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Gorgeous and rare Town & Country sedan with interesting ownership history and recent restoration. One of 154 known to survive.
A late production example, this 1948 Town & Country sedan is an exemplary representative of the breed. Owned by the same family until 2001, the current owner acquired it from the grandson of the original owner. Sold new in Denver, Colorado, it now hails from the collection of a noted Town & Country expert in Ohio. Under the current owner’s care, it enjoyed a high-quality frame-on restoration several years ago and retains all of its original ash framework combined with fresh mahogany panels and new paint in the original Catalina Tan. The Catalina Tan bodywork stays in the background, letting the wood remain the star of the show, and all the steel body panels are in excellent condition offering a soft shine that’s entirely appropriate. Of note, this car is loaded with accessories, including fog lamps, a visor, twin spotlights, and a back-up lamp that’s perhaps the most stylish one I’ve ever seen. It also includes an ultra-rare dealer-installed luggage rack on the roof, offering even more wood details and a fantastic period look.
As comfortable as a log cabin in the woods, the Highlander plaid interior has been expertly restored to new condition with fresh upholstery, correct wooden door panels, and matching exposed slats on the headliner. All the instruments are fully restored and operational, as are the radio and heater. There’s also an accessory Trafficator on the dash, which is probably necessary with the big visor outside, and correct pedals for the Fluid Drive system and its “Safety Clutch” system. The trunk is upholstered to match, and includes a pair of suitably period suitcases that look right at home in the vintage woody.
Powered by Chrysler’s reliable and thrifty “Spitfire” 250.6 cubic inch inline-six, performance is entertaining and it cruises easily at 60 MPH without strain. The engine has been neatly detailed in correct Chrysler silver engine enamel, and in keeping with the original intent, the manifolds were left as-cast, so they’re a little scruffy today. You’ll also find a correct oil filter, original air filter atop the carburetor, and a cleverly installed shut-off switch conveniently located near the upper radiator hose. It’s happy to cruise around town with the Fluid Drive system in high range, with plenty of torque and a pleasing 6-cylinder grumble from the exhaust. The suspension and brakes have been serviced properly and it rides quite well, suitable for long-distance touring in grand style. Newer Coker wide whitewall radials have been fitted to the original wheels, improving ride and handling while preserving the original look.
Far less common than the convertibles, this sedan represents a rare opportunity to own a truly wonderful piece of automotive art. Fully sorted and ready to drive anywhere with complete reliability, it presents a unique combination of practicality and beauty that is sure to delight even the most discriminating owner. Call today!
For more information and photos, please visit www.VintageMotorCarsUSA.com.
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STOCK/INV. NUMBER:
132206
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