Vintage CarsSuch is the continuing magic of vintage cars manufactured in the 1950s that there is ready market for those wanting to collect them. For most of us the only chance of seeing one of these masterpieces is by visiting an exhibition or a transport museum. But for those with the knowledge and the bank balance they are able actually own a vintage car from the 50s. So what are these enthusiasts actually looking for? One of the rarest and most valuable vintage cars is the Chrysler Diablo of 1957. Described as a “concept car” it was conceived by one of the top car design geniuses of the era – Virgil Exner. Labelled by Chrysler as a “Hydroplane on wheels” the Diablo, originally called the Chrysler Dart, was actually constructed by the Italian car design company Ghia. Chrysler tested the vehicle before Ghia added those crucial final touches which included replacing the retractable hardtop with a soft top and painting it red. For those even thinking of ever owning this amazing piece of automobile technology, be warned. It will be very expensive. Owning 1950s vintage cars is often seen as an investment. One of the top cars from the era collectors are eager
to invest in is the Buick Skylark Sport Convertible
of 1954. This model is the first generation of the range, though 1954 saw a radically restyling. It now boasted a
semi-barrel shape and the tail lights, now projecting from the tops of the rear fenders, were housed in large
tailfins. The 1954 model is particularly rare as production ceased at the end of that year. The car underwent a design revision in 1957 and it is this model which is particularly popular with modern day vintage car collectors. The bumper was reshaped and the grille, tailfins and taillights enlarged. This redesign saw sales exceed 21,000 that year. 1958 saw the demise of the Studebaker Golden Hawk as sales were hit by recession. This gives the models produced that year added interest. Launched only two years earlier the Golden Hawk of ’58 had smaller wheels, reduced from 15 to 14 inches. A third rear passenger seat was also added. Concluding the list of the vintage cars “most wanted” by the 21st century enthusiast is the Continental Mark II produced by Ford between 1956 and 1957. It is rare as only 3,000 were ever produced. A luxury model, the Continental sold for what was in the 50s a huge $10,000. A cheaper version which sold for $6,000 was launched in 1959. But its construction leaned heavily on the Lincoln both for parts and technology. So for those seeking out a truly authentic Continental Mark II, the 57-58 version is the one to be had. Related Articles |
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