Crosley Motors began in 1939, focusing on small economy cars. After pausing for World War II in 1942, the company fired up auto production again in 1946. But since demand for new cars was so high at that time and anything on wheels could be sold, the little Crosleys were usually overlooked, and the company folded up shop in 1952. This 1949 Crosley is a CD Series convertible that runs but needs cosmetic TLC, being one of maybe just 645 produced. Located in Keene, New Hampshire, this rare oddity is available here on craigslist for $4,500.
The CD models arrived in 1949 and remained in production until the end came for Crosley in 1952. The cars may have been too little too soon as the U.S. buying public didn’t begin to embrace small automobiles until the end of the decade. The CD was offered in a variety of body styles, including the convertible with a framed roof and doors like this one. The Crosley was innovative for the times and came with 4-wheel disc brakes in 1949 and 1950. Two trim versions were offered, the Standard and DeLux (without the “e”), with the seller’s being one of the latter.
This Crosley should have the whopping 44 cubic inch inline-4 they all had, putting out 26 hp. So, getting from zero to 50 mph probably took forever. This one also has a manual transmission and may have only logged 47,000 miles. It comes complete with a radio and heater, options back in the day. The body is good with just a few small holes in the floors, which look to have been sprayed in grey primer.
The canvas top is MIA, and the little car needs a gas tank to be a driver. You could restore the Crosley or clean it up and use it mostly as-is. You’re likely to be the only one in town to have one of these vehicles. You’ll have to be okay with the lack of a title, as this car will come with a New Hampshire bill of sale. Here’s another tip from Zappenduster! Crosley, anyone?
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