The 1950s marked an era of thriving consumerism, fueled by economic prosperity and aggressive advertising during the post-war boom. Appliances, televisions, and (of course!) cars were symbols of the “American Dream.” Our Pick of the Day, a 1950 Plymouth Special DeLuxe convertible, was most certainly a status symbol in its time. It is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Brunswick, Georgia.
“Comfortable and smooth-riding car,” the seller says. “Stored in a climate-controlled garage.” Features surrounding the ivory-finished exterior include chrome brightwork, bumper guards, dual side mirrors, a split windshield, full wheel covers, and wide-whitewall tires. The seller says that the canvas power-retractable top is from Haartz Stayfast, and that it “works well, with smooth up-and-down motion.”
For 1950, the full-sized Special Deluxe was manufactured as a sedan, coupe, convertible, and station wagon. The car was marketed for its strong bang-for-the-buck – positioned as well-appointed yet reasonably priced. “Packed with value and ready to prove it!” one advertisement said. “The new Plymouth rides like a heavy, high-priced limousine yet handles with amazing ease. No wonder this fine car of great value is now – more than ever – the car that likes to be compared!” By the way, the original retail price for a Special Deluxe convertible was about $1,997.
The upholstery of this nicely kept Special DeLuxe has been redone in two-tone red and beige vinyl for the front and rear bench seats. There is an abundance of chrome trim (just like with the exterior), and features include a clock, push-button radio, heater, and floor mats. The trunk is fully carpeted and contains a spare tire with the jack.
Under the hood, power comes a rebuilt 217.8ci inline-six (rated at 97 horsepower) mated to a fluid-drive, column-shifted three-speed manual transmission. “Transmission shifts smoothly and overdrive works perfectly,” the listing says. The odometer shows 1,866 miles, although true mileage is unknown.
As a symbol of post-war optimism, the Special DeLuxe was an important vehicle for the Plymouth brand. Even now, 76 years later, it holds a “special” place in the collector marketplace, and we think this restored, well-kept example should be in your garage.
The asking price is $35,000, and the car will come with service manuals and promotional memorabilia as shown in the photos.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
