Original Cost

I've been looking through my literature collection recently, which includes a lot of cost information, and decided to calculate the original purchase price for my two cars. Here's what I came up with:

Cabriolet

Base price: $760
Option A: (bumpers, bumper guards, spare tire, spring covers, RH windshield wiper): $36.50
Option B: (safety glass in doors - windshield & vents standard equipment): $7.50
Option D: (RH tail lamp, dual horn, RH sun visor): $13.95
Deluxe heater: $16.75
Cigar lighter: $1.50
Fender marker: $1.25
Electric clock: $11.50
Gear shift knob: $0.50
Wheel trim rings: $8.50

Total price as equipped: $917.95
Freight: $134.12 (I got this figure from an original invoice I have for a car shipped to NY)

Total Cost: $993.32

Using the CPI measure found at www.eh.net/hmit/compare/, the price of this car in 2004 dollars would be $13,528.

The coupe ($615 base price) delivered price was $892.02 (it had the $60.50 deluxe radio); 2004 price $12,140.

Pretty remarkable what they considered optional equipment back then, such as bumpers and safety glass in the doors and rear window (Masters series only, Deluxe cars came with full safety glass).

The only option I'd still like to find is the vanity visor mirror, a $1 item back then. Don't think I've ever seen one on eBay. Did just get the fender marker for $35, which I thought was a terrific deal. They are very hard to find.

Meanwhile, I'm still waiting on running boards. When I talked to him in early January, I was told "late February or March." Let's hope so!