It’s time to revisit one of the greatest classic car eras of the last century: the 1950s. This was a decade bursting with automotive innovation, and so many long-standing car brands were born out of this period as a result. Without further adieu, here are some of the best cars of the 1950s:
1. Chevrolet Bel Air
Sleek, powerful, and iconic—the Bel Air is the epitome of 1950s automobiles. Its well-rounded features, as well as its striking style, have made it a highly sought-after vehicle today. The Bel Air spanned three generations throughout the decade, and has since been featured in classic popular culture media such as 007 Dr. No.
Simply put, few other vehicles reflect this era of automotive history as well as the Chevrolet Bel Air.
2. Chevrolet Corvette
The Corvette is likely one of the most successful vehicles to come out of the 1950s. Though, it did have a problematic start, as the first number of model years faced several quality and performance issues. Chevrolet could have easily pulled their new performance car from the market, but instead, they put in the work to elevate the Corvette to new heights.
Corvettes are sold across the globe to this day, but the original C1 is still one of the best looking and long-lasting classic rides of the 1950s.
3. Buick Skylark
Buick celebrated their 50th anniversary with the release of the Skylark. This vehicle was a true novelty, as it was produced using high-end, hand-made materials. The Skylark was also a powerhouse, featuring a 5.3L Nailhead V8. Only two model years were produced in the ‘50s, though the Skylark went on to be revived many times in the following decades.
Though not a knockout commercial success, the Skylark was a high-quality vehicle, even in respect to its competition.
4. Cadillac DeVille
There’s one word that captures the DeVille perfectly, and that’s stylish. This vehicle is still a sight to behold, with its signature tail fins and beautiful upholstery. Cadillac had been making vehicles for decades by the 1950s, and it seemed like the DeVille was the pinnacle of their ingenuity at the time.
The DeVille continues to stun car lovers in classic car shows, and is a perfect example of attention to performance and style.
5. Ford Fairlane
Named after the street Henry Ford lived on, the Fairlane of the 1950s was Ford’s premium full-sized offer for their customer-base. Arriving on the scene in 1955, the Fairlane lived on through seven generations, and laid the groundwork for what would eventually become the Mustang.
What was your favourite car from the 50s? Let us know in the comments below, as well as on our social media!