Lot 448

Hershey 2023

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Convertible

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Sold After Auction

United States | Hershey, Pennsylvania

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Chassis No.
N568062
Documents
US Title
  • One of just 921 New Yorker Convertibles produced for 1956
  • Recently completed high-quality restoration to original specifications
  • Documented rebuilt engine and transmission installed in 2023
  • Nicely equipped with full power accessories
  • Optioned with the Benrus Chryslermatic self-winding steering wheel clock

The 1956 Chrysler lineup received a handsome design update of the “$100 Million Dollar Look” introduced one year earlier, to include designer Virgil Exner’s now trademark Flight Sweep tailfins. Aside from the limited-production 300, the New Yorker was Chrysler’s top-of-the-line offering. All New Yorkers were powered by a 280-horsepower 354-cubic-inch Hemi V-8 engine. Ad writers were obsessed with the word “power,” calling it the “PowerStyle” Chrysler, which featured PowerPilot Steering, PowerSmooth Brakes, and the Pushbutton PowerFlite automatic transmission. Just 921 were produced for the model year, adding to the car’s desirability among Mopar and Fifties Fin aficionados today.

The consigner, a noted Mopar collector, purchased this car in 2021 from a long-term owner, who retained the car for nearly three decades and commissioned a high-quality, body-off restoration over many years. Once completed, he sold the car to the consigner, who continued to enhance the vehicle. At the time of purchase, it was equipped with a rebuilt engine from a 1957 Chrysler 300. The consigner, self-described as a purist, located a donor 1956 New Yorker reportedly in very good condition to source a correct engine and transmission.

The front clip of the car was removed and the 1956 engine fitted, following a comprehensive rebuild to all components, including the transmission. In addition, a new radiator core, belts and hoses were installed with all work completed in July 2023. The consigner notes the car has test miles only. Receipts and some photos documenting the work are available for review.

Finished in a striking red and white combination with matching interior and black convertible top and carpets, the car makes for quite a lovely presentation. Period-appropriate wide whitewall tires mounted on chrome Motor Wheel wire wheels add to the vintage look. Along with the signature Chrysler pushbutton automatic transmission, this New Yorker is well equipped with full power—including steering, brakes, windows, seat, and convertible top—Town & Country radio, and the unusual Benrus 15-jewel Chryslermatic self-winding steering wheel clock.

The car has never been shown and will afford its new owner the opportunity to enjoy, with great pride, a superb, limited-production Fifties-era Exner Chrysler.