The 1960s in America was arguably the defining decade of the 20th century. Never before or since has one society endured such vast social, technical, and cultural changes in such a short period of time. In just 10 short years, the political and constitutional climate changed and the country was never the same.
America went from an idea to the realization in the space race and landed on the moon by the end of the decade. The radio stations promoted new music and the streets were full of angry young people demanding justice and an immediate stop to the Vietnam War. But behind all those events, the American car industry was thriving and delivering fantastic cars in all segments. From those innovative, interesting compacts to those regular family sedans and to those sublime muscle and sports cars, Detroit was the car capital of the world.
So here are 18 of the most legendary and memorable American cars from the ’60s. The only criteria for this list are that they originally introduced these cars between 1960 and 1969. Also, these are the cars that made an everlasting impression on the market. So, be sure to look for your favorite among these legendary machines.
30. Checker Marathon
One of the most characteristic American sedans of the ’60s is the legendary Checker Marathon, better known as the New York Taxi. They introduced the Marathon in 1960, selling it through 1982. It was available with a straight-six or V8 engine from Chevrolet and designed and built as an absolutely dependable and tough machine.
That is why they used and abused it as the definitive taxi vehicle for decades, and not only in New York but in other cities, as well. The Marathon was available as a sedan, wagon, and the interesting and rare 12-seater Aerowagon. Although it didn’t sell in big numbers, the Marathon became iconic for being the icon of the Big Apple. But most of all, it was one of the most durable vehicles they ever produced.