'49 - '52 Dodge Wayfarer Sedan

[Lunajammer]

I've often wondered why this design is sort of the lost child of early postwar fastbacks. I've always thought it's a lovely design, is as attractive as the '49 Merc and could even inform the coming '53-'54 Chevies. The forward swept pillars and verticals give it nice visual action and the high sills imply a slight chop. I've only seen two my whole life.

 

[stitchdup]

it must be how it looks next to a merc or gm from the time. the mopars just look old and dumpy, while the merc and chevy look sleek and fast. There are a few custom mopars but most seem to be converts or the business coupe body shapes. i did find these

 

[presnell]

     I agree with you 100 % I would love to see a model of these cars!!!!!                                      

[Lunajammer]

31 minutes ago, stitchdup said:

the mopars just look old and dumpy,

I agree with you completely, with the exception of this particular model. Perhaps guilt by association?

While the GM fastbacks look good, their diminished truck space was not as popular. That's why I compare it more to the Mercs and not so much with the other conventional (trunk endowed) coupes and sedans.

[Motor City]

The first car is identical to the 1948 Pontiac Streamliner that my Dad had.  Next is a 1939 Dodge with a Hayes body used by Dodge, Chrysler and DeSoto from 1939-1940.  Lastly, a 1938 Pontiac with body by Holden.  These are referred to in Australia and New Zealand as "Slopers" and were made from the mid-1930s to the early 1940s and were available from Chevrolet, Oldsmobile and Buick, too.  Chrysler Corporation also had a similar style available.  Note how all have sloping "B" pillars and how elegant they look compared to the Dodge.     

Edited November 21, 2024 by Motor City

[Brian Austin]

I've seen at least two. One in Tonica, IL in 1990, and the remains of one in Massachusetts in 1992.

Edited November 22, 2024 by Brian Austin