Someone on a Cadillac mailing list posted this video. A promotional film by Chrysler (?) featuring Mechanix Illustrated car tester Tom McCahill's (wearing the light-colored jacket) comments on different tests of the 1958 Chrysler, G.M. and Ford cars.
Part 1
YouTube - Comparison of 1958 Cars Part 1
Part 2
YouTube - Comparison of 1958 Cars Part 2
Here is a quick list of the tests:
Part 1
1:20 Acceleration from 25 mph
2:45 Panic stop from 60 mph
4:15 Weaving through cones at 35 mph
6:40 Downhill engine braking
8:00 Hard turn at 50 mph... note the comment at 9:17- I don't think that would be allowed today!
Part 2
0:00 (Beginning) Off road/bumpy road
3:35 On road- bumps- 40 mph. Cars are airborne at times
Because it was a Chrysler promo film, some of those at the Cadillac mailing list think maybe the G.M. and Ford cars were fitted with weak or worn shocks so they would bounce more.
It is possible but I've known for a long time that the big Chryslers of the mid-to-late '50s could easily outhandle the big G.M. and Ford cars. It sure is nice to see some actual driving footage of those '50s cars- and being driven hard at times.
I would like to drive my cars in those tests, but maybe at a lower speed due to the 30+ year old suspension.