Automobile:Crusader 101

The Deluxe Reading toy company offered the Crusader 101, a battery-powered red convertible in 1964. At nearly three feet long, it was one of the largest toy automobiles offered, and it was its very big redness made it so desirable. But its size also allowed room for detailed features that mimicked some of the best-looking cars of the day. The trunk was large enough to store a spare tire, jack, and lug wrench, and the size of the car could accommodate all 11.5 inches of Barbie and her friends, which may explain why girls tried to play with the Crusader 101 when their brothers were not around. The battery-operated controller resembled a console gear shift, and the car came loaded with moveable parts like the sun visors, radio aerials, turn signal, steering wheel, and gear box. The Crusader 101 featured its own driver, a debonair figure who looked like he definitely belonged in such a cool car.