Chrysler’s postwar cars were well designed and reliable, but lacked in styling compared to the competition. The company did, however, prove it was an engineering leader with the introduction of the hemispherical combustion-chambered FirePower V-8, power steering and its fully automatic PowerFlite transmission. It was not until 1955 that Chrysler had the styling breakthrough it needed, which came courtesy of designer Virgil Exner, with his “Hundred Million Dollar Look.” For the first time since before World War II Chrysler sales broke into the top ten and finished in second place in the high-priced market. Overall, 1955 saw Chrysler capture ninth place in sales within the entire industry.

The top-of-the-line Chrysler model was the New Yorker DeLuxe Series, which was powered by a slightly more powerful Hemi V-8 in 1955. Promoted as Chrysler’s “Forward Look” the Newport versions were differentiated from the lower-priced Windsor models by slimmer bumpers and a more intricate grille. There was excitement in every magnificent new detail on this distinguished automobile. It carried a low profile and was superbly streamlined; shoulder high at the roof and waist high at the hood which helped emphasize the longer-than-ever silhouette. Bigger glass areas and rich color choices with bold use of chrome trim elements on flowing contours combined to make this well-respected automobile an unparalleled beauty to be admired, no matter the setting.

The 1955 Chrysler New Yorker Coupe presented here is reported as an amazingly well-preserved, highly original example. The typical fifties two-tone Canyon Tan and Desert Sand paintwork is reported to be original and as such is in remarkable condition. Some elements of the brightwork have been replated at one point in time, but overall, it is primarily original. Mechanically, this Chrysler is thought to be ready to travel. Lift the hood and the Hemi engine is all original, but then this New Yorker Coupe has been driven sparingly over the past 60 years. Inside, the matching two-tone beige and coral leather and cloth seats and panels have been carefully protected over the decades.

Fully equipped with power driver’s seat, power steering, power brakes, power windows, clock and AM factory Town and Country radio, this stylish New Yorker with its wonderful patina has everything you want in a powerful, luxury fifties car. From a collecting aspect, it is a prized, rarely seen, highly original example in remarkable, ready to show condition. Reliable sources indicate that the modest number of 5,777 similar Newports was built in 1955.