For Sale at Auction: 1963 Chrysler 300 in Newport, Rhode Island

Chassis No. 8033192643

On 30 May 1963, two American giants led the field at the 47th Indianapolis 500. One was Parnelli Jones, who scored his singular Indy 500 win that day, and the other was a striking turquoise Chrysler 300 Convertible that guided the field on the pace lap, driven by 1957 Indy 500 winner Sam Hanks. This was the fifth time that Chrysler had been selected for the distinct honor of pacing the field of 33 at the Brickyard, and the marque celebrated this achievement with a limited edition variant of the 300 Series called the 300 Sport Pace Setter.

This is one of the 1,861 Chrysler 300 Sport Pace Setter Convertibles, and is finished in Pace Car Blue over a unique two-tone White and Black Alabaster vinyl interior. It is further distinguished as a Pace Setter by the "Chrysler Official Pace Car" vinyl decals and small checkered flag badges situated below the front Chrysler 300 emblem. It is powered by a 383 cu-in FirePower V8 which produces a smooth and confident 305 horsepower through a three-speed Torqueflite push-button automatic transmission. The car also features power brakes, power steering, power windows, and a power-operated Haartz Pinpoint vinyl soft top in White.

The subject of a thorough restoration under prior ownership, research indicates that this was completed by Harbor Auto Restorations in Florida over four years to the highest level, with expenses cresting six-figures. The rare Chrysler 300 was subsequently entered into several prestigious automotive competitions across the East Coast in the early 2000s- garnering three AACA awards culminating in the well-deserved First Place at the 2004 Annual Grand National Meet in Buffalo, New York. Today, this example retains these coveted trophies and a "Race To Indy" sales campaign letter dispatched to Chrysler dealers in 1963.

Preserved in the same striking livery that captivated audiences at the 1963 Indianapolis 500 and on the show lawn four decades later, this 1963 Chrysler 300 Sport Pace Setter Convertible is already a proven crowd pleaser even among the most discerning onlookers. It is well-positioned to continue its highly-awarded run of recognition at prestigious automotive gatherings across the country.