Dodge Beauty Winner classic car for sale

History of the Dodge Beauty Winner

Unveiled in 1936, the Dodge Beauty Winner (D2 Serie) captured attention with a streamlined, elongated body reflecting the American fascination with Art Deco forms. The car set itself apart in the pre-war era with its convertible coupé configuration, solid windscreen, and fixed windows in the front doors—design cues that offered both style and substance. Dodge’s emphasis on refinement and engineering culminated in the Beauty Winner, which today remains a tangible statement of the marque's ambition in the interwar American automobile industry.

Model History of the Beauty Winner Series

The Beauty Winner series is directly associated with the 1936 Dodge D2 series, also referenced as the convertible coupé or Roadster. Its production run was notably narrow, with only a small number of vehicles leaving the Detroit line, making surviving examples particularly scarce. This series succeeded earlier, more upright Dodge bodies, offering an unmistakable shift to sophisticated lines and improved ride quality. The D2 was succeeded by the D5 series, reflecting Dodge’s ongoing technical and styling evolution through the late 1930s.

Highlights and Specific Features

A genuine highlight of the Beauty Winner is the harmonious combination of elegance and functional engineering. Key characteristics include its long, slender, low-slung bodywork, a glass rear window integrated into a black fabric convertible top, and attention to detail like chromed wheel rings and whitewall tyres. The original steel-cased spare wheel, finished in body colour, and twin exhaust reflect careful craftsmanship. The rumble seat at the rear replaces a traditional boot, providing a period-authentic flair.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The convertible coupé configuration, with its distinctive fixed windscreen and permanently glazed front side windows, is the standout version of the Beauty Winner. Cars equipped with features such as factory dual carburettors, dual exhaust, and rare accessories like the original factory-fitted rumble seat or special wheel trims are especially valued by collectors. With very limited numbers built, all surviving Beauty Winner D2 convertibles can be considered special even among pre-war Dodges.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The straight-six flathead, paired with double carburettors and dual exhaust, delivers 87 hp—ample for relaxed cruising and period-correct driving pleasure. Manual shifting provides direct engagement, and combined with the low centre of gravity, the Beauty Winner offers a notably stable ride for a 1930s open-top. Steering is characteristically weighty at low speeds, but well-balanced underway, and braking is proportional to the era’s standards. The substantial steel frame and resilient running gear contribute to the car’s reputation for solid road manners and reliable performance within its historical context. - Dodge Beauty Winner D2 Convertible Coupé: Noteworthy for its rumble seat and black leather upholstery.

• Dodge Beauty Winner D5 Series: Attracts current demand based on listing view statistics.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Every aspect of the Beauty Winner’s design signals pre-war American elegance: a long and low cabriolet body, graceful fender lines, and Deco-inspired detailing. The interior impresses with its black leather upholstery and classic dashboard layout. Special features such as the painted wooden frame of the convertible mechanism, a matching black canvas roof, and a glass rear window add technical and visual sophistication. The period option for chrome rings on the wheels or factory whitewall tyres further enhanced its outward appearance. Accessories including the original steel spare wheel mount and gleaming body-colour details express a keen attention to finish and authenticity.

Summary

The Dodge Beauty Winner stands as a rare testament to advanced 1930s American automotive design, recognised for its distinct cabriolet lines, strong technical specification, and near-unattainable exclusivity due to its limited production. The D2 Series convertible coupé—with its combination of innovative engineering and refined period styling—remains a singular offering for collectors seeking an authentic pre-war Dodge experience.