Compact autos have been a part of the domestic car scene since the early ages of car history, but the market for a small economical car was miniscule until the 1960 model year.
Following World War II, there was a pent-up demand for cars that were “longer, lower, and wider.” During the 1950s, American manufacturers were more than happy to answer in-kind. But nearing the end of the decade the automotive scene was changing. Several factors led to this, not the least of which was a sharp economic downturn in 1958. New car sales were plummeting.
Led by the increasing popularity of the Volkswagen Beetle, low-priced small cars were beginning to trickle into the U.S. from Europe and Japan. Though hesitant at first, American auto executives realized the need for their own variants, and 1960 became the launch year.
Ford Falcon
Ford’s solution was the Falcon, a conventional design powered by an inline 6-cylinder engine that was easy to maintain and capable of delivering up to 25 miles-per-gallon. The base two-door coupe listed for $1,912 and became the most popular model. Buyers were also offered a four-door sedan, two station wagon models, and the Ranchero pickup. The Falcon was an instant hit and more than 450,000 were sold in 1960. In mid-year, Mercury introduced its Comet, a stretched and more upscale version of the Falcon.
Plymouth’s answer was the Virgil Exner-designed Valiant, that stood out due to its elaborate exterior and the introduction of Chrysler’s legendary Slant Six engine. Offered as a four-door sedan or four-door wagon, the base Valiant sold for $2,053. Buyers scooped up over 146,000 units in its debut year.
Plymouth Valiant
Without question, Chevrolet’s rear-engined, air-cooled Corvair emerged as 1960’s most revolutionary compact. Reportedly, Chevy’s general manager and former chief engineer Ed Cole liked the design of the VW Beetle and moved forward with a similar layout. The Corvair’s horizontally-opposed 6-cylinder put out 80-horsepower, though a rear weight bias and swing axles were cause for tricky handling characteristics. The understated body lines were available first as a four-door sedan, but a two-door coupe followed shortly thereafter. In spring 1960, the sporty, turbocharged Monza Club Coupe was offered. With a total first year production over 253,000 units, MotorTrend Magazine named the Corvair its “Car of the Year.”
Chevrolet Corvair
Though the major headlines went to the Big Three in 1960, two other manufacturers beat them to the punch in 1958 and 1959.
American Motors revived its short wheelbase model with the Rambler American. It was only offered as a 2-door sedan, but a 2-door wagon was added in 1959. Prices started at $1,775 and its inline six-cylinder could deliver up to 30 mpg. The American was well-built and enjoyed good success in the following years.
Studebaker Lark
Studebaker introduced the two and four-door Lark in 1959. Available with either the standard 170 cubic-inch flathead six or Studebaker’s 259 cubic-in V8, first year sales of 131,000 Larks was considered good. But new competition in 1960 began a steady sales decline which led, several years later, to the demise of Studebaker.
About the author
Share your feedback
This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.