The study of psychological responses to automobile design has been well documented since the early 20th century, when car manufacturers began marketing their products based on aesthetic appeal. Early studies demonstrated that people preferred cars with curved shapes because they were perceived as more feminine and thus more attractive than those with straight lines. This preference was thought to be due to an evolutionary tendency towards attraction to female curves, which may also explain why women are often drawn to curvaceous sports cars. The shape of cars has also been found to influence how drivers behave behind the wheel; for example, wider cars have been shown to make drivers feel more masculine, while longer ones can create feelings of power and control.

More recent research suggests that there is another factor that influences automotive sex appeal: side mirrors. In one experiment, participants were asked to rate the appearance of cars with different types of side mirrors - some small and round, others large and angular - and were found to prefer the latter style. One possible explanation for this preference is that it evokes associations with sexual arousal. The reflective surface of the side mirror allows drivers to observe themselves or other passengers in an eroticized way, which can trigger subconscious desires and fantasies. Another possibility is that larger mirrors provide better visibility, giving drivers a sense of increased safety and control over their surroundings.

Many modern car models feature side mirrors that are explicitly designed to maximize visual access, such as those that extend outward from the body or fold in automatically when not in use. These designs are intended to enhance safety by providing a wider field of view, but could also serve a secondary purpose of enhancing sexual pleasure.

Some drivers report feeling aroused when they see their reflection in the rearview mirror, especially if it is paired with other erotic stimuli like music or the presence of a romantic partner.

The study of automobile design and psychological response demonstrates that our attraction to cars goes beyond mere aesthetics. By understanding how we respond to different features, manufacturers can craft vehicles that not only satisfy practical needs but also tap into our deep-seated desires for intimacy and pleasure. As cars become more advanced technologically and environmentally sustainable, it will be interesting to see how these factors continue to influence consumer choices.