|
Ten
Reasonable Ragtops
by Dan Burger
Convertibles are for driving, and here are some fine rides
that aren't priced beyond reach.
I think car people see travel like children see ice cream.
It's a smooth and delicious treat that puts a smile on your face. It's
carefree relaxation because we know that getting there is more than half
the fun.
Although the question is rhetorical, it has to be asked:
is there a better way to enjoy the sought-after pleasures of automotive
bliss than enjoying the scenery and the sun with a top down cruise? You
have to admit, it's a magical way to travel. There's an automotive idealism
that draws us to it like men are drawn to the sports page. Fresh air,
sunshine and a fine-looking car that practically sings "I got the
keys to the highway."
American convertibles of the 1950s are, in my mind, the best
thing going for enhanced driving pleasure. Sounds like words borrowed
from a 1950s cigarette ad, but it's true. The only problems I can think
of are that: 1) Not many convertibles are to be found; 2) Many are prized
possessions that rarely put their rubber on the road; and, 3) Too many
of them cost more than an arm, a leg and almost any other part of the
anatomy you want to name.
That brings me to a selection of convertibles that I'm recommending
because they are less expensive than the most popular new car in America.
When you can find one, it will deliver a memorable driving experience
that only a warm summer night, top-down cruise can provide. Here is my
shopping list of ragtops you will only regret if you don't buy.
 1950
Studebaker Champion
How can anyone not like to the 1950-51 Studebakers? It may
be the friendliest-looking car ever built. I prefer the 1950 because its
most friendly feature - the bullet nose - looks better in its original
form. Studebaker enjoyed its best years with the bullet-nose cars and
you can outshine many expensive collector cars when you show up in one
of these.
Champions are slightly smaller than the Commander models,
but they are equally fun. Engines were solid but underpowered flathead
sixes. Hop-up equipment consisting of high-compression heads and dual
carbs enjoyed popularity in the 1950s and - guess what - they are being
reproduced today. Get that set-up and an overdrive transmission for improved
cruise-ability. The overdrives aren't difficult to find and only require
a shortened driveshaft for installation. Avoid the automatic transmission,
unless power is of little concern to you. Consider a disc-brake conversion
if you plan to drive it as much as you should.
Estimated value:
Excellent, $17,100; Good $11,900
1949 Plymouth Special DeLuxe
One of the best things about an inexpensive convertible is
you can afford the optional accessories. Dressing up a 1949 Plymouth is
a perfect example of what makes this hobby fun.
A basic Plymouth seems somewhat mundane because it doesn't
have those cool stainless steel stone guards on the rear fenders, or bumper
guards front and rear, or full-disc wheel covers, or fog lights and leather
upholstery. These things make it a special-looking car.
Plymouths from 1949-52 have a lot in common, which makes
the parts search somewhat easier - but any trim, especially pot metal
trim, will be difficult to replace. Only the '49 has the handsome taillights
built into the small chrome fins on the rear fenders.
Plymouth built an excellent reputation for reliability and
engineering excellence during this era. Owners of these cars today still
stand by that reputation. You get a lot of interesting, dependable and
economical car for your money.
Estimated value:
Excellent, $21,000; Good, $15,300
 1953
Pontiac Chieftain
Early- '50s Pontiacs sometimes are labeled too conservatively
styled, but take a look at a 1953 Chieftain and you see a lot to like.
There's lots of chrome - especially the Silver Streak that flashes across
the hood and down the trunk. Recognition of that trademark was almost
universal, but it would soon disappear.
The straight eight engine was also gone by the end of 1954.
Pontiac's straight eight was a solid and very popular engine. Coupled
with the Hydramatic transmission, it makes a smooth-running, open road
cruiser that will cruise all day if precautions are taken against overheating.
With this car you also get quality items such as the canvas
convertible top and the leather interior - features that make convertibles
special.
Estimated value:
Excellent, $18,500; Good, $14,900
|
