1955 Chrysler C300 Two-Door Hardtop

1955 Chrysler C300 Two-Door Hardtop - Over 10,000 Classic, Collector and Current Cars and Trucks at RemarkableCars.com.

1955 Chrysler C300 Two-Door Hardtop

1955 Chrysler C300 Two-Door Hardtop
$55,000

331 cid Hemi head V8 engine rated at 300 horsepower, two-speed Power-Flite automatic transmission, power assisted four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes; wheelbase: 126.0"

About a decade before the term "muscle car" was invented, Chrysler had a whole new idea for the industry. In the days before compacts or mid-size cars, performance was applied to full-size vehicles, and the star of this arena was the Hemi-power C-300. Getting its model designation from its horsepower rating, these cars were the hottest ticket on the market and both automotive writers and speed dare-devils wanted their chance behind the wheel of these power-houses. At the Daytona Speed-Week's annual pilgrimage to the beach, it seemed like every run of the C-300 was setting a new record. Considered one of America's first motoring enthusiasts in print, Tom McCahill aptly described the performance of the new Chrysler as having "enough torque to pull an elephant through the eye of a needle." But these cars weren't for everyone. With a base price of $4,100, just 1,725 of these were delivered throughout the model year. In addition to the high-horsepower, luxury was ready to cradle the driver and his passengers with leather covered seats and all the amenities you would expect to find in a luxury car. Power steering and brakes seemed like a good idea, and while a three-speed manual transmission was available, the vast majority were equipped with the two-speed Power-Flite automatic with its one-year only shifting lever coming through the dashboard. Most of these cars were also equipped with the sporty chrome wire wheels, which were supplied to Chrysler directly from Kelsey-Hayes.

This stunning example, finished in its original shade of white with tan interior, represents the first in a decade-long heritage of "letter-cars" from Chrysler. It was given a full restoration several years back that started with a rather solid and complete original car. It features excellent body work including paint, which today is showing a light amount of patina. However, the interior with its comfortable leather seats, looks just as fresh as it did when sitting on the showroom floor. Among the other luxury appointments on this C300 are the push-button AM radio, dash-mounted clock, lever-operated heating and defroster, plus power goodies such as windows, seats, steering, and brakes. A unique opportunity awaits the new owner of this historic ride with the pride of owning one of the first real performance vehicles in American history.

Worldwide Group Auctions
The Old Car Heaven Museum Auction
June 19 - 20, 2009
Website: www.wwgauctions.com
Auction Results: $55,000
Lot #274