1946 Plymouth 'Woody' Station Wagon (RHD)

Description

The first post-war Plymouth was largely a carryover of the last of the pre-war models, utilising the same basic bodies and drivetrain, albeit with minor revisions to the rear wings, grille and a host of new options. Powered by the sturdy L-head in-line six-cylinder engine of 218-cid, the 1946 Plymouth was available as the DeLuxe or Special DeLuxe, the latter offering the prospective buyer such niceties as twin windscreen wipers, sun visors, lockable glovebox and an extensive choice of interior upholstery. The more luxurious Special DeLuxe also came with two unique body styles, the convertible and 'Woody' wagon and the latter was equipped with three rows of bench seats to accommodate up to eight passengers, although the back two rows were removable to create an enormous load area. With white ash framing and dark maple panelling, the 'Woody' was both stylish and practical, not to mention expensive, costing about 50 per cent more than the most basic Plymouth models. Although the preserve of wealthy families when new, 'Woody' wagons became cult objects in the late 1950s and 1960s as a new generation of young surfers began using them as transport to the beach. With innumerable references in popular culture of the day, the 'Woody' was immortalised by the likes of the Beach Boys in their song "Let's go Surfing" and have now become a sought after collector's items around the world.