Why Don’t Cars Have Hood Ornaments Anymore?
Hood ornaments, once emblematic of automotive elegance and brand identity, have largely disappeared from modern vehicles. These decorative figures, often crafted from materials like brass, zinc, or bronze and chrome-plated, adorned the front of cars, symbolizing the manufacturer’s logo or mascot. Their decline is attributed to a combination of safety concerns, aerodynamic considerations, and evolving design philosophies.
In the early 20th century, automobiles featured exposed radiator caps, which were both functional and unsightly. To enhance the vehicle’s appearance, manufacturers introduced hood ornaments as decorative elements. Over time, as radiator caps were integrated under the hood and temperature gauges became standard, the practical necessity for these ornaments diminished. (popsci.com)
