Inspiration is the single most useful tool when it comes to the world of the custom. To dream up an early postwar-style ride you just have to be OK with the fact that those guys figured it all out back then. Using the influence of the pioneers of style, then combining their ideas in unique ways gives us this little blue gem.
I've had this 1950 Fleetline Concept in my head for a while. The idea was to accentuate the forward moving lines on the car with additional touches that would keep the car moving while standing still. My inspiration came from seeing the Buster Litton shoebox for the first time. The combination of the Studebaker front fender sections, perfect hardtop chop, and speedboat stance come together to form a car that needs nothing else.
This Fleetline concept uses those three specific pieces to give that forward look to the lines of the car. The '49 Merc bumpers lead and follow, but rather than using the Mercury grille surround, a Willys Aero gives up both its grille and bumper guards to the cause. Other slight modifications to the body complete the lines. Sombreros, wide whites, and spots finish the deal. The inline-six/Powerglide combo can stay put with a sprinkling of Fenton goodies. The interior is trimmed with simple white pleats with navy blue piping.
Inspiration is a powerful thing. It makes us want to learn more about the past. It keeps us humble. By allowing ourselves to look back, it gives us a palette to work from to create something that looks like it rolled right out of 1951.