Classic cars in the golden era of American automobiles were designed with comfort and presence in mind. Stretching out the length of the vehicle was a way to create roomy interiors. Fuel economy was a distant concern; roads were wide and open, and manufacturers had little reason to downsize. The result was a generation of cars that were as iconic for their size and style.

1970 Ford LTD

In 1965, Ford introduced the LTD as the highest trim of Ford vehicles, with features only available for Mercury and Lincoln cars. The second generation, produced in 1969, had the wheelbase lengthened by 2 inches, and the sedan measured 224.1 inches long. This was Ford’s first line equipped with V8 engines, but the LTD was discontinued in 1986.

1974 Chevrolet Caprice Classic

Measuring over 220 inches, the 1974 Chevrolet Caprice Classic, produced by Chevrolet, was the brand’s top-tier full-size sedan and convertible. It offered generous interior space and a smooth ride, which made it popular among families and executives. The Caprice Classic appeared in several TV shows and films, including The Brady Bunch. 

1969 Dodge Polara

After three successful generations, the car introduced a new stretched fuselage design reaching 220.8 inches. This car held the top-speed record for a factory-built sedan on the Chrysler test track with 149.6 mph in the era and came with several engine options, including 318 cu in 5.2 L V8, with available upgrades to a 383 cu in 6.3 L or a massive 440 cu in 7.2 L V8. 

1976 Ford Thunderbird

The 1976 model was one of the largest Ford Thunderbirds ever made, at 225 inches long and weighing more than 5,000 pounds. It came with 7.0 L and 7.5 L V8 engine options, but the car’s weight and low power output made the performance less impressive. Additionally, the oil crisis urged Ford to decrease the length of future generations. 

1971 Buick Riviera

In 1963, General Motors entered the luxury segment for the first time by introducing the Buick Riviera. The 1971 model was a bold departure from traditional styling, known for its iconic boat-tail rear design that drew inspiration from classic cars of the 1930s. It measured 217.4 inches in length and was powered by a 455 cu in 7.5 L V8 engine.

1980 Plymouth Gran Fury

At 220.2 inches long, the 1980 Plymouth Gran Fury was a full-size sedan produced by Plymouth under the Chrysler Corporation. It was a staple of 1980s cop shows like Miami Vice and was known for its commanding presence. However, the poor fuel economy and outdated platform led to a sales decline, which was discontinued one year later. 

1976 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible

The 1976 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible was an icon of luxury, measuring 224.1 inches long. It was featured in films like Goodfellas, where its massive size and extravagant styling made it a standout. Under the hood, the Eldorado had a monstrous 8.2 L V8 engine, one of the largest ever fitted to a passenger car, making it a true heavyweight.

1969 Mercury Cougar XR-7

Many remember the 1969 Mercury Cougar from its appearance in the 1969 Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. The car measured 193.8 inches long and was the only Mercury vehicle to receive the Motor Trend Car of the Year award come 1967. Engine options included a two-barrel 351 cu in V8 and the 428 Cobra Jet, the largest Cougar engine, rated at 335 hp.

1970 Buick Electra 225

Another American classic, the 1970 Buick Electra 225, measured 225.8 inches long. Nicknamed deuce and a quarter, the Electra was a symbol of automotive luxury and excess in the 1970s. The car had a minor aesthetic difference from the 1969 model, but the 370 hp 455 cu in V8 replaced the 430 V8 used from 1967 to 1969 for more power. 

1972 Chevrolet Impala Convertible

Chevrolet produced the 1972 Chevrolet Impala Convertible as part of the Impala’s fifth generation. The car measured 222.9 inches long and came in different engine options, including 5.7 L, 6.6 L, and 7.4 L V8s. It was considered one of the last big American convertibles, and its long, sweeping lines and wide stance made it a classic on American roads. 

1959 Chrysler New Yorker Town and Country Wagon

As the company’s first V8 engine, the 1959 Chrysler New Yorker Town and Country Wagon measured 206.5 inches. Chrysler discontinued its previous wooden bodies and switched to steel, which made the car more durable. Production stopped during WWII, but Chrysler resumed production until 1988. 

1977 Dodge Royal Monaco

Measuring 225.7 inches, the 1977 Dodge Royal Monaco was Dodge’s top-tier full-size car and the last model year for the Royal Monaco series, which ended after this year. With its hidden headlights and vinyl-upholstered seats, it was a pop culture staple of the era. Dodge discontinued the Royal Monaco in 1977, but it remains a popular 1970s icon. 

1978 Ford Country Squire

The 1978 Ford Country Squire was one of the last great full-size station wagons, measuring 225.7 inches long. Produced by Ford, this family wagon became a favorite for its spacious interior, which could seat up to eight passengers, and its faux-wood side paneling made it easily recognizable. This Ford model was frequently seen in 1980s films and TV shows.

1972 Lincoln Continental Mark IV

Many consider the 1972 Lincoln Continental Mark IV one of the most opulent cars of its time. The Mark IV featured a distinctive long hood, short deck design, and signature spare tire hump on the rear. It measured 228.1 inches long and was powered by a 460 cu in 7.5 L V8 engine, which made it a powerful cruiser for long highway drives. 

1978 Chrysler New Yorker Brougham

With a capacity to seat 6 passengers, the car was one of the top 1970s American luxury sedans. Its 4-door version measured 231 inches long to become one of the largest cars of its time. The plush interior, with velour or leather seating, made it a prestigious ride. Chrysler discontinued these models after 1978, as manufacturers produced more fuel-efficient vehicles.