Chassis no. 50DA14456M

Model 0CM. 350-cid OHV V-8, four-speed Hydra-Matic transmission, coil spring independent front suspension, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and disc-front, drum-rear power hydraulic brakes. Wheelbase: 118-inches

In the custom car hobby, the 1949-51 commands a devoted following, perhaps because of a single icon: the 1955 film Rebel Without a Cause, starring James Dean. A very mildly customized 1949 Mercury coupe, Dean’s ride became symbolic for a generation of teens who came of age during the 1950s.

Dean’s car was merely nosed and decked, and lowered a bit. Although the typical “James Dean Mercury” received more radical alterations, including a chopped top, frenched headlights, and remote door and decklid operation, this 1950 Mercury Club is much in the Dean mold. The body has been nosed and decked, and there the overt customization stopped. The less obvious treatments took place in the engine room, where a fuel-injected 350 Chevy small block now sits, and in the interior. A 700R4 Hydra-Matic is mated to the 350 and the Mercury has power steering and power front disc brakes.

Inside we find a genuine Ford air conditioner, installed under the dashboard, and a Kenwood stereo in a carpeted console. The original Mercury radio remains in the dashboard. Other equipment includes a sun visor, with traffic light prism, dual spotlights and Cadillac “sombrero” wheel covers. Were James Dean alive today, no doubt he would approve.