Collegiate Coupe

Yesterday, we looked at an outstanding yet relatively obscure roadster. Today, we look at a coupe… The November, 1951 cover of Hot Rod Magazine is a well known one. Although the featured hot rod is labeled as the “Collegiate Coupe”, the footballers that surround the car are actually members of the 1951 League Champion Los Angeles Rams. In fact, the fellow sporting the #7 jersey is none other than Bob Waterfield.

Even with that cast of characters, however, Don Williams’ coupe still steals the photograph. The ultra low profile created by the hammered top and deeply channeled body was something not seen that often on the street in 1951. And although I don’t usually go for the look, there is no arguing here – this was a sleek little coupe. Take away the goofy headlight perches and the inappropriate mirror and you have me – hook, line, and sinker.