1947 Dodge Business Coupe 6 D24
The Dodge Custom is a full-size car which was produced by Dodge in the United States from 1946 to early 1949, and was also called the DeLuxe in a more basic trim package. Dodge was very fluid with model nameplates and during the 1930s updated them yearly based on marketing objectives, while the actual vehicle was largely unchanged for what became known as the “Senior Dodge’s” that were available with shorter “Junior Dodges” that were essentially badge engineered Plymouth models during this time period.
The D24 was introduced in 1946, as the top trim level in the Dodge range (bigger than Plymouth’s counterparts Dodge D25). It differed from the basic Deluxe model only in terms of interior trim, seats, dual electric windshield wipers and chrome exterior beading around the windows. The Custom was offered in 4-door 6 passenger Sedan, 4-door 6 passenger Town Sedan, 4-door 7 passenger Sedan, 2-door Club Coupe and 2-door Convertible models. All models were powered by a 230 cid inline six cylinder engine. A three-speed manual transmission was standard whilst a “Fluid Drive” option provided “no metal-to metal contact between the power source and drive”.
Dodge cranked out a fair number of Deluxes, and the D24 was one of their plusher offerings. For the most part, these cars are trading hands for under $20k in mint, restored condition – that said, this one isn’t restored, but appears to be very well kept, lovingly maintained, and extremely original overall, and like they say, it’s only original once. So, is it worth the premium to have an unrestored, but well-kept example of one of America’s most popular postwar cars? We think so. Afterall, while Dodge built a fair number of them, there really aren’t too many left, and how many are still in this kind of original condition? While some may prefer the glitz, sheen, shine, and glamour of a restored car, we dig the patina and charm of the originality this one exhibits and figure it’ll be ‘Fair Market’ for the next caretaker.
If truly “all original” as described, this 1947 Dodge Business Coupe may have spent more time in a plastic bubble than any kind of barn. The Business coupe catered to traveling businessmen, providing room for luggage and a golf bag or catalog case behind the seats. Some had small seats in the rear.
