Quirky aspects of older cars

[brian2cv]

A couple of days I asked about peoples recollections of starting handles. Two of you not only knew what they were but had used them! What other aspects of older cars can you recall that you don't see now. I can think of a few such as the steering column gear lever which meant a 'bench seat' for three people (driver and TWO passengers)could go in the front of the car.

[Panic Button]

Before heated rear windows my Dads Triumph Herald had a stick on plastic bit in the middle of the back window.

It was like an oval porthole in the misted up window - sort of plastic double glazing.

I am sure working on the engine must have been easy, because to open the bonnet you lifted a locking lever either side of the body. The whole of the front bodywork then lifted forwards, leaving engine and wheels exposed.

[taichiperson]

The old renault 4 did have a basic fan ,but the air conditioning was a flap on the dash that opened out onto the front bodywork.
Hubby's dad had an old van which not only had a hole inthe floor inwhich you could see the ground, but a sliding door which would swing open when going round corners. No seat belts, kids rattling about loose!

[blackcat77]

My parents had a Series 1 Land Rover when I was very young and three things I remember about it was it had a starting handle (when needed!) and the petrol tank was under the drivers seat (literally!) and the heater was very up to date - both heater doors open was the heater full on. Also it was a soft top and we very seldom had the back canvas down, whatever the weather. Mum used to be able to fit 6 children in the back bench seats and the favourite place to sit was next to the back canvas so you could wave at motorists behind you! (Didn't know about "V" signs then!) Can't see health and safety allowing that nowadays, can you?!

[brian2cv]

Nice to read your old Land Rover memories. I remember the petrol tank position too, you just had to lift off the front seat cushion and there was the large screw cap for the tank - very practical! I had a defunct starter so had to use the starting handle all the time till I could aford to have it fixed. Like yours it had a canvas top with the ability to roll up the back. I seemed to be oblivious of the draught back then!