Vehicle Description
Chrysler freshened the CL Imperial range in 1933, introducing a new
chassis stretched 146 inches, complemented by stunning styling with
a swept-back, steeply-raked raked grille, cowl-less hood, and
flowing fenders. Hydraulic brakes, adjustable seats, and hydraulic
dampers all carried over to the CL, so performance was up to the
standards that customers expected. Thanks to the advanced
suspension geometry, superb hydraulic brakes, and powerful
8-cylinder engine, the CL Imperial is regarded as one of the finest
driving cars of the Classic Era. It is also considered one of the
most elegant cars of the period, as Frank Kleptz's 1933 Chrysler CL
Imperial Dual Windshield Phaeton dramatically demonstrates. In
1933, America was still in the throes of the Great Depression, and
sales of exclusive, custom bodied luxury cars were understandably
dire. Chrysler delivered a mere 151 CL Imperial chassis in 1933,
with most wearing one of the "semi-custom" coachwork options by
LeBaron Carrosserie. This car is one of 36 originally outfitted
with LeBaron's spectacular Dual Windshield Phaeton body.
Distinguished by its split windshield, rakish profile, and
retractable rear windscreen, the LeBaron Phaeton is one of the most
evocative and visually stunning bodies created for the CL Imperial
chassis, and approximately 17 are known to survive. This 1933 CL is
another long-term part of the Kleptz Collection and a particular
highlight of his incredible assemblage of Chrysler Imperials. It is
offered with a preserved, older restoration completed in the 1950s
and quietly stored over the past decade. Notable features include
the split/opening front windshields, retractable rear windscreen,
dual side-mounts with matching metal covers, and an integrated
body-color trunk. Finished in beige over oxblood leather with dark
red coach lines and wheels, it remains a visually stunning
motorcar. While the restoration is old, it was done correctly, as
the AACA National First Prize award on the glovebox demonstrates.
As offered today, there is a considerable patina to the paint
finish and brightwork, but it is complete and could easily be
prepared for touring and road events and still turn heads in its
current state. The oxblood red mottled leather upholstery also
shows some wear and aging but is consistent, and could be readily
freshened and enjoyed as-is. Instruments and other fittings appear
to be authentic, and the convertible top functions well. The sale
includes a full set of matching side curtains and a top boot with
an integrated rear tonneau. According to marque experts, this car
appears to have its original engine and body intact, based on
comparing this car's numbers with factory records. The L-head
inline-eight is respectably well-presented in period-correct
colors. It shows considerable patina from age and use, though it
does run quite well. Additional sorting and recommissioning will be
required before touring, but it appears to be an excellent basis
for returning to the road or restoring to its former glory. The CL
Imperial Phaeton's stunning lines never fail to impress, and this
car's lovely patina adds a unique layer of character to an already
profoundly desirable motorcar. One could easily sort the
mechanicals and delight in driving the car as-is or use it as the
basis of a more extensive concours restoration. Whichever way the
next keeper chooses to enjoy it, this CL remains a fantastically
stylish and eminently rewarding Full Classic. Offers welcome and
trades considered For additional details please view this listing
directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6856-1933-chrysler-cl-imperial-dual-windshield-phaeton/
