Cars Popular In The 1950s

Cars Popular In The 1950s Included Classic 1950s Cars Such As Cadillac, Pontiac And Buick

A booming economy, plenty of work available and cheap credit led to an upsurge in car ownership during the 1950s.

Car ownership in the United States alone topped 80 per cent of families during the decade.

Across the Atlantic, in the United Kingdom the number of cars on the road also mushroomed with ownership doubling during the 1950s.

As the consumer demonstrated his desire for motor vehicle ownership, cars popular in the 1950s began to include many of the gadgets and innovations which many of us take for granted today.

The popular Austin Healey of 1958 had powerful twin carb, four speed synchromesh transmission and a hydraulic braking system. Three years earlier the American car manufacturer Buick installed their most powerful engine ever, the V8 in the Buick Special.

By the end of the decade Buick put something that is synonymous with American cars of the period on their latest model, delta wing canted fins.
 
In 1957 the producers of that most luxurious of cars the Cadillac – owned at the time by the likes of Elvis Presley - added power steering, adjustable seats and in car air conditioning. By 1959 the Cadillac Convertible looked the ultimate dream with tail fins, chrome and a powerful 325 Horsepower engine. 

Though it would not have suited many people's pockets at the time, with prices for this range starting at $5,400.

When considering cars popular in the 1950s in must be realised that Chevrolet were also capturing the imagination of the American public at the time.

By 1954 their models included power brakes and seat and window controls. Five years later Chevolret's  Impala Hardtop Edition had incorporated added safety features for the motorist with improved suspension and brakes.

Chrysler had started the 1950s in a strong position with their New Yorker Model receiving accolades. Hailed as Chrysler finest model ever, the New Yorker would eventually have power steering, dual headlights and be powered by a V8 engine.

Another popular American car in the 1950s was the Desoto. In 1956 Desoto targeted the female market with its Station Wagon. The Desoto Station Wagon had room for all the family as well as the week's shopping and had automatic power steering.
 
Cars popular in the 1950s also included the Dodge range. In 1957 Dodge gave the typical family car a sports car look with swept wing fenders and a 310 HP V8 engine gracing its Royal Sedan model.

The design of many cars popular in the 1950s was influenced by aircraft, and that was demonstrated by Dodge's 1959 model which boasted a “jet age” look as well as swivel seating.

Related Articles

• More On 1950s Cars
• 1950s Popular Cars
• The 1950s Automobile
• The 1950s Car
• 1950s Car Manufacturers