* Low-end cars: These could be purchased for around $500 to $800. These were typically smaller, simpler vehicles. Think of the Ford Model A, which started around $385 but could easily climb with options.
* Mid-range cars: These would fall in the $800 to $1500 range. This category offered more features and comfort than the low-end models.
* High-end cars: Luxury cars could cost $2000 and up, easily reaching into the tens of thousands of dollars in today's money. These were typically larger, more powerful, and featured more luxurious interiors.
It's important to remember that:
* $1 in 1928 is equivalent to roughly $16 in 2023. So a $500 car in 1928 would be like an $8000 car today (this is just an approximation and the actual equivalent varies depending on which inflation calculator is used).
* Options and accessories: Prices increased substantially with added features like a radio, different upholstery, or special paint jobs.
* Accessibility: While cars were becoming more common, they were still a significant purchase for most families. Financing options were developing, but many people still paid cash or relied on savings.
In short, car prices in 1928 were a spectrum reflecting the wide range of models and features available. While some affordable options existed, car ownership still represented a substantial investment for the average person.
