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Feb
15

What Auto is This?? GM and Harley Earl Set The Styling Trend For A Decade

Lets face facts..GM from the early 1950′s till the late 1960′s had the automotive world in the palm of their hands. With concept cars styled by GM’s God of style Harley Earl the Motorama shows of the 50′s showcased and wrote the book on future automotive design. The pictured automobile was one of the first of a long line of GM Motorama concept cars.First shown in 1951 this futuristic concept would give hints of GM’s design future.  It was rumored that GM spent over $1,000,000 to build its aluminum bodied wonder on wheels. In todays money that would be “ten million” As with alot of Harley Earl’s  designs this swoopy beauty was inspired by aircraft of the day. Earls vision was to evoke “flight in motion”.In keeping with its look into the future the car had some very exotic mechanical items.Most cars of the day had 6 volt electrical systems this car used 12 volts.The frame used rubber oil filled mounts to aid in a  smooth ride. The hand built V8 engine was ”fuel injected” with an external oil cooler.All of this was mounted to a 3 speed automatic tranmission. Other features included body mounted hydraulic jacks that would raise the car to change a flat. A rain activated sensor would raise the convertible top so the cockpit inspired interior would not get wet. The large tail fins would inspire design throughout the 1950′s.This showcase of wonder would be Harley Earl’s personal ride for almost a decade. What Auto is This??

 To see the answer and other answers to What Auto is This?? Quiz  go to  www.carlislejohnny.com  or  www.appraisal.carlislejohnny.com 

About the author

C-Johnny

Welcome to Carlisle Johnny. My name is Johnny B and I have been an avid car crazed nut since age 13 years old. I purchased my first classic car at age 15, a 1948 Chevrolet Fleetmaster Convertible. Since then I have owned, sold, suffered and romanced over a 147 cars, and I haven’t looked back. I always tell people its not the cars or trucks it’s the stories and people behind them. I love all kinds of cars, but I lean more towards classics from the 30’s and 40’s, Triumphs, Old Crusty VW’s and Benz’s. However, I enjoy all kinds of vehicles of various years. I have spent the last 30 years in the Auto Parts Industry but also spent many years as a classic car appraiser in Carlisle Pa.(home of the famous Carlisle Fairgrounds) where I was a sponsor. During that time as an appraiser I traveled across the U.S. appraising wonderful cars and meeting incredible people. I spent time working as one of the head appraisers on the “Harold LeMay” collection. Which is one of the worlds largest collections, with 3,100 plus classic vehicles. In addition I have also worked on the Lincoln Highway 75th anniversary tour and had the honor to do the first leg across the U.S. as well as going to Barrett-Jackson numerous times. On the weekends you can find me singing Karaoke at The Village Way in Port Jefferson,New York. www.me4portjeff.com Through it all I still say its always about the people and the stories along the way. So that’s the main purpose of this site. The people, stories and the old klunkers we love, romance and question. So your invited to join in for a fun ride… Thanks from Johnny B “The Car Whisperer”

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