Old Car Trends I Just Don't Get

This has always confused me.

Could someone explain to me the concept behind wood-paneling on cars? Here's one.

1972 Ford LTD Country Squire Station Wagon
And another, earlier example:

1964 Ford Falcon Squire Wagon
And for that matter, a trend that still persists -- albeit barely -- to this day: the fake convertible tops?

Here's a more modern vinyl top:

2010 Buick LaCrosse CX
I don't get it.