For one of its first post-war new car designs, Dodge was a bit late to the gate with the 1949 Wayfarer. Despite missing the usual August new model introductions, the Wayfarer would be a strong seller that year, with almost 257,000 cars built despite a shortened selling season.
The in-line, 6-cylinder engine had a displacement of 230cui, with a 7.0:1 compression ratio and a Stromberg 2-barrel carburetor delivering an output of 103 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque at 1,200 rpm. While the top speed was said to be around 75 mph, getting there would have been a sedate experience, with the 60 mph mark coming in about 25 seconds from a standing stop.
The 2-door sedan was a popular model, selling for just over $1,700 and providing enormous interior space while still looking sleek… in those days. The bodies were built by Briggs, who also supplied Packard, and have proven remarkably durable despite the passage of six decades.
The current example, located in Lexington, MS, is being offered as a potential street or rat rod project. It may have spent some time in outdoor storage as some rust perforation is evident in the seller’s photos. That the seller was going to use it for a project himself is evident by the spare parts that are offered with the car. How about seven steering wheels?
OK, well, a spare transmission and replacement engine are a good start, along with assorted front and rear suspension parts and a spare axle. Make no mistake, this Wayfarer is going to take some work, but it could be yours for just $800. A close reading of the eBay listing is highly recommended to be sure of exactly what you’ll be getting.
That said, if you’re anywhere near Lexington and looking for an unusual project car, this might be one to consider. Aside from bringing a trailer, you’ll want to make allowance for all the additional parts. The seller is willing to store the vehicle after payment is received, so everything may not have to be removed in a single trip. Street or rat rod? The choice is yours.
