Good day everyone. I continue to review the long-suffering Mafia II for authenticity. Last time I covered the first mission, the arsenal featured and the collectibles. This time I will check the authenticity of the transport that was presented in the game. Many gamers praise the game for its rich and varied fleet of cars, noting that it fits the spirit of the times. Namely, that it suits the spirit of the 40-50s, and not the year of manufacture. Perhaps the developers wanted to diversify the vehicle fleet by introducing prototypes of real-life cars into the game, but in some places they miscalculated the years of production. As they say: the devil is in the details.
For ease of perception, I will divide the analysis of cars into three parts: 1945, 1951 and DLC.
1945
Culver Empire
This car is first seen in the opening cutscene of Chapter 2, where Joe meets Vito at the train station. Afterwards, the player begins to master transport control, on the way to Giuseppe to get false documents. In Chapter 5, after the murder of Sidney Pena, Vito takes Henry to the doctor while driving a dark blue Culver Empire. There is also a Culver Empire option for law enforcement officers with the subtitle Police Special. Differs from the regular version with slightly improved characteristics.
Culver Empire in the game
Culver Empire in the game
The actual prototype is based on a 1940 Chrysler New Yorker Sedan, which fits within the game’s time frame.
The real model cost no more than $1,300 and came in two-door coupe, two-door sedan and convertible variants. A three-speed manual transmission awaited each owner inside.
Jefferson Provincial
This car becomes the first personal vehicle in the game. According to the plot of the chapter “Home Sweet Home”, we will need to steal it, thereby testing the mechanics of picking locks, and also break away from the cops and replace spare parts.
The actual prototype is based on a 1942 Lincoln Continental Convertible, which fits within the game’s time frame.
All models featured a prominent fender design with a square top and grille. After the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1942 and the entry of the United States into World War II, automobile production for civilian use was curtailed. Continued production of this model began in 1946.
Perhaps one of the most common cars in the game, which can be found throughout the entire plot. First seen near a small mission when a girl is arguing with her husband and Vito can help fix the engine.
Besides the classic version, there are three versions of the Shubert 38: classic, Panel Truck, which is a cargo van, Taxi version and hearse.
The real-life prototype is based on a 1938 Chevrolet Master DeLuxe Sport Sedan, which fits within the game’s time frame.
The Chevrolet Master and Master Deluxe are American passenger cars produced by Chevrolet between 1933 and 1942, replacing the 1933 Master Eagle. At the time, it was the more expensive model in the Chevrolet lineup, and the Standard Mercury was an affordable car during the 1930s. Sales of the 1938 Master and Master Deluxe versions were 162,430 and 302,728 units sold.
Smith V8 and Smith Coupe
These cars have a common base – Ford Model B, and differ from each other minimally. I can’t say anything good about the Smith V8. Poor handling, low speed and long acceleration. Therefore, it is worth finding a better option for moving around the city. On the Smith Coupe, Vito in the second chapter tries his shooting skills with the M1911, shooting out the wheels, and at the end the gas tank.
These cars can be found in all areas of the city in the first half of the game, but from the second half it will be extremely difficult to find.
Smith V8 and Smith Coupe
Smith V8 and Smith Coupe
The Smith V8 is based on a 1932 Ford Model B, and the Smith Coupe is a 1932 three-window version of the coupe, which fits the game’s time frame.
The Ford Model B is an updated version of the Ford A, which began production in 1932 and continued until 1934. The car was equipped with an improved version of the Ford Model A engine with 4 cylinders. There was a V8 engine version which was designated Model 18.
The Ford Model B and Model 18 had a wide variety of body styles:
Prices ranged from $460 for a roadster and $490 for a coupe to $650 for a convertible sedan. In total, between 12,597 roadsters and 124,101 two-door sedans were produced.
Sedan of the Year and Three-Window Coupe
Sedan of the Year and Three-Window Coupe
Shubert Series AB
This is a classic sedan with an outdated appearance and characteristics for those times. It is often found on city roads and has inexpressive characteristics.
Based on the 1932 Chevrolet Confederate Series BA, which fits the game’s time frame.
This model was produced to replace the 1931 Series AE Independence. Production in one year totals 323,100 cars produced, instead of 600,000 for the previous version. The Great Depression was to blame. But despite this, the quantity was enough to keep Chevrolet in first place in the American car sales table. Sales were also affected by rival Ford, which introduced the Ford V8 coupe and sedan. But despite the difficulties, drivers fell in love with the car.
Walter Coupe
This car, commissioned by Mike Bruschi, is stolen by Vito from the clutches of the bombers. Distinguished by its rarity and poor performance characteristics.
The prototype was the 1940–1941 Willys Americar, which fits the game’s time frame.
The Willys Americar was a line of automobiles produced by Willys-Overland Motors from 1937 to 1942, with sedan, coupe, station wagon, and pickup variants. 22,000 units were sold in 1941, and another 7,000 in 1942. The price was about 630 US dollars. Due to its cheapness and simplicity, the car was a favorite among a number of car owners.
Lassiter Series 69
The most desirable car of the first half of the game due to its speed, power, control and appearance. It is usually used by gangsters and well-dressed people. You can meet him on the streets of the city in different areas throughout the entire story.
The prototype was the 1948 Cadillac Fleetwood 60 Special, which does not correspond to the time period of the first half of the game.
The third generation of the Cadillac Sixty Special features all-new metallic exterior and an exclusive 133-inch wheelbase. The body finish was inspired by the Lockheed P-38 Lightning, which can be seen in the faux side wings and interesting rear bumper design reminiscent of the P-38’s vertical stabilizers.
Shubert Pickup
This pickup can often be found throughout the game and its DLC.
Based on the 1942 Chevrolet Pickup Truck Series AK, which is quite reliable.
Chevrolet AK Series began production from 1941 to 1947 and used the General Motors A platform, shared with the Chevrolet Delux. The AK series was also branded and sold at GMC offices, with the main visual difference being that Chevrolet had vertical bars on the grille while GMC had horizontal bars. In 1947, the Chevrolet Pickup Truck Series AK was replaced by the Advance-Design, which was sold by GMC.
Shubert Truck
This truck is found throughout the game in various modifications:
Shubert Truck Covered – with a tent body for quick delivery (judging by the inscription on the side “Quick Delivery”).
Shubert Truck Flatbed – with wooden body. In the eighth chapter, Vito and Joe carried cigarettes in such a car.
Shubert Truck in various modifications
Shubert Truck in various modifications
Shubert Truck in various modifications
Shubert Truck in various modifications
Based on the 1954 Chevrolet Advance Design, which is not reliable.
The Chevrolet Advance Design line of light trucks began production from 1947 to 1955. The 1954 model features significant design changes:
Throughout its production, the trucks were the number one selling truck in the United States, and rebranded versions were sold at GMC locations.
Smith Truck
This truck was transferred from “Mafia: The City of Lost Heaven”, where it was called Bolt Truck.
Ford Model AA 1926–1932 was taken as a basis, which is reliable.
Ford Model AA is a Ford truck produced between 1926 and 1932. The model range was rich in options, options and various modifications. Two wheelbase options were available: a short wheelbase of 131 inches and a long wheelbase of 157.5 inches. Special models include: hearses, ambulances, pickup trucks, dump trucks, chassis. Under a license to produce models A and AA, the GAZ plant produced GAZ-A and GAZ-AA models in the 1930s and 1940s.
This passenger bus is used to transport passengers. In the 40s the body was painted green, and in the 50s it was beige. There is a version for law enforcement agencies, in which prisoners are transported to prison. Differs from the regular version only in coloring.
Parry Bus in 1945 and 1951
Parry Bus in 1945 and 1951
Based on the GMC “Old Look” Transit Bus TDH-3614 version from 1953–1960, which does not correspond to the time era.
The GMC "Old Look" transit bus was introduced in 1940 by Yellow Coach, a company partly owned by General Motors. In total, about 38,000 buses were produced between 1940 and 1969. In the USSR after the Second World War, the ZIS-154 and ZIS-155 models were produced under license.
GAI 353 Military Truck
This truck appears in the main game from chapters two to five, as well as in the DLC "Jimmy’s Vendetta" and in "Joe’s Adventures". Interestingly, the GAI 353 Military Truck, which appeared in the 40s, should reflect the active participation of the United States in World War II. However, the truck is missing from the 50s, despite the fact that the US was involved in the Korean War then.
GAI 353 Military Truck
GAI 353 Military Truck
The prototype was the GMC CCKW of the 1941 model, which corresponds to the time era. GMC CCKW – 2.5-ton US Army 6X6 truck. Used during World War II and the Korean War. In the troops he received the nickname "Jimmy" and "two and a half". Production lasted from 1941 to 1945. CCKW stood for the following: “C” – project of 1941; the second “C” is “conventional cab”, a regular cab (the “Cabin behind the engine” scheme); “K” – four-wheel drive; "W" – two rear axles.
Based on the basic chassis, many other types of vehicles were created: a dump truck, a tank truck, a vehicle for transporting aerial bombs, a surgical vehicle, and so on… The car was widely used by the allied countries after the war. In total, more than 500k copies were built.
1951
Ascot Bailey S200
One of the fastest and lightest cars in the game. In addition, this is the only British-made car in the series. Appears from Chapter 11 in the main game and throughout all DLC.
The prototype was the Austin-Healey 100 roadster, produced from 1953 to 1956, which does not correspond to the time frame.
Austin-Healey is a brand of sports cars produced in Great Britain from 1953 to 1971. A joint development of the leading division of the British Motor Corporation – Austin Motor Company and automobile designer, designer Donald Healy. The first car was the Austin-Healey – 100. She was given the number for her ability to reach speeds of 100 miles per hour. Cost was around £1000. In total, just over 10 thousand cars were produced in this series.
German luxury car, small in size, with a powerful engine and an elegant body. Has balanced characteristics in its subclass of sports cars. Can be found from Chapter 11 in the main game and throughout all DLC.
The prototype was the BMW 507, produced in 1956–1959, which does not correspond to the time period of the game.
This roadster was produced in Germany from 1956 to 1959. The car was presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1955. Engine and body made of aluminum. For the first time for BMW, disc brakes were installed at the front. A total of 252 cars were produced.
Shubert Frigate
Sports two-seater. Not the highest speed is compensated by excellent and easy handling. Can be obtained for free during the mission "Balsam and Beans", as well as in the DLC Joe’s Adventures.
The prototype of the sports car Captaincookscasinoonline.uk was an early modification of the first generation Chevrolet Corvette C1 from 1953, which does not fit the time frame of the game.
The car was introduced at the end of 1953 and was produced until 1962. In the first year of production, 300 copies were produced. They had independent front suspension, but with a rigid axle supported by longitudinal springs at the rear. The C1 cost $3,490 in 1953. But the quality of the fiberglass hull and its fit and finish were unsatisfactory. Customers also complained about the cramped and uncomfortable interior.
Smith Thunderbolt
This car appears on the streets of Empire Bay towards the end of the game, but in fairly large quantities. Already from the chapter “Our Friend” you can safely ride in a car. And until the end of the game, the car is, if not the most famous car in Empire Bay, then it occupies a pretty decent place.
If we talk about the advantages of a car, we need to name the following important qualities:
According to the plot, we come in this red car to kill Thomas Angelo in the mission “Stairway to Heaven”. In all DLC the car can be used without problems.
Its historical prototype was the 1955 Ford Thunderbird, which does not fit the time period of the game.
The car was a two-seater convertible with an all-metal body on a massive supporting frame with an X-shaped cross member, a removable fiberglass hard top and a powerful Y-Block V8 engine of 193 horsepower, created as a response to the appearance of the Chevrolet Corvette. Unlike the Corvette, the Thunderbird was not a real sports car in the usual sense of the word – it had a powerful engine, good dynamics and a fairly spacious interior. The T-Bird was the most expensive car in the Ford passenger car line for the 1955 model year – the price was about $3,000. The public reacted positively to the new model – already in 1955, more than 16k Ford Thunderbirds were sold against only 700 Chevrolet Corvettes.
Berkley Kingfisher
This car replaces the outdated Jefferson Provincial after Chapter 8 and appears in the main game after Chapter 9, and is found everywhere in the DLC. features high power, high speed and premium appearance.
The prototype of the car is the first generation Buick Skylark, produced in 1953, which does not correspond to the time period of the game.
The Buick Skylark is a passenger car produced by General Motors’ Buick division in 1953–1954, 1961–1972 and 1975–1998. Over the course of seven generations, the Skylark has occupied various positions in the Buick lineup. The first generation is based on the Buick Roadmaster and was produced primarily as a two-door convertible. It belonged to the “personal luxury car” class and was one of the most expensive Buick models, costing over $4,000. In 1953, 1690 cars were produced, and in 1954 – 836.
Shubert Beverly
In the game you can hear an advertisement for this car on the radio. In the main game you can find it starting from chapter 11, and in the DLC throughout them. Key characters have white and yellow colored specimens.
The real prototype of this car is a 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop coupe, which does not correspond to the game period of the game.
Chevrolet Bel Air is an American full-size car produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors Corporation from 1949 to 1975. From 1950 to 1952, the Bel Air name was used to refer to the Chevrolet Styleline Deluxe hardtops, which were not a separate model. The 1956 version added a new engine model. In addition to the old Blue Flame, the Turbo-Fire was offered in three power options – 162, 170 or 205 horsepower, as well as a Corvette engine of 225 horsepower. The average price for a car was $2,500. In 1956, more than 600k cars were sold in different versions.
Among the design features, it is worth noting chrome-plated “double-decker” bumpers, a grille with rectangular slots, knife-like moldings and a chrome cross member near the hood.
Smith Mainline
This car can be found in the main game from chapter 7, and in the DLC throughout them. The characteristics of this car are average and similar to the Quicksilver Windsor and Potomac Indian.
Based on a 1954 Ford Mainline, which does not correspond to the time period of the game.
The Ford Mainline was produced by Ford in the USA from 1952 until 1956. The Mainline retained its position in Ford’s redesigned 1955 lineup, but was dropped for the 1957 model year, replaced by the Ford Custom. The Mainline was offered in several body styles: two-door sedan, four-door sedan, two-door coupe and two-door station wagon. Engine options were six-cylinder V8. An interesting thing to note is that the prototype was one of the full-scale specimens during the creation of the Volga GAZ-21.
Quicksilver Windsor
The Quicksilver Windsor is a mid-size sedan with average speed and low acceleration. The car is available in two variations: Quicksilver Windsor and Quicksilver Windsor Taxi. The first version uses two-tone paint.
The game model is based on a 1950 Mercury Sport Sedan, which corresponds to the time period of the game.
The Mercury Eight was produced from 1939 to 1951 until Ford replaced the line with the Mercury Monterey in 1952. During its production, Eight offered a full range of body styles, including coupes, sedans, convertibles and station wagons. For its first generation, the Eight was produced with its own body, adapting Ford’s own version of the body for its second generation; in the third generation, the Mercury Eight shared a body with Lincoln.
The third generation had a flathead V8 engine that produced slightly more power than the 1949 Ford. The four-door station wagon was replaced by a two-door model. The car featured a rounded body silhouette with massive fenders and a large chrome grille. Eight III also received an integrated wheel arch, as well as a chrome strip running through the side panels.
Potomac Indian
Using this car in the main game, in the seventh chapter we have to take away drunken friends and bury the corpse, in the tenth we have to hide the corpse of the murdered bartender. Bandits often drive around in these cars. The car appears frequently in the DLC.
The game model is based on a 1953 Pontiac Chieftain Sedan, which does not correspond to the game’s in-game period.
Pontiac Chieftain was produced from 1949 to 1958. The first-generation Chieftain retained Pontiac proportions, with round, prominent wheel arches, a massive chrome grille and round headlights. The rear wheel arch has a characteristic shape with the wheel partially covered. In 1953, Pontiac introduced a new body for the car’s line that featured a 122-inch wheelbase, sleeker lines, and accentuated bulging fins at the rear. The front of the car featured a glowing plastic Chief Pontiac hood ornament that lit up when the headlights were on. The windshield was now one piece, and a standard "panoramic" windshield graced the rear of all models.
Smith Custom 200
A dynamic sedan with a good margin of safety, very good handling and high ground clearance. Is Joe Barbaro’s favorite car in the main game. There is also a police version with improved engine power. The DLC can be found throughout their entire length.
Smith Custom 200
Smith Custom 200
The game model is based on a 1957 Custom 300 Sedan, which does not correspond to the game’s time period.
The Ford Custom line was produced from 1949 to 1981. Custom returned in 1957 with the new Custom 300 series. The base Custom was the entry-level model and intended for price-conscious customers. The Custom and Custom 300 largely replaced the fleet-oriented Mainline and mid-range Customline models from 1956. From 1958, the Custom 300 became the base model, but was dropped from the lineup two years later.
Walker Rocket
A fast and heavy sedan capable of developing serious speed on a straight road. Appears from the chapter “Our Friend” and until the end of the game is found in fairly prosperous areas of the city. It won’t be difficult to find him in all DLCs.
The prototype was the Tucker Torpedo created in 1948, which corresponds to the time period of the game.
The Tucker Torpedo, also known as the Tucker 48, is an American full-size car produced by Tucker Corporation in 1948. In 1946, the Tucker Corporation company was registered in Chicago, where a prototype car with a unique design and a central steering wheel was built. After making some changes to the project, Tucker 48 went into production. The cars used three types of suspension, a 166 horsepower engine, which was located horizontally, and a manual transmission with a pre-selector. However, due to difficulties with shareholders, high-profile lawsuits took place, which led to negative publicity, which led to the collapse of the company. In 1949 the company declared itself bankrupt. A total of 51 cars were created.
Lassiter Series 75 Hollywood
This is the car most often used by gangsters. At the beginning of Chapter 15, Vito rides in Leo’s Lassiter Series 75 Hollywood. In the chapter "Room Service" Clemente was hiding from his pursuers. In the chapter "Our Friend" a group of Irishmen will cause problems in this vehicle. In the chapter "Stairway to Heaven" Derek’s people arrive on it.
Based on the Cadillac Series 75 Imperial version of 1941, which is suitable for the time period of the game.
The Cadillac Series 70 was a series of V-engine passenger cars produced by Cadillac from the 1930s to the 1950s, which succeeded the company’s flagship model, the 1935 355-D.
The 1941 version had a smaller wheelbase and a more powerful engine. At the front, the one-piece hood dropped lower, including the side panels, and extended laterally to the fenders. A single rectangular panel with louvres was used on each side of the hood. The rectangular grille was wide, vertical and convex in the middle. Rectangular marker lights have been integrated into the upper outer corners of the grille. The headlights were now integrated into the nose of the fenders, and additional fog lights were provided below the headlights. Three chrome peaks appeared on the rear of all four wings. Rear fender skirts were standard. It was with this generation that all GM vehicles experienced increased width to accommodate three passengers in the front bench seat and three more passengers in vehicles with the rear seat installed. This was achieved by removing the running board, thereby increasing the space inside the cabin.
Smith Deluxe Station Wagon
A large four-seater with a simple design and good capacity, but slow speed, low power and poor handling. There is no car in the Jimmy DLC. Despite the fact that the prototype of the car was released in 1937, the car itself appeared only in 1951.
The prototype of the car is a 1937 Ford Deluxe Woodie Station Wagon, which suits the era.
Woodie is a type of station wagon where the rear body is made of wood or stylized to resemble wood elements. Woodies were popular in the United States and were produced as sedan and convertible variants, as well as station wagons, from basic to luxury. Typically, they were produced by third party companies that remanufactured conventional cars. These could be austere cars with side curtains instead of roll-up windows and were sold in limited numbers. Eventually, all-steel bodies replaced wood construction for reasons of strength, cost, safety, and durability.
Slowest car in the game. The only car that can change its horn after level 3 engine upgrade.
Based on Divco Milk. Divco is a company founded in 1926 in the USA. Until 1986, it was engaged in the production and sale of delivery trucks, in particular, the multi-stop type.
The first cars it produced were the Divco “Model A”, notable for its simplified design. In 1927, the company had to undergo a reorganization to reduce costs. A year later, the more familiar Model G appeared, which, after a number of modifications, was produced throughout the 30s as the Model S. During the Great Depression, Divco’s assets were purchased by Continental Motors Company, which previously supplied most of the engines; later this division was separated from Continental Motors and in 1936, after the company acquired Twin Coach, it became known as “Divco-Twin”. Since 1937, cars of a new type were produced, with an all-metal welded body and a small hood; this model was produced almost unchanged until the company ceased operations in 1986. Simultaneously with the start of production of the Model U, the company built new workshops on the outskirts of Detroit.
On most Divco trucks, the special arrangement of controls (for example, the throttle and brake handles were mounted on the steering column) allowed the vehicle to be driven while standing. Early models did not have refrigeration equipment, and perishable goods were covered with ice, which led to corrosion of the internal surfaces of the body.
Hank B and Hank B Fuel Tank
This truck is found in the game in modifications without a fuel tank and as a fuel tanker. Found in the main game starting from chapter seven. It stands out among trucks because it has yellow turn signals.
Hank B and Hank B Fuel Tank
Hank B and Hank B Fuel Tank
Based on a 1949 Kenworth 524, which fits the game’s time period. Kenworth is a classic American heavy-duty truck brand founded in 1923. Currently part of PACCAR Corporation. Kenworth was the first to manufacture trucks. Along with the first truck with a standard diesel engine, the company introduced a sleeper cab with a raised roof and the first heavy-duty truck with an aerodynamically optimized body design. In 1939, Kenworth introduced its 500 series trucks, which formed the basis of the commercial truck line until the mid-50s. By 1948, Kenworth had redesigned the cab of its COE product line, later nicknamed the "bull nose" 500 series.
Shubert Armored Truck
Large two-door armored truck. Only numerous accidents can damage or destroy it. Strong armor comes at the cost of low speed and terrible controls. This vehicle cannot be modified and cannot be garaged.
The 1956 International Harvester V220 Armored Truck was taken as the basis, which does not correspond to the time period of the game. International Harvester Company is a US manufacturer of agricultural equipment, automobiles, commercial trucks, lawn and garden products, appliances and more. It was formed by the 1902 merger of the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company and the Deering Harvester Company.
In mid-1956, International introduced a family of V8 engines for heavy-duty trucks. These 401, 461 and 549ci engines were the first high-volume V8 engines. Reo, which was a much smaller truck manufacturer, introduced heavy-duty 390 and 440ci V8 engines in 1955. Small engine manufacturer Le Roi developed the 540ci V8 in the early 50s and some of them were used in Autocar trucks. International V8 engines were used in the new V-Series trucks, which were parallel to the R-Series heavy duty trucks. The V Series used the same basic cab as the R Series, but with a different grille and hood design. The shortened V8 engine reduced the distance from the bumper to the rear of the cab.
The V220 series includes the following trucks: V220, V221, V222 and V225 tractor. They had a maximum gross weight of up to 30,000 pounds, equipped with a 226 horsepower engine. By 1964, the V220 series was reduced to a single V220 model with a gross vehicle weight rating of 35,000 pounds and a choice of V-461 or V-549 engine. In 1965, the V-461 was replaced by the new V-478 with 234 horsepower and the FTV-549 with 285 horsepower.
Roller GL300
Classic two-door German sports sedan in coupe modification. It has a characteristic gull-wing door type, when they open vertically upward rather than horizontally. In the game it has high speed: even without modifications it can reach speeds above 140 mph, which is more than the speedometer in the game.
The game model is based on a 1955 Mercedes 300SL (W198), which does not correspond to the game’s in-game period.
Mercedes-Benz W198 (aka 300SL) – the first sports car of the West German Mercedes-Benz brand of the post-war period. The model was first presented at the New York Auto Show in 1954 as a street version of the W194 racing car. The idea of creation belongs to the American luxury car dealer Max Hoffman, who caught the interest of wealthy fans of high-speed cars in the rapidly developing post-war American market. This car was the first to have gullwing doors.
Interesting fact: The most noticeable disadvantage of gullwing doors is the inability to get out of an overturned car lying on the roof.
The car’s powertrain is one of the 300SL’s strengths. The M198 inline 6-cylinder engine, deflected 45 degrees from the vertical, developed a maximum power of 215 horsepower at 5800 rpm and was equipped with the world’s first direct fuel injection system for four-stroke engines.
Production of the W198 ended in 1963 with the launch of its successor, the W113, nicknamed "Pagoda". A total of 1,400 copies were produced.
A long and roomy four-door car with a unique, distinctive, stylish and impressive design instantly makes you look at it at first glance. The car has pleasant characteristics in terms of speed, handling and acceleration. My personal favorite in the entire game.
The game model is based on the 1933 Duesenberg Model J, which is appropriate for the time period of the game.
The Duesenberg Model J was an American luxury automobile produced by Duesenberg from 1928 to 1937. The Model J debuted on December 1, 1928 at the New York Auto Show, and a year later at the Paris Auto Show. In October 1929, 200 cars were built, the next year another 100. It was one of the fastest and most expensive cars in the world. Engine power reached 400 horsepower with a maximum speed of more than 192 km/h. As for the prices of spare parts, the chassis cost $8,000–9,500, and the finished vehicle cost from $13,000 to $25,000.
Due to financial problems, the Korda company disbanded in 1937. By 1940, the Rollson company produced two more cars on the purchased chassis. In the post-war period, Duesenberg Model J models sold for $100–$400.
Walter Utility and Walter Military
The first SUVs in the Mafia series. Not fast, but very maneuverable cars, they hold up well next to other similar Smith Coupe and Walter Coupe cars. One interesting thing to note is the lack of radio in both models.
Walter Utility and Walter Military
Walter Utility and Walter Military
Both models have the same real-life basis – a Willys MB from 1941, which fits the time period of the game. Walter Military is a military version of the Willys Jeep, and Walter Utility is a civilian modification.
Willys MB – American army off-road vehicle from World War II.
Development of the Willys MB began in 1940, and a year later mass production began at Willys-Overland Motors and Ford plants. A total of 659,031 cars were produced. Entering the Allied forces, Willys quickly gained enormous popularity. Willys were supplied en masse to the Red Army under Lend-Lease in the summer of 1942 and immediately found use as command vehicles and tractors for 45 mm anti-tank guns. In total, about 52,000 vehicles were delivered to the USSR before the end of the war.
Chaffeque XT
Small compact front wheel drive car. It has small "flaps" on the rear fenders that partially cover the rear wheels, and its narrow wheelbase and roof slope down to the rear bumper.
Based on a 1955 Citroën DS, which does not correspond to the game’s time period.
Citroën DS is a business class car produced by the French company Citroen in 1955–1975. In addition to its unusual appearance, it had an original hydraulic system that combined transmission, steering, brakes and hydropneumatic suspension.
The car’s handling was so unique that this issue was especially emphasized in the owner’s manual. The steering was rack and pinion, with a “fast” gear ratio and much more accurate than most of its contemporaries, and at the same time – the lightest. It was unusual to see the lack of a conventional brake pedal in the DS. It was replaced with an unusual mushroom-shaped button that worked well but took some getting used to. Quite a few DS owners have been rear-ended by braking too hard. The automatic clutch did not require pressing the pedal, but the driver was forced to manually change gears using a lever on the steering column. It wasn’t difficult, but it required smooth shifting and skill.
In total, more than a million cars were made.
Jefferson Futura
This is a full-size two-door American luxury car, has the largest dimensions in terms of both dimensions and weight. In addition, its ultra-futuristic design cannot be confused with any other car.
The original model is based on a 1955 Lincoln Futura, which does not correspond to the game’s time period.
The Lincoln Futura is a concept car developed by Lincoln for the Ford Motor Company. It was hand-built by the design firm Ghia in Italy in 1955. The Lincoln Futura model was originally created not as a showpiece, but as a fully functioning car, whose purpose was to show the success of the Ford concern. The Lincoln Futura’s design was too extravagant for the 50s – double plastic domes on top, prominent headlights and huge sloping fins at the rear. However, the Futura was fully road ready, unlike many of the cars on display. The original color of the car was pearlescent white with a bluish tint. The car was equipped with a 368 cubic inch engine, transmission and Lincoln Mark II chassis. The Futura was a success as a show car, providing favorable publicity for Ford. Corgi Toys produced over a million plastic toys over nearly forty years, and the Futura headlight and tail shape was used on subsequent Lincoln models, the Premiere and Capri.
On TV, the Lincoln Futura can be recognized from the "Batmobile" from the 1966-1968 TV series that aired on ABC.
Potomac Elysium
A car with an atypical design, good speed and control, which makes it possible to compete with the ISW 508 and Ascot Bailey S200.
The car is based on a 1956 Pontiac Club de Mer, which does not correspond to the time period of the game.
The Pontiac Club de Mer was a specially designed experimental car built by Pontiac for Motorama in 1956 to demonstrate General Motors’ commitment to futuristic design. It was intended to be a two-door sports roadster, in which the overall body structure was a smooth, non-wavy profile, similar to an American supersonic fighter jet, which had virtually no protrusions or recesses of any kind, with the exception of vents on the leading edge of both doors and the fin. This design was popularized during the automobile speed record tests that took place at Bonneville in Utah in the 1950s. In 1958, according to the “GM order”, the prototype was decommissioned.
Shubert Pickup Hot Rod
This hot rod is a converted Shubert Pickup with extensive body modifications, custom tires, and spoked wheels. The standard engine was replaced with a more powerful one. Above it are installed three two-barrel carburetors with chrome-plated speed glasses in a “six-speed” configuration.
Based on a 1937 Ford V8 Deluxe Pickup, which matches the game’s time period.
The 1937 Ford line featured new 136 CID V8 engines in addition to the popular 221 CID V8. At the start of production it cost $850. The Ford line bore several model numbers during this period: for 1937 domestic production in the United States, the Ford model numbers for 85 horsepower V8 cars were Model 78, and for 60 horsepower V8 cars were Model 74.
The 1937 Ford featured a more rounded appearance with thin horizontal slats on the bulbous front end and hood side bars. The front grille was V-shaped rather than the pentagonal shape of the 1936 model. A larger water pump was used for cooling. A four-door sedan-convertible with roll-up windows was offered in small quantities in the DeLuxe series.
The 1937-1940 generation Ford is one of the most popular hot rodding cars. In addition, this Ford line also formed the basis for off-road racing cars.
Smith 34 Hot Rod
This car is a modification of the Smith V8 with a modified body, non-standard wheels and discs, as well as a powerful engine above which are installed three two-barrel carburetors with chrome-plated high-speed windows in a “six-speed” configuration.
Based on the 1932 Ford Model B five-window coupe version, corresponding to the game’s time period.
The Ford Model B is an updated version of the Ford A, which began production in 1932 and continued until 1934. The car was equipped with an improved version of the Ford Model A engine with 4 cylinders. In total, between 12,597 roadsters and 124,101 two-door sedans were produced.1932–1934 Fords were very popular with hot rodders. In the post-World War II period, the model B and model 18 often underwent similar tuning until the 60s. Typical pre-World War II hot rodds had wire-spoke wheel options. After the war, most cars were replaced from mechanical brakes to hydraulic ones.
Walter Hot Rod
This car, like previous hot rods, has a modified body, non-standard wheels and rims, as well as a powerful engine. One of the differences is the presence of a hood, which is unusual for this type of car.
The basis was taken from the 1940 Willys Speedway Coupe, which is a modification of the Willys Americar model, which fits the time period of the game.
The Willys Americar was a line of automobiles manufactured by Willys-Overland Motors from 1937 to 1942, available as a sedan, coupe, station wagon, or pickup truck. The coupe version was very popular as a hot rod or as a donor car.
The unreliability of the engine, the lack of spare parts, and the complete lack of assistance from the company turned many Americans into participants in the nascent hot rod movement. The cheapness and availability of the car allowed craftsmen to turn a rather weak car into a powerful hot rod. It became so popular that today an original car is quite a difficult task.
Waybar Hot Rod
This car is custom built, equipped with a high-performance V8 engine and has a unique paint job. The powerful engine is topped with dual tunnel-barrel intake manifold carburetors, making this hot rod extremely fast. Only found in the DLC "The Betrayal of Jimmy".
The game model is based on the classic 1932 Ford roadster, which corresponds to the time period of the game.
One of the 1932 Ford models was a two-door roadster, which cost just under $500. In total, more than 12,000 of these cars were sold. The B was discontinued because buyers generally didn’t like four-cylinder models and because of the huge success of the V8, not because it was a bad car. A similar situation existed in Europe, where in many countries the tax system gave greater preference to smaller engines. At this point the 1932 Model B is a collector’s car and people will pay thousands of dollars to restore it to its original form as they were once cheap "one off" cars popular with hot rodders who used them for parts and used them as the basis for a "build" as today it is very difficult to find an original example.
Delizia Grandeamerica
This car appears only in the DLC "Joe’s Adventures". Stands out for its highest speed, rapid acceleration, excellent braking, good maneuverability and controllability. Among the shortcomings, we can note the highest fuel consumption among cars in the game.
I can assume that the basis was a 1956 Ferrari 410 Superamerica, which does not correspond to the time period of the game.
Ferrari had several series of expensive luxury sports cars – America/Superamerica/Superfast/California. They were related to each other and were produced in the 1950s and 1960s. All cars had a front-mounted V-shaped twelve-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive.
The 410 Superamerica was first shown to the public as a running model at the 1955 Paris Motor Show, and then as a fully finished car at the Brussels Motor Show in early 1956. There were three very limited series produced in 1956–1959, which differed in chassis size. Since the 410 Superamerica models were very expensive exclusive cars for very wealthy clients, each of them had some differences from the “standard” coupes, reflecting the special wishes of the customer.
This is the fleet of vehicles in Mafia II. In the first half of the game there are practically no gaps in the time frame, and even those could have been replaced with cars from the second half of the plot. But in the second half of the game, only a couple of cars correspond to the time period. The situation is similar with cars from add-ons. Despite this, I would like to praise for such a rich fleet of vehicles, which really conveys the atmosphere of the given periods of the 40-50s. It can be seen that the creators tried to make it diverse by introducing little-known models, concepts and prototypes into the game so that players can enjoy the richness of vehicles. And for this, the developers had to sacrifice authenticity.
In the final part I will talk about the game’s soundtrack. See you soon!
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– Push up, Vito, he’s leaving!
“I’ll push through the floor now, Joe, but it won’t be faster.”!
but cars are the exception. They really were better before.
This is no exception. Cars from the 50s are coffins on wheels. The concept of “driver/passenger safety” simply did not exist back then. Yes, cars were more reliable back then (and that’s debatable, since the famous muscle cars of the 70s were of disgusting quality and therefore outrageously cheap), but what’s the point of this reliability if you risk breaking your neck on the steering wheel in any accident?. Even “kissing” a car from behind, which now more often ends in a call to the police and an inspection of the damaged bumper, could end fatally. And for both. But outwardly the car is almost undamaged, yes.
Separately, it is worth mentioning collisions with pedestrians. A collision with such old-school cars often ended not in injuries and hospitalization, but in a morgue and further funeral. For this huge steel box will not only break a pedestrian’s bones even at average speed, but also, when taking a pedestrian onto the hood, it risks naturally ripping open his belly with its “beautiful” figures-symbols of the brand (this, by the way, is one of the reasons why they were increasingly abandoned when designing new cars in the mid-20th century).
The cars are certainly beautiful, no doubt about it. But they are in many ways inferior to modern ones. Progress still does not stand still.
I couldn’t find pictures of the same size for all cars. Either they are clearly advertised, are of terrible quality, or are the wrong model.
I know all this. Of course, a modern Volvo, for example, is both safer and more powerful. And even muscle cars are just poor people’s sports cars. But you understand that I was talking about the appearance, about interesting design findings and about the general impression that the car leaves. Neither the boxy freaks of the 80s and especially the 90s, nor the modern monotonous “soap boxes” are pleasing to the eye, it’s boring. So yes, it was better before, but with reservations.
Monsieur told everything correctly (albeit very generally). Due to the too strong body, the kinetic energy of the impact often hit the driver and passengers with full force. Any old car is almost a multi-ton tank compared to modern cars. I myself saw how in one accident a man in his old Volga broke his ribs and severely damaged his face, but the car was hardly damaged at all. In another accident, a guy collided with another car in his Mercedes at much higher speed. Bottom line: the Mercedes was mangled beyond recognition, and the driver escaped with only a couple of abrasions and a slight concussion. Such things.
By the way, the seats in old cars were really very comfortable. I haven’t even seen a home sofa as soft as the back sofa of my grandfather’s six for many years. Naturally you drown in them. What can we say about the seats of modern cars?. But it’s still better to sit harder, but safer.
Cars of the mid-20th century were also dangerous because of the materials from which they were made. Every car was painted with lead paint in the middle of the last century. So, to the low survival rate in accidents, you can also add the risk of lead poisoning.
Well this is also debatable. Back then, certain design patterns worked in exactly the same way. That’s why all the cars from the 40s are equally pot-bellied. Many production models from different manufacturers are almost clones in terms of appearance. It’s just that, as usual, only the most famous and/or interesting specimens have reached our time. They are shown in movies and depicted in games. Many of them were not in mass production at all (for example, the same Lincoln Futura mentioned in the blog) or were released in very limited editions. It’s the same story with modern models. In 70 years, in some new “mafia” of our time, the most famous and unusual models will be driving around, and 99% of the monotonous “soap boxes” will be forgotten and only a handful of auto enthusiasts will remember them.
And, again, it’s just that old cars seem special to us in appearance because they are a curiosity for a modern person. Here in St. Petersburg it’s hard to even see a top six, but the last time I saw a victory on the streets was about 10 years ago. And modern “soap boxes” are constantly around us. That’s boring. In the same way, people here constantly pay attention to all sorts of muscle cars on the streets because they are rare and this stuff is brought semi-legally from abroad. In the USA, these muscle cars do not surprise anyone at all. Ordinary. Well I drove on and on. So this is all just a subjective perception influenced by our everyday life and realities.
besides, on cars of that time there was only one side mirror
Well, considering the dimensions and quality of the view from the car, it would be impossible to see the second side one. Like in the Hummer H2.
And the muscle cars of the 60s/70s are really bad in terms of quality. They were mass-produced and saved on everything they could. And there were much more horses there than the body could handle. Therefore, they are now difficult to get (in a relatively normal form) even in the USA. They just rotted or fell apart. But dreams are a special thing, yes. I myself have been dreaming about a Ferrari 288 GTO and a Testarossa since the days of outrun 2006 on psp. Well, about the AE86 since I saw the initial d when I was 14 years old, heh.
They are made using wood and lack at least some safety features (belt and airbags).
Questionable decision. Wood splinters quite easily when struck. There, if something happens, the driver can catch enough wood chips to cosplay as a hedgehog. Although, as just a curiosity in the collection, it has the right to be.
In 70 years, in some new “mafia” of our time, the most famous and unusual models will be driving around, and 99% of the monotonous “soap boxes” will be forgotten and only a handful of auto enthusiasts will remember them.
That’s where they go! But I have to admit, you’re right, and apparently I just like old “pot-bellies,” although they still experimented more with decor and other external elements at that time than now. However, as you already said, they abandoned them for quite reasonable reasons.
And modern “soap boxes” are constantly around us. That’s boring.
And the design itself is too streamlined, so to speak, not a single element catches the eye.
So this is all just a subjective perception influenced by our everyday life and realities.
After thinking about it, I agree with you. It’s interesting that Luhari cars strive to preserve individuality; I would like something similar from the mass automobile industry. Again, even in the 40s and 50s mass-produced cars were similar to each other. Where is it, the perfect balance??
This doesn’t appeal to me much, but it looks more interesting than most modern cars. Now it’s interesting to see what the cars of the 2000s looked like.
I’m not a fan of the “grass was greener back in the day” concept, but cars are the exception. They really were better before. Thank you for the detailed analysis, for some reason I thought that the action of the second “Mafia” took place in the mid-50s, but it turns out only in 51.
I respect your efforts and thorough approach. But even if the game and the car park are interesting, there’s a hell of a lot to scroll through here. So.
Even after skimming my eyes slightly I noticed a few mistakes. And that says something)
The difference in image sizes is also striking. If they changed evenly, one wide, from the game, the other from the Internet, then this could play into the hands. But they go at odds, and everyone is different.
You can write in PM about errors?
Nostalgia… I had everything with the second Mafia: love, dislike for a while (after completing the first part), but now for some reason I remember it with such warmth in my soul… It seems that this is the same nostalgia.
I even saw a video on YouTube about how modern cars are safer than older models
In addition, on cars of that time, there was only one side mirror, which could play a cruel joke on drivers
I myself dream of a 1968 Camaro SS, but it is quite a rare and expensive car (parts are difficult to get, it is thirsty and easy to crash). But for a collection like Tony Stark’s, I would buy it for one-time rides around the airport or a special route.
Besides, I saw in “Heads and Tails” about hand-built cars. They are made according to original drawings and produced in single copies per year. They are made using wood and lack at least some safety features (belt and airbags).
Well, one of the autobloggers also said: the younger the car, the less expensive and safe it is. That’s how it is: spare parts are easy to get, electronics are present, there are safety elements.
I agree partly. Some old cars still look stylish. I have a 2000s Volvo S40 in my yard. She looks amazing despite her age!