1958 Dodge Custom Royal Series

Virgil Exner, who had left Raymond Loewy's design firm in 1949, became Chrysler's head of advanced styling. Under his guidance, Chrysler would excel in the post war market. It was his 'Forward Look' designs of the mid-1950s that were of particular genius and distinguishing them considerably from other cars on the road.

Dodge shared their basic body design and layout with Plymouth, though they rode on a longer 120-inch wheelbase. They were offered with a multitude of color schemes that clearly distinguished them from the Dodge line.

For 1958, the Dodge Custom Royal Series continued to be the company's top-of-the-line model. It was given all the features and amenities found in the Royal line plus a 'knight's head' emblem found on the front fenders. There was also a gold Dodge name on the trunk and hood. Adding to the visual appeal were chrome rain gutter moldings that also helped combat poor weather. There were 2- and 4-door bodystyles that included the sedan, lancer hardtop, convertible, and the Regal Lancer. Pricing ranged from just under $3,000 - $3250. The Regal Lancer was a mid-year two-door hardtop that was introduced in early 1958.

by Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2011