The San Diego Automotive Museum is selling some of its individual automobiles to the public to support its programs and enhance its collection.
The 1948 Crosley Convertible is a compact, post-war American car produced by Crosley Motors Incorporated, a Cincinnati-based company known for its subcompact vehicles. Here’s a detailed overview based on available information:
Overview
Manufacturer: Crosley Motors, founded by Powel Crosley Jr., operated from 1939 to 1952, focusing on economical, lightweight vehicles.

Model: The 1948 Crosley CC Four Convertible was part of the CC Four series, introduced in 1946 as a 1947 model year, with production continuing through 1948.

Production: Only 2,845 convertibles were built in 1948, making it a rare model.

Purpose: Designed for economy and simplicity, appealing to post-war buyers looking for affordable transportation during a time of material shortages.

Specifications
Engine: Powered by a 724cc (44-cubic-inch) CoBra (Copper Brazed) inline-four engine, producing 26.5 horsepower. This lightweight engine used sheet metal construction but was prone to rust and electrolysis issues, leading to pinhole leaks in the water jacket.

Transmission: Equipped with a 3-speed manual non-synchronized gearbox.

Dimensions: Extremely compact, measuring about 10 feet long and 48 inches wide, allowing two Crosleys to fit side-by-side on a standard railcar for cost-effective shipping.

Top Speed: Approximately 50 mph, with a cruising speed of 35–40 mph, where the engine was noted to be loud and less comfortable at higher speeds.

Fuel Economy: Achieved around 44 mpg, ideal for post-war fuel-conscious consumers.

Weight: Under 1,000 pounds, contributing to its nimble handling but limited power.

Design and Features
Body Style: A two-door convertible with a unique sliding soft top that moved down side rails, leaving fixed window frames in place. This design was practical for weather protection when paired with roll-up windows and an optional heater.

Styling: Featured a "beak-nosed," slab-sided design, which looked dated compared to the Big Three’s redesigned 1948 models. For the 1948½ model year, Crosley added bolt-on grille bars and a chromed bull-nose for a modernized look.

Interior: Basic and functional, typically with vinyl upholstery (e.g., brown vinyl in restored examples). The cabin was cramped, with limited legroom for taller drivers and awkwardly placed door handles. Sliding door windows made it difficult to drive comfortably with an arm out. Some restored models include aftermarket additions like a water temperature gauge or radio.

Wheels: Rode on 12-inch steel wheels, often painted red with Crosley-branded hubcaps, fitted with tires like 155/80 Kumho Power Star 750.

Historical Context
Market Position: The Crosley Convertible was part of a range of CC Four models (sedan, station wagon, pickup, panel van, and a "Sport Utility" convertible wagon). It was marketed as an affordable option, with a base price around $888 for a sedan, appealing to buyers during post-war shortages.

Innovations: Crosley introduced several firsts, including an overhead camshaft engine in 1946, the term "Sport(s) Utility" for its 1948 convertible wagon, and 4-wheel caliper-type disc brakes (used briefly in 1949–1950 but discontinued due to corrosion issues).

Sales: 1948 was Crosley’s peak year, with 29,000 vehicles sold, including 23,489 station wagons, though the convertible was less common. Sales dropped in 1949 as larger manufacturers ramped up production.

Challenges: The CoBra engine’s sheet metal construction led to reliability issues due to rust, prompting a switch to a cast-iron block in 1950. The car’s small size and modest power also limited its appeal as consumer preferences shifted to larger vehicles post-war.

Collectibility and Modern Appeal
Rarity: With low production numbers, well-preserved 1948 Crosley Convertibles are rare and sought after by collectors.

Restoration: Many surviving examples, like one restored over 21 years in Finland, have undergone extensive nut-and-bolt restorations to concours standards, featuring fresh paint (e.g., beige or maroon), new upholstery, and polished hubcaps.