They don't make 'em like they used to. Especially when it comes to automobiles. In many regards, that's a good thing. Fuel efficiency has improved, electric cars roam city streets, satellite radio is awesome, safety has increased. That being said, vintage cars have a certain style and cool that is lacking in modern vehicles. The colors were brighter, the bodies were more distinct, and the details went on the exterior, not on the digital dashboard.

Here are 14 trends we wish would come back in auto manufacturing. Which do you miss most?

1) Hood ornaments

From the rockets of Oldsmobile to leaping marlins and jaguars, these beautiful statues led you on towards the horizon.

2) White wall tires

They turn your car into a tuxedo.

3) Tailfins

The more rocket-like, the better.

4) Spare tires on the exterior

A donut on the side door is old, old school, but we're fond of the spares on the rears of old Lincolns as well.

5) Car radios with buttons and knobs like cigarette machines

When you pushed those presets, you had to really push those presets. Who has more than seven favorite stations anyway?

6) Bench seats

They don't all need be "Nassau Plaid." We just miss being able to lie down flat in a car.

7) The color of blue sky

Well, those legendary Chevys of the 1950s dubbed it "Larkspur Blue." Still, why do new cars have to be color of rocks and coffee? 

8) Projecting tail lights

Everything was projecting out of everything. It may not be aerodynamic but it looks faster.

9) Coupe utilities

The Ford Ranchero, the Chevy El Camino. Hauling in style. Why is it the only hybrid we can't get is the mash-up of pick-up and sedan?

10) Quarter glass windows

Sometimes you just want a little bit of window open.

11) Vinyl interiors

Note: People in hot climates may beg to differ.

12) Wood panelling

Artisanal is trendy. Why not wide the side panel of your car?

13) Wooden steering wheels

Ditto for the interior.

14) Chrome. Everywhere.

Perhaps it's the raccoon in us, but we love shiny.

Photographs: Thinkstock