Lot 011: 1931 CHRYSLER CD STRAIGHT EIGHT COUPE

Although, the first car to bear the name of former Buick and Willys employee Walter P Chrysler did not emerge until 1924, its impact was palpable. Designed by Zeder, Skelton and Breer - arguably the greatest stateside engineering team of their day - it boasted "real quality from headlights to taillights". Equipped with four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes, it helped found a reputation for innovation that would see Chrysler become the final member of the American auto industry's 'Big Three' within just five years. Introduced for the 1931 model year, the Chrysler Eight range was born of the same 'bloodline'. Though, not the first straight-eights to hit the market, the two Chrysler sidevalve units of 384ci and 240ci respectively were enviably powerful and reliable (an eight cylinder Chrysler won its class at that year's Spa 24-hour sports car race). Developing some 100hp @ 3,400rpm, the smaller engine gained its own 'CD' designated 124-inch wheelbase chassis. A notably low-slung but massive design featuring supple semi-elliptic leaf sprung suspension it was clothed in a series of stylish bodies all of which were seemingly indebted to the Leamy and Van Ranst Cord L29. Among these was a particularly rakish two-door coupe with dickey seat. Fitted with a three-speed manual gearbox, it was priced at some $1,565. Finished in light blue with brown vinyl upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in good (engine, transmission and electrical equipment) to excellent (chassis, bodywork, paintwork, interior trim and wheels/tyres) overall condition. An older restoration imported from South Africa, it has apparently had two owners since being registered here in 2002. Said to "drive very well", it is offered for sale with MOT valid until April 2006. In the words of the contemporary ad men "Enjoy Yourself More, Own a Chrysler".