Vehicle Description
The advent of structural woodwork as an automobile styling feature
may not have originated with Chrysler, but in the early 1940s, the
company's designers managed to transform this utilitarian feature
into a status symbol. The earliest woodies were born of necessity,
with essential form-after-function aftermarket bodies adapted to
vehicles like the Model T for commercial duty. Eventually, style
points began to shape the woodwork, and by the mid-1930s, most
American manufacturers offered factory-built station wagons with
wood bodies. But it was Chrysler's Town & Country of 1941 that gave
the traditional utilitarian wood structure a luxurious, elegant
makeover. The inspired Town & Country was a top-of-the-line luxury
car that combined the best of the New Yorker from the windscreen
forward with an opulent "country home" feel from the cowl back. The
T&C was expensive to build, costly to buy, and required
specialized maintenance, but it proved a success, and soon other
manufacturers were jumping on the bandwagon with their versions of
the luxury woody. However, few could match Chrysler's stature and
the sheer sense of occasion when in the presence of one of these
magnificent machines. Charming and remarkably well-preserved, this
1948 Town & Country sedan is a lovely example of this uniquely
American motorcar. It is one of just 4,049 T&C sedans produced
in 1948, and it is finished in the attractive period-correct shade
of Dove Gray over an oxblood leather and taupe Bedford cord
interior. Little is known of the early history, though it wears
Kentucky inspection stickers from the early 50s, providing some
insight into its origins. It is offered here in highly original
condition, having had a sympathetic cosmetic refurbishment and
respray in the 1980s, and has been lovingly maintained in the time
since, and now displays a light and pleasing patina. The bright
exterior trim appears mostly original but in good order overall,
with some light fading and minor pitting evident on close
inspection. The woodwork is excellent all around, exhibiting good
fitment of the doors and very good finish quality to the framework
and contrasting mahogany panels. Accessories include dual
searchlights, dual swan-neck mirrors, and a marvelous
period-correct wood roof rack. The richly textured oxblood leather
trim is in wonderful condition, and it maintains an inviting
character earned through many years of attentive care. Likewise,
the tan Bedford cord seat inserts are tidy, though there are some
areas where the stitching has come loose over time. Equipment
includes a clock, pushbutton radio, and Comfort Master heater, and
the instrument panel is beautifully adorned with lots of chrome and
burgundy painted trim. The carpets have been freshened recently and
are in excellent order, including the trunk that houses the correct
jack and spare wheel. Chrysler's venerable L-head "Spitfire"
inline-six provides ample, smooth power delivery through a
fluid-drive semi-automatic gearbox. These engines are renowned for
their durability, as well as their abundant torque. The engine
compartment of this car is tidy and authentically detailed,
appearing well-maintained with an honest patina from use. Original
assembly markings and stickers are still intact on the firewall,
showing the car has never been fully restored. As a 1948 model,
this Town & Country has the added benefit of being an approved Full
Classic� with the Classic Car Club of America and is an ideal
selection for use on their popular CARavan touring events. The
iconic design and robust underpinnings make it an enduring
collectible, and this excellent example brings abundant character
in its honest, authentic presentation. Offers welcome and trades
considered For additional details please view this listing directly
on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7251-1948-chrysler-town-country-sedan/
