In the 50's, limousines were reserved for Presidents, high ranking
government officials, and corporate executives. Celebrities like
Mae West and Elvis Presley also used them, long before window tint
and Bluetooth connectivity were things. Lincoln, Cadillac, and
Chrysler were the main manufacturers to lend their cars to
limousine coach builders or build them inhouse.
For consignment, a 1953 Chrysler Windsor limousine showing 47,651
miles, but the true mileage are unknown. This car was purchased
from a convent in Philadelphia in 1969 and put into storage until
it was delivered to the mall in 2026. The pieces are in place on
this one, presenting in restorable condition, an ambitious project
that will hopefully save this dramatic Windsor. As of now, the car
does not crank, even with a new battery attached.
Exterior
The elongated Windsor makes quite the statement with its sheer size
with the rear section defining its limo status with an extra
window, long overhang, and passenger area that is a long way from
the driver. There's big stately chrome and stainless trim on this
car, from the massive bumper and grille bars to the side trim and
gravel guard and while pitted, the eagle hood ornament still
presents an impressive leading point to the car. The paint is not
surprising dull with plenty of scratches, dings and dents, surface
rust on the hood, and marks on the side that look like the car
toured Lion Country Safari. There's blistering down low but what
we're not seeing is rust through and that's admirable. The
windshield is cracked so start looking for a Windsor donor car!
Interior
Limousines didn't vary too much from the base car, and that's
evident first from the simple door panels that sandwiches beige
cloth panels between silvery gray features and each of the four
doors, including those that open coach style, show obvious age but
are mostly intact. The chauffeur is provided with a rather
uninspired vinyl bench seat while the rear occupant gets a gray,
broadcloth covered cushiony throne with button tufting and ashtrays
embedded in the armrests. There are fold down jump seats in back as
well for the security detail, also cloth covered and handles abound
for everyone. All seats are slightly weathered but fully intact.
Heavy patina covers the steering wheel rim but the center has
shades of greatness still evident, fronting a series of gauges in a
clever round configuration. A jukebox-like center section holds the
metal vent levers and metal push buttons for the AM radio and the
remainder of the sweeping dash is in good condition. Our driver
gets a rubber covered floor while occupants enjoy carpet, and above
it all is a mohair headliner that shows the typical discoloration.
The trunk contains parts including jack components and wheel
covers.
Drivetrain
Under the hood we find the barn find quality 264.5ci inline six
cylinder rated at 119 horsepower and fueled by a 1-barrel
carburetor. There's a 3-speed manual on board that routes power to
the rear axle with 3.54 gears and the car runs on a 6 volt system.
No power steering, no power brakes, and no air conditioning.
Undercarriage
Deep surface rust and corrosion, areas of rust through, and plenty
of brake fluid and gunk on the inner wheels are the notable
conditions underneath. Drum brakes are at all four wheels, a stock
style muffler is included in the single exhaust system, and
suspension consists of coil springs up front and leaf springs in
back.
Drive-Ability
Even with a fresh battery and power to the car, it does not crank.
The clutch pedal and the shifter stick and there are no brakes.
Some people look at barn finds for their scrap value, but this car
is a rare and unique example of an early limousine and begs to be
restored! Professional Car lovers and Chrysler people can surely
agree on that!
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and
collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate
controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8
acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic
and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the
I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit
www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us
anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.
There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee
is not included in the advertised price.
With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and
we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host
Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends
in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and
automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune
in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy
listening. You can also watch on YouTube!
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