Vehicle Description
Although the Chrysler Corporation was still in its relative infancy
in 1928, the fledgling company had managed to leap up the sales
charts from 32nd place to 3rd in a matter of only a few years,
buoyed by its exceptional reputation for performance and quality.
The main ingredient for Chrysler's success came with the
introduction of the L-head, seven-main-bearing inline-six initially
developed for the B-70. These engines were somewhat unusual in the
US market in that, at 248.9 cubic inches, they were smaller in
displacement than the competition, yet could match or surpass their
rivals regarding power output. The engine was particularly
efficient, thanks in part to the lightweight pistons and optional
high compression cylinder head. Thanks to that engine and the
compact, lightweight body, these Chrysler roadsters quickly gained
a reputation for being some of the fastest cars in their class.
Chrysler took a unique marketing path by sending a number of its
cars overseas to compete against the best Europe had to offer in
motorsport. In 1928, Chrysler scored a tremendous achievement in
the grueling Le Mans 24 Hour race, when two largely stock,
six-cylinder Series 70-series cars secured 3rd and 4th positions in
the overall classification. The mid-priced Chrysler was only beaten
by much more exotic and expensive machinery. The Chryslers were
just moderately prepared, and they stood up to the might of
Bentley's squadron of purpose-built racing cars. Bentley struggled
to keep their thundering machines held together long enough to
finish, barely limping the winner across the line. Fellow American
manufacturer Stutz entered their exotic, four-valve Black Hawk to
take on the mighty Bentley squad, but it was Chrysler that flew the
flag - in a pair of mid-market roadsters that were essentially
unmodified -managing a steady and reliable race to finish on the
podium. Chrysler had achieved what few other American car makers
could do. Proving Le Mans was no fluke, a 70-series earned a class
win at the punishing Mille Miglia the same year. Today, the
Chrysler 70-series roadster is appreciated by collectors and
enthusiasts for many of the same qualities that made it famous when
new. Well-built and with brisk performance, these delightful
automobiles are great fun to drive and offer tremendous value.
Charming and attractive, this 1929 Series 75 Roadster is a lovely
example of Chrysler's first performance car. Sporting a good
quality, older restoration that benefits from some recent
freshening, it presents with an honest patina. Little is known of
the car's earliest history; however it has remained in the same
family since 1999, getting serviced and tidied-up as needed. The
roadster body is in good condition, finished in an attractive
primrose yellow and black combination with red pinstripes.
Paintwork on the main body is from the initial restoration, and
while it presents well, the lacquer is cracking in places, and some
other minor imperfections are found. More recently, the fenders
were repainted in black and present in very good condition. The
brightwork is consistent with a well maintained, older restoration,
and the car is nicely accessorized with dual sidemount spare
wheels, "Hermes helmet" radiator mascot, wind wings, and a trunk
rack. Wooden artillery wheels were an option; however, this example
rides on attractive chrome wire wheels accented with red rims that
tie in nicely with the coach lines. Wide whitewall tires complete
the period sporty look. The interior is well preserved, with brown
antiqued leather on the seat and door panels, and tan carpeting and
top. The upholstery shows some age in places, but it is sound and
presentable for a car that is suited to regular use. Controls and
switches are in good order, and the instrument cluster appears to
be in original condition with fine gold detailing intact. The
rumble seat is trimmed in matching materials and presents well.
Weather equipment includes a full roadster top in tan canvas with
matching soft side screens, all in good condition. Chrysler's
powerful 249 cubic inch 'six is tidy, showing some use and patina
that is consistent with the restoration. It is believed that it was
rebuilt in the late 1990s, and driven sparingly since. The engine
runs well and emits a healthy rasp from the exhaust that hints at
its performance potential. Power is sent through a conventional
three-speed gearbox, while hydraulic four-wheel drum brakes handle
braking - a feature typically found on much more expensive cars of
the period. The Model 75 is an enjoyable and easy to drive classic
that offers very respectable performance for the era. It is one of
the most cost-effective and unique ways to enjoy such prestigious
events as Le Mans Classic and the Mille Miglia Retrospective. This
example has an honest appeal that encourages regular use and would
make an excellent basis for a rally or tour car to use on any
number of events the world over.
