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
