Which car was the king of the road when you graduated? From family haulers to first rides, America’s best-sellers have shaped our memories and filled every parking lot.
Scroll through the years and see which car topped the charts when you crossed the stage—your old favorite might just make the list (particularly if it started with the letter “C”)!
1970: Chevrolet Impala (roughly 612,000 sold)
The 1970 Impala was America’s top choice if you wanted comfort, reliability, and plenty of room. Families piled in for road trips, while teens dreamed of cruising Main Street.
Big trunks, smooth rides, and just enough style made these Chevys a staple from coast to coast.
What was happening in 1970?
The Beatles called it quits, Apollo 13 barely made it home, and the first Earth Day arrived as folks started caring about pollution.
Anti-war protests swept college campuses, and drive-in movies were still a Friday night tradition.
1971: Chevrolet Impala (≈475,000 sold)
The Impala held the crown again in ’71, thanks to its roomy cabin, easygoing ride, and bulletproof reliability.
It was the car for everything from vacation trips to Sunday drives, and Chevy’s reputation for value kept buyers coming back.
What was happening in 1971?
Walt Disney World opened in Florida, Intel’s first microprocessor paved the way for modern computers, and “All in the Family” shook up TV.
The Vietnam War raged on, and bell-bottoms were everywhere.
1972: Chevrolet Impala (≈705,000 sold)
Sales hit a high in ’72, as the Impala proved once again that Americans loved a big, dependable sedan. Its soft seats and quiet ride made it a top pick for families, commuters, and first-time buyers alike.
What was happening in 1972?
Watergate started making headlines, “The Godfather” wowed moviegoers, and Atari’s Pong kicked off the video game era.
Mark Spitz became an Olympic legend, and gas was still cheap enough for a summer road trip.
1973: Chevrolet Impala (≈604,000 sold)
Even as the oil crisis crept in, folks stuck with what they knew. The Impala was still the best all-rounder—plenty of space, smooth handling, and a familiar Chevy face.
By year’s end, though, people started to notice those rising gas prices.
What was happening in 1973?
Lines at the gas pump got longer after the oil embargo hit, “American Graffiti” brought car nostalgia to the big screen, and Roe v. Wade was decided by the Supreme Court.
Everyone started talking about gas mileage for the first time.
1974: Ford Pinto (≈544,000 sold)
Suddenly, smaller was smarter. The Ford Pinto was cheap to buy and run, fitting perfectly into America’s new era of high gas prices and economic worry.
For many, it was their first taste of a truly compact car.
What was happening in 1974?
President Nixon resigned over Watergate, Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s home run record, and Evel Knievel made headlines for his daredevil stunts.
Gas rationing and odd-even license plate rules became part of daily life.
1975: Oldsmobile Cutlass (≈421,000 sold)
The Oldsmobile Cutlass struck a sweet spot: mid-sized, easy to drive, and just sporty enough to feel special.
With plenty of trim choices and a reasonable price, it quickly became the car everyone wanted in their driveway.
What was happening in 1975?
“Jaws” scared moviegoers out of the water, the Vietnam War ended, and “Saturday Night Live” debuted.
Disco started to heat up, and America’s love affair with the open road continued—even if the cars got a little smaller.
1976: Oldsmobile Cutlass (≈567,000 sold)
Americans couldn’t get enough of the Cutlass, especially as it added new body styles and more creature comforts. It was a little bit classy, a little bit practical, and just right for a changing country.
What was happening in 1976?
The Bicentennial brought out the red, white, and blue, Jimmy Carter was elected president, and “Rocky” hit theaters.
Fireworks lit up every town, and CB radios became the latest car accessory.
1977: Oldsmobile Cutlass (≈632,000 sold)
The Cutlass got a bit smaller and lighter for ’77, making it even more appealing to buyers worried about fuel economy. Its mix of comfort and efficiency put it back on top—once again, Olds had a winner.
What was happening in 1977?
“Star Wars” changed movies forever, Elvis Presley’s passing shocked fans, and Atari’s home video game console started a craze.
Gas was pricier, but summer road trips were still a rite of passage.
1978: Oldsmobile Cutlass (≈518,000 sold)
Oldsmobile fine-tuned the Cutlass again, and it kept rolling out of showrooms.
Dependable, comfortable, and stylish enough for everyone from grandparents to new grads, it was America’s top choice yet again.
What was happening in 1978?
“Grease” ruled the box office, the first test-tube baby was born, and inflation kept everyone on their toes.
Folks lined up for gas and dreamed of better times, but the music was still good and the cars kept rolling.
1979: Oldsmobile Cutlass (≈518,000 sold)
By the end of the decade, the Cutlass was the go-to car for Americans wanting a sure bet.
Reliable, affordable, and easy to live with, it was as familiar as apple pie—and nearly as popular.
What was happening in 1979?
The Iran hostage crisis made global headlines, “My Sharona” blared from every radio, and Sony introduced the Walkman.
Lines at gas stations returned, and everyone talked about mpg—but cars like the Cutlass helped folks feel secure behind the wheel.
1980: Oldsmobile Cutlass (≈469,000 sold)
The Cutlass kept its grip on America, offering just the right mix of size, style, and reliability.
It was a favorite for families and commuters alike, with enough class to make you proud to toss the keys on the kitchen counter.
What was happening in 1980?
Mount St. Helens erupted, CNN launched 24-hour news, and Pac-Man fever hit arcades everywhere. The U.S. boycotted the Moscow Olympics, and “Dallas” had the world asking, “Who shot J.R.?”
1981: Oldsmobile Cutlass (≈454,000 sold)
Still riding high, the Cutlass was everywhere you looked.
It handled carpool duty, first dates, and weekend road trips with the same easy confidence, keeping Oldsmobile at the top of the sales charts.
What was happening in 1981?
Ronald Reagan became president, MTV played its first music video, and the first space shuttle, Columbia, blasted off.
Prince Charles married Lady Diana, and “Indiana Jones” swung onto movie screens.
1982: Ford Escort (≈337,000 sold)
America was ready for something smaller, and the Ford Escort fit the bill perfectly.
Cheap to buy, easy to drive, and good on gas, the Escort marked a shift toward practical, efficient cars.
What was happening in 1982?
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” hit the airwaves, E.T. phoned home, and the Commodore 64 became the hottest computer around.
Compact cars started looking pretty smart as gas prices bounced up and down.
1983: Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme (≈331,000 sold)
The Cutlass name returned to the top, especially the Supreme model, which brought a little extra style to everyday driving.
People loved the plush interiors and smooth ride, making it the car of choice for families and empty-nesters alike.
What was happening in 1983?
Sally Ride became the first American woman in space, “Return of the Jedi” drew crowds, and Cabbage Patch Kids caused holiday shopping chaos.
Mario Bros. debuted, kicking off decades of video game fun.
1984: Chevrolet Cavalier (≈383,000 sold)
Chevy’s Cavalier was a hit right out of the gate, offering modern looks and a smaller footprint without giving up too much comfort.
Affordable and dependable, it quickly became a favorite for young drivers and growing families.
What was happening in 1984?
Apple launched the first Macintosh, the Summer Olympics returned to Los Angeles, and Prince had everyone dancing to “Purple Rain.”
Ghostbusters took over the box office, and the Cold War kept folks on edge.
1985: Chevrolet Cavalier (≈422,000 sold)
The Cavalier doubled down on its success, staying ahead of the pack with a mix of efficiency and good looks.
It was a common sight at malls, drive-thrus, and college campuses all across the country.
What was happening in 1985?
“Back to the Future” sent Marty McFly to 1955, Live Aid rocked the world for charity, and the first Blockbuster Video store opened its doors.
The Nintendo Entertainment System started turning living rooms into arcades.
1986: Chevrolet Celebrity (≈408,000 sold)
Chevy’s Celebrity became America’s best-seller, with its roomy interior and solid performance making it a natural family choice.
It wasn’t flashy (that may be an understatement), but it always got the job done.
What was happening in 1986?
The Space Shuttle Challenger tragedy shocked the nation, the Oprah Winfrey Show debuted, and Top Gun had everyone wanting aviator sunglasses.
The Statue of Liberty turned 100, and hands-free car phones were the new tech dream.
1987: Ford Escort (≈392,000 sold)
The Escort was back on top, proving small cars were here to stay.
Simple, efficient, and surprisingly roomy for the size, it was perfect for the morning commute or a college road trip.
What was happening in 1987?
The stock market took a dive on Black Monday, “The Simpsons” debuted in short form on The Tracey Ullman Show, and U2’s “Joshua Tree” played on every cassette deck.
Disposable cameras and Walkmans were everywhere.
1988: Ford Escort (≈381,000 sold)
America kept choosing the Escort for its no-nonsense value and economy.
Whether you were a student, a new parent, or just needed to save a buck, the Escort made sense.
What was happening in 1988?
George H.W. Bush was elected president, “Rain Man” won the Oscar, and the first “Die Hard” movie hit theaters.
Super Mario Bros. 3 took the gaming world by storm, and everyone had a Trapper Keeper in their backpack.
1989: Honda Accord (≈362,000 sold)
By the end of the decade, the Honda Accord took the crown—reliable, efficient, and built to last.
Suddenly, imports were mainstream, and the Accord’s reputation for quality made it the new family favorite.
What was happening in 1989?
The Berlin Wall fell, ending the Cold War, and “Seinfeld” premiered on TV.
The first Game Boy arrived, “Batman” was a box office smash, and everyone wanted a cordless phone.
American roads were changing—and so were the cars we trusted most.
1990: Honda Accord (≈417,000 sold)
The Accord was practical, stylish, and famously reliable—exactly what folks wanted as the new decade kicked off.
It looked sharp in the driveway, handled everyday chores with ease, and set a new standard for quality in the midsize market.
What was happening in 1990?
Nelson Mandela was freed after 27 years, “Home Alone” became a holiday hit, and The Simpsons started their first full season.
Vanilla Ice topped the charts, and everyone wanted a Super Nintendo for Christmas.
1991: Honda Accord (≈399,000 sold)
Honda held the top spot again with the Accord. Owners loved the smooth ride, great fuel economy, and the feeling that this was a car built to last.
It was the go-to choice for commuters, young families, and just about everyone else.
What was happening in 1991?
Operation Desert Storm dominated the news, the World Wide Web opened to the public, and “Terminator 2” hit theaters.
Grunge music arrived with Nirvana, and the Bulls won their first NBA title with Michael Jordan.
1992: Ford Taurus (≈409,000 sold)
The Taurus broke through as America’s best-seller. Its rounded, modern shape turned heads, and it packed real comfort and safety features for its price.
Carpool lines and office parking lots filled up with these Fords overnight.
What was happening in 1992?
Bill Clinton was elected president, the Mall of America opened in Minnesota, and “Aladdin” was a box office smash.
The L.A. Riots shook the nation, and Super Mario Kart kept kids glued to their TVs.
1993: Ford Taurus (≈360,000 sold)
The Taurus stayed on top, winning over families with its smooth ride and roomy interior.
It was the car you trusted for long trips, soccer practice, or just getting to work without a fuss.
What was happening in 1993?
“Jurassic Park” roared into theaters, “The X-Files” premiered, and the World Trade Center was bombed for the first time.
Beanie Babies started showing up in stores, and “Whoomp! (There It Is)” was everywhere.
1994: Ford Taurus (≈397,000 sold)
No other car could quite match the Taurus’s balance of space, comfort, and value. It was the American family sedan—dependable, familiar, and easy to spot on any suburban street.
What was happening in 1994?
O.J. Simpson’s Bronco chase captivated the country, “Friends” debuted on NBC, and the Lion King became a cultural phenomenon.
Amazon sold its first book, and PlayStation launched in Japan.
1995: Ford Taurus (≈366,000 sold)
The Taurus made it five years straight as America’s favorite. From the school drop-off to the highway, these Fords just worked—no drama, no complaints.
What was happening in 1995?
The Oklahoma City bombing shocked the nation, Toy Story changed animation forever, and Windows 95 hit home computers.
The Macarena started its world takeover, and Michael Jordan came back to the NBA.
1996: Ford Taurus (≈401,000 sold)
A fresh redesign helped keep the Taurus at number one. Its new “oval everything” styling turned heads (and maybe puzzled a few folks), but the car still delivered everyday practicality.
What was happening in 1996?
Atlanta hosted the Summer Olympics, “Independence Day” exploded in theaters, and Dolly the sheep was cloned.
Tickle Me Elmo caused a shopping frenzy (I personally witnessed two moms’ fist fight over one in a Walmart), and DVDs started showing up in video stores.
1997: Toyota Camry (≈397,000 sold)
The Camry took over the top spot, offering a quiet, smooth ride and legendary Toyota reliability.
It was the sedan that wouldn’t quit, quickly earning a reputation as the “no worries” car.
What was happening in 1997?
The world mourned Princess Diana, “Titanic” sailed into theaters, and the first Harry Potter book was published in the UK.
AOL was the king of the internet, and South Park premiered on cable TV.
1998: Toyota Camry (≈429,000 sold)
Buyers loved the Camry’s blend of comfort, dependability, and value.
It was the safe pick for new drivers, families, and anyone who just wanted a car that always started.
What was happening in 1998?
Google was founded, “Saving Private Ryan” was a hit, and the Chicago Bulls won their last NBA championship with Jordan.
Everyone was already worrying about Y2K, and Britney Spears hit the charts with “…Baby One More Time.”
1999: Toyota Camry (≈448,000 sold)
The Camry closed out the decade as the champ, quietly running up the miles for millions of happy owners.
It wasn’t flashy, but it was unbeatable at what mattered most.
What was happening in 1999?
The world prepared for the new millennium, “The Matrix” redefined sci-fi, and “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” became must-see TV.
Napster started the music-sharing revolution, and everyone was ready to party like it was, well, 1999.
2000: Toyota Camry (≈422,000 sold)
The Camry kept rolling as America’s top choice. Quiet, reliable, and easy to own, it was the car folks counted on for everything from road trips to daily commutes.
No drama, just miles and miles of dependability.
What was happening in 2000?
Y2K came and went without a hitch, the first season of “Survivor” kicked off reality TV, and the world watched as the Bush-Gore election dragged on for weeks.
DVDs started replacing VHS tapes, and everyone was trading Pokémon cards.
2001: Toyota Camry (≈390,000 sold)
The Camry’s blend of comfort, safety, and value kept it at the top of the sales charts. It was the safe bet, whether you were buying your first car or just needed something you didn’t have to worry about.
What was happening in 2001?
The September 11th attacks changed the country, the iPod launched, and “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” hit theaters.
Wikipedia went online, and America’s Got Talent premiered on TV.
2002: Toyota Camry (≈434,000 sold)
A full redesign made the Camry even roomier and more refined, helping it hold onto the title.
Families loved the quiet ride and bulletproof reliability, making it a staple of suburban driveways everywhere.
What was happening in 2002?
The Department of Homeland Security was created, “Spider-Man” swung into theaters, and American Idol found its first star.
The Winter Olympics were held in Salt Lake City, and everyone was texting on flip phones.
2003: Toyota Camry (≈413,000 sold)
With the formula dialed in, the Camry remained king.
It didn’t make waves or turn heads, but it made life easier for millions of Americans who just wanted a car that always worked.
What was happening in 2003?
The U.S. invaded Iraq, “Finding Nemo” was a smash hit, and Arnold Schwarzenegger became governor of California.
MySpace was the new social craze, and everyone wanted a camera phone.
2004: Toyota Camry (≈426,000 sold)
Another year, another win for the Camry.
Fuel efficient, trustworthy, and comfortable, it was the default pick for drivers looking for peace of mind behind the wheel.
What was happening in 2004?
Facebook was founded, “Shrek 2” broke box office records, and the Red Sox finally broke the Curse of the Bambino.
“Friends” aired its last episode, and everyone debated the finale of “The Apprentice.”
2005: Toyota Camry (≈431,000 sold)
The Camry kept on chugging, as drivers across the country picked it for its value and long-term reliability. You could spot them everywhere, from office parks to high school parking lots.
What was happening in 2005?
YouTube launched, Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, and “Star Wars: Episode III” wrapped up the prequel trilogy.
Tom Cruise jumped on Oprah’s couch, and Xbox 360 made its debut.
2006: Toyota Camry (≈448,000 sold)
A redesign kept the Camry fresh and at the top of the sales charts.
Roomy, quiet, and smooth, it stayed the car you’d recommend to anyone who just wanted to avoid car headaches.
What was happening in 2006?
Twitter was born, Pluto lost its status as a planet, and “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest” ruled the summer.
Google bought YouTube, and everyone was watching “Deal or No Deal.”
2007: Toyota Camry (≈473,000 sold)
The Camry stayed ahead of the pack, even as hybrids started gaining steam.
The new Camry Hybrid showed that “sensible” could also mean “ahead of the curve” on fuel economy.
What was happening in 2007?
The first iPhone hit stores, the final “Harry Potter” book was released, and the Great Recession started rumbling. “Mad Men” debuted on TV, and the final Harry Potter movie left fans lining up at midnight.
2008: Toyota Camry (≈436,000 sold)
Rising gas prices and a shaky economy meant dependability mattered more than ever, and the Camry still delivered.
It was the “don’t worry about it” car in a year when a lot of folks needed some certainty.
What was happening in 2008?
Barack Obama was elected president, the global financial crisis shook Wall Street, and Michael Phelps broke Olympic records in Beijing.
“Twilight” turned vampires into superstars, and the App Store changed how everyone used their phones.
2009: Toyota Camry (≈357,000 sold)
Even in a rough year for car sales, the Camry stayed at the top. It proved that no matter what was going on in the world, Americans still wanted a car they could count on to get them through.
What was happening in 2009?
Captain “Sully” Sullenberger landed a plane safely on the Hudson, Michael Jackson passed away, and “Avatar” dazzled moviegoers.
The first season of “Glee” aired, and everyone was trying to master Angry Birds on their phones.
Conclusion: 2010+ Total Camry DOMINATION
OK. You get the idea. The Camry just can’t be stopped. It’s been the best selling car EVERY year of this century in US. Ford really dropped the ball when they redesigned the Taurus. Iterative updates are the way to go when you’re on top.
Thanks for reading!