In 1949 what car was best?

There's no single "best" car of 1949, as "best" is subjective and depends on individual priorities (price, performance, luxury, reliability, etc.). However, several cars were highly regarded and influential that year:

* Cadillac: Cadillac consistently held a prestigious position, representing the pinnacle of American luxury. Their models in 1949 were powerful and stylish.

* Packard: Packard also competed at the high end of the market, known for its engineering and luxury.

* Chrysler: Chrysler offered well-equipped and powerful cars that were considered a step up from the mid-range models.

* Ford: Ford's post-war designs were popular for their affordability and practicality.

* Chevrolet: Chevrolet remained a strong seller, providing dependable and relatively inexpensive transportation.

Ultimately, the "best" 1949 car would have depended on the buyer's budget and preferences. There wasn't a clear-cut winner across the board.