1948 Plymouth Special Deluxe
The 1948 Plymouth Special Deluxe: a post-war beauty! Its smooth lines and affordable price made it a popular choice, reflecting the era's optimism. While not hugely flashy, its understated elegance and reliable performance secured its place in automotive history. Think classic American car, but accessible.
Decode Classic VINs to Get Vehicle History Report and Build Sheet
The Timeless Appeal of Classic Cars and Their Notable Owners
Ah, classic cars—they hold a special place in our hearts, don't they? These rolling pieces of history aren't just about the throaty roar of an engine or the glint of polished chrome; they're about the stories they carry and the people who cherish them. From the way these cars navigate the open road to the fond memories they stir, classic cars are indeed a testament to the art of automotive design and engineering. Let's explore the rich tapestry of classic car ownership, with a special spotlight on some notable figures who are as classic as the cars themselves.

1948 Plymouth Special Deluxe Models:
Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.
How Much is Plymouth Special Deluxe Worth?
Original MSRP :$1,264.00
Outstanding
Clean
Average
Rough
1948 Plymouth Special Deluxe Specs
Interested in buying a classic car or selling one?
Access detailed history reports for classic vehicles from hundreds of manufacturers.
- Accident Records
- Theft Records
- Loan & Lien Information
- Auction Information
- Salvage Information and more

History of the 1948 Plymouth Special Deluxe
Introduced in the aftermath of World War II, the 1948 Plymouth Special Deluxe became a symbol of the era's automotive boom. With its sleek lines and trusty flathead six engine, this model was all about accessibility and reliability, something middle-class America heavily sought as they emerged from wartime austerity. The Special Deluxe wasn't just a car—it was a promise of better times.
Learn more about a classic car: Get Build Sheet by VIN.
Access reproduced classic build sheets to learn more about your classic vehicle details.
- Standard Specifications
- Original Base Price
- Standard & Optional Equipment
- Exterior & Interior Colors
- VIN ID & Location description

Post-War Production: Meeting the Demand
In the late 1940s, car manufacturers had everyone eager for something new yet familiar. The Plymouth Special Deluxe exemplified this approach, maintaining a design that spoke to both tradition and innovation. It wasn't just another car; it was a crucial piece of the post-war production mosaic that shaped modern automotive landscapes.
Famous Figures Who Own Classic Cars
Nicholas Essinger
Let's start with Nicholas Essinger. Although declining health has limited his ability to maintain his classic car collection, his 1948 Plymouth Special Deluxe remains a cherished possession. It's more than just metal and paint; it symbolizes perseverance, nostalgia, and the inextricable bond between man and machine.
Francis and Freeland Stanley
Now, if you find steam power intriguing, the Stanley twins' story might spark your interest. Pioneers of the Stanley Steamer, they engineered victoriously speedy cars back in the day, even setting world records. Their work paved the way for innovations and, quite unintentionally, for stories like the 1948 Plymouth to unfold.
1948 Plymouth Special Deluxe Gallery






Fun Facts about the Plymouth Special Deluxe
Top Speed: Though not a race car, it managed a respectable 75 mph.
Engine Power: Thanks to its flathead six, it cranked out about 95 horsepower.
Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Car?
Before diving into the purchase or sale of a classic car, having all the right documents is crucial. A detailed vehicle history report and build sheet can mean the difference between a smooth transaction and a roadside disaster. Use tools like Classic Decoder for crucial insights into:
Accident Records
Theft Records
Loan & Lien Information
Auction Information
Salvage Information and more.
For those passionate about the world of classic cars, knowing your vehicle's past through a is just as important as the drive itself. Dating your classics with a classic can unveil stories hidden in those unique vehicle wraps.
Whether you're interested in decoding a or navigating the legacy of numbers with a , it's crucial to have the right tools at your disposal. And when it comes to authenticity, a is your golden ticket to confirming your classic's origins.
Remember, every car has a story—be its next storyteller responsibly.
Classic Car VIN Lookup App |Now available on both Android and iOS!
At Classic Decoder, we believe that developing a mobile app is a great way to extend our classic car data solution hub to as many users as possible across the globe. Our app is built with users and precision in mind. It holds the key to unlocking the history and details of any retro car at your fingertips. It also comes with fascinating and user-friendly features that make it stand out from other mobile apps designed for this purpose.
The Classic Decoder app lets you decode and lookup any classic VIN in a flash. Access accurate vehicle information and history, make an informed decision faster, and buy and trade in classic cars with confidence.

Download The Classic Decoder App now.
Some unique features include:
- Support all classic VIN lengths from 5 to 13 digits
- Support classic cars produced from 1910 – 1980
- Online Garage features – to add and manage your vehicles
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Easy onboarding for first-time users
Explore The Most Popular Classic Cars
Frequently Asked Questions
The '48 Plymouth Special Deluxe? A real head-turner, that one! You'll spot it easily enough; it boasts a distinctive, somewhat boxy body style—think of a really stylish brick, if you will—with smoothly integrated fenders. The chrome is plentiful, really makes it shine; it's a key identifier. Oh, and the taillights are iconic, you know, those bullet-shaped beauties? Those are hard to miss. Inside, you'll find a comfortable, roomy interior—for the time, anyway. It’s got a nice, simple dashboard, pretty straightforward. Remember, though, features varied somewhat depending on trim level and options, so there's a little variation. It's a classic, though, no doubt about it.
Typically, you'd find a 217.8 cubic inch flathead straight-six under the hood. It wasn't exactly a speed demon, but it was reliable—like a trusty old workhorse. It offered decent power for everyday driving, perfectly adequate for its time, I'd say. Now, some rare models might have had some slight variations, but the straight-six was the standard and really, the only game in town for this beauty.
Ah, the million-dollar question! That depends wildly on condition, the completeness of the car, and—let's be honest—the current market. A beautifully restored, numbers-matching example could fetch a pretty penny, you know, a decent chunk of change. But a car needing, say, a complete restoration? That would be quite a bit less. Honestly, your best bet is to check recent auction results and see what similar cars are selling for. It's really apples and oranges, that whole valuation game.
Finding parts can be a bit of a treasure hunt, it's true. Some parts are readily available from classic car parts suppliers, especially common wear items. Other bits and pieces, however? Those can be trickier to track down, requiring some serious detective work, often involving online forums and specialty shops. It is definitely a labor of love; think of it like a really fun scavenger hunt! You might just need to get creative sometimes and improvise a bit.
Being a car of that era, you should anticipate some typical age-related issues. Things like the electrical system, (boy, those old wires!), the braking system, and the carburetor can sometimes be temperamental. Regular maintenance and a good mechanic familiar with classic cars are key—absolutely essential, actually. It's like keeping any old machine running; it needs attention and care. Prevention is, as they say, better than cure!
There's a whole network out there for Plymouth enthusiasts! Online forums, classic car parts suppliers, and specialized restoration shops are excellent places to start. You'll find a wealth of information and support from fellow enthusiasts—a really great community. You can also find plenty of books and manuals too; some great resources are out there to help you with your restoration.