Seldom do model names get so confused as Dodge’s use of “Custom,” “Royal” and “Lancer.” This car labors under the burden of all three. “Custom” was an upscale level of trim, “Lancer,” was initially Dodge’s name for a pillarless “hardtop,” either coupe or sedan. “Royal,” was a V-8-only series, the top line until “Custom Royal” upstaged it in 1955. That year, also, the Lancer name was applied to three of the four Custom Royal body styles, a sedan and a convertible as well as the hardtop coupe.

Even more confusing is Dodge’s introduction of “La Femme,” a spring 1955 marketing campaign directed at women. La Femme was a Custom Royal Lancer hardtop in Heather Rose, a pink shade, and Sapphire White. Special upholstery and accessories, including a purse and a raincoat, were included in the package. But Heather Rose with Sapphire White was a regular color option, so “non Femme” cars, particularly non-hardtops, could have La Femme colors. This Custom Royal Lancer Convertible Coupe is one of those.

The body contours and paint are both excellent, although the brightwork exhibits a few blemishes. The canvas convertible top rests beneath a white vinyl boot when lowered. The upholstery is pink vinyl with off-white insets. Brown carpet lines the floor. Options are modest: just power brakes, AM radio and heater-defroster, in addition to the PowerFlite automatic transmission.

The engine is Dodge’s Red Ram 270-cid Hemi, making 175-hp, and its compartment is clean and nicely detailed, as is the undercarriage. Chrome wire wheels are mounted with Firestone Deluxe Champion 7.10-15 wide whitewall tires.

Aside from the eight-passenger station wagon, the Custom Royal Lancer Convertible Coupe was, at $2,723, the most expensive 1955 Dodge. Just 3,302 were built. This car is arguably one of the best.