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From a vehicle dynamics, SUV/CUV is worse than a station wagon because of the higher center of gravity.

Convertibles, hatchbacks, coupes still exist, but they are few.

I don't think there is one answer as it's been around ever since "automobiles" became enclosed. Earliest were essentially open carriages with a motor added. The carriage makers set the tone as the first body makers. Some of the carriage shops became auto companies.
Read the history of the auto industry.

Thanks everyone for the great insights. Most of my life, the vehicle of choice has been SUV's so this is great context to the buying habits of the time, that I was not previously well aware of.