Discover Iconic Models Released in Early Presidential Eras

Celebrate Presidents’ Day by seeing what first cars were hitting the streets while each president was in office.

 

Let’s cruise through the 1900s and see how vehicles evolved from one president to the next.

 

Theodore Roosevelt (1901–1909)

Ford Model T (1908) – The car that put America on wheels. Affordable, durable, and mass-produced, the Model T transformed transportation and helped shape modern America.

William Howard Taft (1909–1913)

Cadillac Model Thirty (1909) – A pioneer of early luxury, known for its reliability, precision engineering, and refinement at a time when automobiles were still a novelty.

Woodrow Wilson (1913–1921)

Ford Model T (Electric Starter, 1919) – The introduction of the electric starter eliminated dangerous hand cranking, making cars easier—and safer—for everyday drivers.

Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933–1945)

Chevrolet Suburban (1935) – Spacious and versatile, the Suburban laid the groundwork for the modern SUV and remains one of the longest-running nameplates in automotive history.

Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953–1961)

Chevrolet Corvette (1953) – America’s first true sports car, blending performance and style during the rise of optimism and the interstate highway system.

John F. Kennedy (1961–1963)

Ford Mustang (1964) – Though launched shortly after his presidency, the Mustang was developed during this era and became the defining “pony car” of a youthful, energetic generation.

Lyndon B Johnson (1963-1968)

Toyota Corolla (1968) - The U.S. Market Growth, as fuel prices soared, the Corolla gained popularity for its reliability, efficiency, and practicality, signaling a shift toward compact imports.

Richard Nixon (1969-1974)

Honda Civic (1973) - Honda’s U.S. entry was perfectly timed, offering a small, reliable, fuel-efficient car during the 1970s oil crisis.

Ronald Reagan (1981–1989)

Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984) – A game-changer that helped spark the SUV revolution with its unibody construction and everyday usability.
Ford Taurus (1986) – A bold redesign of the American family sedan, the Taurus introduced aerodynamic styling that reshaped the industry.

 

Like the leaders of their time, these cars shaped how Americans traveled, explored, and experienced the open road.