Image of 1949 Dodge Meadowbrook, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

Introduction

Step back in time to the post-war American landscape, where the 1949 Dodge Meadowbrook heralded a new era of automotive design and comfort. Born from the industrious halls of Dodge, a subsidiary of the Chrysler Corporation, this vehicle emerged as a testament to resilience and innovation in an age keen on leaving behind the austerity of wartime. The Meadowbrook was not just a car; it was a beacon of hope, symbolizing the return to normalcy and the American dream of family road trips and Sunday drives. A unique fact that might pique your interest: amidst its contemporaries, the Meadowbrook was one of the first models to offer an optional Gyro-Matic transmission—a hint at the automatic revolution that would soon sweep through the automotive industry.

Design and Innovation

The 1949 Dodge Meadowbrook was a visual feast with its broad, confident grille and fluid, rounded lines that hinted at the jet age just around the corner. Its exterior styling was a blend of function and elegance, with chrome accents that caught the sunlight as it cruised down boulevards. Inside, passengers were treated to a cabin rich with durable fabrics and an attention to detail that spoke volumes about post-war craftsmanship. The dashboard, with its art deco influences, housed a radio and heater—luxuries for the time. Popular color options included deep blues and rich greens, which complemented its stately silhouette. The sedan body style was particularly iconic, offering families practicality without compromising on style.

Historical Significance

The Dodge Meadowbrook wasn't just another car rolling off an assembly line; it was a vehicle that captured a moment in time. It stood out for its affordability without sacrificing quality or features—a delicate balance that many manufacturers struggled with during this period. Its legacy is evident in how it paved the way for more sophisticated family vehicles, setting standards for comfort and drivability that would influence designs for decades.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its hood lay a robust 230 cubic inch flathead six engine that propelled the Meadowbrook to respectable speeds for its era. While top speed figures hovered around 85 mph, it was the car's smooth acceleration that left an impression on drivers. Handling was characterized by a sense of stability and grace; even when faced with uneven terrain or challenging weather conditions, drivers reported confidence behind the wheel. The experience of driving a Meadowbrook was often described as serene—the hum of its engine providing a comforting backdrop to journeys both long and short.

Ownership Experience

The 1949 Dodge Meadowbrook served faithfully as a daily driver for many American families while also finding its place in car shows due to its classic design. Its reliability was one of its strong suits, with many owners remarking on its longevity and ease of maintenance. Parts were readily available, making repairs straightforward for even the average owner.

Fun Facts

Did you know that some Dodge Meadowbrooks found their way into government fleets? Or that despite being designed for families, it became an unexpected favorite among early hot-rodders? While not known for breaking speed records, it certainly set sales records for Dodge at the time. Criticisms were few but often pointed towards its conservative styling in an age where cars began to sport tail fins and more flamboyant features.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1949 Dodge Meadowbrook holds a special place in collector's hearts. While exact production numbers are hard to come by, it's estimated that tens of thousands were produced. As for value range, well-kept models can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on condition and originality. The market has seen a steady appreciation for these vehicles as they become rarer and nostalgia increases their desirability.

Conclusion

The 1949 Dodge Meadowbrook is more than just metal, rubber, and glass—it's a slice of Americana; a reminder of simpler times when cars were built with pride and purpose. Owning one today is not just about having a classic car; it's about preserving a piece of history that still resonates with enthusiasts around the world.

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 16Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/8" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each-DP 12Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Gas Filler Grommet. 2-3/4" I.D., 4-1/2" oblong length-GF 30Gas Filler Grommet. 2-3/4" I.D., 4-1/2" oblong length. Each

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Hood Corners. Fits flat corners-HC 19Hood Corners. Fits flat corners. 80° angle, 1/4" to 3/8" corner radius. 1-3/8" wide. Pair

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Headlight Ring Seal. 8-3/8" O.D., 7-3/4" I.D. Pair-HR 14Headlight Ring Seal. 8-3/8" O.D., 7-3/4" I.D. Pair

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Door side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal-LP 40-ADoor side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal. Fits many domestic passenger cars and trucks. Universal seal for street rods and customs. Used in Cobra kit cars as door weatherstrip. Per foot.

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Cowl Vent Seal. 3-1/2" wide X 17" long. Each-RP 100-PCowl Vent Seal. 3-1/2" wide X 17" long. Each

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Clutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair-RP 31-JClutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Rigid division-bar run channel-WC 31-96Rigid division-bar run channel. Made with very soft felt lining. Used on front and rear door side windows. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 4-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Rear Vent Window Seals. Replaces OEM #1243378. Pair R&L-WR 2302-RRear Vent Window Seals. Replaces OEM #1243378. Pair R&L

1949 Dodge Meadowbrook Front Vent Window Seals-WR 2704Front Vent Window Seals. For all convertibles and '50-'52 2-door hardtops. Pair R&L