Vehicle Description
To mark its 25th anniversary as an automaker, Chrysler introduced
its first all-new post-war design for the 1949 model year. The
overall look was considerably cleaner and more modern, with
shortened overhangs better proportions than the hastily adapted
pre-war designs. While the new styling was undoubtedly more
contemporary than the outgoing models, some critics felt Chrysler's
look was too conservative to stand out in the rapidly evolving
market, particularly in the face of stiff competition from GM,
Ford, and Studebaker. By 1953, Virgil Exner's efforts to revamp
Chrysler's staid image were finally finding traction. His stunning
"Idea Cars" caused a stir on the auto show circuit, and the
influence of spectacular one-offs like the 1951 K-310 and 1952
C-200 would soon appear in the showrooms. For the 1953 model year,
Chrysler revealed all-new exterior sheet metal that was altogether
cleaner, more dynamic, and modern. Notable changes included a
one-piece curved windshield and lowered, sloping roofline. The
coupe, in particular, was influenced by concept cars like the
K-310, especially in the elegant C-pillar treatment. The top-line
New Yorker series stood apart from the rest of the line, with a
unique grille and side trim treatments. All New Yorkers featured
Chrysler's Hemi V8 engine, most came equipped with the new
PowerFlite automatic transmission, introduced midway through the
production year. Perhaps reflecting Chrylser's more conservative
audience, the four-door sedan dominated New Yorker sales with more
than 20,000 top-line Deluxe models produced. By comparison, the
production of the sportier Club Coupe and Convertible Coupe
struggled to top 2,800 examples. This 1953 Chrysler New Yorker
Deluxe Convertible Coupe is one of just 950 built and is
extensively yet discreetly updated for effortless long-distance
touring. The subject of a nut-and-bolt, body-off restoration, it is
finished in a lovely combination of Casino Cream with a striking
navy blue top and Highlander interior. At first glance, this New
Yorker appears to be a standard, beautifully restored example, but
a closer inspection reveals extensively re-engineered front
suspension, brakes, and more. The paintwork is highly attractive
the car appears very well maintained in the time since its
refurbishment and subsequent enjoyment in the hands of its previous
owner. Particularly notable is the brightwork, which is in
excellent order, especially the large bumpers, grille, and body
side trim. It sits with a purposeful, slightly lowered stance,
rolling on chrome Kelsey Hayes-style wire wheels fitted with black
wall BF Goodrich radials. The splendid presentation continues
inside, with beautiful navy-blue leather accented by blue
Highlander tartan inserts on the seats and door panels, and a
body-color dash and steering wheel. As with the exterior, the
interior gives away little to suggest this is anything but a
well-restored standard car, while a second look uncovers air
conditioning controls hidden behind a panel in the dash, vents
integrated into the footwells, and a revised shift lever for the
updated automatic transmission. Matching seatbelts with early-style
chrome buckles are a welcome safety addition. The leather is in
excellent overall condition, with a bit of creasing on the front
seat that is consistent with moderate use. The top and fitted boot
cover are made using matching blue Stayfast canvas and display
excellent fit & finish. Making your way under the hood, you see the
331 cubic inch Hemi is well detailed and tidy with body-color valve
covers and a custom air cleaner. Modern updates include an aluminum
intake manifold, Edelbrock carburetor, 12-volt alternator charging
system, modern A/C compressor, power steering, and dual circuit
power brakes. Backing the engine is a proven and robust GM TH350
automatic transmission, which is more than enough to handle the
Hemi's output reliably. The modifications don't stop with the
drivetrain. The chassis is re-engineered to accept Mustang II-style
tubular control-arm front suspension, which allows for power
rack-and-pinion steering, disc brakes, and modern performance
dampers. Disc brakes also feature in the rear, which retains the
original style leaf spring/live axle configuration. The conversion
work is professionally done, and the undercarriage is clean and
orderly, with light soiling from occasional use. Comprehensive
upgrades and high-quality restoration work come together in a
cohesive package that vastly improves the mighty New Yorker's
performance and handling without sacrificing its authentic
character and distinctive style. Well-constructed and thoughtfully
updated, this marvelous Chrysler New Yorker is perfect for relaxed,
top-down cruising with room for the whole family. Offers welcome
and trades considered For additional details please view this
listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6666-1953-chrysler-new-yorker-convertible/
