Before the 1942 moratorium on civilian car production, Chrysler Corporation already had substantial involvement in the war effort. Chrysler-powered machines served in harsh environments worldwide, and their achievements were not lost on the buying public after the war. But in the early post-war days, material shortages and tooling delays meant the first new Chryslers didn’t roll off the line until 1946. In the interest of saving time and development costs, the new Chrysler range was mainly based on existing 1942 models but with lightly freshened styling.
Comprising Chrysler’s first post-war model range was the six-cylinder Royal and Windsor at the entry-level. The Saratoga was the introductory eight-cylinder model, featuring a lengthened 127.5-inch wheelbase chassis to allow room for the substantial engine. Making a big leap from the Saratoga was the flagship New Yorker, and 1946 marked the first year the New Yorker label was applied to a standalone model. The 8-cylinder New Yorker featured everything in Chrysler’s bag of tricks, with the Fluid-Drive transmission mated to the L-head inline-eight and a host of available comfort and luxury options. The 1946 model year also saw the wood-bodied Town & Country’s return, which was now classified as a trim package within the New Yorker line. For the 1947 model year, the cars carried over virtually unchanged, and the New Yorker continued to lead the Chrysler line in terms of luxury and refinement. With the smooth and torque-rich engine, semi-automatic Fluid Drive transmission, and excellent build quality, the Chryslers of 1947 are some of the most refined and well-built American cars of the early post-war era.
Finished in a handsome dark blue livery with a dark blue top and caramel-colored leather interior, this splendid 1947 Chrysler New Yorker Convertible Coupe is one of the finest of its type on offer today. The subject of a high-quality restoration, this rare flagship Chrysler boasts gorgeous paintwork, finely restored chrome, and an extensively detailed engine bay and interior. The dark, non-metallic blue shade suits the form particularly well, highlighting the superb bodywork, consistent shut lines, and crisp reflections. The brightwork is restored to a similar standard, with excellent bumpers, body trim, and the proper full wheel covers.
Swinging open the big doors, you’re met with a lavishly appointed interior, featuring rich tan leather on the seats and door panels and gorgeous dark blue carpets that tie in the paintwork. Some slight wrinkling appears on the front seat from occasional use, but the upholstery is otherwise in superb order. Lovely details like the transparent acrylic shift knob and beautiful chrome and woodgrain steering wheel give the interior a distinctly luxurious character. Factory options include a deluxe radio, dual heaters, clock, and the dash features a beautiful woodgrain-effect finish, which wraps around to the upper door panels. Period-style modern lap belts are added for front and rear passengers. The blue canvas top is excellent overall, though some slight looseness is noted around the back window.
In the New Yorker, Chrysler’s 323.5 cubic-inch Spitfire L-head inline-eight is rated for 135 horsepower and sends power to the rear wheels via the fluid-drive transmission. This car’s engine bay is exceptionally well-detailed, with period-correct hardware, accessories, and labels. The paintwork on the engine block and ancillaries is excellent.
These big early post-war Chryslers are renowned for their refinement and hewn-from-solid feel on the road. This beautifully restored example is no exception and is the ideal postwar classic to share the joy of open-air motoring with the whole family on tours, driving events, or out on the show field.
Offers welcome and trades considered
