RealRides of WNY - 1962 Rambler American 400

TONAWANDA, N.Y.

There were quite a few North American compact car models to choose from back when this 1962 Rambler American 400 was produced, but the only other one which offered a convertible was Studebaker with its Lark. What? you may argue. The Pontiac Tempest, Oldsmobile F-85, and Buick Special all offered convertibles in their lineups, but the three of them are usually considered "senior compacts," a little bigger than the Ford Falcon, Chevy Corvair, and Plymouth Valiant, and a little smaller than the Ford Fairlane which was in 1962 pioneering a new mid-size category. Same goes for the Chevy II, new for 1962 but again, compact yes, but bigger than the officially compact Corvair.

This was a confusing time, trying to categorize the many new sizes, makes, and models which were showing up in dealer showrooms.

Today's RealRide was seen in an area parking lot over the summer.

— Jim Corbran