Chassis Number: 6598099
The Chrysler Airflow was the first truly aerodynamic streamlined American car. “It bores through the air,” Chrysler advertised — and they could prove it, because the Airflow had been extensively tested in the wind tunnel. But it was more than its form that made the Airflow historically significant. Its steel, semi-unitized body was years ahead of the competition. Chrysler demonstrated the Airflow’s structural strength by pushing one off a cliff, then driving the car away. Introduced in 1934, the Chrysler Airflow was offered until 1937. The first year, with its curved “waterfall” grille, was the purest expression of the design; the 1935-through-1937 models had a more-vertical grille, designed to give them a more conventional appearance. Today, the ’34 is especially prized for its resemblance to the famed streamline train the Burlington Zephyr. Both the Airflow and the Zephyr were “art moderne” sensations at the 1934 Chicago World’s Fair. During the design’s four-year production run, about 55,000 Airflows were built. The vast majority of Airflows were 4-door sedans, and each year a few long-wheelbase limousines were produced as well. The coupe body style is exceedingly rare and the most desirable. This stunning 1934 Airflow coupe is one of only 732 coupes produced, and only approximately 10 are known to exist today. This is the only 1934 Airflow coupe to carry the factory-optional trunk rack, adding to the rarity and desirability of this automotive Art Deco masterpiece. A powerful Chrysler L-head straight-8 engine allows the Airflow to take advantage of its innovative aerodynamic shape, resulting in comfortable freeway-speed touring on today’s roads. In the late 1970s, this Airflow was purchased by Mr. Rich Case from Gus Gundaker, a Chrysler dealer in upstate New York, who kept it in his collection until it would change hands in 1993. In 2015, a comprehensive, no-expense-spared restoration was commissioned. The painstaking restoration efforts were rewarded when the car captured an AACA First Junior and Senior as well as AACA Grand National First and Senior awards, plus being nominated for the Zenith Award. It also dominated the Airflow Club national meet when it was shown, taking home Best of Class, Best Junior Division, People’s Choice and Best of Show. It also been honored with the coveted W.P. Chrysler Trophy for High Points. Finished elegantly in the optional and seldom-seen Sultana Sand color with complementary leather interior, this landmark of American automotive design is as striking to look at today as it was in 1934.
