The middle of the 20th century marked some important milestones in the automotive world, as well as in pop culture. Did you know that the first credit card was launched in 1950? Invented by Frank McNamara, the Diners Club started out because McNamara forgot his wallet when he went out to eat one evening. His wife paid the bill, but the following day, he came up with the charge card as a way to avoid future embarrassments. Some 75 years later, the average American has around $6,500 in credit card debt.
The change around us is constant; the same can be said about the automotive industry. When the 1950 Chevrolet models were assembled, most of them came with an inline-six powertrain producing fewer than 100 horsepower. But innovative enthusiasts have found ways to inject modern tech (and modern power) into the cars of yesteryear – and such is the case here. The Pick of the Day is a 1950 Chevrolet Fleetline two-door listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Salinas, California.
“Beautiful custom paint job with custom interior,” the listing begins. The exterior theme is smooth and low: The body is free of almost any trim and even the hood ornament has been deleted. The car’s aggressive stance is made possible by drop spindles and the whitewall tires hearken back to the car’s origins. Just about everything else, though, has been brought into the modern era – most importantly, the engine.
Power comes from a 350ci small-block V8 with a performance camshaft, a FiTech fuel injection system, an aluminum intake manifold, an HEI ignition system, headers, an aluminum radiator with electric fans, and a dual exhaust system. A TH700R4 four-speed automatic transmission sends power to the rear wheels via a limited-slip rear end with a 3.42:1 gear ratio. Finally, four-wheel discs provide abundant stopping power. The result of all the above is a car that can be driven and maintained with relative ease thanks to the availability of parts and service for its components. The listing includes a walk-around video with the car at idle. It runs as smooth as it looks.
The icing on the cake is that the cabin received its share of love, too: The build includes a Vintage Air climate control system, upgraded Pioneer audio, Dakota Digital gauges, and reupholstered seating with unique diamond-pattern stitching.
The 1950 Chevrolet was referred to in advertising as “America’s best seller, America’s best buy.” To me, this restomod looks like a best buy if I’ve ever seen one. I doubt you could build one for the same price the seller is asking. “Awesome car – hate to sell it, but I no longer have the space to keep it,” the listing concludes.
The asking price for this 1950 Chevrolet Fleetline is $36,500. And no, you probably can’t pay for it with a Diners Club card.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
