1947 Plymouth Special Deluxe
2021.0038.0001, Savoy Collection
Engine: 217 cu. in. (3.5L) Cast-iron block, L-head I-6
Output: 95 HP @ 3,600 RPM
Transmission: 3-Speed Manual
Wheelbase: 117 in.
Overall Length: 196 in.
Weight: 2,982 lbs.
Top Speed: 80 MPH
No. Produced: 31,399
Original Price: $1,209
Manufacturer: Chrysler Corporation
At the onset of WWII, a “gentleman’s agreement” between automobile manufacturers suspended all new design efforts until after the war. Therefore, initially only slightly modified pre-war models were available. Following WWII, American manufacturers were ready to shift gears from the war effort to consumer vehicles and consumers were willing to buy anything off of an assembly line. The Plymouth Special Deluxe, like other post war cars, did not receive a major facelift until after 1949.
The Special Deluxe, however, did feature bright metal molding around the windshield. Equipped with sun visors, a locking glovebox, dual windshield wipers, and rear bumper fender guards, the Plymouth Special Deluxe offered extras at a reasonable price. Pencil stripe broadcloth or soft pile fabric interiors were offered for the coupes and sedans. Working hard to transform factories and the labor force to peacetime production, Plymouth provided an eager customer base with cars that were worth waiting for.