In the post-World War II era, Plymouth aimed to capture American consumers seeking stylish and powerful automobiles by introducing the 1951 Concord model. With its unique split grille and jet-inspired rear fenders, the Concord embodied the space age aesthetic of the early 1950s.
Unveiled in the fall of 1950, the redesigned 1951 Plymouth featured smooth, aerodynamic lines and a wide stance characteristic of Chrysler Corporation’s cars in that decade. Nicknamed the “First All-New Car in Eight Years,” the Concord represented Plymouth’s first major styling update since 1942.
Distinctive design features included a two-piece grille bisected in the middle, circular parking lights atop the fenders, and taillights recessed into the rear fenders. The sculpted rear end gave the Concord a futuristic flair reminiscent of airplanes from the era.
Under the hood, Plymouth packed significant power into the 1951 Concord. Engine options included a 218 cubic inch flathead six cylinder along with two of Chrysler’s famous Hemi V8s: the 180 horsepower 303 and 200 horsepower 318.
The 1951 model year proved hugely successful for Plymouth, with over 752,000 vehicles sold. The Concord’s sleek form and forceful engines appealed to American consumers with an eye toward rocket-inspired styling and strong performance.
More than seven decades later, the Concord’s unique look still catches the eye. Its space age cues epitomized the Jet Age styling that car companies embraced in the years after WWII. The 1951 Concord remains one of Plymouth’s most handsome and noteworthy post-war designs.