Back in the 80s, these cars ruled driveways, highways, and even the big screen. They were polished, proud, and packed with personality, truly icons of their time. But sadly, nothing stays shiny and new forever.
In this gallery, we capture the rise and fall of some unforgettable 1980s rides; from their glory days to their final parking spots in junkyards and forgotten lots.
These photos tell a full story: roaring engines, fresh paint, and street coolness. Followed by rust, flat tires, and the slow takeover of nature.
Some went out in style and with a bang, others just faded away, but each one had its moment in our hearts before it was time to hit the brakes.
1
1984 VW Jetta
Simple and boxy
2
1984 VW Jetta
Still boxy but buried in rust.
3
1989 Chrysler Fifth Avenue
Velvet seats, pure street royalty.
4
1989 Chrysler Fifth Avenue
Now in a winter wasteland.
5
1988 Chevy Celebrity
The family sedan that meant business.
6
1988 Chevy Celebrity
Now with no audience.
7
1980 Cadillac Eldorado
Land yacht luxury, rolling in style.
8
1980 Cadillac Eldorado
Dry-docked in a junkyard.
9
1989 Ford Escot
Economy never looked so ready for action.
10
1989 Ford Escot
Now a regular to the junkyard.
11
1984 Lincoln Town Car
Presidential presence in driveway form.
12
1984 Lincoln Town Car
Just another rusted machine in the lot.
13
1988 Ford Tempo
Budget ride with big ambition.
14
1988 Ford Tempo
Now tempo’d out.
15
1982 Toyota Tercel
Tiny, trusty, and ready to work.
16
1982 Toyota Tercel
Left with no tread left to give.
17
1981 Datsun 280Z
Red-hot and ready to rip up the road.
18
1981 Datsun 280Z
Now it's a shell of its former self (literally).
19
1986 Chevrolet Caprice Classic
Big, blue, and boulevard bold.
20
1986 Chevrolet Caprice Classic
But now it's forgotten curbside.
