Estimate: $140,000-$180,000 US

Offered Without Reserve

Specifications: 375bhp, 392 cu. in. hemispherical head V8 engine, pushbutton TorqueFlite automatic transmission, front torsion bars with rear semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel power-assisted drum brakes. Wheelbase: 126" 1955 marked the introduction of Chrysler ’ s popular 300 letter cars, which would earn championship titles in both the NASCAR Grand National and AAA stock car racing series. These race-bred achievements found their way into road-going Chryslers, and not surprisingly became very popular with performance-minded clients. The 300C was the third incarnation of this series and for 1957 adhered to Virgil Exner ’ s ‘ Forward Look ’ . Devoid of unnecessary external trim, its styling was smooth, clean, and tastefully crafted to exemplify, in Exner ’ s words, ‘ the new shape of motion ’ . Its laurels, however, rested on its mechanical engineering as it was truly unmatched in the power department and was the fastest and most powerful American production car for 1957. The 300C contained all the elements to make it one of the most desired, appreciated, and collectable of all the letter series cars ever produced. The 300C offered here is one of just 484 Convertibles produced for 1957. By comparison, nearly 2,000 hardtop examples left Chrysler ’ s assembly lines that same year. While Mr. Davis has been familiar with this car for about 25 years, he finally acquired it from a friend in Odessa, Texas who had subjected it to a complete body-off restoration. It remains in highly presentable condition with many elements exhibiting a show- quality appearance. The white paint, for instance, is extremely smooth with a glass-like appearance free of imperfections. From the bumpers to the window frames, the chrome is in much the same condition and the vinyl convertible top is essentially new, as is the restored trunk compartment. Although the tan leather upholstery does not appear to be brand new, it shows no imperfections and has developed a slight and very lovely patina. The door panels, rear seats, padded dash, and carpets are all virtually as-new and the instrument panel is crisp and clean. In fact, among the few shortcomings are a few noticeable cracks in the outer perimeter of the steering wheel. Otherwise, every interior component exhibits a period correct and professionally restored appearance. Making use of proper decals, hoses, and clamps, the entire engine compartment has been detailed to show- quality standards with the engine block, heads, and intake refinished in silver and the two breathers and rocker covers painted gold. While clean, the undercarriage is not of the same show-quality standard. The exhaust system appears to be brand new, but signs of pitting are visible on the rear axle housing. Benefitting from the impressive 375-horsepower, dual four-barrel V8 engine mated to the TorqueFlite pushbutton automatic transmission, this 300C is also equipped with power steering, power brakes, wide whitewall tires, and a factory radio with dual rear-mounted antennas. Undoubtedly one of the most significant American cars produced after World War II, the Chrysler 300C is a tribute to race-inspired automobiles. As a collector car, it has benefited from recent public focus that has translated into higher prices and less availability. The 1957 300C presented here represents a rare opportunity to purchase a superb Convertible example and, as such, close attention is strongly encouraged.