As the latest film adaption of "The Great Gatsby"
graces the big screen, classic-car insurer Hagerty Insurance Agency
studied the cars of the era that showcase the opulence of New York's
Long Island high society in the Roaring '20s.
While Jay Gatsby in F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic novel lives in 1922, the new movie takes
some poetic license, as Leonardo DiCaprio, who plays Gatsby, and his
co-stars drive cars that were available throughout the decade.Hagerty has analyzed the cars of the 1920s, choosing one from each year that would have likely been a high-society favorite.
Why it's special: "Gold Bug"
Speedsters were popular among celebrities of the era, including pilot
Amelia Earhart and boxer Jack Dempsey. Hagerty estimates fewer than 40
cars survive today.
Why it's special: This sporty car has
a long nose, thanks to a giant four-cylinder engine that is the size of
today's V-8. Logging in at 298.3 cubic inches, the engine has just 70
horsepower -- powerful for the day.
Why it's special: For long drives at higher speeds, this Packard was tops in comfort. Socialites coveted it because of its "twin six": a 60-degree V-12 engine.
Why it's special: Ford took over Lincoln Motor Co. in 1923, redesigning its cars and instantly making the brand the epitome of American luxury. The Sports Phaeton was especially popular because of its sporty look -- despite its ability to carry up to four passengers.
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