Vehicle Description
FROM THE MISSOULA AUTO MUSEUM COLLECTION: Vehicle to be offered for Auction sale WITHOUT RESERVE and SOLD to the highest bidder January 19th - 22nd, 2017 at Russo and Steele's 17th Annual Scottsdale Arizona Auction at the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Please contact us for more information.
Introduced during October 1937, Chrysler's 1938 model line was topped by the ultra-exclusive C-20 Custom Imperial line, which was built on an imposing wheelbase measuring 144 inches. The essence of luxury, Chrysler's limited-production Custom Imperial C-20 models were built along the Factory Models and Individual Customs, with only 519 Factory models produced. Body styles included a 4-door, 5-Passenger Touring Sedan (252 built), a 7-Passenger Touring Sedan (122 built) and a 4-door, 7-Passenger Sedan Limousine (145 built). For those seeking even greater exclusivity, four Individual Custom models were available, all bodied by Derham, plus a bare chassis model. Just 11 Individual Custom chassis were produced.
The engine powering the C-20 Imperials was shared with the New York Special models. Displacing 299 cubic inches, this L-head inline eight-cylinder engine was available in two levels of tune. The basic engine delivered 115 horsepower and 225 pounds-feet of torque with 6.5:1 compression, with the optional 7.4:1 compression ratio yielding 122 horsepower and 238 pounds-feet of torque. Most importantly, their peak torque was available at just 1,600 engine revolutions, perfect for carrying some of the prewar era's most spacious and luxurious bodywork.
Featuring Sedan Limousine coachwork, this 1938 Chrysler C-20 Custom Imperial C-20 is bodied with Sedan Limousine coachwork and one of only 145 examples produced. In addition to such features as a division window, the rear passenger compartment is fitted with a clock, jump seats, and a vanity set and smoker's kit, each hidden inside discreet storage compartments built within the blind rear quarters. The upholstery inside the rear compartment is all original and very well preserved with unusual details including the storage compartments secured by glass doors. The Imperial is reported to run and drive well and is equipped with overdrive that with the 299 cubic-inch, straight eight power plant that gives it remarkably quiet performance at highway speeds. During the prior ownership, air conditioning was discreetly installed to facilitate this Imperial's comfortable use in all weather conditions as desired. In terms of style, elegance, rarity, preservation, and presence, this 1938 C-20 Custom Imperial Limousine is simply an exceptional automobile suitable for the finest of collections.
