135 bhp, 323.5 cu. in. Spitfire L-head inline eight, Fluid-Drive semi-automatic transmission, independent front suspension with unequal-length A-arms and coil springs and semi-floating rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 131.5"

- Ex-Robert Turnquist Collection

- A multiple award winner

The 1949 Chrysler New Yorker Town & Country represented the swan song for the elegant and low-production wooden model offering. Although Chrysler continued production of other models, they did not build any more true wood-bodied convertibles, and their departure from that particular segment was graceful and left a lasting legacy, which is evident today in both their rarity and associated market value. For most manufacturers, the postwar period marked a turning point in the definition of the model line, which involved narrowing and simplification of the offerings.

Throughout its short life span the Chrysler Town & Country was always desirable; the cars were fashionable and oftentimes difficult to obtain. This was especially true as production was limited to a mere 1,000 examples compared to almost 8,400 the previous year. The earlier models were truly beautiful cars that were indeed pleasing to the senses; however, by 1949, the buying public was ready to see a major departure from the warmed over prewar sheet metal that Detroit was still offering. To answer this, the freshened 1949 models became more streamlined in front with a new trunk design in the rear, making for a stylish, modern and handsome statement.

With only four owners from new and under 60,000 original miles, this highly original car is a late-production example. Always well maintained and never having required full restoration, it has received careful freshening and under-hood detailing over the years. Mr. Bob Turnquist, a noted restorer, always maintained that the car was never repainted. While it is difficult to say with certainty, it is clear that the car is highly original and retains its correct Paint Code 46 Navajo Brown exterior, with correct Trim Code 52 Tan Leather and Beige Bedford Cord upholstery, as well as a Color Code 2 Taupe convertible top. The woodwork is original to the car as well, and among select cosmetic items that have been addressed were the addition of new old stock emblems on the steering wheel and hood.

Mr. Turnquist purchased the car in 1987 from a former Chrysler V.P. of Public Relations in the New York area. It was the subject of several magazine features, including a November 1996 Car Collector article by Dennis Adler. It has also earned numerous awards, including AACA First Junior and Senior honors, as well as the Alfred H. Redles, Sr. Award at the 1995 Concours d'Elegance of the Eastern United States. The car also comes complete with an original color brochure, a Chrysler Town & Country fact book, registry information with specifications and ownership documentation.

Everyone who has had the pleasure of driving this car has commented on the tremendous qualities found only on a car that has been well looked after but never fully disassembled. Any car can be restored, but precious few survive in such remarkably original condition, and if properly maintained by its next owners, it will serve as a benchmark example for future restorers and historians alike.