1949 was a year of change around the halls of many American car manufacturers, Dodge included. A new age brought about new post-war body styles and a change away from the tired system of sticking the names Deluxe and Custom on pretty much everything that rolled off their assembly lines.
The Dodge Coronet was introduced along side two other trim levels named the Meadowbrook and the Wayfarer. All three cars are extremely close in appearance, so much so that to a casual observer there may appear to be no difference at all. The "major" differences involved some very minor exterior trim and style differences along with minor interior trim and options. The Coronet has the top spot in the trim level line up for this year and was available in the most variety of configurations. These different Coronet models included a two door hardtop and convertible, two different station wagons, and three versions of a four door vehicle.
All three trim levels had just one choice of engine - a 230 c.i. flat head 6 cylinder sporting a single carb and producing a whopping 103 horsepower. While the power plant may no have made much a splash the "FluidDrive", three speed transmission was of note. This tranny did not need a shift lever as it was operated by a foot pedal. As this was a high end model there were some luxury options offered such as a clock, radio, heater and turn signals.
While the initial Coronet was notable simply for it's new look and name badge the sales of this model line were significant. Over 250,000 of cars were sold in 1949 helping Dodge establish itself as one of the top auto makers in the class.
From this somewhat standard looking and handling post war production model one of the most well known muscle cars of the 1960's was born. While the Coronet badge was once the top of the line luxury trim package the names' status changed over the next decade or so.
The Dodge Coronet trim name slowly shifted from a top of the line model to a gritty muscle car as the 1950's and 60's progressed. These cars are a popular entry in car shows around the country and continue to be a popular collector car.
Will gets a kick out of old Dodge models of all kinds. Be sure to check out DodgeRestoration.com to see photos and find more information. Thanks!
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