My question is: What make and model were the “classic” New York City cabs? The cabs that I am refering to are the ones pictured on Taxi and other shows. They appear to be similar to '57 Chevys but I find it hard to believe that they were in service until the early 1990’s. What is the Straight Dope on these cars? Were they cars manufactured specically to be NYC taxis or were they restored classics?
I believe you’re referring to the Checker Marathon. Tuff wheels! They were manufactured to be taxicabs by (IIRC) the Checker Motor Company.
I had it slightly wrong, it Checker Motors. When I was a hack I really wanted one, but had to make do with a cop car.
Click here to go to a website that’ll fill you in.