why older cars need long extendable antennas for radio reception, while modern cars often only have little stumps on the top but still good reception

Question

title

In: Technology

Answer 1

Aside from what others have said. Modern cars have better quality radios and signal processors that can deal with weaker signals. At the same time, car manufacturers are adjusting to changes in consumer demand.

A mast antenna produces more wind noise, and slightly more drag which impacts fuel economy. Consumers have changing views on the importance of FM and AM radios. Just like cassette tape and cd player in car has lost its importance. Bluetooth for streaming audio from a cell phone is increasingly more important.

Issues with either stationary or telescoping antennas breaking in mechanized car washes are also eliminated with a hidden antenna or reduced with a shark fin style antenna.