Post-War Era

1946-1963

America's automotive renaissance. Chrome, fins, and optimism on wheels.

Historical Context

America emerged from WWII as the world's dominant industrial power. Factories that built tanks and planes pivoted to automobiles. The interstate highway system opened the country, and car design reflected the space-age optimism of the era.

Defining Characteristics

• Chrome everywhere — bumpers, trim, grilles
• Tail fins that grew taller each year
• Two-tone paint schemes
• Bench seats and column shifters
• The birth of the personal luxury car

Vehicles from the Post-War Era (14)

1947 Indian Chief

1946-1953 · Indian

$25,000-60,000

1948 Harley-Davidson Panhead

1948-1965 · Harley-Davidson

$20,000-50,000

1948 Tucker 48

1948 · Tucker

$1,500,000-3,000,000+

1952 Norton Manx

1947-1962 · Norton

$50,000-$100,000+

1953 Indian Chief Roadmaster

1950-1953 · Indian

$40,000-80,000+

1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing

1954-1957 · Mercedes-Benz

$1,200,000-2,500,000+

1956 BSA Gold Star

1938-1963 · BSA

$25,000-$50,000+

1956 Triumph TR6 Trophy

1956-1970 · Triumph

$10,000-$25,000

1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster

1957-1985 · Harley-Davidson

$6,000-15,000

1958 Cushman Eagle

1949-1965 · Cushman

$3,000-10,000

1958 Honda Super Cub

1958-present · Honda

$2,000-6,000

1959 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz

1959 · Cadillac

$80,000-200,000+

1962 BSA Rocket Gold Star

1962-1963 · BSA

$20,000-$40,000

1960-1966 Chevy C10

1960-1966 · Chevy

$25,000-80,000+