Vintage Cars of the 60s

by Tony Thacker

Published 30 September 2005
From the ubiquitous VW Bug to the short-lived Studebaker Avanti, this nostalgic look at 1960s cars brings automobiles from the swinging sixties back to life. Family cars and big-engine sports cars from Detroit mingle alongside classic and lesser-known foreign models, as well as space-age inspirations such as the Comet, Polara, and Starfire. In its chronological sequence of 1960s automobile ads, "60s Cars" reveals a significant shift in graphic design and print advertising over the decade: the widespread use of elegant illustrations that had traditionally been a hallmark of advertising was gradually replaced by photography in virtually all car ads. Featured makes and models include (in addition to those mentioned above): Studebaker Avanti, Chevy Chevelle, Mercury Cougar, Dodge Dart, Renault Dauphine, Ford Fairlane, Chrysler Imperial, Jaguar, Studebaker Lark, Rambler Marlin, Mercedes-Benz, Ford Mustang, and Olds Toronado. All of the major divisions within Chrysler, Ford, GM and Studebaker are represented here as well.

Hot Rods and Custom Cars

by Tony Thacker

Published 27 February 2004
Hep and hopped up. Ford's original Model T was the first car to undergo "speed modification," a hobby that quickly grew into a $60-million aftermarket industry. Steadily picking up speed ever since, the practice of engine and body customization has become one of America's favorite rites of passage. Hitting its stride in the 1950s, the underground hot rod culture spawned the likes of Rat Fink, Von Dutch, and George Barris-- the King of Kustoms-- while also inspiring a generation of rebels without a cause. Culled from the garages and toolboxes of hot rod enthusiasts, this essential collection of rare photos and ephemera is an essential for anyone who dreams of putting the pedal to the metal.