Description
Presented here is a 1937 Chrysler Airflow C17, the final and most refined year of Chrysler’s ground-breaking aerodynamic flagship.
** Substantial Price Reduction **
Finished in classic black with period-correct brightwork, this Airflow embodies one of the most significant engineering advancements of the pre-war era.
This particular example is offered as a working project vehicle. The engine starts, runs and drives, but it does smoke and would benefit from a full service and mechanical check over.
The paint is not perfect and shows age-related wear, but the body is mostly rust-free, providing a solid basis for restoration or sympathetic preservation. The car appears substantially complete with correct trim, grille, lamps, and wheels.
The 1937 model year—represented by the C17—was the final evolution of the Airflow line, produced in relatively small numbers and now highly sought after for their rarity and historical importance.
HIGHLIGHTS
1937 – final year of Airflow production
Rare C17 4-door sedan
Offered as a working project
Engine starts, runs and drives
Engine does smoke – likely requires full service / check over
Paint showing age but body largely rust-free
Streamlined body designed with wind-tunnel technology
Innovative unibody construction and forward engine placement
Highly collectible pre-war Chrysler
HISTORY & SIGNIFICANCE
The Chrysler Airflow, launched in 1934, was the first American car shaped through wind-tunnel testing and designed using advanced aerodynamic principles. Developed with input from aviation pioneers, it introduced engineering features far ahead of its time—including unibody construction, improved weight distribution, and a streamlined profile that influenced decades of automotive design.
Despite its technological brilliance, the Airflow’s futuristic appearance was misunderstood by the 1930s buying public, leading to limited sales and eventual discontinuation in 1937. Today, the Airflow stands as a landmark of pre-war innovation and is highly regarded by collectors and historians alike.
MECHANICAL DETAILS (1937 C17 Spec)
Engine: 298. 7 cu in (4. 9L) Straight-Eight
Power: approx. 130 bhp
Transmission: 3-speed manual
Construction: Early unibody with integrated frame
Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes
Wheelbase: 122. 5 in
Top Speed: ~90 mph (period figures)
PRODUCTION NUMBERS
1937 Chrysler Airflow C17: approx. 4, 600 produced
Low survival numbers make remaining cars increasingly scarce.
VALUATION RANGE (UK & US Markets – 2024/ 25)
Condition Estimated Value
Concours restored £55, 000–£75, 000 ($70, 000–$95, 000)
Very good / preserved £28, 000–£40, 000 ($35, 000–$55, 000)
Running restoration project £15, 000–£25, 000 ($18, 000–$32, 000)
Non-running project £8, 000–£15, 000 ($10, 000–$20, 000)
This example will falls within the running restoration project category.
CONDITION STATEMENT (UPDATED)
This 1937 Chrysler Airflow is offered as a working project. The engine starts, runs and drives but does produce smoke, indicating it will likely require a full service and mechanical inspection.
The paintwork shows imperfections, ageing and patina, but the body itself is mostly rust-free, presenting a strong base for restoration. Chrome trim and exterior components appear largely complete. Interior and mechanical systems may require further attention depending on the buyer’s intended standard.
AUCTIONEER’S NOTE
A rare late-production Chrysler Airflow with solid bodywork and running condition, offered realistically as a working project. With its historical importance and limited surviving examples, this C17 represents an excellent opportunity for a collector or restorer seeking a complete and mechanically functioning starting point.
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