1935 Chrysler Imperial C2 Airflow Fully Restored to Top Show Standards

The Chrysler Airflow is a full-size car produced by Chrysler from 1934 to 1937. The Airflow was the first full-size American production car to use streamlining as a basis for building a sleeker automobile, one less susceptible to air resistance. Chrysler made a significant effort at a fundamental change in automotive design with the Chrysler Airflow, but it was ultimately a commercial failure due to a lack of market acceptance and controversial appearance.

Chrysler also marketed a companion model under the DeSoto brand, the DeSoto Airflow, and the appearance was also offered on the top of the line Chrysler Imperial.

Innovative weight distribution in the new Chrysler Airflow stemmed from the need for superior handling dynamics. The engine was moved forward over the front wheels compared with traditional automobiles of the time, and passengers were all moved forward so that rear seat passengers were seated within the wheelbase, rather than on top of the rear axle. The weight distribution had approximately 54% of the weight over the front wheels, which evened to near 50:50 with passengers and resulted in more equal spring rates, better handling, and far superior ride quality.

Unfortunately for Chrysler the public was not ready for the innovative Airflow and sales were not good. While the Airflow may have signaled Chrysler's attempt to set itself apart from other manufacturers, the failure of the car in the marketplace caused the company to take a more conservative path with its future models. Until the debut of Virgil Exner's "Forward Look" cars of 1955, Chrysler's corporate styling was conservative and mainstream.

This very nice example was the subject of a comprehensive restoration some years back and has aged very well. The car runs and drives perfectly with only the most minor of flaws noted by the Seller- the Gas Gauge is non functioning, the original temp gauge is not working so an auxiliary has been added, the overdrive could be adjusted for easier engagement of reverse, and the electric fuel pump plumbing could be tidied up. The Imperial Airflow is a CCCA Full Classic and this rare car will make a great tour car for either CCCA or AACA Events or Shows.