The Enduring Allure of Suicide Doors: A Look Back at Classic Cars with Rear-Hinged Doors
Suicide doors, also known as rear-hinged doors, are a design feature that evokes a sense of nostalgia and classic elegance. Unlike conventional front-hinged doors that open with the hinge at the front of the door frame, suicide doors are hinged at the rear. When opened, they create a wide, inviting entryway, reminiscent of a bygone era of automotive design. While not as common in modern vehicles due to safety concerns, suicide doors hold a special place in automotive history, gracing some of the most iconic and stylish cars ever produced.
A Brief History of Suicide Doors
The origins of suicide doors can be traced back to the early days of automobiles. Before the widespread adoption of mass production techniques, many cars were custom-built, and rear-hinged doors were a common design choice. They offered ease of access and a distinctive look that set them apart from the competition.
The term "suicide doors" is believed to have originated from the perception that these doors were dangerous, particularly at higher speeds. If a door was not properly latched or if it came open while the car was in motion, the wind could catch the door and swing it open violently, potentially throwing occupants out of the vehicle. While this risk was real, it’s important to note that many cars with suicide doors were equipped with safety latches and other features to mitigate this danger.
Iconic Classic Cars with Suicide Doors
Over the years, a number of classic cars have become synonymous with suicide doors. These vehicles represent a diverse range of styles and eras, but they all share a common thread: a sense of timeless elegance and a distinctive design that sets them apart from the crowd. Here are a few notable examples:
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Lincoln Continental (1961-1969): The fourth-generation Lincoln Continental is arguably the most famous car with suicide doors. Its sleek, understated design and rear-hinged doors made it an instant classic. The Continental’s suicide doors were not just a stylistic flourish; they also made it easier for passengers to enter and exit the vehicle, particularly in formal attire. The car’s popularity and iconic status have ensured that the Continental with suicide doors remains a highly sought-after collector’s item.
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Rolls-Royce Phantom V and VI: Rolls-Royce has long been associated with luxury and sophistication, and the Phantom V and VI were no exceptions. These stately vehicles featured suicide doors that added to their air of grandeur and exclusivity. The rear-hinged doors made it easier for passengers to enter and exit the car with grace and dignity, befitting the Rolls-Royce clientele.
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Citroën Traction Avant: The Citroën Traction Avant was a groundbreaking car in many ways, and its suicide doors were just one of its innovative features. The Traction Avant was one of the first mass-produced cars with front-wheel drive and a unibody construction. Its suicide doors added to its distinctive look and made it stand out from the competition.
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Saab 92: The Saab 92 was the first car produced by Saab, and it was a bold and unconventional design. Its suicide doors were a reflection of Saab’s commitment to innovation and its willingness to challenge conventional automotive design.
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Fiat 600 Multipla: The Fiat 600 Multipla was an early example of a minivan, and its suicide doors made it easy for passengers to enter and exit the vehicle. The Multipla’s rear-hinged doors were a practical feature that added to its versatility and appeal.
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Imperial Crown (1957-1966): This luxurious Chrysler sub-brand featured suicide doors on some of its models, adding to the car’s exclusivity and unique appeal. The Imperial Crown was designed to compete with Cadillac and Lincoln, and its suicide doors were a distinctive feature that helped it stand out from the crowd.
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Checker Marathon/Taxi: While not always associated with luxury, the Checker Marathon taxi cab also sported suicide doors. These doors were chosen for their practicality and ease of use, allowing passengers to enter and exit the cab quickly and safely. The Checker Marathon’s suicide doors became a familiar sight on the streets of many cities.
The Appeal of Suicide Doors
Despite the safety concerns associated with suicide doors, they continue to hold a certain allure for car enthusiasts. There are several reasons for this:
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Elegance and Style: Suicide doors add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any car. They evoke a sense of classic design and a bygone era of automotive craftsmanship.
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Ease of Access: Suicide doors can make it easier for passengers to enter and exit the vehicle, particularly in formal attire or when carrying luggage.
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Distinctiveness: Cars with suicide doors stand out from the crowd. They are a unique and eye-catching design feature that sets them apart from more conventional vehicles.
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Nostalgia: For many people, suicide doors evoke a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time. They are a reminder of the classic cars of the past and the golden age of automotive design.
Safety Considerations
It’s important to acknowledge the safety concerns associated with suicide doors. As mentioned earlier, there is a risk that these doors could come open while the car is in motion, potentially leading to serious injury. However, modern engineering and safety features can mitigate this risk.
Many modern cars with suicide doors, such as the Rolls-Royce Phantom and the BMW i3, are equipped with sophisticated safety latches, sensors, and electronic controls that prevent the doors from opening while the car is moving. These features ensure that the doors remain securely closed until it is safe to open them.
The Future of Suicide Doors
While suicide doors are not as common as they once were, they have made a comeback in recent years. Several modern cars, such as the Rolls-Royce Phantom, the BMW i3, and the Mazda RX-8, feature suicide doors as a design element.
It remains to be seen whether suicide doors will become more widespread in the future. However, their enduring appeal and the availability of modern safety features suggest that they will continue to be a part of automotive design for years to come.
In conclusion, suicide doors are a distinctive and elegant design feature that has graced some of the most iconic classic cars ever produced. While they are not without their safety concerns, modern engineering and safety features can mitigate these risks. Whether you are a car enthusiast, a design aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of classic automobiles, suicide doors are sure to capture your imagination and evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. They represent a unique blend of style, elegance, and a touch of danger that continues to fascinate and inspire.
