This is part four of a five-part feature on the 125 most significant and influential car designs as chosen by former technical editor, Jake Venter.
The first 10 years after World War Two saw a large number of designs that have become iconic. Not only did design and production techniques develop at a faster-than-normal pace during the war, but many engineers found enough free time to dream. Some models, like the Citroën 2CV, were due to be launched in the early ‘40s, but production had to be postponed. The trend towards more efficient valve gear and independent uspension that started in the ‘30s continued at a faster pace. Some readers may complain that Land Rover is not mentioned. This is deliberate because, before 1970, its vehicles were still fitted with leaf springs and were unbelievably uncomfortable. In the last part of this survey, I’ll include a coil-sprung version because it is one of my favourites.
Click below for previous galleries in this series:
125 most significant car designs – part one (years 1886 – 1925)
125 most significant car designs – part two (years 1926 – 1935)
125 most significant car designs – part three (years 1936 – 1941)
