Chrysler restyled its line for 1949 for the first time since the end of WWII, and the year marked Chrysler’s 25th in business as well. It also heralded the addition of the wood-bodied Royal station wagon, the first such vehicle in Chrysler’s lineup since before the war. Rare then as now, only 850 Royal Station Wagons were produced out of the 124,218 Chryslers built in total. Station wagons were a niche model in the late 1940s. Even Chevrolet (10,171) and Ford (13,412) built relatively few for 1949, but their popularity would soon explode over the next decade.

The 1949 Chrysler Royal Station Wagon offered here is an attractive example, which was purchased by the current owner from a New Hampshire-based collector about eight years ago at the AACA Eastern Division meet at Hershey, Pennsylvania. Powered by Chrysler’s 251 cubic inch, 116 horsepower “Spitfire Six” and mated to Chrysler’s exclusive Fluid-Drive semi-automatic transmission, this car received a professional restoration prior to 2003, when it was owned by noted collector Jim Miller. It represents one of only 850 originally built.

Finished in Fog Green, the car retains its original brown “Toltec” imitation alligator-hide interior upholstery, which remains remarkably well-preserved and presentable, notwithstanding some age-appropriate wear, which the current owner elected to leave undisturbed. The dashboard and steering wheel are highlighted by “xylonite,” an amber-colored plastic that subtly complements the “Toltec” upholstery. The original dash pad does show signs of aging.

The Royal’s wooden bodywork is a combination of original and replacement wood, and is reported in excellent condition and well-preserved, as is the exterior metal, finish and brightwork. Desirable features include a radio, heater, foglamps and a padded dashboard. Original in specification, the car benefits from careful maintenance and proper storage within a private collection, with the mechanicals fully inspected and the addition of fresh brakes, making for a fine driver-quality woodie wagon.