They do something: In 1908, Henry Ford gave the automotive age a decisive boost with his Model T, the first mass-produced car. Throughout the 20th century, the car transformed from a sputtering work machine to a stylish eye-catcher with tail fins, and ultimately to a rolling status symbol complete with a hood ornament. Initially admired as a technical innovation, the automobile became the epitome of modern life and a guarantor of freedom and mobility.

20th Century Classic Cars presents the rapid evolution of the automobile decade by decade through over 400 advertisements from the Jim Heimann Collection.

The development of the car is documented from a horseless carriage to a rocket on wheels. Phil Patton, automotive specialist for the New York Times, explains technical innovations, key manufacturers and dealers, and historical events.