Car: Ford Thunderbird Convertible

Year: 1960

What makes it special: The second generation Ford Thunderbird was produced for the 1958 to 1960 model years as a successor to the popular 1955-1957 two-seater. In response to Ford-conducted surveys two major changes were made to attract potential buyers: two rear seats were added and the level of luxury and features of a full-sized car were incorporated into a mid-size platform. As a result, sales soared and the new model dramatically expanded the personal luxury car market, winning the Motor Trend Car of the Year in 1958. Over 200,000 units were produced in its three-year model run, quadruple that of the two-seater in its three-year span.

What made it famous: With more trim changes, most notably the addition of a third tail light in the rear clusters, 1960’s sales figures hit a record. A rare option in this year was a sunroof. The next generation of T-Bird used a new body style. The 1960 Ford Thunderbird represented a leap forward in automotive design and as a result will long forever remain the in the hearts of American auto lovers. Engine choices were all ohv V8’s, a 300 bhp 352 cu in, and a 350 hp, 430 ci in.

Why I would want one: Although admittedly I am more a fan of the first generation body style, the second generation was still a very stylish, although larger car.

Fun fact: Along with the 1958 Lincolns, the 1958 Thunderbird was the first Ford Motor Company vehicle designed with unibody construction.

Car: Chevrolet Deluxe Coupe

Year: 1952

What makes it special: The Chevrolet Deluxe was a trim line marketed from 1941 to 1952. The line included, at first a 4-door sedan, but grew to include a fastback 2-door “Arosedan” and other body styles. During the post-war years and continuing through the early 1950’s the Deluxe range was Chevrolet’s sales leader, offering style and luxury appointments unavailable in the base Special series; and a wider range of body styles, including a convertible, Sport Coupe hardtop, two- and four-door sedans and four-door station wagons.

What made it famous: The other change was the availability of Powerglide, a two-speed automatic transmission, exclusively in the Deluxe and Bel Air models. It was powered by a 235-cubic inch six-cylinder engine developing 105 horsepower and had a 3.55:1 rear differential; the engine went on to become the “Blue Flame six.” Models sold with the standard 3-speed manual transmission got the usual 216.5-cubic inch engine, developing 92 horsepower. Many comfort, convenience and styling options were available, including tinted glass which was introduced in 1952, the final year for this style. After the end of the 1952 model year, the old nameplates, Special and Deluxe, were retired, and changed to 150 and 210, respectively, with trim similar to their respective former series.

Why I would want one: The Deluxe is a very popular model for street rod material.

Fun fact: Popular Mechanics rated fuel economy of 20mpg at 50 mph.