Descrizione
We are pleased to offer this magnificent Chrysler Series E-80 Imperial dating from 1926.
Walter Percy Chrysler introduced his eponymous first car at the 1924 New York Auto Show, having evolved the Maxwell Motor Company, which he was engaged to rescue in the early 1920s, into Chrysler Corporation.
Produced at the old Chalmers plant in Detroit the first Chrysler was an innovative, medium priced, six-cylinder car of better-than-average performance, as numerous motor sport successes would soon demonstrate. Offering a $5, 000 specification for under $1, 500, the Chrysler featured four-wheel hydraulic brakes, aluminium pistons, full-pressure lubrication and a tubular front axle, and was able to reach 70mph comfortably. Not surprisingly, it was an outstanding success, 32, 000 being sold in the car's first year of production. The range soon expanded to encompass a 'four', a smaller 'six', and the Imperial, an example of which is offered for sale here, a larger and more expensive car than the original and intended to compete with the likes of Cadillac, Lincoln and Packard. As the ‘80’ tag suggests, the Imperial was capable of 80mph.
The Imperial boasts a 6-cylinder L-head engine of 4. 73 litres producing 92bhp mated to a three speed gearbox. The impressive torque renders any more gears unnecessary.
The car offered here was imported into the UK in 2005 after having been comprehensively restored in the US. At some time since being imported the colour has been changed from blue to the present off-white which sits well with the black wings and blue leather interior all of which remain in excellent condition, as do the matching blue carpets.
The weather equipment is comprehensive constituting a black double duck hood with a full set of side screens which attach via press studs to provide excellent protection from the elements.
Our Chrysler features some period options including covered rear mounted spare wheel, scuttle mounted spot lamp, double bar bumpers, winged radiator cap and the aforementioned side screens. In the rear compartment there is a foot warmer for the rear passengers, albeit not in service at present.
The car has covered a limited mileage in the last few years so we have totally rebuilt the hydraulic braking system including having new linings fitted and the Carter carburettor also has been completely overhauled. We have also had a pair of hub pullers made to facilitate wheel removal.
Since its arrival in the UK the Chrysler has been converted to 12 volt electrics with a new dynamo but the original is still in place should a future owner wish to use it. A battery isolator is fitted.
The Chrysler now starts and drives as it should although the new brakes will require bedding in. There is also a very effective handbrake which operates on the transmission.
The steering is reassuringly direct and positive, unlike that of later American cars and the large wooden steering wheel is a delightfully tactile thing.
Overall this is a most impressive motor car and offers outstanding value for money given its rarity and performance. Its size and layout also make it highly suitable for weddings, offering comfortable accommodation with style.
For more information and to arrange a viewing call James on the details below or contact us via the website.
We will consider taking an interesting classic vehicle in part exchange.
Thank you for reading.
A walkround video is available on the St Andrews Autos youtube channel
