Lot 376

Hershey 2019

1955 Chrysler C-300

{{lr.item.text}}

$70,000 - $90,000 USD | Not Sold

United States | Hershey, Pennsylvania

{{internetCurrentBid}}

{{internetTimeLeft}}


language
Chassis No.
3N551481
  • First year of the Chrysler 300 letter-series cars; just 1,725 produced
  • Nicely equipped with automatic transmission, power steering, and brakes
  • Recently serviced and ready for its new owner
  • National concours and AACA award winner

Lacking the financial resources of GM and Ford, Chrysler borrowed from its existing product lines to create what is considered by many to be America’s first muscle car. The new car became the first production automobile to offer a 300 hp engine, and thus, the 300 name was coined. Chrysler used a New Yorker bodyshell, an Imperial front clip, Windsor rear flanks, a 300 badge inspired by Cunningham sports cars, and a New Yorker interior and dash to create an automobile of imposing appearance and exhilarating performance.

The C-300 was announced 17 January 1955, combining power, style, and superb handling into one potent sports touring car. At a base price of $4,055.25, just 1,725 were produced in that first year. Motor Trend reported a 0–60 mph time of 10 seconds, a 17.6-second quarter-mile at 82 mph, and a top speed of 128.6 mph. In its first year of production, the new C-300 won both the NASCAR and AAA stock car racing series.

Acquired by the consignor in 2005, he described it upon purchase as “about 85 percent restored” and needing a lot of attention to details. He went about authentically completing the car over the next two years. AACA First Junior honors came in 2007, its Senior award in 2008, and its First Preservation award in 2009. That same year it was nominated for an AACA National Award. In 2011, the 300 was honored with an Amelia Award at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. It was also shown at the 2011 Radnor Hunt Concours, the 2015 Concours of America at St. Johns, and featured in the 7 March 2019 issue of Old Cars Weekly.

Finished in Platinum White over a tan leather interior, the car is equipped with the standard two-speed Power Flite automatic transmission and power brakes, optional power steering, AM radio, Solex glass, and correct Motor Wheel chrome wire wheels.