is taken with much greenery in the background, and the photo was edited to give it a more warmer tone.
Aka: List of names for the Volkswagen Type 1
Assembly: #Markets and assembly
Designer: Ferdinand Porsche
Class: Small family car
BodyStyle: Sedan (automobile),convertible
Production: 1938–2003,21,529,464 produced
Successor: Volkswagen Golf Mk1,Volkswagen Gol#First generation (Typ30, 1980),Volkswagen New Beetle
Layout: Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: Petrol,Volkswagen air-cooled engine,1192 cc H4,1285 cc H4,1493 cc H4,1584 cc H4
Transmission: manual transmission,Saxomat,Autostick
Wheelbase: convert
Length: convert
Width: convert
Height: 1500 mm
Abbr: on
Weight: convert
Categories: 1940s cars, 1950s cars, 1960s cars, 1970s cars, 1980s cars
Summary: The Volkswagen Beetle, officially the Volkswagen Type 1, is a small family car produced by the German company Volkswagen from 1938 to 2003. A global cultural icon known for its bug-like design, the Beetle is widely regarded as one of the most influential cars of the 20th century. Its production period of 65 years is the longest for any single generation of automobile, and its total production of 21.5 million units makes it the most produced car of a single platform in history and the second-highest of all nameplates manufactured in the 20th century. The Beetle was conceived in the early 1930s. The leader of Nazi Germany, Adolf Hitler, decided there was a need for a people’s car—an inexpensive, simple, mass-produced car—to serve Germany’s new road network, the Reichsautobahn. The German engineer Ferdinand Porsche and his design team began developing and designing the car in the early 1930s, but the fundamental design concept can be attributed to Béla Barényi in 1925, predating Porsche’s claims by almost ten years. The result was the Volkswagen Type 1 and the introduction of the Volkswagen brand. Volkswagen initially slated production for the late 1930s, but the outbreak of war in 1939 meant that production was delayed until the war had ended. The car was originally called the Volkswagen Type 1 and marketed simply as the Volkswagen. It was not until 1968 that it was officially named the “Beetle”. Volkswagen implemented designations for the Beetle in the 1960s, including 1200, 1300, 1500, 1600, 1302, and 1303. Volkswagen introduced a series of large luxury models throughout the 1960s and 1970s—comprising the Type 3, Type 4 and K70—to supplement the Beetle, but none of these models achieved the level of success that it did. In 1972, it became the best-selling car of all time, a position it retained for nearly three decades. Rapidly changing consumer preferences toward front-wheel drive compact hatchbacks in Europe prompted Volkswagen’s gradual shift away from rear-wheel drive, starting with the Golf in 1974. In the late 1970s and ’80s, Japanese automakers dominated some markets around the world, which contributed to the Beetle’s declining popularity. The Beetle remains one of the best-selling cars of all time and is the first to sell over 20 million units. Over its lifespan, its design remained consistent, yet Volkswagen implemented over 78,000 incremental updates. These modifications were often subtle, involving minor alterations to its exterior, interior, colours, and lighting. Some more noteworthy changes included the introduction of new engines, models and systems, such as improved technology or comfort. The Beetle maintains a substantial cultural influence and is regarded as one of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history; its success largely influenced the way automobiles are designed and marketed, and propelled Volkswagen’s introduction of a Golf-based series of vehicles.

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“2006 Volkswagen New Beetle Luna 1.6 Front” by Vauxford is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

6. 1960 Volkswagen Beetle: The American Car Owner’s Nightmare, Solved by VW

By 1960, Volkswagen was getting even bolder, daring to pose “some tough questions to American car owners” in their commercials. This particular ad cleverly illustrated common frustrations with domestic vehicles, personified by a poor, “frustrated Plymouth driver.” It was a relatable scenario designed to resonate deeply with anyone who had ever experienced the woes of car ownership in the early 60s.

The ad painted a vivid, almost comedic, picture of the Plymouth driver’s struggles. We see him “suffering a boiling radiator,” a nightmare on any road trip. Then, he’s “stuck in the mud,” highlighting the practical limitations of larger, less agile vehicles. And to add insult to injury, he’s seen “feeling a wallet punch as he pays over 6 dollars for filling his gas guzzler’s tank.” This sequence of unfortunate events perfectly set up the Beetle as the ultimate solution to all these problems, tapping into anxieties about reliability and cost.

Naturally, the commercial then presented the Volkswagen as the hero, declaring that a “VW won’t have any of these problems.” The contrast was stark and compelling. Not only did it avoid the mechanical and mobility issues, but the ad also highlighted its incredible fuel efficiency, proudly stating, “And it took less than $3 to fill up!” This direct comparison of practical benefits against common pains was incredibly effective, making a strong economic case for the Beetle.

This 1960 Volkswagen Beetle commercial is a prime example of smart, targeted advertising. It didn’t just showcase features; it solved problems that real drivers faced, using humor and relatable scenarios to drive its message home. By presenting the Beetle as the sensible, economical, and hassle-free alternative, VW cemented its position as a brand that understood and catered to the everyday needs of drivers, creating an ad that was as memorable for its wit as it was for its persuasive power.” , “_words_section1”: “1947

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Ford Mustang Mach-E Rivalry — Ford Mustang: Baureihen, Wiki, Anleitungen, Daten & Ratgeber, Photo by carwiki.de, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

7. 1964 Ford Mustang: The Legend Unveiled

Wow, prepare for a blast from the past that’s less “old-school” and more “timeless icon in the making”! Kicking off our second half of legendary ads, we absolutely have to talk about the 1964 Ford Mustang. This wasn’t just a car launch; it was a cultural explosion waiting to happen, a moment where the automotive world collectively held its breath. The original commercial, breathlessly announcing “Coming just days away April 17th!”, perfectly captured that pre-release hype, letting everyone know something truly special was on the horizon.

Imagine the anticipation! Before the internet could spoil every surprise, these ads were our sneak peeks into the future of cool. The genius of this first-run Mustang commercial was how it tapped into a perceived void in the market: the “lack of affordable sports cars in this day.” It wasn’t just selling a vehicle; it was selling an aspiration, making the dream of owning a sleek, sporty car accessible to a broader audience.

What’s even wilder is how spot-on the ad was in its predictions. It “accurately predicts how this car will be one that appeals to all types,” and boy, did it ever! The Mustang became an instant hit, captivating everyone from young professionals to families, proving its versatility and universal appeal. This wasn’t just an ad; it was a prophecy, a glimpse into the future of automotive legend. It’s truly incredible to see a commercial so confidently set the stage for such an enduring success story.

Car Model Information: 1966 Ford Mustang Base
Name: Ford Mustang
Caption: 2024 Ford Mustang GT Convertible
Aka: Ford T5 (Germany)
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: March 1964 – present
ModelYears: 1965–present
Class: Unbulleted list
BodyStyle: Unbulleted list
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2+2 coupés, 2000s cars
Summary: The Ford Mustang is an American automobile manufactured and marketed by Ford since 1964, as Ford’s longest nameplate in continuous production. Currently in its seventh generation, it is the fifth-best selling Ford car nameplate. The namesake of the “pony car” automobile segment, the Mustang was developed as a highly styled line of sporty coupes and convertibles derived from existing model lines, initially distinguished by its pronounced “long hood, short deck” proportions. Originally predicted to sell 100,000 vehicles yearly, the 1965 Mustang became the most successful vehicle launch since the 1927 Model A. Introduced on April 17, 1964 (16 days after the Plymouth Barracuda), over 400,000 units were sold in its first year; the one-millionth Mustang was sold within two years of its launch. In August 2018, Ford produced the 10-millionth Mustang; matching the first 1965 Mustang, the vehicle was a 2019 Wimbledon White convertible with a V8 engine. The success of the Mustang launch led to multiple competitors from other American manufacturers, including the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird (1967), AMC Javelin (1968), and Dodge Challenger (1970). It also competed with the Plymouth Barracuda, which was launched around the same time. The Mustang also had an effect on designs of coupes worldwide, leading to the marketing of the Toyota Celica and Ford Capri in the United States (the latter, by Lincoln-Mercury). The Mercury Cougar was launched in 1967 as a unique-bodied higher-trim alternative to the Mustang; during the 1970s, it included more features and was marketed as a personal luxury car. From 1965 until 2004, the Mustang shared chassis commonality with other Ford model lines, staying rear-wheel-drive throughout its production. From 1965 to 1973, the Mustang was derived from the 1960 Ford Falcon compact. From 1974 until 1978, the Mustang (denoted Mustang II) was a longer-wheelbase version of the Ford Pinto. From 1979 until 2004, the Mustang shared its Fox platform chassis with 14 other Ford vehicles (becoming the final one to use the Fox architecture). Since 2005, Ford has produced two generations of the Mustang, each using a distinct platform unique to the model line. Through its production, multiple nameplates have been associated with the Ford Mustang series, including GT, Mach 1, Boss 302/429, Cobra (separate from Shelby Cobra), and Bullitt, along with “5.0” fender badging (denoting 4.9 L OHV or 5.0 L DOHC V8 engines).

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File:1987 Ford LTD Crown Victoria LX 4-Door in Black, Front Left, 06-10-2023.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

8. 1971 Ford LTD: Rod Serling’s Quiet Zone

Talk about a crossover event! Next up, we’re diving into an ad that brings a touch of sci-fi surrealism to the automotive world: the 1971 Ford LTD commercial, starring none other than “Twilight Zone creator Rod Serling.” Yes, you read that right! Imagine flipping channels and seeing the master of the mysterious himself, not narrating tales of the unexpected, but extolling the virtues of a sedan. It’s a celebrity cameo that definitely makes you do a double-take, blending pop culture with practical car features in the most unexpected way.

Serling’s presence immediately elevates the ad, lending it a certain gravitas and charm. He “points out how hard it is to find peace and quiet anywhere, even in the middle of a desert,” a sentiment that feels perfectly in line with his iconic, thought-provoking storytelling. It’s a relatable struggle when you think about the noise and chaos of daily life, even in the “desert wasteland situations” that were so often the backdrop of his famous “Twilight Zone episodes.”

The payoff? Serling, the man who brought us so many unsettling narratives, “finally finds all the quiet he’s looking for in a ’71 LTD.” This positioning of the LTD as an oasis of calm is genius, playing on Serling’s persona to highlight the car’s comfort and serene interior. For fans of his work, it’s not just an advertisement; it’s a nostalgic “tribute” that cleverly repurposes a beloved figure for a totally different kind of narrative.

Car Model Information: 2021 Ford F-150 XL
Caption: 1977 Ford LTD 4-door pillared hardtop
Name: Ford LTD
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
ModelYears: 1965–1986
Successor: Ford LTD Crown Victoria
Class: Full-size
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
Categories: 1960s cars, 1970s cars, 1980s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Ford LTD (pronounced ell-TEE-dee) is a range of automobiles manufactured by Ford for the 1965 to 1986 model years. Introduced as the highest trim level of the full-size Ford model range (then the Ford Galaxie 500), the LTD moved the Ford range upmarket, offering options and features previously reserved for Mercury and Lincoln vehicles. For much of its production life, the LTD competed against the Chevrolet Caprice (atop the Chevrolet Impala); the Mercury Marquis served as its divisional counterpart from 1967 until 1986. For its first three generations, the LTD served as the largest Ford vehicle in North America. Initially debuting as a two-door and four-door hardtop sedans, the LTD range at various times would also include two-door and four-door pillared sedans, a two-door convertible, and a five-door station wagon (in woodgrain trim, as the LTD Country Squire). In South America, Ford manufactured the 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 into the 1980s using the Ford LTD nameplate. From 1977 to 1979, the full-size LTD was joined by the intermediate-segment Ford LTD II (replacing the Ford Torino/Gran Torino range). For 1979, the LTD was downsized; while remaining a full-size car, it became externally smaller than the LTD II. For 1983, the LTD became a mid-size car as it replaced the Ford Granada, with the previous full-size car renamed the Ford LTD Crown Victoria (renamed Ford Crown Victoria for 1992). For 1986, the mid-size LTD was replaced by the Ford Taurus as Ford expanded its use of front-wheel drive vehicles, with both lines sold for 1986.

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“1970 Chrysler Cordoba Ad Pg. 1” by aldenjewell is licensed under CC BY 2.0

9. 1975 Chrysler Cordoba: The Myth of “Corinthian Leather”

Okay, let’s talk about an ad that truly became a cultural touchstone, all thanks to one man and one very specific type of leather. We’re rolling into the mid-70s with the 1975 Chrysler Cordoba commercial, featuring the legendary “actor Ricardo Montalban.” If you were alive then, or have ever delved into classic ad archives, you know exactly what’s coming: “corinthian leather.” This phrase, practically synonymous with Montalban, wasn’t just a marketing buzzword; it was an entire mood, an aspiration, a whispered promise of luxury.

Montalban’s suave delivery, his perfect cadence, made that “optional ‘corinthian leather'” sound like the most exquisite, desirable thing on four wheels. The commercial itself was a whole sensory experience, with “background music that inspires false imagery of Spain, bullfighters, and gold coins from lost cities.” It was pure, unadulterated fantasy, transporting viewers to a world of opulence and sophistication.

His famous line, “I could ask for nothing beyond the quality of Cordoba’s workmanship, the tastefulness of its appearance…”, is truly “priceless!” It encapsulates the entire ethos of the ad: that the Cordoba wasn’t just a car, but a statement of refined taste and discerning luxury. Montalban didn’t just sell cars; he sold an elevated lifestyle, making the Cordoba feel like a passport to a more glamorous existence.

The 1975 Chrysler Cordoba commercial is a masterclass in using celebrity power to create an enduring brand image. Ricardo Montalban’s elegant persona, combined with that unforgettable phrase and the dreamy, aspirational backdrop, transformed a car into a symbol of attainable luxury. It’s an ad that has transcended its original purpose, becoming a beloved piece of pop culture history that still conjures images of smooth voices and soft, supple “corinthian leather” to this very day.

Car Model Information: 1978 Chrysler Cordoba Coupe
Assembly: Windsor Assembly,Windsor, Ontario
Name: Chrysler Cordoba
Caption: 1978 Chrysler Cordoba
Manufacturer: Chrysler Corporation
Class: Personal luxury car
ModelYears: 1970,1975–1983
Predecessor: Chrysler 300 non-letter series
Successor: Chrysler Laser
BodyStyle: coupe
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
Categories: 1980s cars, Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 1975, Chrysler vehicles, Commons category link from Wikidata
Summary: The Chrysler Cordoba was introduced as a full-sized luxury car based on the Chrysler Newport that was marketed during the 1970 model year. It was also applied to a show car exhibited that year. The nameplate was then applied to an intermediate-sized two-door personal luxury car starting with the 1975 model year. The Cordoba was manufactured by Chrysler in North America over two generations until the 1983 model year. The personal luxury version was the company’s first model produced specifically for that market segment and the first Chrysler-branded vehicle smaller than full-size. The name was taken from the Spanish city of Córdoba, Spain.

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Price: $10,800 Mileage: 40,282 mi.

File:1970 Mercury Cougar XR7 Convertible (31730200240).jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY 2.0

10. 1978 Mercury Cougar: Disco, Whitewalls, and Cheryl Tiegs!

Hold onto your roller skates, because we’re about to hit the disco floor with one of the most iconic, utterly 70s ads ever conceived: the 1978 Mercury Cougar commercial! Seriously, if you want a perfect snapshot of the era’s glamour and vibe, look no further. This ad is pure gold, featuring the incomparable “Cheryl Tiegs, disco,” and everything else that made the late ’70s sparkle. It’s the kind of commercial that instantly transports you back to a time of platform shoes and Saturday night fever.

The description says it all: “advertising simply does not get better than this!” You’ve got “a pimp-tight ride with whitewalls,” exuding cool from every angle. Then, there’s “a wild jungle cat the car was known for,” perfectly encapsulating the Cougar’s sleek, powerful, and slightly untamed essence. It’s a vibrant, energetic tableau that captures the imagination and makes you want to cruise down the boulevard.

Cheryl Tiegs, a supermodel icon of the era, brought an undeniable star power and sophistication to the screen. Her presence, combined with the pulsating disco beats, created an image of modern luxury and effortless cool that was irresistible. This commercial didn’t just sell a car; it sold an entire lifestyle – one filled with glamour, confidence, and a touch of wild abandon. It perfectly married the car’s predatory namesake with the era’s fashionable aesthetic.

Car Model Information: 1995 Mercury Cougar XR7
Name: Mercury Cougar
Caption: 1969 Mercury Cougar (first generation)
Manufacturer: Mercury (automobile)
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
ModelYears: 1967–1997,1999–2002
Class: Pony car,Personal luxury car,Mid-size car,Sport compact
Categories: 1960s cars, 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars
Summary: The Mercury Cougar is a series of automobiles that was sold by Mercury from 1967 to 2002. The model line is a diverse series of vehicles; though the Cougar nameplate is most commonly associated with two-door coupes, at various stages in its production, the model also was offered as a convertible and a hatchback. During its production as the mid-size Mercury line, the Cougar was also offered as a four-door sedan and five-door station wagon. In production for 34 years across eight generations (skipping the 1998 model year), the Cougar is second only to the Grand Marquis (36 years) in the Mercury line for production longevity. 2,972,784 examples were produced, making it the highest-selling Mercury vehicle. During the 1970s and 1980s, the marketing of the Mercury division was closely associated with the Cougar, with promotional materials advertising Mercury dealers as “The Sign of the Cat” with big cats atop Lincoln-Mercury dealer signs. Cat-related nameplates were adopted by other Mercury lines, including the Bobcat and Lynx. During its production, the Cougar was assembled at the Dearborn Assembly Plant (part of the Ford River Rouge Complex) in Dearborn, Michigan from 1967 until 1973, San Jose Assembly (Milpitas, California) from 1968 into early 1969, Lorain Assembly (Lorain, Ohio) from 1974 until 1997, and at Flat Rock Assembly (Flat Rock, Michigan) from 1999 through 2002.

Get more information about: Mercury Cougar

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Mercury Model: Cougar
Price: $10,995 Mileage: 37,589 mi.

11. 1981 Chrysler Imperial “Frank Sinatra edition”: A Legendary Comeback

Get ready for a comeback story worthy of Hollywood, featuring two legends of their respective fields! Our next stop on this nostalgic trip brings us to the 1981 Chrysler Imperial “Frank Sinatra edition.” This wasn’t just an ad; it was a rallying cry during a seriously tough time for “Chrysler chairman Lee Iacocca,” who was “struggling to keep Chrysler out of bankruptcy.” Enter Ol’ Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra, who was so inspired by Iacocca’s “heroic mission” that he “volunteered to be in advertisements with Iacocca at no charge for the sake of the company.”

The sheer star power of Sinatra and Iacocca appearing together was a stroke of marketing genius. They “appeared together in a commercial introducing the new-for-’81 Imperial,” immediately lending an air of prestige and confidence to a company facing immense challenges. Even though the original commercial couldn’t be located, the context provides “the next best thing featuring Sinatra singing “It’s Time”… for Imperial.”

The “Frank Sinatra” packages offered for the 1981-82 Imperial were more than just a trim level; they were a symbol of hope and resilience. This car, despite being “based on a Cordoba body frame and borrowed all its styling from Lincolns and the ’80 Cadillac Seville,” became a flagship for Chrysler’s fight for survival. It showcased that even in adversity, innovation and a strong brand image, amplified by celebrity endorsement, could make a difference.

This commercial, and the entire “Frank Sinatra edition” initiative, represents a pivotal moment in Chrysler’s history. It’s a story of how a company leveraged an American icon to signal its intent to not just survive, but thrive. It’s “still a must see” because it’s more than just an ad for a car; it’s a testament to the power of belief, collaboration, and a little bit of Frank Sinatra magic to turn the tide. A truly dramatic comeback, indeed!

12. 1982 Chrysler LeBaron Convertible: Bringing Back the Open Road

And now, for our final act in this epic journey through classic car ads, we’re bringing it back to Chrysler for another major comeback moment: the 1982 Chrysler LeBaron Convertible! This car, and its accompanying ads, were truly a big deal for a few key reasons, once again featuring the one and only “Lee Iacocca” introducing “Chrysler’s new small LeBaron lineup for 1982.” Iacocca, still riding high on the momentum of saving Chrysler, was a powerful and reassuring presence for American car buyers.

What makes this LeBaron convertible particularly “significant” is its role in automotive history: “in ’82 it was one of the first two American models to re-introduce a convertible again since the ’76 Eldorado.” After years of convertibles disappearing from the market due to safety concerns, the LeBaron bravely brought back the joy of top-down driving. This wasn’t just a new car; it was a revival, a statement that open-air motoring was back and better than ever.

The LeBaron lineup, “based on the K-car platform introduced a year earlier,” showcased Chrysler’s ingenuity and ability to adapt. Iacocca’s advertisements for these cars weren’t just about specs; they were about restoring trust and demonstrating Chrysler’s capability to deliver desirable, innovative vehicles. It’s no wonder this model resonated so much, even becoming a family favorite for some, as shared by the anecdote that “my mother also bought one new in ’86 and it’s still in the family today.” How cool is that?!

Car Model Information: 1981 Chrysler LeBaron Town and Country
Name: Chrysler LeBaron
Caption: Third generation LeBaron convertible
Manufacturer: Chrysler Corporation
Layout: FR layout,Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Class: Mid-size,Personal luxury
Successor: Chrysler New Yorker Fifth Avenue
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, All articles with specifically marked weasel-worded phrases, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description
Summary: The Chrysler LeBaron is a line of automobiles built by Chrysler from 1931 to 1941 and from 1977 to 1995. Chrysler also used the LeBaron name for the Imperial LeBaron from 1957 to 1975. The model was introduced in 1931, with a body manufactured by LeBaron, and competed with other luxury cars of the era, such as Lincoln and Packard. After purchasing LeBaron with its parent Briggs Manufacturing Company, Chrysler introduced the luxury make Imperial in 1955, and sold automobiles under the name Imperial LeBaron from 1957 until 1975. Chrysler discontinued the Imperial brand for 1976 and reintroduced the Chrysler LeBaron in 1977 to what was then Chrysler’s lowest-priced model. Chrysler has used the LeBaron name across five cars: 1977–1981 M-body (mid-size) LeBaron sedan, coupe, and wagon 1982–1988 K-body (mid-size) LeBaron sedan, coupe, convertible, and wagon 1985–1989 H-body (mid-size) LeBaron GTS hatchback 1987–1995 J-body (personal luxury) LeBaron coupe and convertible 1990–1994 AA-body (mid-size) LeBaron sedan The last Chrysler LeBaron was manufactured in 1995, to be replaced with the Cirrus and Sebring. The LeBaron was one of Chrysler’s longest-running brands.

Get more information about: Chrysler LeBaron

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Chrysler Model: LeBaron
Price: $16,500 Mileage: 69,480 mi.

Alright, you made it to the end of our epic joyride! From the humble beginnings of the “shoebox shape” VW Bus to the star-studded comeback of Chrysler, these classic TV ads are so much more than just fleeting commercials. They’re time capsules, packed with pop culture, innovation, and seriously clever marketing that often mirrored, and sometimes even shaped, the world around us. Each one tells a unique story, not just about a car, but about the dreams, aspirations, and even the everyday frustrations of an entire generation. They remind us that even if these spots have “vanished” from our regular TV programming, their impact and charm are anything but gone. So, next time you’re cruising down memory lane online, give a shout-out to these advertising legends – because without them, our collective automotive consciousness would be a whole lot less colorful! Thanks for buckling up with us!