As the 1930s came to a close, the next chapter in automotive design was just opening.

Radical changes were afoot, the grand style of the early '30s was slowly morphing into the full fendered, enveloping bodies that would become the standard in motorcar design following WWII.

Plymouth was Chrysler Corporation's answer to Ford and Chevrolet—a car for the masses that aimed to live up to its 1940 tagline of "Low Price Beauty With the Luxury Ride".

In only 12 years, Plymouth had become one of the best selling marques in America, and 1940 represented a watershed year for the brand.

The contemporary styling that Chrysler had received in 1939 was bestowed on Plymouth.

While the design theme begun in 1939 bore resemblance to the 1940 models, the only interchangeable exterior part was the emblem on the front of the grille.

Under the hood was the familiar 201ci, L-head straight six producing 84hp, up two from the year prior.

Power was funneled to the rear wheels by a three-speed sliding ge...