What were the Ford models in 1950?

Ford's 1950 lineup consisted of three main passenger-car model lines: Mainline, Custom, and Crestline. These categories defined the price tiers and styling of Ford's postwar cars that year.

In this article, we explain what those lines were, how they differed, and what typical body styles were offered within each line, to help readers understand Ford's 1950 lineup in context.

The Three Model Lines in 1950

The following overview describes the primary model lines Ford offered, which formed the backbone of its passenger-car strategy for 1950. Each line supported multiple body configurations across two- and four-door sedans, coupes, and convertibles, with varying levels of trim and equipment.

• Mainline: Ford's entry-level line, focused on affordability and essential features. It offered dependable transportation with fewer frills, targeting budget-conscious buyers.


• Custom: The mid-range line, with more comfort, interior features, and styling than Mainline. Often marketed as Custom or Custom Deluxe depending on trim, it balanced price and equipment.


• Crestline: The premium, top-tier line, offering the most chrome, upholstery, and interior refinement, along with broader option choices and distinctive styling cues.

Note: Exact trim names and option packages could vary by body style and production facility, but these three lines constituted Ford's primary division of its 1950 automobiles.

In practical terms, buyers selected a line based on budget and desired level of equipment, while choosing body styles that spanned sedans, coupes, and convertibles across each line.

Overall, the 1950 Ford lineup reflected Ford's postwar strategy: simple, affordable transportation at the Mainline level, more comfort and polish in the Custom tier, and premium styling and features in Crestline.

Key features by model line

For readers seeking to compare what each line offered beyond price, here is a concise summary of typical distinguishing features across the 1950 Mainline, Custom, and Crestline.

• Mainline: Basic equipment, straightforward styling, emphasis on value and reliability.


• Custom: Improved interior materials, added trim, more comfortable appointments, and broader option availability compared with Mainline.


• Crestline: Highest level of chrome and interior refinement, premium fabrics, more standard equipment, and broader stylistic choices, including special body styles.

As with the broader lineup, individual body styles and option packages varied by market and production period, but the three-line structure remained Ford's core approach for 1950.

Body Styles and Notable Configurations

Across the three model lines, Ford offered a range of body configurations typical of the era, including two- and four-door sedans, coupes, and convertibles. Premium lines like Crestline sometimes featured more elaborate rooflines and trim, while Mainline prioritized practicality and value.

While the exact model names for each body style could differ by year and region, the overall approach was consistent: customers could mix a chosen line with a preferred body style to fit their needs and budget, resulting in a practical, postwar Ford family car for many buyers of 1950.

Summary

In 1950, Ford organized its passenger-car lineup around three principal model lines—Mainline, Custom, and Crestline—each delivering a distinct balance of price, features, and styling. This structure allowed Ford to address a broad market, from budget-conscious buyers to those seeking more comfort and premium presentation, while offering a variety of body styles within each line. The three-line strategy remained a hallmark of Ford's postwar product planning and set the stage for how the company would tier its cars in the early 1950s.

What was the flopped Ford model in the 1950s?

the Edsel
At the heart of any big flop–like when Ford ended the Edsel 55 years ago, on Nov. 19, 1959–lies high expectations. The Edsel was named after Henry Ford's son, no small honor, and it had its own division of the company devoted to its creation.

What cars did Ford make in 1950?

• 1950 Ford 2 door sedan.
• 1950 Ford Custom convertible.
• 1950 Ford Custom Deluxe 2d sedan.
• 1950 Ford F-1.

Why are 1950 Fords called Shoebox?

In response to its design, the model line would be called the "Shoebox Ford", denoting its slab-sided "ponton" design.

What models did Ford make in 1949?

The 1949 Ford models included the Standard and Custom trim levels, offered in a variety of body styles such as the Tudor Sedan (2-door), Fordor Sedan (4-door), Club Coupe, Business Coupe, and two-door Station Wagon. Ford also offered a line of trucks, including the F-Series such as the F-1, F-2, and F-3.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the 1949 Ford's design, which was influenced by aircraft inspiration: 52sRare Classic Cars & Automotive HistoryYouTube · Dec 25, 2024
Passenger Cars

• Trim Levels:
  • Standard
  • Custom
• Body Styles:
  • Tudor Sedan (2-door)
  • Fordor Sedan (4-door)
  • Club Coupe (fastback style)
  • Business Coupe (similar to Club Coupe but with a cargo platform instead of a rear seat)
  • Station Wagon (2-door) 

Trucks
F-Series, F-1, F-2, and F-3. 
This video showcases the interior and exterior features of the 1949 Ford Custom Sedan: 54sKen Smith GalleryYouTube · Jul 26, 2025