Dodge Custom Royal classic cars for sale

History of the Dodge Custom Royal

Introduced in 1955, the Dodge Custom Royal was positioned as Dodge’s flagship model, redefining luxury and style for the brand’s line-up through to 1959. Above the Royal and Coronet, the Custom Royal introduced new levels of comfort, finish, and technological advancement. The emergence of the Custom Royal coincided with America’s move towards more expressive automotive design, with vast chrome detailing and pronounced rear fins symbolising the era. Each year until 1959, the Custom Royal offered incremental changes in design and equipment, securing its place at the forefront of Dodge’s offering during this period.

Model History

The Custom Royal succeeded the Dodge Royal as the marque’s top-tier offering, with major yearly updates reflecting changes in styling and technology. The Lancer designation was used for the 2-door and 4-door hardtop versions as well as convertibles, distinguishing these body styles within the series. The model was discontinued following the 1959 model year, after which Dodge restructured its lineup, with newer models such as the Dart and Polara taking on the full-size luxury mantle.

Highlights of the Dodge Custom Royal

The Custom Royal’s hallmark features included exclusive chrome trim, ornate interior appointments, and a selection of premium body shapes—most notably the "Lancer" hardtops and convertible. Its superior position within the Dodge range ensured customers received the most advanced engineering and equipment offered by the brand in the late 1950s.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The 'Custom Royal Lancer' branding marked out the 2-door hardtop, 4-door hardtop, and convertible as distinct within the series, coveted for their styling and increased equipment. While not always produced in official 'limited editions', these body styles are now considered especially desirable for their design and luxury levels compared to the more basic Royal and Coronet models.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Potential buyers should pay attention to bodywork integrity, particularly around areas susceptible to corrosion due to the extensive use of trim and chrome. Classic American V8 drivetrains are robust, but long-term inactivity may lead to issues with seals, fuel systems, and electrical components. Restoring rare trim pieces and interior details to original condition may require sourcing specialist parts due to the model’s age and relatively low survival numbers.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Equipped with a range of V8 engines, the Custom Royal offered strong acceleration and cruising comfort, tailored for American highways of the era. Automatic transmissions and power-assisted controls were widely available, ensuring easy drivability for a large full-size car. Suspension settings favoured a plush ride over sharp handling, in line with contemporary expectations for a luxury saloon. - Dodge Custom Royal Lancer Convertible: Famed for open-top motoring and flamboyant styling.

• Dodge Custom Royal Lancer 2-Door Hardtop: Emphasised sporting aspirations within the luxury segment.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Styling for the Custom Royal epitomises late-1950s Americana, with extended tail fins, wraparound windshields, extensive chrome decoration, and two-tone paint schemes available in vibrant colours. The interiors offered ornate dashboard designs, padded upholstery, and accessory options such as pushbutton radios and power-operated features. Lancer models tended to receive the most lavish trim and detail. Collectors value original finishes and factory accessories, including exterior badges, spinner wheel covers, and rare colour combinations.

Other Noteworthy Considerations

The enduring appeal of the Dodge Custom Royal is strongly connected to its period details, engineering, and the sense of occasion imparted by its size and decoration. Events featuring 1950s American cars underscore the model’s social and cultural significance.

Summary

The Dodge Custom Royal represents postwar American luxury and spirit distilled into a single model series. High specification levels, lavish design, and strong database interest make these vehicles particularly notable within the Dodge classic car landscape. For enthusiasts of expressive, high-quality 1950s American automobilia, the Custom Royal offers an authentic, distinctive experience.