Plymouth

The Plymouth Belvedere became a separate model series in 1954, replacing the Cranbrook as the marque’s flagship. Available in several body styles, it combined generous accommodation with increasingly modern styling and engineering. Under Virgil Exner’s influence, the Belvedere adopted the dramatic Forward Look design in 1955, gaining optional V8 power and, subsequently, distinctive tailfins. The completely redesigned 1957 models further emphasised this bold appearance, while introducing torsion-bar front suspension and improved handling. Although the Belvedere remained Plymouth’s leading full-size series through 1958, it moved into the middle of the range when the Fury became the flagship in 1959. The final full-size generations combined increasingly unconventional styling with significant technical advances, including unitary construction and the durable Slant Six engine. Declining sales eventually prompted Plymouth to introduce a smaller Belvedere for 1962.

The Plymouth Belvedere entered a new era in 1962, when the range was downsized to more compact dimensions. Although initially unpopular with American buyers, its lighter construction proved advantageous in motorsport. The legendary 426 Hemi engine helped Plymouth dominate the 1964 Daytona 500. With the Fury returning to full-size status in 1965, the Belvedere became Plymouth’s established intermediate range, offering everything from practical family cars to powerful V8 models. The Satellite, GTX and Road Runner further strengthened its performance image. A sweeping redesign in 1968 introduced fashionable Coke-bottle styling. The Belvedere name disappeared after 1970, with the Satellite taking its place.