1947 Crosley pickup, tiny truck that makes big impression

Compact trucks are nothing new, but few were ever as diminutive as the Crosley pickup from the short-lived Cincinnati automaker that produced a full lineup of pint-sized vehicles from 1947-52, after a brief startup in 1939 that was interrupted by World War II.

The Pick of the Day is a 1947 Crosley pickup from the first year of production, a desirable “round-side” model with the same pontoon styling as the sedan, only with a pickup bed.  

This one has been comprehensively restored, finished in December 2018, starting with an example driven just 24,000 miles in more than seven decades and driven 220 miles since, according to the North Canton, Ohio, private seller advertising the Crosley on ClassicCars.com. 

Built on an 80-inch wheelbase, the teensy truck rides on 12-inch wheels and is propelled by its original 724cc 4-cylinder engine that generates a ripping 26.5 horsepower.  Top speed is said to be about 50 mph, so best to avoid the freeway.

This might not be the most practical pickup for hauling cargo, but its cartoon looks give it tons of appeal.  In light blue with red steel wheels and tiny hubcaps, the Crosley is presented in what looks to be excellent condition, as described by what sounds to be a passionate Crosley fan.

“Factory nuts and bolts used throughout to retain authenticity,” the seller notes. “As far as I know, there is nothing on this truck that is not authentically correct. Very nice restoration.

“This truck won 1st place at the most recent Crosley Nationals in Wauseon, Ohio, July 2019.” 

In case you missed the Crosley Nationals, the event celebrates Ohio’s own microcar brand, which was marketed in the post-war years to “the forgotten man” who rejected the bigger-is-better ethos of most American cars.  Crosley shut down in 1952 after selling a relatively small number of cars, making those that survive conversation-starting novelties wherever they go.

The asking price for this little hunk of Americana is $14,500.

To view this vehicle on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.