Auction Date: October 8 - 9
FEATURE LOTS
Lot No. 698:
1931 Chrysler Imperial Close-Coupled Sedan
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| Chassis No. | ||||
| 7803256 | ||||
| Estimate: | ||||
| $100,000-$125,000 US | ||||
| CG Series. 125 hp, 384 cu. in. inline eight-cylinder engine, four-speed synchromesh transmission, four-wheel leaf spring suspension with beam front axle and live rear axle, and front and rear hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 145" One of the most admired designs in the very late twenties and early thirties was the Cord L29, designed by Al Leamy. So when Leamy was hired to style the Imperial, it came as no surprise that the new Chrysler model would bear some resemblance to the Cord. Like the L29, the CG was long and low, featuring gracefully swept fenders and a vee-shaped radiator. All Chryslers had a reputation for performance, and the CG Imperial did not disappoint. With 125 horsepower on tap and a four-speed transmission, the cars were very quick. Chrysler's "Floating Power" and well-tuned suspension ensured that they were also quite refined to drive. Technical features included a new automatic spark advance mechanism and freewheeling. Such was the power of the straight eight that well-known race car driver Billy Arnold drove a Chrysler Imperial in 1931 to capture several stock car records at Daytona. This particular Imperial Sedan was purchased by the current owner in 1989 and received a body-off restoration in 1995. The fenders were missing at the time, but the vendor was fortunate enough to discover new old stock pieces at Hershey, before finishing the car in Royal Maroon lacquer with a casino red pin stripe and wheels. The interior, which was original at the time of purchase, was restored as well, receiving new Bedford cord upholstery and maroon leather trim. Everything works mechanically and the car has been driven on CCCA tours, receiving monthly exercise. Moreover, the car comes with an unrestored trunk (in good condition) as well as a copy of the original build sheet. Its extensive list of awards includes 1996 AACA Senior and Grand National awards, an AACA President’s Award for the Southeast Region, CCCA Premier Award (perfect 100 points) and a Mid-America Old Time Auto Association (MOTAA) First Prize. The car has been kept in a climate controlled environment, remains in excellent condition and the owner reports there are no scratches or blemishes to the paint. Many collectors today regard the CG Imperial as the pinnacle of the classic era at Chrysler. This award-winning example is an outstanding representative. |
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| Addendum Please note that although the catalogue states that there is a build sheet, the consignor was unable to locate it. |
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