High-Tech Automobiles.

As a result of the Arab-induced oil crisis and rising gasoline prices, cars in the 1970s were built with conservation and moderation in mind. In the 1980s car manufacturers wanted to sell to affluent yuppies, and upscaling became the trend. With the 1980s focus on work, it was no surprise that Americans began equipping their cars with cellular phones. Portable computers and fax machines were popular by the end of the decade, allowing cars to become mini-offices. But the focus was also on making cars more fun, comfortable, and luxurious. Oldsmobile offered a S225 dashboard option that included colored bar charts and a zoom-in display to inform the driver of fuel level; Buick offered a screen that let the driver control radio, interior temperature, and trip computer with the touch of a finger. Safety features were also improved with computers; antilock brakes...