* Average Speeds: The average top speed for most passenger cars was in the range of 60-70 mph (97-113 km/h). This was a theoretical maximum, and sustained highway speeds would have been lower due to engine limitations and road conditions.
* Lower-end Cars: Less expensive, smaller cars would have had lower top speeds, perhaps closer to 50-60 mph (80-97 km/h).
* Higher-end Cars & Luxury Cars: Luxury cars and some higher-end models might have reached 70-80 mph (113-129 km/h) or even slightly higher under ideal conditions.
* Impact of War: The Second World War significantly impacted automobile production. Many resources were diverted to the war effort, resulting in simpler, less powerful cars with lower top speeds being produced. Post-war models gradually saw improvements.
It's important to remember that these are estimates. Road conditions, tire technology, and driver skill would also affect actual speeds. Cars of the 1940s also didn't accelerate as quickly as modern vehicles.
