The Evolution of Two-Door Vehicles: A Modern Perspective

During the 1990s, a certain type of American car that had been around for many years started to disappear. These cars were big, not very efficient, and not very practical, but they were eye-catching and stylish, representing a time of extravagant American fashion.

Cars like the Chrysler Cordoba, known for its "Corinthian leather" seats, the Buick Riviera, the Cadillac Eldorado, and the Oldsmobile Toronado were examples of these extravagant vehicles. Driving one of these "personal luxury cars" was a way to show off your refined taste and carefree lifestyle that didn't require the practicality of back doors.

There are still two-door cars today, but they are mostly high-performance sports cars designed for speed rather than comfort. However, older models from forty to fifty years ago, known as "personal luxury coupés," can be more valuable to collectors than their four-door counterparts, showing that they still hold a special appeal.

According to Brian Rabold from the collector car company Hagerty, the term "personal luxury coupés" emerged in the 1960s, but it reached its peak in the 1970s. Although some models continued to be produced, their popularity started to wane in the 1980s and 90s.

1963 Buick Riviera

1963 Buick Riviera

Bob D'Olivo/The Enthusiast Network/Getty Images

The first touchscreen

In 1986, the Riviera was ahead of its time as it was the first production car to feature a touchscreen, as reported by GM. Despite selling in lower numbers compared to four-door models, these cars were the epitome of design and technology for their respective brands.

"Due to the lower sales volumes, car companies were able to include advanced technology in these models," explained Kevin Kirbitz, a former GM engineer who currently oversees the company's heritage collection. "Even with a higher price tag, these cars still commanded a premium price."

These cars have made a lasting impact over the years. Even now, one of these large two-door American models can still captivate at a car show. The long hood, abundant chrome, and two massive doors that lead to sometimes cramped back seats all contribute to their unique appeal.

Car designers often find two-door models to be more visually striking. They offer the opportunity to play with proportions, featuring long hoods that suggest power and sleek, aerodynamic back ends.

Kirbitz mentioned that one option available is a more raked windshield, along with a longer proportion that some buyers prefer.

Several models were available in either a two- or four-door body style. Nowadays, the two-door variant holds a higher value of about 67% for collectors, highlighting its popularity. Despite this, Rabold noted that those purchasing a vintage car are likely less focused on practicality compared to buyers in the past.

Step into the Thunderbird

Two-door cars have been around since cars first had doors, but the Ford Thunderbird is credited with popularizing "personal luxury" styling. Launched in 1955 to rival the Chevrolet Corvette, the Thunderbird took a different path. While the Corvette focused on performance, Ford transformed the Thunderbird into a cozy cruiser by adding back seats. Its stylish design became a hit among car enthusiasts.

1980 Chrysler Cordoba

1980 Chrysler Cordoba

Courtesy Stellantis

“That set the stage and then a lot of cars followed on after that,” Rabold said. “And so every manufacturer kind of had to have an entry to compete with that segment.”

Two-door cars were seen as less common compared to four-door cars, according to Scott Krugger, vice president of design for Stellantis’s Dodge division.

Over time, two-door cars became associated with making a personal statement, showcasing performance, or emphasizing uniqueness. On the other hand, four-door cars were perceived as more practical for everyday family needs, leading to a clear distinction between the two types of vehicles.

The era of spacious two-door models lasted for a while, but things started to shift in the 1990s. Nowadays, it's uncommon to come across a two-door car that isn't a high-performance model such as the Mustang or Corvette. Even budget-friendly cars like the Nissan Versa and Kia Rio now come equipped with four doors. In today's automotive landscape, having back doors has become the standard, even for pickups. So, what led to the extinction of two-door cars?

Two-door cars have been pushed to a niche status due to several factors. The increase in popularity of SUVs has marginalized all types of cars, regardless of the number of doors they have. In fact, cars now represent less than 20% of all new vehicles, according to data from Cox Automotive.

Child safety regulations have also played a significant role in the decline of two-door cars. In the 1980s, the United States mandated the use of child safety seats, eliminating the days when children could freely move between front and back seats to buckle up.

If you have kids and a two-door car, you probably experience backaches from leaning awkwardly to buckle them in. It can be a hassle to install the car seat first before securing your children.

In the past, two-door cars were often affordable options, especially entry-level hatchbacks. However, nowadays, you are more likely to find two-door models displayed in European luxury car showrooms.

BMW and Audi offer two-door models in both hardtop and convertible versions. Mercedes-Benz, on the other hand, has recently introduced the new CLE Coupe. Despite practical considerations, Mercedes dealerships in America continue to carry the non-sports-car two-door model due to ongoing demand from customers who prioritize style over functionality. Gorden Wagener, the head of design for Mercedes-Benz, emphasized that a car is a reflection of one's self and personal taste. He believes that a coupe allows individuals to express their style more boldly.

Editor's P/S:

The decline of the two-door car in the 1990s can be attributed to a multitude of factors, all contributing to a shift towards practicality and safety. The rise of SUVs, along with stricter child safety regulations, made four-door cars more appealing for families. Moreover, the increasing affordability of four-door cars and the availability of two-door models primarily in luxury showrooms further cemented the trend.

While two-door cars may have become a niche segment in the automotive market, they continue to hold a special appeal for those who prioritize style and individuality. The long hoods, sleek designs, and spacious interiors of these vehicles evoke a sense of nostalgia and classic elegance. Despite their impracticality in certain situations, two-door cars remain a testament to the era when cars were not just a means of transportation but also a reflection of personal taste and aspirations.