What Were You Driving Back Then?
The 1980s were a memorable time to be on the road. With Reagan in the White House and V8s still roaring under the hood, it was a golden era for American drivers. From muscle cars hanging on to their glory days to the rise of fuel-efficient imports, the streets were packed with personality. So think back. What were you driving during those years? Let’s take a look at the cars that ruled the road throughout the Reagan era.
Ford Escort
A year into Regan's presidency, the Ford Escort emerged as a hugely popular car in America. Yes, over 337,000 units were shifted in 1982, with motorists embracing the vehicle's excellent fuel efficiency. It did lack the power of other cars, but the Escort found a loyal '80s following.
Hurst Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme 442
Equipped with a solid V-8 engine, the Hurst Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme 442 was a highly-coveted vehicle in Reagan's America. It performed brilliantly and looked pretty dang stylish. A great combo, right! It aimed to mirror the successful runs enjoyed by the Cutlasses from the '60s and '70s.
Chevrolet Celebrity
1986 was a great year for the Chevrolet Celebrity. It became one of the highest-selling cars in America, with close to 409,000 units being shifted. The engine was powerful, it didn't guzzle gas, and the interior was comfortable. What more could you ask for? It seems fitting that the Celebrity shined while a celebrity was president!
Honda Accord
When Reagan left the White House in 1989, the Honda Accord became America's car of choice. More than 362,000 units were sold that year, as folks embraced the vehicle's power and its array of cool features. It was also quiet to drive, which was another plus.
Chevrolet Cavalier
The Chevrolet Cavalier might not have been the biggest car in the world, but it dominated the American market in 1985. This nifty model sold close to 423,000 units that year, as U.S. motorists looked to adopt smaller vehicles. It was pretty cool appearance-wise, too!
Buick Grand National GNX
The Buick Grand National GNX was a tremendous car. Some would argue that it's Buick's greatest ever model, and it's tough to make a case against it! This was a very popular motor among American car lovers, but the GNX ultimately retired in 1987. Reagan was only a couple of years behind it.
1982 Pontiac Firebird
The 1982 Pontiac Firebird was a third generation model, and it quickly attracted plenty of interest. The car sold very well in America, thanks in part to its updated features. The V8 engine was a big pull, as was the slick body design. Did you drive one during Reagan's presidency?
Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe
The Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe was the car of choice for many in Reagan's America. And it's not hard to understand why — this was a stylish beast! The vehicle had a turbocharged four-cylinder engine capable of producing 190 horsepower. It could also hit a top speed of 143 mph.
1984 Chevrolet Corvette
At a time when America was entering a new era under its president, the Chevrolet Corvette was going through changes as well. Yes, 1984 marked the release of the car's fourth generation, and boy did it look different. This Corvette had a much more stylish appearance, stealing the hearts of motorists across the country.
Dodge Shelby Charger
The Dodge Shelby Charger was a well-liked motor in Reagan's U.S., as drivers embraced the car's impressive upgrades. This model was equipped with an improved engine that produced 146 horsepower. Meanwhile, its steering and suspension were much better than the previous Charger as well.
1987 Ford Mustang
Do you remember the third generation of Ford Mustangs? It wasn't the greatest period! But as Reagan entered his final two years in the White House, a big change occured. Yep, the Mustang was redesigned in 1987 and became way more stylish as a result. Folks loved it.
Chevrolet Camaro IROC Z-28
The Chevrolet Camaro IROC Z-28 first rolled out in 1985 — and it didn't take long for the car to find love in Reagan's America. This eye-catching vehicle was equipped with a V8 engine that could reach speeds of 148 mph. The 225 horsepower was impressive, too!
Ford Taurus
By the time Reagan departed the White House in 1989, the Ford Taurus had established itself as a massively popular car in America. That year, its overall sales figures surpassed a million units. Not bad for a vehicle that only launched in 1985, right!
AMC Eagle
When Reagan was sworn in as president in 1981, the AMC Eagle was enjoying its second year on the market. This unique-looking car eventually found a loyal following as the decade progressed, suiting those who lived in colder states. Its final model year came 12 months before Reagan departed.
Jeep Cherokee XJ
Did motorists in Reagan's America appreciate a good SUV? You bet! The Jeep Cherokee XJ was a particularly big success, appealing to those who loved off-road driving as well as practicality. It dominated the market for close to 20 years, with 2001 marking its end.
Chrysler Voyager
There wasn't a great deal of choice when it came to comfortable cars for large families in '80s America. But that soon changed after the introduction of the Chrysler Voyager in 1984. This minivan offered space and comfort for up to seven passengers. And folks adored it!
Ferrari Testarossa
A number of cultural icons popped up in America while Reagan was president — and that includes the Ferrari Testarossa. This stunning vehicle was a big hit across the country, symbolizing financial success. It also became famous thanks to its use in the classic TV show Miami Vice.
Mercedes-Benz 560SL
During its three-year run, the Mercedes-Benz 560SL took Reagan's America by storm. Much like with the Ferrari Testarossa, this car was a symbol of growing wealth in the mid-1980s. It was incredibly stylish, and even came with a convertible option!
Pontiac Fiero
When talking about popular cars in '80s America, we can't ignore the Pontiac Fiero. This model enjoyed a great run, selling over 370,000 units across five years. Impressive stuff, wouldn't you agree? The Fiero's affordability and undeniable style certainly played a part.
Honda CRX Si
By the mid-point of Reagan's presidency, the Honda CRX Si emerged as one of the coolest cars on the market. This model handled like a dream, had a really powerful engine, and didn't guzzle gas. It soon became a popular choice in America.
