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Introduction

The 1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe emerged as a beacon of American resilience and innovation in the immediate aftermath of World War II. As the first model Plymouth produced after wartime restrictions were lifted, the P15 Deluxe represented not just a return to civilian life but also a promise of progress. The Plymouth brand, a division of Chrysler Corporation, was known for its affordable yet reliable vehicles, and the P15 Deluxe was no exception. It stood out with its sturdy build and stylish design, quickly becoming a symbol of the era's newfound optimism. A notable moment in this vehicle's history is its role in reigniting the American automotive industry post-war, setting the stage for the boom that followed.

Design and Innovation

The 1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe boasted a bold yet streamlined exterior that captured the essence of post-war automotive design. Its rounded fenders, prominent grille, and sleek lines were a sight to behold, reflecting a nation ready to move forward. Inside, the car featured a simple but functional dashboard with an emphasis on driver comfort and practicality. The materials used ranged from durable fabrics to touches of wood grain, ensuring a sense of elegance without compromising on durability. Technologically, it came equipped with features like an AM radio and heater—luxuries at the time. Color options included vibrant hues such as Algerian Red and Marine Blue, with black being a popular choice for its timeless appeal. The P15 Deluxe was available in several body styles, including sedans, coupes, and convertibles, with the four-door sedan being particularly iconic.

Historical Significance

The 1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe played a pivotal role in shaping post-war automotive trends. It set itself apart from contemporaries with its balance of affordability and luxury, appealing to a broad demographic. Its design would influence future models for years to come, marking it as an important milestone in automotive history.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its hood lay a 217 cubic inch flathead six engine that delivered around 95 horsepower—a respectable figure for its time. The top speed was modest by today's standards but competitive then, allowing for smooth highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph wasn't clocked as frequently back then as it is now, but drivers could expect steady progress rather than breakneck speed. On various driving conditions, the P15 Deluxe handled with poise thanks to its solid construction and well-tuned suspension system. Drivers often remarked on the smoothness of the ride and the reassuring purr of the engine—a testament to Plymouth's engineering.

Ownership Experience

The 1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe served many roles—from daily commuting to weekend leisure drives and even in parades or shows. Its reliability was one of its strongest selling points; maintenance was straightforward enough for the average owner to handle basic repairs. While some parts may now be harder to come by due to age, many enthusiasts find joy in preserving these pieces of history.

Fun Facts

A lesser-known fact about the P15 Deluxe is that it shared many components with military vehicles produced during WWII due to material shortages after the war—adding an interesting layer to its history. While not known for breaking speed records, it did set records in sales as Americans eagerly returned to car dealerships post-war. Criticisms were few but often pointed towards its conservative mechanical advancements compared to European models.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe holds a special place among collectors. With production numbers estimated in the hundreds of thousands across all body styles, it's not exceedingly rare but still cherished for its historical significance. Values can vary widely based on condition and originality; well-preserved examples might fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 or more at auction or private sale. The market has seen appreciation over time as enthusiasts seek out these post-war classics.

Conclusion

The 1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe stands as an emblematic figure from an era marked by transition and hopefulness. Its design elegance, practical performance, and historical significance make it an enduring favorite among classic car aficionados. Whether preserved as a showpiece or enjoyed on open roads, this Plymouth continues to capture hearts nearly eight decades later—an undeniable testament to its legacy.

1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe 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

1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each-DP 12Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each

1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe 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

1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe 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.

1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe Cowl Vent Seal. 4" wide X 18" long. Each-RP 100-QCowl Vent Seal. 4" wide X 18" long. Each

1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe Clutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair-RP 31-JClutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair

1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe Accelerator Rod Grommet-SM 43-BAccelerator Rod Grommet. For accelerator rod through floorboard. Each

1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe Rear vent window seals-WR 2301-RRear vent window seals. Fits listed 4-door sedans and limousines with swing-out rear vent windows. May fit some GM models. Replaces OEM# #849153/4. Pair. R&L.

1946 Plymouth P15 Deluxe Front Vent Window Seals. For many closed models only-WR 2703Front Vent Window Seals. For many closed models only. Replaces OEM #977232-3. Pair R&L