The Dodge Wayfarer was probably the last of the true American roadsters: two seats a top that goes down and no windows for an elemental feel. They're pretty rare today which makes this 1949 Dodge Wayfarer a one-of-a-kind rod that will definitely generate attention at the next big show.Simple clean styling was Chrysler's post-war image and the Wayfarer was a way to inject some fun back into the automotive marketplace. That's particularly true of this car which today wears a coat of attractive Prowler Purple a luxurious hue that looks good on just about everything. There's a lot of smooth sheetmetal underneath helping to make that paint look good and the panels all line up well an unexpected bonus on a car in this price range. Some of the original trim has been shaved but not so much that the car's identity is lost and with some contrasting chrome bits like the polished grille neat trunk emblem and period-perfect taillights it has a great 1940s look with a twist. The chrome that is on the car is in good condition with a few pieces perhaps being original and showing some signs of age but even that doesn't diminish what is a very appealing car.The Wayfarer originally came with a wide bench seat that might have accommodated three people but today it's strictly a two-seater with a pair of leather-wrapped buckets from a late-model. The tan upholstery is in very good condition and the seats are far better than anything you could get in 1949. Simple door panels were installed to complement the seats and the carpets are a slightly darker shade to help keep things looking clean. Factory instruments are arranged ahead of the driver with a full set of auxiliary gauges set into the center of the dash including a tachometer. A modern steering column fits neatly in the original wheel's place and the column-mounted shifter was replaced by a B&M unit mounted on the floor. And don't worry there's a CD player mounted on the package shelf behind the seats. As I said the Wayfarer never had any windows but this one does have a nice-fitting tan convertible top with an oval rear window that's there in emergencies. The trunk is largely original with good floors a full-sized spare and plenty of room for your gear.A tried-and-true 350 cubic inch Chevy V8 replaces the original flathead six and performance is as you'd expect a lot more entertaining. It's not a radical engine so it starts easily idles nicely and moves the slick little ragtop without working hard. It also makes great V8 sounds and supports things like power disc brakes a TH400 3-speed automatic transmission and an independent front suspension that rides hand handles like a modern car. There's a 4-barrel carburetor and a mellow-sounding dual exhaust system which will definitely get the attention of any Dodge fans at the shows and the car has a fairly stock stance which helps with the old-school look. Aluminum wheels dress it up a bit and carry 225/60/15 Goodyear radials at all four corners so it rides and handles rather well.A rare car that looks great and drives even better; what more could you ask? This neat Wayfarer will definitely be the talk of any show it attends. Call now!