A historic body style for a large, open passenger car lacking roll-up glass windows or a solid roof. These vehicles typically featured a folding fabric top and removable side curtains for weather protection. The term was later co-opted by manufacturers for luxury sedans, completely detaching it from its original open-air meaning.
Heard on the job
The museum just acquired a dual-cowl phaeton with original side curtains.
Insider tip
Originally named after the light, fast horse-drawn carriages of the same name.