West Coast Classics are proud to present a great daily driving and rust free example of this 1975 Buick Electra 455 4 BBL 7.5L V8 2 Door Custom Hardtop with it's original factory specifications including it's original 455 c.i. V8 engine, 3 speed Turbo Hydra-matic transmission, climate control air conditioning ($487), vinyl top ($154), AM/FM stereo ($233), power windows, power steering, power front disc brakes, power driver seat, styled road wheels and woodgrained trim on door panels.
This particular example has obviously always been garaged and is in very fine condition throughout. The car has its original factory color paint with its original 'White' seats vinyl roof and a very clean interior with 'Red' carpets, dashboard and door panels. The original 455 V8 engine is extremely strong and this particular car drives magnificently and must be driven to be fully appreciated - drives straight as an arrow with no strange road wobbles, shakes or rattles - a truly remarkable daily driver!
The 1975 Buick Electra was also the longest Buick ever built at 233.4 which is over 19 feet!
Power windows and a power driver's seat became standard on all Electra models in 1975. Also new to the standard equipment list were radial-ply tires. The 1975 Electra was one of the first GM vehicles to offer an Air Cushion Restraint System or "airbag". Inside, a new flat instrument panel with horizontal sweep speedometer (silver facing with black lettering) replaced the wrap-around cockpit dash of previous years and the car had an all new interior. The 455 four-barrel V8, now rated at 205 hp was retained as the standard and only available engine.
This is a great opportunity to own a very fine and unabused example of an obviously always garaged since new and unrestored and mostly all original 1975 Buick Electra 225 2 Door Custom Hardtop in this striking color combination!
Single family ownership since 1955 until 2011 and since then part of a private collection until now
1939 Cadillac Series 60 Special V8 Touring Sedan
Chassis no. 6291776
West Coast Classics are proud to present this very rare and beautifully restored 1939 Cadillac Series Sixty Special which had been in the same family for 56 years. Purchased new from Dickson Motors, Ltd of Winnipeg, Canada by a couple hailing from nearby Manitoba, the car was reportedly sparingly driven and stored from the beginning of WWII until the owner's uncle acquired the car in 1955. Driven only occasionally and always garaged in Toronto, the car was gifted to the Southern California based owner by his uncle. It has been carefully maintained and remained lovingly presented and unrestored, showing only 80,000 miles on the clock and has been recently fully serviced and drives very well.
Body Style: 39-6019S
Body: 1684
Paint: 54
Trim: 44
In 1939 all V8 powered Cadillacs had the new tri-corner grilles in the fender 'catwalks' flanking the regular grille. These models were completely new in appearance with a V-shaped main grille, larger glass areas, automatic adjusting rear springs and no running boards.
All Cadillac V8's including the 60 Special had the same styling motifs, but the detail dimensions differed for each car line. A new pointed center grille and functional side grilles were made of die cast metal and had fine pitch bars. A single die cast louver was positioned to the rear of each hood side panel. The headlights were once again attached to the radiator casting. The Cadillac Sixty Special, now bodied by Fleetwood, was offered with the optional Sunshine Turret Top or with a center division.
In 1939, the Cadillac Fleetwood 60 Special was introduced as a trend setting luxury 4 for sedan designed by the legendary Harley Earl & Bill Mitchell!
It was designed as an extended wheelbase derivative of the Series 60, often referred to as the Fleetwood Sixty Special. The Sixty Special designation was reserved for some of Cadillac's most luxurious vehicles.
Powered by a 346-cubic inch V8 engine and built on an extended 127-inch wheelbase, it offered a blend of formal elegance and owner-driven comfort, making it a significant success for Cadillac. The 1939 model continued the innovative design introduced in 1938, with a "coupe-like" integrated trunk that helped establish the "three-box" sedan styling. The most dramatic 1938 Cadillac was the new Series 60 Special, nestled between the entry-level 60 Series and the Fleetwood-bodied 75s.
On a double-drop, lowered frame, the 60 Special had a unique body and distinctive trim with wide-spaced grille bars. A five-window sedan with an exclusive greenhouse, it was styled to look like a convertible sedan in steel and had dual side-mounts.
Built on a 127-in. wheelbase, the 60 Special was three inches longer and three inches lower than the 60 Series, rendering running boards superfluous. The side windows had chrome perimeter frames and thin pillars, further echoing the convertible air. The 3-inch longer wheelbase than the standard Series 60 cars with the new Sixty Special utilizing a unique "X" frame underneath, which allowed the 4,170 lb car to sit within its frame. This not only gave the new Cadillac the stiffest chassis on the market, but it was also 3 inches lower than other Cadillacs - with no sacrifice in headroom.
The style returned for 1939 with bodies built for the 60 Special in the Fleetwood shops, Cadillacs premium in-house coachbuilder. While significantly more expensive than 61 Series sedans at $2,195, the 60S was reasonably priced when compared to the Series 75 and 90 models for 1939. With thinner grille bars like the other Cadillacs, the 1939 60 Special retained the unique greenhouse. As before, it shared the 346-cu. in. L-head Cadillac V-8 and power train with its division siblings.
This 1939 Series 60 Special is painted Black with a Gray pinstriped Bedford Cord upholstery, and fitted with wide whitewall tires, fitted with a heater and defroster.
The extended 127-inch wheelbase allowed for a large, luxurious interior and the 60 Special shared the 346-cubic inch L-head V8 engine and powertrain with other Cadillac models, providing quiet and smooth operation matched to a 3-speed manual transmission which was equipped with "triple silent" helical-cut gears for quiet performance. The car featured Cadillac's "Knee-Action" independent front suspension for a refined ride.
The Sixty Special was a major sales success, accounting for a substantial portion of Cadillac's sales and influencing GM's future model development and today, the 1939 Fleetwood 60 Special is a coveted "Full Classic" that is valued by enthusiasts for its exceptional design and driving manners. It is also a popular platform for "restomod" projects, in which the classic exterior is paired with a modern powertrain and conveniences.
The new four-door sedan, designed to look like a convertible sedan, showcased trend-setting features including a completely integrated, coupe-like trunk (which launched "three-box" sedan styling); no running boards (which all makes soon followed); convertible-style doors with bright metal window frames (Bill Mitchell called the '38 60 Special "the first hardtop"); a "four-window" canopy with more glass area than any Cadillac before; a steeply-raked windshield and four front-hinged doors. Contrary to what was then prevailing practice for luxury automobiles, the new Sixty Special was intended as an owner-driven car, rather than a chauffeur-driven one.
The disappearance of running boards along the side and its lack of a heavy belt line molding made the sleek car appear even lower. More important, it allowed shoulder and hip room to increase by over 5 inches without an increase in overall width. When combined with the brand-new column-mounted shift lever, the cars offered true six passenger comfort. The Sixty Special was powered by Cadillac's standard 130 hp (97 kW), 346 cu in (5.67 L) V8 engine.
1941 CADILLAC SERIES 60 SPECIAL 346 V8 FLEETWOOD
West Coast Classics are proud to present this 1941 Cadillac Series 60 Special is a Fleetwood-bodied sedan finished in its original El Centro Green Metallic color over a cloth stripe interior
It is powered by a 346ci V8 paired with a column-shifted three-speed manual transmission, and features include steel wheels with hubcaps, bench seats, wood interior trim, a clock, and a radio with a built-in speaker.
In the wake of the Great Depression Cadillac surged forward into the modern era with their new models such as this Cadillac Series 60 Special with Body by Fleetwood.
Harley Earl had appointed Bill Mitchell as the chief designer for the new Cadillac design studio back in 1936 with a focus on a new wave of styling changes to create a far more modern and progressive new model. When first introduced in 1938, the Series 60 Special was designed for the owner-driver accustomed to a high level of status and luxury while preferring not to employ a chauffeur.
By 1940, every Series 60 model would be Fleetwood marketed, which included higher-end molding, trim, and upholstery. Meanwhile, 1941 became a watershed model-year for Cadillac as every model received numerous updatesfor example, the front fenders on the 60 Special now extended into the doorswith completely revised front-end styling and features which were to be used by Cadillac on future models for years to come.
The Series 60 came equipped with an automatic heating system, radio and aerial, full wheel discs, whitewall tires, and the 3.36:1 economy rear axle. Refinished in its original 'El Centro Green Metallic' and retaining some of its original upholstery complemented by replacement seat covers, this car wears an older restoration that shows characterful patina throughout. It is powered by a 346-cubic-inch V-8 engine and it has obviously always been faithfully maintained, as it drives extremely well.
The Series 60 received styling tweaks for 1941 that included a new, wider front grille. This example is one of 4,101 built for the model year and is finished with the rare flying goddess hood ornament.
The paintwork and exterior trim are shown up close in the photo gallery below and show patina and some wear but overall this is a rare truly superb survivor quality car that drives as good as it looks.
Body-color steel wheels wear chrome hubcaps with color Cadillac crests as well as wide-whitewall tires. The car features an independent front suspension with coil springs as well as a semi-floating rear axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.
The interior features front and rear bench seats with striped cloth upholstery. The door caps are accented with wood, and a radio with a built-in speaker is located in the center of the dashboard alongside a clock.The two-spoke steering wheel frames a painted steel dashboard housing a 100-mph speedometer and auxiliary gauges. The five-digit odometer shows just over 88k miles. True mileage is unknown.
The 346ci Monobloc V8 is topped with a single carburetor and was factory rated at 150 horsepower, which is delivered to the rear wheels through a column-shifted three-speed manual transmission.
These are really great driving cars and as a tour car of the era, these are hard to beat; smooth, quiet, reliable and room for many and are approved CCCA Full Classics.
126" WHEELBASE
FENDER SKIRTS ($17.50 A PAIR)
RADIO ($69.50)
HEATER ($65)
SEAT COVERS ($8.75 / SEAT)
FOG LIGHTS ($14.50)
BACKUP LIGHT ($7.50)
WHEEL DISC ($4 EACH)
ORIGINAL PAINT CODE 55: EL CENTRO GREEN METALLIC
ORIGINAL TRIM 1358: GREEN STRIPE CLOTH
In 1940, Cadillac released a new line, the Series 62, which replaced 1939's Series 61. It was referred to as the 'Torpedo Body' and was the last full year of production before the Second World War in 1941 saw sweeping changes and a major expansion of Cadillac's line. After 1940, the LeSalle was discontinued and the legendary V16 engine was gone, all models now used the same 346 cu in V8 introduced in 1936 although improved with a power boost and which was now rated at 150 bhp. The '41 Cadillac's introduced the rectangular egg-crate grille that would become the marque's trademark and the hood ornament goddess was new and served as a hood-release handle.
You will be hard pressed to find anyone to dispute that the 1941 Cadillac is one of the most elegant automobiles ever to roll off the GM assembly line. More than 60 years later they are one of the few such models still as attractive today as they were to buyers when new. Built on a 126 inch wheelbase channel section frame with a central X crossmember. Inside bench seats dressed in Green color wool broadcloth seat four comfortably and the car boasts a woodgrain instrument panel that houses the standard array of gauges in a beautiful period Art Deco theme with its original AM radio positioned in the center of the panel. The clock matching the speedometer dresses up the passenger side and the car has original factory added options of both the AM Radio ($69.50) and Heater ($59.50-$65).
Moving this nearly 4,000 pound coupe is its original 346 cu in Flathead V8 mated to its original standard column shift 3 speed manual transmission which featured synchronized second and third gears. This rare Cadillac will still run down the road at freeway speeds with no hesitation, she has no wobbles or creaks. She has been in a private collection in a controlled environment awaiting restoration for many years. Few of these rare Series 60 Fleetwoods from 1941 remain in such original and fine condition, the last full year of production before the war, making these particular cars extremely collectible and prized amongst Cadillac enthusiasts.
This is a rare opportunity to own a great daily driving yet unrestored mostly all original example of an obviously always garaged and rust free 1941 Cadillac Series 60 Fleetwood Sedan and definitely a car you can drive and enjoy before restoring and an ideal candidate to restore for the enthusiast. An undisputed very rare, highly desirable, collectible and unabused example of one of the outstanding designs of the early forties pre-war art deco period automobiles and these high quality luxury cars were built to be able to complete long distances both quickly, powered by Cadillac's larger version of it's faithful flathead V8 and in the utmost of luxury!
This is one very desirable pre-war classic car in superb running condition for any classic American car enthusiast to drive and enjoy and ultimately restore; a very honest and unabused yet unrestored example of a southern California 1941 Cadillac Series 60 Fleetwood Sedan for any classic American car or Cadillac enthusiast and a Classic Car Club of America Full Classic, this example is an ideal candidate for future touring in its current condition or as the basis for a full restoration!
West Coast Classics are proud to present this extraordinary 1956 Chevrolet 3100 Step Side 'Big Window' Custom Pick Up powered by a Dan Luce custom-built LS2 364ci V8 engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. Sits on custom Heidts powder-coated chassis with RideTech air-ride suspension. Has Vintage Air, Dakota Digital gauges and 20-inch Billet Specialties wheels. Known as "the One" in custom circles, this is one over the top with no expense spared customization with few equals!
This 1956 Chevrolet 3100 'Big Window' custom pickup has an absolutely no expense spared frame off restoration and is powered by a Dan Luce custom-built LS2 364ci V8 engine mated to a 4-speed 4L80E automatic transmission. It sits on a custom Heidts powder-coated chassis with complete air-ride suspension by RideTech, a Mustang II front end and a completely polished Kugel rear end. The body is finished in 'Jet Black, complementing the chrome accents and custom plexiglass bed floor, accentuating the Kugel rear end. The exterior features power windows, and the truck rolls on 20-inch Billet Specialties wheels with Yokohama tires. The full leather interior is completely custom in a rich brown with some stainless touches, and features a chrome tilt column, power seats, power door locks, a Vintage Air system and Dakota Digital gauges.
West Coast Classics are proud to present an absolutely exceptional show ready and nuts and bolts frame off recently restored example of this 1972 Chevrolet C10 1/2 Ton Stepside Short Bed Pick Up with a rebuilt 350 4BBL V8 engine matched to its automatic transmission, the top of the line Chevy truck in 1972 and fully loaded with factory options including the cold-blowing A/C, power front disc brakes & power steering makes this a very desirable classic 1970's V8 custom pick up!
HIGHLIGHTS
*Glossy Back paint showing off good body lines
*Custom Red pinstriping surrounding the cab
*Custom tailgate graphics
*Shining face with bright chrome bumper and clear tri-bar headlights
*20-inch US Mags alloys
*Glossy real wood truck bed
*Trailer hitch to do real truck duty
*Red cloth inserts in the seats go well with exterior pinstripe
*AM/FM/cassette stereo
*Cold-blowing R134a air conditioning
*350 cubic-inch V8
*Strong runner with Edelbrock four-barrel carburetor, Edelbrock intake, and likely upgraded cam
*Three-speed automatic transmission
*Power steering
*Power brakes with front discs
Sold new at 'Warren Biggs Chevrolet' of Los Angeles, CA with original factory options including:
Door Edge Guard
R/H Side Mirror
Heavy Duty Rear Springs
4.11 Ratio Rear Axle
LS9 350 V8 Engine
M38 3 Speed Automatic Trans
Chrome Hub Caps
AM/FM Radio
Chrome Front & Rear Bumpers
Black Vinyl Trim
Full Foam Seats
You will look long and hard to find a finer custom Chevy C10. That's because its the total custom package but with nothing too outlandish. Finished in 'Black' color paint with accent striping and with the 350 V8 engine and which is loaded with rare options including: air conditioning equipment, power steering, power front disc brakes, 20" Mag alloy wheels with a striking and upgraded custom interior. One of the top-dog in the Trim Packages for 1972 when air conditioning alone was a $400 + option.
Stunningly frame off restored with every nut and bolt replaced and with no expense spared and with absolutely no signs or history of any accidents or rust and a truck which had obviously always been lovingly maintained and kept since even before being restored.
This truck is one of the finest examples of any such truck anywhere and must be seen and driven to be fully appreciated - the rebuilt 350 V8 crate engine is extremely strong and responsive and the 3 speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly through all the gears and the reconditioned R134a air conditioning blows cold.
In summary, this is one of the very finest example's anywhere of this increasingly collectible and desirable 1972 year of the legendary C10 1/2 ton pick up in rare turn-key ready, daily appreciating, daily driving and daily head-turning condition and an all time classic American truck!
]]>West Coast Classics are proud to present an exceptional and great daily driving example of this original southern California 1963 Full Size 1000 Series Chevrolet 1/2 ton C10 Stepside Short Bed Pick Up Truck with the optional 'Custom' package and still boasting its original California "Black License' plates with its original 230 c.i. 140HP 6 cyl engine, (casting # 3788406 1962-69 230 I6 engine) which is actually very powerful for this truck, and its original 4 speed manual floor shift transmission with granny gear and a 5000 lbs maximum GVW rating and with a reportedly and believed to be original only 35K original miles!
This truck is a true survivor and a super striking daily driver or promotional truck! The paint is excellent, the chrome is excellent and the interior is also very original and presentable! This great daily driving and very desirable short bed step side 1963 Chevrolet 1000 series Full Size 1/2 ton Pick Up is simply a great turn key ready daily driver for any classic truck enthusiast. The truck will be sold with a receipt for a brand new rebuilt 4 speed transmission with granny gear and clutch just installed.
The 1/2 ton Chevrolet/GMC pick up was renamed the 3100 in the 1940's and they were outselling the Ford's with a 33.8% market share in 1949 compared to Ford's 21.6%. But Chevy couldn't afford to be complacent and by 1950 there were several welcome improvements such as double acting all around shock absorbers and a circuit-braking lighting system. The Thriftmaster six offered slightly more power due to a Rochester power jet down draft carburetor, larger valves and a straight through muffler. In the year 1955 the Thriftmaster engine was increased to 235 c.i. (3851cc) with an increase in both bore and stroke. GMC as a marque produced a straight six and later a V8.
In 1958 these trucks became known as the Full size C Series for Chevrolet and the 100 Series for GMC. Launched in the fall of 1959, the 1960 model year introduced a new body style of light pick-up truck that featured many firsts. Most important of these were a drop-center ladder frame, allowing the cab to sit lower, and independent front suspension, giving an almost car-like ride in a truck. Also new for 1960 was a new designation system for trucks made by GM. Gone were the 3100, 3200, and 3600 designations for short 1/2, long 1/2 and 3/4-ton models. For 1960, C/K trucks were available in smooth 'Fleetside' or fendered 'Stepside' versions.
The 1963 Chevrolet C10 Custom package was a series of optional features grouped to enhance the truck's comfort, convenience, and appearance.
Appearance Features:
Comfort and Convenience:
This particular truck's 292c.i. 6 cylinder engine runs strong and sounds absolutely magnificent and the truck drives really well - must be driven to be appreciated - drives straight as an arrow with no strange road wobbles, shakes or rattles - a truly remarkable daily driver!
This is a very rare opportunity to own a great daily driving example of this very desirable original southern California rust and accident free 1963 Full Size Chevrolet 1000 series Stepside Short Bed 'Custom' package Pick Up in very fine daily driving condition ready for any classic American truck, collector or enthusiast to simply enjoy or collect today!
]]>The El Camino was introduced in 1959 and proved to be a highly stylized competitor to the more conservative Ford Ranchero and which would go on to easily outsell its rival.
It came in a single trim level, its exterior using the Bel-Air trim, with the interior of the Biscayne.
The 1959 El Camino was promoted as the first Chevrolet pickup built with a steel bed floor instead of wood with the floor having a corrugated sheetmetal insert, secured with 26 recessed bolts.
The renown and respected Hot Rod? magazine conducted a test of an El Camino equipped with the hottest powertrain combination available in early 1959, the 315 bhp triple-carb, solid-lifter 348 V8 mated to a four-speed was clocked at 0-60 mph in around seven seconds, with an estimated top speed at 130 mph!
The very similar, but slightly less flamboyant 1960 model again had a Bel Air look, with that series' bright-metal "Jet" appliqu? and narrow trailing molding used to accent the rear quarters.
West Coast Classics presents are proud to present an exceptional example of this extraordinarily rare and collectible 1961 Chevrolet Impala SS 2 door Convertible with the 348 CID 350HP 3x2 BBL V8 Tri-Power engine matched to a 4 speed manual transmission and finished in its original 'Ermine White' factory color (code 936) paint and original 'Red & Ivory' (trim code 874) interior and a White color power operated soft top with 14" wheels with spinner wheel covers, Bias Ply whitewall tires, fenders skirts, power brakes, power steering, tachometer, SS grab handle dash, soft ray glass, heavy duty springs and shocks, electric clock and push button AM radio!
Complete nut and bolt, frame-off older restoration. Rust free. Original factory cowl tag defining SS option and crossed flags mounted behind passengers side grab bar.
1 of 453 Super Sport Impalas built in 1961
W - 348/350HP V8 with 3x2 Tri Power
TO327FH stamp with correct designated 1961 FH suffix code for 348/350HP 3x2BBLS V8 with manual trans, High Perf, solid cam
4 speed manual transmission
Power steering
Power convertible top
Padded dash
Correct SS-only spinner wheel covers
New bias-ply white stripe tires
New dual exhaust
Dual antennas
Front and rear bumper guards
Correct Sun tachometer and control box
Functional push-button AM radio
SS Grab bar dash
7000 RPM Sun Tachometer
Heavy Duty Springs & Shocks
SS Badging
Tissue dispenser
Restored condition
Finished in the original color combination
Factory code 936 Ermine White with code 874 Red and White interior
This is the very rare and collectible factory SS 348/350hp with a 4-speed, power steering, power brakes and power convertible top. 1 of only 453 original SS Impalas built by Chevrolet in '61. They had to be a 409 or 348 with power steering, power brakes, 4 bumper guards on rear and the big drum brakes from the factory. This is the only way a true SS was delivered from Chevrolet and officially known as RPO-240. This particular car has had a complete nut and bolt restoration a few years ago on a reportedly all original sheet metal body, rust free southern states car. Original colors inside and outside. Everything works as it should. Runs and drives as good as new and a super rare car obviously.
The 1961 full-size Chevrolet model was totally revamped for the new year. As with all other full-size GM lines, the new cars finally finished with the knee-banger, wrap around windshields and tailfins and shed some of the length and width that had been popular in the prior three years. The front end sported a full width grille with dual headlamps mounted at each end with the turn signals and parking lamps mounted above the headlamps. The car boasted all the regular Bel Air equipment plus Nylon pattern cloth seats, electric clock, full carpeting and dual backup lights.
The Impala was restyled on the existing GM B platform for 1961. The new body styling was more trim and boxy than the 1958-60 models. Sport Coupe models featured a 'bubbleback' roof line style for '61 and a unique model, the 2-door pillared sedan, was available for 1961 only. It was rarely ordered and a scarce collectible today. The rare Super Sport (SS) option debuted for 1961 and was retired in 1968.
It is hard to find a car as exceptionally rare as is this 1961 Chevy Impala SS convertible, especially considering 1961 was the first year of the third generation and the very first year Chevrolet offered an SS package. Only 453 SS Impalas were built in 1961 with 142 of them being 409's and just a handful were convertibles. Offered in the spring of 1961, the mandatory dealer options included as high performance W engine with a minimum of 305 HP. It is reportedly estimated that no more than 5-10% of the original 453 remain in existence today (i.e. 22-45 cars)!
When you throw in the 348 Tri-Power and all the SS extras, you get the absolute top of the line for class and refinement in 1961 with a 4 speed manual transmission, power steering, a power convertible top, the SS correct Sun tachometer & separate control box or sending unit (aka EB-9A Box), dash grab bar, dual antennas, front & rear bumper guards, and fender skirts are all factory options for the car, and a few are SS exclusive options as well. Restored to its original paint colors of Ermine White with the Red stripe down the sides and the correct trim of red and white vinyl bench seats.
This car must be seen and driven to be fully appreciated - the engine is extremely strong and responsive, the 4 speed manual transmission shifts smoothly through the gears and the engine temperature always remains cool.
In summary, this this car is a true piece of history and an American classic car collector or muscle car enthusiasts collector's dream car, a truly splendid and wonderful example of a very striking 1961 Chevrolet Impala SS 348 Trip Power 4 speed 2 Door Convertible in turn-key ready daily driving and daily head-turning condition, most definitely one very collectible and attractive all American classic car!
West Coast Classics are proud to present an exceptional exampole of this fully restored 1950 Chevrolet Special Fleetline 2 Door Sedan Custom in original factory 'Mist Green' color with all new for 2024:
West Coast Classics are proud to present an absolutely exceptional example of this extraordinarily rare 1936 Chrysler Airflow Series C11 Custom Imperial Sedan (1 of reportedly only 38 built in the sole 1936 production year and thought to be one of only two now remaining) with its original 323.5 CID inline 8 cylinder L Head engine matched to a 3-speed manual Warner automatic overdrive transmission.
In 1934 Chrysler introduced an entirely new kind of automobile, the Airflow. Chrysler engineers streamlined an entirely new automobile, testing the configurations in a wind tunnel, with the help of the legendary Orville Wright! These engineers also rearranged the structure of the new car for improved riding comfort to be the most modern of its day! By moving then engine forward and increasing the length of the front springs and the seats positioning between the axles, road shocks were sharply reduced on the passengers.
Six-cylinder Airflow DeSotos were available in 2-door coupes and 4-door sedan configurations. The larger Chrysler Airflows had the 8-cylinder variant engine and the Imperial model had a slightly longer wheelbase. The cars proved very expensive to build and the smaller DeSoto Airflows were discontinued after 1936 and the 8 cylinder Chryslers after 1937. Recent reports from the Airflow Club show very few survivors today.
Chrysler also offered two custom versions of the Airflow Imperials. The larger series, designated CW, were taller, wider and longer than the production cars and equipped with larger engines and heavier running gear and shared almost no components of the other models. Up to 100 Airflow CWs were built with about 8 know to still exist today.
Aside from the CWs Chrysler set aside a few of these Imperial models for LeBaron conversion to the 'Custom Imperial'. This conversion consisted on a 9" stretch of the chassis and an equivalent lengthening of the Imperial body, with the extra length for the rear passenger area. For 1936 the LeBaron cars were named the Series C11.
Chrysler historical records show that 75 serial numbers were set aside for the C11, 38 of them for the sedan and 37 for the limousine, which had a divider partition with roll down window separating the rear passenger compartment from the driver's seat. Chrysler shipping records show that only 62 were actually built and shipped.
The Airflow Club of America established in 1962 had reports of only 3 x C11s still known to be in existence. One was reportedly dismantled before 1968. One is a limousine currently in Australia and this subject C11 sedan car is the third. Therefore, it's likely to be the one surviving C11 sedan available anywhere in the world today!
The Chrysler LeBaron models (for 1936 the C11s and CWs) were sold as special order custom coachbuilt cars. Dealers or purchasers could order the cars with interior appointments and paint colors to order. In place of the usual exterior and interior trim codes shown on the body data this C11 shows only the order number. Authentic restoration therefore permits use of any period correct paint colors as well as fabric or leather trim.
Surviving information about C11s include sales brochures, maintenance manuals and parts lists, each of which provides specific details of the cars. The build history for 7809320 was obtained from the Fiat-Chrysler Historical Society and shows the car was shipped to 'J.B. Martin', a Chrysler dealer in Harrisburg, PA. The build date was June 22nd, 1936. The body number 231-64 was built by 'Briggs' and shipment was by boat. It was equipped with engine number C11-1072 and an overdrive transmission. Gear ratio was 4.33:1. Options on this car included a special steering wheel and six road wheels. Like all Airflows it had Duplate safety glass.
According to Airflow Club records 7803920 was first reported to the club sometime before 1969 in Lancaster County, PA. From at least 1969 until 1975 it belonged to Airflow collector and dealer Paul Stern, who sold it to Ken Curtis of Raleigh, NC. Ken sold it to Ray Harmuth Sr in 1992, some 17 years later. Mr Harmuth Sr had restoration work performed on the chassis and body by Gary Hoover of Alliance, OH. In approximately 2004, Ray Harmuth Jr, inherited the car from his father. When Mr Harmuth passed in 2019 his widow sold the car to Jon Clulow of Pasadena, MD and John Boyd of San Diego, CA. Included in the sale were many new and used replacement parts for the Airflow.
Mr Clulow has been a member of the Airflow Club for many years and is very experienced in Airflow restoration. He undertook to restore the car again using the parts it came with along with parts from his own extensive collection. Jon oversaw a complete professional engine overhaul on the original matching numbers C11-1072 engine, performed by Rockville Ring & Bearing in Rockville, MD. New bearings for cam, crankshaft and rods, valves, tappets, guides, pistons and rings were installed. The block was thoroughly cleaned and checked for cracks, cylinders were bored .020 over, the new crankshaft bearings were line-bored, and the block was decked. A newly cast, original mold alloy Airflow cylinderhead was obtained from the Airflow Club parts store. The transmission used was an overhauled unit taken from a driving Chrysler Airflow. New rubber parts, brake shoes, weatherstrips, motor mounts and miscellaneous other parts collected by the car's previous owner were installed.
Once the car was completely reassembled, the car was transported from MD to CA for the disassembly for body repairs and refinishing. The body was finished at 'AG Body' in El Cajon, CA. The repair began with complete removal of the old paint and body filler. The car was sent to a specialist sand and blasting shop where it was completely blasted. Once done it became clear that any previous rust issues had been satisfactory repaired. The body was aligned, smoothed, filled and blocked, then painted with two-stage paint in a metallic Bronze-Gray finish, a period correct color, yet contemporarily stylish. The paint was color sanded and buffed to a high gloss. Meanwhile all exterior bright metal was sent to professional polishers and platers for refinishing. In Spring 2021 the exterior trim was installed and new Airflow Club reproduction hubcap skins were installed. New tires were purchased and mounted on the refinished wheels. Interior brightwork was finished in the Custom-Imperial appropriate satin chrome by 'Artistic Silver Plating' in Long Beach, CA and the dash was reassembled with refinished instruments and brightwork. Wheel trim and original style sunbursts in 'Casino Red' were applied by 'CSNRS Color Studio' in Santee, CA, who also refinished the steering wheel and radio blanking plate.
A new interior was constructed by Armando Moran of San Diego. Seat cushions were rebuilt and upholstered in a Blue'Gray leather. Matching door panels and wool headliner were also fabricated and installed. A coordinated Dark Gray was selected for the new carpet. Interior metal trim was refinished in Tuxedo Black. Armando followed the detail patterns from two original door panels that came with the car, and he fabricated wind lace, arm rests, visors, and rear seat passenger grab straps to the original patterns. He also finished the trunk and installed correct matting. Photos of the restoration from start to finish are available and will be included in the sale of the car.
The car has been shown at several judged meets since the restoration was completed. In two Spring 2022 judged shows; the first in Lake Las Vegas, NV (Antique Automobile Club of America) and the second in Rancho Santa Fe, CA (Classic Car Club of America) with the car winning FIRST IN CLASS at both shows, qualifying it for Senior Division in both clubs! At the 2023, 58th National Meet of the Airflow Club of America in Cambria, California, the car was awarded Best in Show and the Walter P. Chrysler Bowl.
Stats include:
323.5 CID Inline 8 cylinder L Head
130HP @ 3400 RPM, 250 lb ft @ 1600 RPM
Bore 3-1/4 in. Stroke 4-7/8 in
Main bearings: 5
Compression 6.5:1 std; 7.45:1 138HP optional
Material: cast iron block
Aluminum alloy cylinder head
Lubrication; pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pins
Carburetor: Stromberg EE-22
Transmission: 3 speed manual with Warner Automatic Overdrive
Differential: 4.33:1
Wheelbase: 137"
Brakes: 4 wheel hydraulic with vacuum power assist. 13" drums
Tires: 7.50 x 16
One of the last known remaining examples
One Of Only 38 C11 Custom Imperial Airflow Sedans Produced
Considered the most influential car of the 1930's, the Chrysler Airflow was the brainchild of Chrysler engineer, Carl Breer, who put into it the most modern concepts of automotive and aviation design. Airflow bodies were constructed around a cage-like steel girder network, to which the body panels were welded. The body and chassis were one integral unit, making the Airflow the forerunner of unibody construction. The unibody was so strong, that in a widely reported and now infamous publicity stunt, an Airflow was driven off a 100-foot cliff, bounced down the cliff face, landed on all four wheels, then promptly driven off under its own power.
The Custom Imperial was powered by Chryslers largest 323 cubic inch in-line eight, rated at over 130 horsepower. Wheelbase was a huge 137 inches. Weight was approximately 2 tons. 1936 starting price: $2,475. (A huge figure in that depression year). Although years ahead of its time, its advanced, extreme styling, and high cost hurt sales of the Airflow. Only 38 of the model you see here were built, making this a very rare car, indeed.
Chrysler's 1934 Airflow was a breakthrough in design. It incorporated a number of highly unusual and technically advanced features. Its breakthrough streamlined shape was developed in Chrysler's own wind tunnel. The wheels were located in the far corners of the body and the engine far forward to improve the ride. The chassis and body were a rigid, integrated structure. Regarded today as a milestone in engineering and an important example of Machine Age design, it proved to be more advanced than the American market, still struggling with the Depression in the middle years of the Thirties, could accept. Chrysler then did what it could to recoup its investment, retaining the Airflow's basic design and structure but giving it a more conventional look.
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. Today the Airflow is recognized as the most revolutionary and influential car of the 1930s. When it was introduced in 1934, it offered advanced features such as a wind-tunnel tested aerodynamic body design and unitized construction.
This delightful cruiser is a stunning example of Chryslers breakthrough art deco design and engineering. Though its Airflow was a commercial failure, Chryslers brave attempt at innovation made it one of the most important vehicle of the 1930s. Not only did the Chrysler Airflow lead the way in terms of aerodynamics streamlining as it was then called it was also among the first cars to incorporate a lightweight construction that presaged todays unibody vehicles.
The revolutionary concept was born when Chrysler engineer Carl Breer noticed the similarity between the shape of airplanes and birds, and he mused how archaic auto design was in comparison. With fellow Chrysler engineers Fred Zeder and Owen Skelton, he went to aviator Orville Wright, who understood more than a little about aerodynamics, to test models in a wind tunnel. The result was the Airflows ground-breaking streamlined design, which was sleeker and set lower to the ground than other American cars. The innovations didn't stop there. By moving the engine over the front axle, the Airflow gained additional interior space, while seating passengers between the front and rear wheels improved ride quality. The Airflow was a technological marvel with automatic overdrive and raked safety glass windshield.
Introduced at the 1934 New York Auto Show, the eight-cylinder Airflow caused a sensation. Orders for the revolutionary car poured in, and the Airflows complex construction was rushed. It eventually required expensive new tooling, which caused major assembly delays. After the initial spurt, sales were slow, and Chrysler ceased production of the landmark model in 1937. Despite the Airflows market failure, other manufacturers soon adopted the lighter weight steel body construction and better aerodynamics it pioneered. The spirit of the Airflow is a silent but important part of every car we drive today.
In summary, this striking classic and possibly the only remaining 1936 Chrysler C11 Imperial Airflow Sedan has very few miles since its full restoration completed under the supervision of one of the marque's foremost experts and enthusiasts. As offered, it is fully tuned, mechanically sound, and runs and drives wonderfully. Beauty, rarity, and splendor all come together in this magnificent Chrysler from the very heart of the classic art deco era of the 1930's and this highly desirable example is ready for touring or showing enjoyment as desired.
West Coast Classics are proud to present an absolutely exceptional example of this very rare and collectible frame off restored 1937 Chrysler C17 Airflow 8 Coupe, the last year and top-of-the-line most expensive model of the Airflows!
CCCA Full Classic
When introduced in 1934 the Chysler Airflow as the most advanced American automobile ever produced.
Today widely hailed as a masterpiece of Art Deco design and modern engineering.
Rare last year and most desirable C-17 chassis Coupe model.
These Chrysler Airflows cars were produced between 1934 and 1937. From 1934 to 1936, the wheelbase was 123" on these Chrysler 8-cylinder models, both 4-door sedans and 2-door coupes and for 1936 the 123 wheelbase Chrysler Airflow model was designated the C9 and the final models built in the last year of production in 1937 had a 140" wheelbase for sedans and 128" for the Coupe and were designated the C17. The front end was also highly modified in '37 with an extended prow along with the extended wheelbase. These models cost some 2-3 x as much as Chrysler's conventional models making them instantly exclusive.
These are incredibly rare art deco masterpieces which set both land speed records as well as being remarkable as engineering pioneers. They were the first production cars to locate the engine above the front axle (instead of behind it) and to improve ride quality the Airflow design moved the passenger compartment "cab forward" to the middle of the car's body.
By 1937, being last year of the Airflows these were to prove to be the most refined and today the most collectible by far. This example, the most desirable C-17 Eight Coupe is a full classic with the Classic Car Of America which would be eligible for all the major concours events.
Of 230 Coupes reportedly built, about 5% of the total C-17 Eights built; very few are known to still exist today.
The 323.5 cubic inch straight 8 is factory-correct and newly reconditioned matched to the 3 speed freewheeling Borg Warner centrifugal overdrive transmission.
With over 138 HP and factory 3-speed/overdrive transmission, this C-17 coupe is capable of modern traffic speeds, easily cruising at 70+ mph. The coupe has been tested with a little more than 600 miles of driving in both stop-and-go and highway-speed traffic, and stops like a modern car with its power brakes.
The frame was reconditioned when the body was removed, and all the body-to-frame connections are intact.
The coupe is built using only original Chrysler hardware (screws, washers, nuts and bolts stamped with the familiar MoPar logo DCDP which stands for Dodge/Chrysler/DeSoto/Plymouth).
Some major details of the restoration:
Body: Lead removed, painted original Gun Metal Gray with English Coach Vermillion trim
Frame: Media blasted, painted original satin black
Upholstery: By copying an unrestored car, done to exact factory pattern by a renowned expert
Upholstery material: Correct broadcloth material, supplied by LeBaron Bonney
Carpets: Correct horsehair
Steering Wheel and Shift Knob: Correct knob and rare banjo style wheel meticulously restored
Radiator: Rebuilt, with a new core
Engine: Rebuilt, with restored water and fuel pumps, starter, distributor, etc., with NOS oil filter
Cylinder head: Reconditioned cast iron, extremely rare and factory-correct, C17 raised letters
Carburetor: Rebuilt 1-barrel, rare Stromberg EX-32, with correct barrel-style electric choke
Transmission: Rebuilt
Overdrive unit: Rebuilt
Braking system: Rebuilt, with vacuum-assisted power booster
Differential: Rebuilt
Motor mounts: Rebuilt
Shocks: Rebuilt
Instruments: Rebuilt, calibrated and functioning correctly
Chrome: Restored to new condition and correctly pinstriped
Stainless: Restored to new condition and correctly pinstriped
Glass: New, with new gaskets throughout
Wiper motors: Rebuilt and functioning
Wiring: New
Wheels: Restored, checked for true and pinstriped to factory design
Tires: Correct 7.00x16 black wall Coker Classic Radials, with Coker tubes
West Coast Classics are proud to present this exceptional and stunning older restoration example of this completely rust and accident free 1942 Chrysler New Yorker 2 Door Club Coupe with it's reliable and virtually bullet-proof Chrysler 323.5 c.i. 'Spitfire' Straight 8 engine with a manual semi automatic 3 speed 'Fluid Drive' transmission! 1 of only 1,234 6 passenger Cub Coupes built in 1942.
A trim level named the "New York Special" first appeared on the Chrysler model lineup in 1938, with the "New Yorker" name debuting in 1939.
The New Yorker helped define the Chrysler brand as a maker of upscale models that were priced and equipped to compete against the upper-level models from it competitors.
The New Yorker was Chrysler's most prestigious model throughout most of its run. Over the decades, it was available in several body styles, including sedan, coupe, convertible, and wagon and until its discontinuation in 1996, the New Yorker was the longest-running American car.
The 1942 model year was less than half the usual length, with all civilian automotive manufacturing ending in February 1942.
This is one of the very collectible and extremely rare 1942 New Yorker Club Coupes with luxury appointments including the marbled bakelite dashboard with a detailed instrument panel and rare factory options of its day including the original radio and heater, indicating a loaded and no expense focus on basic, durable luxury by its original owners and including the following New Yorker attributes:
Fluid drive transmission
Extremely rare 1942 model year, built before the automakers switched to war production
1 of only 1,234 built
The Hayes Coupe was offered for only one year, but the seating pattern won immediate acclaim, so, from 1940 on, a Club Coupe with seating for six was now part of the Chrysler line. The three-passenger business coupe used the same body, with a large cargo space in place of the rear seat.
The Club Coupe appeared in all Chrysler series except Imperials, and it carried forward into the abbreviated 1942 model year with this being one such rare example with the desirable New Yorker trim and attributes.
Auto sales surged in 1941, as clouds of war gathered in Europe. Sensing that auto manufacture might be suspended if the United States became involved, consumers bought new cars when and if they could.
Their predictions were confirmed on December 7, 1941, with the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Pre-war contingency planning then turned to war production, and all new car manufacture was halted by February 1942.
As a result, production of the Club Coupe, which exceeded 22,000 in 1941, fell to just 3,919 in the 1942 model year, with 1,713 of them being Windsors, the more highly trimmed of six-cylinder Chryslers.
This 1942 New Yorker Club Coupe is very handsome and attractive and fully equipped with Fluid Drive, a radio, a heater, an electric clock, whitewall tires, wheel trim rings, rear fender skirts, and dual exterior mirrors. The cloth upholstery is original spec, as is the carpets and dashboard plastic. The brightwork is all very good quality, and the car is a wonderful driving older restoration that performs as good as it looks with recent extensive servicing including a full engine tune up, brake overhaul including master cylinder and wheel cylinders.
The 1942 Chryslers featured a new full-width, thin-bar grille, which set them apart from earlier and later models, particularly the post-war cars, which adopted a very heavy-set mesh grille. The beauty of its design and the quality of this particular cars older restoration, combined with its rarity, make this an extraordinarily desirable car.
Due to World War II, 1942 Chrysler production was cut short, ending completely in February 1942. The shortened production run, which included a "blackout" trim style, makes 1942 models rare and some of the most highly sought-after collector cars of its vintage today.
The main reasons for this being the Art Deco styling with Chrysler's pre-war styling noted for its sleek, aerodynamic design with prominent horizontal grilles and integrated fenders that hinted at the later Ponton-style bodies.
Many models featured Chrysler's Vacamatic Fluid Drive, a vacuum-assisted, semi-automatic transmission. Paired with a manual transmission, the fluid coupling eliminated the need for a clutch pedal in most driving situations.
The Chrysler line up of models of 1942 were as follows:
The Windsor, being the more luxurious of Chrysler's two six-cylinder model line with a 250.6 cu. in. L-head inline-six engine producing 120 horsepower and available as coupes, sedans, and convertibles.
The Saratoga (Series C-36K) was a higher-tier model line with a more powerful engine and exclusive interior appointments with a 323.5 cu. in. Spitfire Straight-Eight paired with Fluid Drive, the straight-eight engine was a refined and powerful choice for its time.
The New Yorker (Series C-36N), positioned near the top of the Chrysler lineup, the New Yorker shared a similar straight-eight engine and features with the Saratoga but offered its own styling along with the 323.5 cu. in. Straight-Eight. The 1942 model run for the New Yorker series was very limited, especially in the Club Coupe or Business Coupe body styles.
The Imperial (Series C-36), the top-of-the-line Chrysler, the Imperial included luxury models like the eight-passenger Crown limousine with the same 323.5 cu. in. Straight-Eight as the New Yorker but which featured the longest wheelbase and most luxurious appointments, such as wool broadcloth upholstery and a chauffeur's divider window. The production of the Crown Imperial was particularly limited in 1942, making it an extremely rare car today.
The C26 series, was the first New Yorker to be considered a standalone model rather than as an Imperial version. It also saw the introduction of Fluid Drive, a fluid coupling between the engine and the clutch. It featured an independent front coil suspension and a beam axle in the rear. The only transmission available was the basic three-speed manual.
Lightly redesigned bodies were introduced for 1941, with the Business Coupe now being a three-window design. The bodies were all marginally wider and lower, with increased glass surfaces. Another new model was the Town Sedan with the rear doors hinged at the forward edge of the doors.
With America entering World War II on 11 December 1941, all automobile production ended at the beginning of February 1942. Thus, the 1942 model year was roughly half the usual length. Cars built after December 1941 also had blackout trim.
The 1942 Chryslers were relatively modern, with a design that heralded the post-war Ponton style with fenders more incorporated into the bodywork. The grille consisted of five horizontal chrome bars wrapped around the front, reaching to the leading edge of the front wheel well.
The Chrysler New Yorker with the semi automatic Fluid Drive transmission delivered modern style performance in the form of a large and heavy 5 passenger coupe and this is a now very rare and desirable and collectible example of one of America's premier early post war cars.
Of all the body-styles available the Club or Business Coupes are widely considered by enthusiasts the most desirable, built with an eye towards style instead of practicality, with the small passenger compartment allowing for one of the most attractive and distinguished roof-lines of any car of it's day and proved to be a significant influence in the coming decades era of larger and even more imposingly styled cars.
This particular New Yorker Club Coupe has been beautifully preserved and should be considered an older restoration that would prove a wonderful addition to any post war collection.
It is finished in the always striking classic Dark Blue color with an original matching 'Dark Blue' specification broadcloth wool interior.
Factory options included; 'Comfort Master Heater', 8 tube radio, directional signals, electric clock, windshield wipers, luggage compartment light, 'Safe Guard' hydraulic brakes, small hubcaps, etc.
The car was professionally restored some years ago obviously with no expense spared, before being purchased by a renown private collection. The car obviously now shows some signs of age now in the carpet and a couple of minor dings in the stainless bright work which is otherwise in wonderful condition.
The original spare wheel is in it's rightful storage place in the trunk. The 323.5 cubic inch Spitfire straight 8 cylinder engine is extremely strong and powerful and this particular car drives magnificently after its recent full servicing - must be driven to be fully appreciated - drives straight as an arrow with no strange road wobbles, shakes or rattles.
This is a very rare opportunity to own a beautiful and supremely rare older restoration with superb attention to detail of a great daily driving example, and obviously never abused (and oozing pride of ownership since it's remarkable restoration), 1942 Chrysler C36 New Yorker 2 Door 6 Passenger 323.5 c.i. Spitfire Eight Cylinder Club Coupe.
West Coast Classics are proud to present a very rare, 1 of only 1,449 ever built, 1962 Chrysler Imperial LeBaron Southampton 4 door hardtop with its original 413 CID 4 barrel 350 HP "Wedge" V8 engine matched to the 'Torqueflite' automatic transmission with leather power front bucket seats, power windows & vent windows, power steering, power brakes, pile carpeting, padded dash, map lights, rare factory options including Electric Touch Tuner AM radio with power antenna, 'Airtemp' air conditioning & Heater & Defroster!
The LeBaron was a very limited production build, in 1962 the Imperial was available in only three distinct trim lines, each with specific body styles; The Imperial Custom, the Imperial Crown and the top-of-the-line Imperial LeBaron with this particular LeBaron Southampton model boasting an even rarer number 565 trim code designating an even higher end factory ordered option trim.
Imperials premium series, the LeBaron was introduced in 1957 and named after the great 1930's coachworks that had completed some of their most well known work on the Imperial chassis. Only two four door models were built, the pillared sedan and the pillarless Southampton hardtop.
The top-of-the-line LeBaron Southampton Hardtop was priced $400-$500 above the comparable Crowns and thus not very attainable except for the fortunate few. Today they prove a very rare and desriable collectible as an Imperial with the greatest of luxuries and comparable to the top-of-the-line Cadillacs.
In 1962 the priciest of the Imperials, the LeBaron Southampton pillarless sedan, offered the crisp roofline and the smaller rear window which mark the LeBaron apart from the other high end Imperial offerings and it offered nearly every possible driving convenience in its day with the most luxurious of interiors.
1 of 1,449 produced in 1962
Original 'Oyster White' (Color code W) paint
Type 934 Body LeBaron Southampton 4 Door Hardtop
413 CID 4 Barrel V-8 engine
Torqueflite Automatic transmission
Power seats
Power windows
Power steering
Power brakes
White Sidewall Tires
Electric Clock
Heater & Defroster ($102)
'Airtemp' Air conditioning ($590)
'Solex' Tinted Glass ($54)
'Electric Touch' AM Radio ($169)
The Chrysler Imperial LeBaron Southampton 4 Door Hardtop with the highly desirable and legendary High Performance 413 CID 4BBL V8 engine was matched to the legendary A-727 HD Torqueflite automatic transmission and this engine and transmission were installed in cars that were extremely powerful for their day and which became the basis for a successful racing engine in Chrysler's future and cemented Chrysler's reputation for engineering great engines that would serve Chrysler well in various forms for the next 20 years.
The flagship model for the Imperil lineup in the late fifties and early sixties was the LeBaron Southampton 4 Door Hardtop and it produced one of the most memorable high performance 4 door hardtops ever made.
This particular survivor example presents as original and correct as is possible with a phenomenally well preserved interior with patina but complete and with the trim, brightwork, and all accessories in excellent condition throughout. The car boasts its original and unique steering wheel and dash whose module is home to push-button transmission controls. The original upholstery and trim in Red leather displays patina for sure but is remarkably well preserved. The car has no rust and no signs of any accidents, it has some oxidation, signs of aging and patina, but that's it.
The car drives very well and has been recently serviced with new front brake shoes, drums and wheel cylinders, and new power brake booster. These cars are large, luxurious, fast, and exclusively remained with the core ingredients of a recipe developed since 1957 for the Imperial LeBaron Southampton, the rarest 4 door hardtop of its day with only 1,449 built!
With over 350 horsepower and a production run of only 1,449 cars, this rare survivor example 1962 Chrysler Imperial LeBaron Southampton 4 Door Hardtop will prove very collectible for any Mopar or classic American car collector or indeed American Muscle Car enthusiast. looking for a rare addition to their collection.
West Coast Classics are proud to present an absolutely exceptional and striking fully restored example of this top-of-the-line and most expensive model for Desoto in 1956; a 1956 DeSoto Adventurer 341/320HP CID V8 2 door 6 passenger Sportsman Hardtop with the 'Powerflite' push button automatic transmission in its striking and original factory correct two-tone 'White with Adventurer Gold Metallic Side Sweep' (color code 438) paint and original 'Brown Tweed & Gold' (trim code 569) vinyl and cloth interior and fully equipped with factory options.
1956 DE SOTO ADVENTURER 2 DOOR SPORTSMAN HARDTOP
341 C.I. 320HP DUAL 4 BBL V8
POWERFLITE PUSH BUTTON TRANS
WHITE WITH GOLD SIDE SWEEPS & MATCHING GOLD HUBCAPS
1 OF ONLY 996 BUILT IN '56
MODEL P = 1956 DeSoto
BODY 40 = Adventurer 2-Door Hardtop
PAINT 438 = Adventurer Gold Metallic over White
TRIM 569 = Gold Adventurer/Pacecar interior
SFONO 40 = same as BODY 40 above
SCHED 138 = Means it was built on the 38th day of production of 1956 Desoto's.
BODY NO 1392 = Means this was the 392nd Adventurer built. The first on was No. 1001.
PAD1 = Padded dash
PS3 = Power Steering
The car boasts its original 341.4 cubic inches Hemi engine along with the standard dual Carter four-barrel carburetors.
The car has had a disc brake conversion, as intended as an advancement over the original front drum brakes.
The engine number is S-24-A-1052 which indicates a 341 cubic inch (cid) DeSoto Hemi V8 from a 1956 Adventurer. This was the top-of-the-line, high-performance engine offered by DeSoto that year.
S: Refers to DeSoto.
24: Represents the 1956 Fireflite series.
A: A suffix that denotes the high-performance Adventurer model, which was a special sub-series of the Fireflite.
TO52: The specific engine production number.
Key Adventurer engine features were:
Displacement: 341.4 cubic inches.
Carburetion: Standard with dual Carter four-barrel carburetors.
Horsepower: The 341 Hemi in the 1956 Adventurer was rated at 320 horsepower.
Rarity: The Adventurer was a limited-production car, making this engine a rare find
This 1956 DeSoto Adventurer is one of only 996 produced for the model year with only very few known to remain in existence and few anywhere close to the condition of this particular example. It was restored in 2014 with few miles since completion and has always been stored indoors in a climate controlled facility.
Based on the popular mid level Fireflite line, the one step up from the Firedome line, was the unique and top-of-the-line no expense spared and only available as a 2 Door Hardtop, Adventurer, which was offered as a limited edition two door hardtop coupe. The 1956 Adventurer differed from the Fireflite by featuring a special high-performance 341ci HEMI V8 engine with dual carbs, dual exhausts, an upgraded suspension, power brakes, power seats and with a push-button 'PowerFlite' automatic transmission.
The Adventurer only came in a special factory paint scheme, either Black or White with an Adventurer Gold side sweep matched to Gold hubcaps.
Fully equipped with its original correct color keyed nylon and leather interior trim, full floor carpeting, power steering ($97 option), power brakes, power front seat, dual exhaust, electric clock, tinted glass ($32), tire tools, full spare wheel, factory AM radio and the rare factory option of Highway phono record player.
This Adventurer was the crown jewel of a small Desoto collection near Dallas, TX. After several years of ownership the owner spared no expense on this rare classic Desoto with a restoration that was finished in 2014, reportedly with an open checkbook!
The car will be sold with 15" Gold hubcaps with new whitewall tires and the original owners manual.
The Dual 4 BBL Adventurer 341/320HP V8 engine is extremely strong and powerful and sounds absolutely magnificent! This particular car also drives absolutely magnificently - it must really be seen and driven to be fully appreciated - a truly remarkable daily driver that will give any modern day car a run for it's money!
This is a rare opportunity to own a beautifully restored and maintained example of a 1956 DeSoto Adventurer 2 Door Sportsman Hardtop which is a perfect car for the DeSoto enthusiast or collector who would appreciate it's rare authentic originality or simply a great daily driving and turn-key ready example of one very fine classic 1950's American classic car for any classic American classic car collector!
West Coast Classics are proud to present this no expense spared 1940 Ford Deluxe Cabriolet Custom Street Rod built on a custom frame with a 'Wescott' fiberglass body and steel hood and with a Ford 302ci V8 engine matched to a C4 Automatic Transmission and Ford 8" rear end with modern upgrades including Power Steering, Power Disc Brakes, Air Conditioning, Door Poppers and Power Windows! The top is a removable one-piece Carson top finished in Hartz Cloth. The exterior is finished in a show quality Black paint finish.
Specs include:
Ford 302ci V8 (1987-1991 engine # E7TE)
Stock Heads
Edelbrock 1406 4 barrel carb (Carb #: 1406 0676)
Electric choke
600 cfm
3 Speed Automatic Transmission (# D4DP 7006 - AA_
Front Suspension: Independent
Rear Suspension: Leaf Spring
Ford 8 Rear End
Open Differential (Casting date: 5H5)
Ratio: 3.00:1
Front Power Disc Brakes
Rear Power Drum Brakes
Dual Exhaust - FlowMaster
Front Wheels: American Racing 15
Rear Wheels: American Racing 15
Front Tires: Pirellis 185/60R1
Rear Tires: Pirellis 235/70R15
Sway Bars are New
Floor Boards are Steel
Running Boards are Fiber Glass
Custom Shifter
Lift Off Carson Top
Banjo Steering Wheel
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Documentation includes a clear and clean California 1968 Ford title. This car is exempt from California smog certification requirements.
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Ford shipped cars from Michigan to the Shelby Automotive assembly plant in Las Vegas, NV for the spa treatment. As with the GT-H, the GT is offered only in the coupe body style, with metallic Silver Le Mans stripes instead of the Hertz-specific gold. While all GT-Hs are black, the GT comes in either White or Black with the White cars getting polished aluminum wheels and the Black GTs having black wheel centers.
All the GT's performance hardware is the same as that on the GT-H. Which means a Ford Racing Powerpack, consisting of a 90mm cold-air intake system and more aggressive calibration of the engine management system, mandating the use of premium fuel. Ford Racing performance mufflers and an X-pipe, replacing the standard H-shaped crossover, complete the powertrain mods with output originally estimated at 325 horsepower.
Underneath, Ford Racing provided new struts and shocks, which reduce the ride height about an inch and a half. Stiffer anti-roll bars improve body control and make for flatter cornering. And a race-inspired twin-tube strut tower base increased chassis rigidity in the engine bay and sharpened up steering response and the entire rear end was swapped for a new unit carrying a 3.55:1 diff ratio.
Here's where the GT and GT-H diverge. While the rental could only be obtained with an automatic transmission, the GT was offered with your choice of the same five-speed automatic transmission or a five-speed manual sporting a stubby Hurst shifter wearing a white shift knob that looks right out of the 1960s.The Hertz model runs "Bullitt"-style 17-inch alloys but the GT had a factory Plus One combination of 18-inch wheels and lower-profile tires.
The GT-H has its own unique Shelby hood, while the GT uses the factory aluminum hood fitted with a riveted-on hood scoop. This scoop's size and shape is close to that on the mid-1960s 427 Cobra and the treatment is preferable to the GT-H's bulky-looking fiberglass hood. Both cars have the same aluminum replacement grille, front fascia (borrowed from the California Special), and individual Shelby letters on the decklid. The "Hertz" badge on the GT-H's front fenders is replaced with one stating "Powered by Ford."
Things are standard GT fare inside with all interiors Black, and Shelby mods consisting of machined-aluminum sill plate badges, Shelby GT floormats, and an aluminum number plate on the I.P. that proclaims the car to be officially produced by Shelby Automobiles and its Shelby serial number.
Ford's 4.6 liter V8 got a few tweaks for duty in the Shelby GT, starting with a cold air induction system and the Ford Racing Power Upgrade Package, which ups output to a performance-tuned 319 horsepower and 330 pounds of torque. There's also a strut tower brace that really makes a statement in the packed but tidy engine bay and reminds everyone that this is absolutely no regular Mustang. Underneath there's an X-pipe exhaust system that gives the Shelby a distinctive sound. Big disc brakes were part of the Mustang's standard equipment, with this particular car having the afore mentioned upgrades, but it does have the Ford Racing suspension package which includes specially tuned shocks and struts, lowering springs, oversized sway bars, and a 3.55 gear set out back. The last part was big wheels and sticky rubber: 18-inch black Shelby alloys wrapped in BFGoodrich G-Force radials.
One of the best balances between looks and performance, price and exclusivity, this very low-mileage Shelby GT is impeccably preserved and you will look long and hard to find a finer example available anywhere else ready to be sparingly enjoyed as it continues to appreciate.
1954 Hillegass Sprint Chassis# JE-54-19
Hiram Hillegass began building race cars in 1919 while working at Mack in Allentown, Pennsylvania. By the time he died in 1960 at the age of 65, he was recognized as one of the foremost builders of single-seat race cars in the nited States, a stature that was endorsed when he was elected to the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame in 1997.
#19 was built in 1954 for Dixon Sawin and raced successfully in the URC until 1972. Purchased from the Sawin estate in 1992, it was restored in 1994.
It may well be the most original, unmolested, early tube frame-torsion bar suspended Hillegass in existence.
GM V8 powered with Hilborn Fuel injection, a vertex Magneto, and a CAE in/out Box.
Very historically significant, #19 still retains its original speed equipment including its Halibrand Quick Change Differential, Halibrand Disc Brakes with outboard brake lever, Halibrand Magnesium Knock Off Rims with period Firestone racing tires, Hillegass torsion bar suspension and tube axle.
The Leather upholstery and grille cover are all original, as is over 80% of the stunningly hand crafted aluminum body panels.
The fact that #19 survives in such an original unmolested condition is remarkable. Dan Owens, in his noted book Vintage and Historic Indianapolis race cars described the sprints of the 50?s and 60?s as the meanest, most difficult to drive, most overpowered and exciting cars in oval track history.
There are very few original examples remaining.
Has not been started in a number of years so it will need some attention to be fired once again.
]]>West Coast Classics are proud to present an absolutely exceptional example of this 1954 Jaguar Mark VII 3.5L 6 cyl Sedan with believed to be an original 25K miles, elegant and luxurious, this Jaguar is finished in its original 'Dove Gray' factory color paint with its original 'Natural Saddle Tan' leather interior compartment which has been treated to all new leather upholstery on the seats with the original door panels in a darker Saddle material that is soft, comfortable and pleasing to the eye. The dash board and gauge set remain original to the car and the headliner also appears vintage. A full sliding moon roof is found above the drivers area. An original Road Speed rim is found in the tidy and very original luggage compartment and the Dunlop spare tire is likely an original to the car as well. Owners manuals with prior owner information and maintenance books are also included with purchase of this grand automobile along with a 'Jaguar Heritage Certificate' to confirm its originality.
Built on 30th April 1953 and originally sold on 28th October 1954 by 'Hoffman Motor Car Company' of New York in 'Dove Gray' with a Tan leather interior.
Vin/Chassis # 736352 BW
Engine # R 4280-8
Body # LO13231
Gearbox # J1290
The Jaguar Mark VII evolved from the interim Mark V, which had looked like the pre-war Mark IV, except with long flowing separate fenders. Bentley had already used the name Mark VI, so Jaguar skipped to the next Roman numeral. The body was now full-width, with slab sides and the suggestion of fender lines, but the Mark V roofline was retained and the grille also bore the same Jaguar signature.
Inside, the burled walnut dash was crammed with gauges and the engine had been moved forward, which added three inches of leg space for the rear seat passengers. The new trunk also had a vertical spare wheel and was significantly larger. The Mark VII was able to cruise at 80 mph easily, especially with the optional overdrive gearbox, available in 1954. 'The Motor' magazine tested a Mark VII at a top speed of 101 mph and 0-60 mph in 13.7 seconds. Los Angeles Jaguar dealer Peter Satori did even better, with 0-60 in 12.6 seconds and a top speed of 104 mph.
The Jaguar Mark VII is a four-door luxury car built in Coventry, England from 1950 to 1956. Even in its original 1950 form, the Mark VII could exceed 100 mph, and in 1952 it became the first Jaguar to be made available with an optional automatic transmission, as per this particular example.
The Mark VIIs were legendary as being highly successful in racing and rallying and both variants of the Mark VII won race victories, and an M version won a Monte Carlo Rally. Factory-entered Mark VIIs won the Daily Express International Trophy Production Touring Car race at the renown Silverstone race five years running, and twice took the top three places. None other than Stirling Moss won in 1952 and 1953; and came 2nd and 3rd in 1954. In August 1956, at Road America in Elkhart Lake Wisconsin, a Mark VII averaged 59.2 mph to win a 100-mile NASCAR Grand National race for cars up to 3500 cc.
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All matching numbers original 3.4L 6 cylinder engine and 4 speed manual transmission! We recently acquired the car with the car sporting an excellent body with no signs of any previous damage history and no rust, a true mostly all original survivor! The car boasts four chrome wire knock off wheels and its original matching numbers engine. This is a rare car; 1 of only 4,445 XK150 Fixed Head Coupes in total (1957-60). The car driving exactly as it should with a recent full service after being acquired from a prominent collection.
3,442 CC DOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Twin SU Carburetors
4-Speed Manual Gearbox
4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Front Independent Torsion-Bar Suspension
Rear Live Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs
The XK 120 was produced by Jaguar between 1948-54 and caused an absolute sensation when launched and was immediately destined to become one of the most collectible cars of all time. Its name referred to its straight 6, 3442 cc 120 mph (193 km/h) top speed (faster with the windscreen removed!) engine which was insanely fast for its day and made the XK120 the world's fastest standard production car at the time of its launch and a very successful racer which spurred Jaguar onto breaking many world speed records.
When the model debuted in 1948 at the Earls Court Motor Show in London, England it was the darling of the show and remains today as much of a show stopper as it did then, over 74 years later! The car set numerous and now legendary speed records and was the fastest production car in the world in it's day and Jaguar used its engine for decades to come. In terms of design, the two-seater roadster with its classically simple flowing lines, slender tail and exotic flush-sided body was a massive leap forward for sports car design at the time and in many ways its styling remains unparalleled. Combined with new standards in terms of performance, Jaguar had obviously built what was destined to become this milestone and eminently always collectible classic car.
The attraction was obvious: Jaguar had created arguably the best-looking sports car on the market and, thanks to a powerful new straight six engine under the hood, the aerodynamically-styled machine would likely be the fastest production car in the world.
In late 1954, the XK120 was replaced by the XK140 which ushered in a number of cosmetic and mechanical updates.
By 1957, although the XK platform was nearing the end of its production life, there was still time for one final iteration: the XK150.
The 150 was the most refined XK yet. The majority of updates focused on the exterior and interior. However, the addition of disc brakes was also a major advancement. Revealed in May 1957, the XK150 bore an obvious family resemblance to the XK120 and XK140, but was radically revised. Most visibly, a one-piece windscreen replaced the split screen, and the wing line carried higher and more streamlined at the doors. The widened bonnet opened down to the wings, and on the coupes the windscreen frame was moved forward 4 inches to make passenger access easier.
The XK150 was launched in May 1957 and initially came in a choice of FHC and DHC body styles. An OTS Roadster joined the line up ten months later in March 1958.
From October 1959, Jaguar also offered a larger 3.8-litre engine which, like the 3.4, came in several alternative states of tune.
The XK150's dashboard came trimmed in leather, with walnut optional on all models. On the early drophead coups, the aluminum centre dash panel, which was discontinued after June 1958, had an X pattern engraving similar to the early 3.8 E-Type. Thinner doors gave more interior space. Suspension and chassis were very similar to the XK140, with manual-only rack and pinion steering available.
The 3.4 litre 6 cylinder was similar to the XK140's, but a new "B" type cylinder head raised power to 180 SAE bhp at 5750 rpm.
The XK150 S 3.4L XK engine with orange paint used on S models with straight port cylinder heads was fitted with three carburetors.
Disc brakes appeared for the first time as an option and the models could be fitted on either 16 5K solid wheels or optional 16 5K wire wheels such as this particular car.
The first closed and convertible XK150s were slower than their predecessors. After a twelve-month delay caused by the February 1957 factory fire, this deficit was corrected in the spring of 1958 with the March release of special equipment models fitted with disc brakes and the more powerful SE engine. Twin 1.75-inch (44 mm) SU HD6 carburetors and a modified B type cylinder head with larger exhaust valves improved performance to 220 BHP at 5500 rpm. While most export cars were SE models, a third option for the open two-seater featured an "S" engine with three 2-inch (51 mm) SU HD8 carburetors and a straight-port cylinder head boosting power to a claimed 265 BHP.
In 1960 the 220 hp 3.8 litre engine fitted in the full-sized luxury Mark IX sedan since October 1958 became available. It was tuned to produce up to 265 hp in S models and propel an XK150 to 135 mph (217 km/h) and from 060 mph in around 7.0 seconds.
In addition to the XK150, Jaguars product line included the Mark 1 Saloon which they had produced since 1955. Like the D-type sports racing car, the Mk1 was built around an advanced steel monocoque bodyshell. The XK150s eventual replacement, the fabled E-type, would follow suit in this regard.
Transmission was via a Moss four-speed manual gearbox or an optional three-speed automatic sourced from Borg-Warner.In addition to the standard 190bhp engine, Jaguar offered the Special Equipment upgrade that included their B-type cylinder head which had been developed from the C-type head fitted to previous iterations of the SE.
The new B-type head most notably featured enlarged exhaust valves. The rest of the upgrade pack included high lift camshafts, a 9.0:1 compression ratio, heavier torsion bars and twin exhausts. Wire wheels and fog lights were standard.
The XK150 SE developed 210bhp at 5500rpm which was 250rpm lower than the XK140 iteration.
Even more importantly, the torque rating was 216lb-ft at 3000rpm compared to 213lb-ft at 4000rpm for the outgoing XK140 SE.
As before, body panels were manufactured predominantly from steel. Exceptions were the hood and trunk lid which were formed from aluminum.To increase cockpit space and make access easier, FHC and DHC variants came with a windscreen that was moved four-inches further forward. Up front, the hood was widened and given a noticeably broader 16-bar instead of seven-bar grille.
To further modernize the XKs appearance, the tops of the front fenders were flattened thus giving a more integrated look. Similarly, down each flank, the previously curvaceous line the flowed from the front to the rear fenders was straightened lending a more contemporary, slab-sided appearance. This in turn enabled the doors to be more neatly integrated.
Inside, the XK150 featured a new dash layout. The large read outs for road and engine speed (previously located at either end of the dash) were now positioned centrally. In between them was a small ammeter and the toggle switch for the lights. Although the walnut veneered dash and door caps used previously were still available as an option, as standard they were now upholstered in leather. An alloy dash fascia was also available. To reflect the extra space inside, subtly revised seats were installed. Once again, the FHC variant came with two small rear seats. Leather was used to upholster practically every surface that wasnt carpeted. In addition to the Special Equipment package, Jaguar offered a variety of optional extras.
Buyers could have the exterior of their XK150 enhanced with Lucas fog lamps, a leaping Jaguar mascot for the hood, a chromed luggage rack for the trunk, a chromed badge bar, Dunlop Road Speed tyres with whitewalls and steel wheels with chrome hub caps and rear wheel spats. Performance upgrades included a dual exhaust system, close-ratio gearbox and Dunlop racing tires. Instead of the standard 8.0:1 compression ratio, a 7.0:1 or 9.0:1 ratio could be requested. A steel underbody shield gave protection against adverse road conditions.
Cockpit extras included fitted luggage (two suitcases to match the rest of the interior), a choice of Radiomobil radios, an aluminum dash, bucket seats and a white or wood finished Bluemels steering wheel. The FHC could be specified with a Weathershields sunroof. The DHC could be specified with a full-length tonneau cover.
The XK150 FHC weighed in at 1473kg while the DHC variant was slightly lighter at 1460kg. In comparison, the outgoing XK140s had both tipped the scales at 1420kg. Top speed of the standard (non-SE) XK150 variants was 124mph compared to 125mph for the equivalent XK140s. The XK150s 0-62mph time was a tenth quicker at 8.3 seconds. The S engine (which was not available with an automatic gearbox) came with triple SU HD8 carburettors instead of twin HD6 units. It also featured a new straight port cylinder head to improve air flow. Cars ordered to S specification came with all the Special Equipment trim as standard. The result was a peak output of 250bhp at 5500rpm and 240lb-ft at 4500rpm.
Unsurprisingly, the 3.4 S was the fastest XK150 yet; all three body styles could hit around 135mph while the 0-62mph time dropped to a little over seven seconds. At the London Motor Show in October 1959, Jaguar launched a brace of new 3.8-litre engine options for the 1960 model year. The 3.8 motor had already seen service in the Mark IX Saloon which had been launched a year earlier. It was bored from 83mm to 87mm while stroke remained unchanged at 106mm. This gave a displacement of 3781cc which was a 339cc gain over the 3.4-litre unit. Both iterations of the 3.8-litre engine ran an 8.0:1 compression ratio.
The 3.8 SE came with two SU HD6 carburettors. It produced 220bhp at 5500rpm and 240lb-ft at 3000rpm. Top speed was 130mph and 0-62mph took 7.4 seconds.
The top-of-the-range 3.8 S came with triple SU HD8 carbs. Peak output was 265bhp at 5500rpm and 260lb-ft at 4000rpm. Top speed was 137mph and 0-62mph took 7.1 seconds.
XK150 production ended in November 1960. In total, 9365 were built in all configurations.
Four months later (in March 1961), production of the highly anticipated E-type began.
Left-hand drive XK150 DHC production ran from March 1957 to October 1960. VINs ranged from 837001 to 839010.
Right-hand drive XK150 DHC production ran from November 1957 to October 1960. VINs ranged from 827001 to 827663.
Of the 2682 XK150 DHC constructed, 1903 were to 3.4 / SE trim, 104 were to 3.4 S trim, 586 were to 3.8 trim and 89 were to 3.8 S trim.
Left-hand drive XK150 FHC production ran from March 1957 to November 1960. VINs ranged from 834001 to 847095. (This particular model being VIN # 835699)
Right-hand drive XK150 FHC production ran from August 1957 to October 1960. VINs ranged from 824001 to 825369.
Of the 4450 XK150 FHC constructed, 3445 were to 3.4 / SE trim, 199 were to 3.4 S trim, 656 were to 3.8 trim and 150 were to 3.8 S trim.
Left-hand drive XK150 OTS production ran from September 1957 to November 1960. VINs ranged from 830001 to 832174.
Right hand drive XK150 OTS production ran from October 1958 to October 1960. VINs ranged from 820001 to 8200093.
Of the 2263 XK150 OTS constructed, 1297 were to 3.4 / SE trim, 888 were to 3.4 S trim, 42 were to 3.8 trim and 36 were to 3.8 S trim.
This particular FHC XK150 includes the dual exhaust, wire spoke wheels and additional front lights. This fine XK150 is remarkably clean and is virtually 100% original under the bonnet. The fit and finish of the entire car is excellent.
The car has no rust whatsoever with the floor boards and all the typical rust-prone areas all original and unrestored and not painted and solid and rust-free! The car has no signs of any accidents and has a very straight body and looks extremely impressive with the Red leather interior and chrome wire wheels and a beautiful interior with the door panels, dashboard, seats and carpets all in very fine all condition throughout.
Combined with new standards in terms of performance, Jaguar had obviously built what was destined to become this milestone and eminently always collectible classic car.
Engine # 3292-8
Chassis # S835699DN
Body # J871C
Gearbox # JL307800CR
The lucky new owner will no doubt be eligible for nearly any major classic car rally or event he or she chooses. An excellent and highly drivable example of a true sporting legend, this exceptional, low mileage Jaguar simply begs to be driven.
Widely considered the most desirable of the Classic Era Lincoln models, this rare K Convertible Roadster is believed to be one of only thirty examples coached by LeBaron, with reportedly only 3 known to remain.
The Lincoln K series (also called the Lincoln Model K, in line with Ford nomenclature) is a luxury vehicle that was produced by the Lincoln Motor Company between 1931 and 1940. The second motor line produced by the company, the Model K was developed from the Model L, including a modernized chassis on a longer wheelbase.
In 1931, Lincoln introduced a V-12, becoming a feature of the company for nearly 20 years. One of the most exclusive vehicles produced in the United States during the 1930s, the Model K competed domestically against the Cadillac V-12 and V-16, Packard Twin Six, Chrysler Imperial, Pierce-Arrow Model 53 and the Duesenberg Model J, as well as bespoke bodied ultra-luxury models from Hispano-Suiza, Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Bugatti, and Mercedes-Benz. Alongside multiple body configurations produced by Lincoln, bare chassis were provided for coachbuilders.
Lincoln made significant design changes in 1935, both with their model designations and engineering of their well respected luxurious automobiles. These changes began with the elimination of the KA and KB chassis numbers determining the wheelbase. All cars would be considered K-Series and have model designations instead.
Both 136-inch and 145-inch choices in wheelbase still existed, but now each chassis would be offered with your choice of body, so buyers no longer felt obligated to buy the longer wheelbase to have the most prestigious offerings from Lincoln.
The stylish open Roadster body sports a rakish windshield, flowing fenders with skirts and running boards, and elegant side-mounted welded steel-spoked wheels. The significant small-mesh grille, hood side-louvres and iconic greyhound ornament, framed by the chromed headlights and a single piece front bumper, produce an overall aesthetic of sporty flamboyance.
The top is completely retractable into the recess behind the front seats, producing a clean open-car contour, even when the ample two-seater rumble is erected in the rear deck. A side panel accesses the interior luggage space sufficient for golf clubs or weekend totes, while the rear luggage rack facilitates larger bags. The external grandeur is mirrored by the Art Deco styling of the interior with its leather upholstery and dual-dial instrument panel, accented with brightwork knobs and levers.
The 1935 model was markedly quieter than its predecessors, as it benefited from the addition of five rubber engine mounts. Furthermore, hydraulic shock absorbers, which automatically adjusted to temperature and road conditions, plus a new synchronized gearing mechanism, rendered the ride noticeably smoother. This gorgeous 1935 K Convertible Roadster presents in stunning yellow, true to the Lincoln K flagship model in the original sales brochure.
By 1935, the fine car market had all but disappeared. With the world gripped by the most serious economic depression of all time, many could no longer afford such luxuries. Even those that were still able to buy fine automobiles felt that it was inappropriate to spend such huge sums when so many were suffering financially. As a result, most of the great manufacturers were either bankrupt or nearly so. Lincoln would be one of the few survivors, due to the support of the Ford Motor Company. Edsel Ford retained a strong interest in these cars, and he actively supported the great designers of the time with commissions on Lincoln chassis.
Improvements for 1935 would include a better center of gravity by moving the passenger compartment forward a full 11-inches to distribute and balance weight more evenly on the axle centers. The engines were now installed with five rubber mounts along with an improved camshaft and needle bearing tappet rollers for more silent operation. They also offered a better, smoother suspension. An engine oil filter and free-wheeling were now standard equipment, and helical cut gears and new synchronizing allowed for better, easier shifts from the transmission.
Although, the longer wheelbase proved more popular with sales totaling 820 vehicles, the more desirable today are the 136-inch special order models from the LeBaron and Brunn coachbuilding shops. Only 580 cars would find this well-balanced, shorter chassis in 1935. Of those, only 30 would become the gorgeous special order LeBaron Convertible Roadster, designated Model 542, such as this rare and fantastic example.
The shear presence and design of this LeBaron Convertible Roadster is impressive. Its size, curves, color, design, and rarity really make it irresistible when viewing in person. The rake of the windshield and convertible top, the curvature of the crowned, skirted fenders, the overall shape of the rear deck hiding the rumbleseat, and the forward grille all comprise a sleek and stimulating Lincoln.
All Lincoln owners in 1935 were honored with leather interior seating, Art Deco inspired two-gauge instrumentation clusters, locking glovebox, sidemounts with steel covers, rear luggage rack, 17-inch wire wheels and whitewall tires as standard equipment. The greyhound mascot on the radiator was now a fixed ornament as well. The L-head engine measures 414 cubic inches and produces 150 horsepower while paired to a three-speed manual transmission.
This is an early built example and ready to enjoy immediately.
LeBarons convertible roadster was built on a shortened, sportier 135-inch wheelbase chassis, and only 30 examples were produced, at a price of $4,600 each in 1935, reserving them for only the worlds wealthiest buyers., and it is one of reportedly only three that survive today.
K4419 has benefited from a now older but still very comprehensive professional restoration to high standards. The interior, engine bay, and undercarriage are detailed, and the car is equipped with dual side-mounted spares with matching painted metal covers, as well as accessory rearview mirrors. It has continued to be well cared-for and has been extensively sorted mechanically and cosmetically; it presently shows 363 miles since restoration.
The Model K Convertible Roadster is rarely seen and highly collectible, as it is one of the most beautiful Lincolns of the Classic Era. Offered here is one of the few survivors. It has been beautifully restored, presented, and maintained, and it ready to be enjoyed on the show field or the open road.
Luxury at its finest.
West Coast Classics are proud to present an absolutely exceptional and outstanding example of a 1940 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental Convertible. Reportedly only 350 of these hand built 1940 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental Convertible models were built with very few still known to exist according to the Lincoln Zephyr Owners Club.
Following a restoration in 2002, overseen by a dedicated Lincoln specialist, this Continental Convertible has garnered numerous awards, including several important honors from the Lincoln & Continental Owners Club, such as the best primary Lincoln Continental in 2003 and the Best Senior Lincoln Continental in 2004 a testimony to both the quality of the restoration and the attention to authenticity.
Its Black nitrocellulose lacquer paint is complemented by a matching black canvas roof accented with Red piping. The interior is finished in striking Oxblood red leather and the dashboard houses a radio, heater, and a full array of gauges. The power-operated convertible top lowers neatly behind the rear seat and is covered by a matching canvas boot.
Power is provided by the 12-cylinder Lincoln H-series engine enlarged to a displacement of 292 cid for 1940 and this example features the optional Columbia overdrive unit, which allows for comfortable high-speed cruising.
The car benefited from a mechanical refresh in 2022 and still presents in show quality today. Welcome at all CCCA judging and tour events, with reportedly just 16 of 1940 Continentals convertibles being listed in its current roster. Authentically restored to exacting standards, this impressive example is ready to be appreciated for its design significance as well as its multi-cylinder touring ability.
One of Just 350 Convertibles Built for 1940 with reportedly only 16 listed as having survived.
Landmark Continental Design by Eugene T. Gregorie
Authentic Highest Possible Quality Restoration in Striking Colors
Recipient of Numerous Trophies Including Multiple LCOC Awards
Well Equipped with Columbia Overdrive, Radio, and Heater
Eligible for CCCA Judging and Tours
292 CID L-Head V-12 Engine
Zenith Downdraft Carburetor
120 BHP at 3,500 RPM
3-Speed Manual Gearbox with Overdrive
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Front Independent Suspension
Rear Three-Quarter Floating Axle with Semi-Elliptical Leaf Springs.
This was one of the sweetest rides you could by in 1940. Imagine the looks back in the day, to drive a sporty luxury convertible and these prestigious Lincoln Zephyr models were all of that and more. The Zephyr was Lincoln's response to the depression and one of major significance.
It was seen as the first successfully designed streamlined car available in the U.S. and was powered by a water cooled 4784cc (292c.i.) V12 engine on a 125" wheelbase! Vacuum assisted brakes were standard, important for stopping well for such a large car, and a 3 speed gearbox was matched to a Columbia two speed rear axle.
Introduced in 1936 and structurally revised for 1940 and heavily face lifted, not for the better, in 1942. It returned after the war as a warmed up continuation but without the Zephyr name.
With just 350 convertibles and 54 coupes produced, the beautifully styled Continental found adoration within the art and automotive worlds, with Frank Lloyd Wright and Rita Hayworth among the cars noteworthy owners. It would become the basis for the Lincoln image for the next nine decades. With a few scattered years of non-production, the Continental was manufactured in 10 generations and for a total of 55 years until its most recent discontinuation in 2020.
The stunning example offered here was nicely appointed with Columbia overdrive, whitewall tires, radio, two-speed rear axle, clock, this stylish and rare Continental cabriolet must have turned heads in 1940, as it does today. In recent years it has been kept in the same show-ready condition by the collection staff of its collector owner and is in as fine condition as the day it was last restored.
The car is strikingly handsome in Black finish that showcases the cars voluptuous lines perfectly, this Continental features a sumptuous and gorgeous Red leather and Gold inlay interior that coordinates so strikingly well with the exterior.
Fitted with the legendary Lincoln V-12 and a Columbia overdrive transmission, this rare and stylish 1940 Continental Cabriolet makes an ideal choice for further touring, or simply cruising on the great American highway, just as it did for the man who conceived the legendary car from the start, Edsel Ford.
You will be hard pressed to find anyone to dispute that the 1940 Lincoln Zephyr Continental Convertible is one of the most elegant automobiles ever to roll off the Lincoln assembly line. Originally designed as a custom bodied special for Edsel Ford, Bob Gregorie's 'Mark I' Convertible seems to only look better and better as the years have passed.
Powered by the long stroke V12 derived from Ford's flathead V8 and one of the first cars ever to be recognized as something more than just an automobile by both the 'New York's Museum of Modern Art' & the 'Classic Car Club of America', amongst others, and one of the finest examples of automobile as art it remains to this day. An ageless design to be sure and a highly coveted CCCA Classic making these particular 1940 cars extremely collectible and prized amongst Zephyr enthusiasts.
More than almost 85 years later they are one of the few such models still as attractive today as they were to buyers when new. Of all the elegant models produced, the convertible is the rarest with only 350 manufactured in 1940 and with very few known to remain according to the LZOC. The car was built on a 125 inch wheelbase channel section frame with a central X crossmember. Inside bench seats dressed in Red leather seat four comfortably and the car boasts a woodgrain instrument panel that houses the standard array of Gold tone gauges in a beautiful period Art Deco theme with its original AM radio! The clock matching the speedometer dresses up the passenger side and the car has a power top and original factory added options of both the AM Radio and Heater and side mirror.
Moving this nearly 4,000 pound convertible is its original V12 engine mated to its original standard column shift 3 speed manual transmission which featured synchronized second and third gears. This rare Lincoln will still run down the road at freeway speeds with no hesitation, she has no wobbles or creaks. This car is an all steel car. She has obviously been in a private collection in a controlled environment for many years.
This particular example was beautifully and painstakingly restored with absolutely no expense spared to the highest possible standard in this 'Black' color which is stunningly striking along with its white wall tires and Zephyr wheels. The 'Red' leather interior with wool carpets has also been faithfully reupholstered and is in virtually flawless and exceptional condition throughout and the correct factory canvas power Black top is also in exceptional condition.
There can only be very few miles on the car since it's unibody (body welded to the frame) cosmetic and mechanical restoration. This is a rust free car that retains all of its original body panels including floors, rockers, and trunk with very straight panels. That factor is extremely important on a unibody designed car such as this. Completely restored from the ground up mechanically, cosmetically, and correctly. All the chrome has been replated including top bows, seat hardware, etc. Gold tone gauge cluster and the woodgrain were also fully restored. The floor boards, trunk and all the typical rust-prone areas are completely solid and rust-free and the car has has no signs of any accidents - a razor straight body and obviously an always garaged and cherished car since new with no rust! The original spare wheel and tire and factory tools are still located in their rightful storage place in the trunk.
The original V12 292 c.i. engine is extremely strong and powerful and this particular car drives magnificently - must be driven to be fully appreciated - drives straight as an arrow with no strange road wobbles, shakes or rattles - a truly remarkable daily driver that will give any modern day car a run for it's money!
Former MULTI YEAR Lincoln & Continental owners Club 'Emiritus Award' winner, AACA First Place National Fall Meet winner, Dearborn National Merit Award winner, 'E.T. Gregorie Trophy' Best of Show Senior Division Winner, Dearborn, MI Lincoln & Continental Owners Club 'Best Primary Division Award winner, 2016 'Best Primary Division' Lincoln Owners Club Eastern National Meet & other 'Peoples Choice Awards' etc!
This is a rare opportunity to own what must surely be the best example anywhere of a beautifully restored 1940 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental Convertible, recently acquired from a prominent collection and a car which has obviously always been exquisitely maintained and stored the car under the most ideal conditions, this is definitely a car you can show and enjoy today and which is undisputedly very rare, highly desirable, and a superb collectible and unabused example of one of the outstanding designs of the early forties pre-war art deco period!
This is one very desirable pre-war CCCA full classic for any classic American car enthusiast or collector to add to his collection, a very honest and exquisitely restored, both cosmetically and mechanically, example of a 1940 Lincoln Zephyr V12 Continental Convertible and a sure-fire investment that's sure to appreciate over the years for any classic American car collector or Lincoln Zephyr enthusiast!
West Coast Classics are proud to present an absolutely exceptional example of this original southern California owner 1985 Mercedes-Benz 380SL roadster with only 36K original miles in its original 'Champagne Metallic' (color code 473) factory paint with its original matching color factory hardtop, its also all original 'Brazilian Brown' (trim code 273) leather interior and matching original German canvas and hardly used dark brown soft top!
Always garaged with no accidents or rust and owned by its original southern California owners since imported from Stuttgart, Germany in July 1985!
RARE EUROPEAN SMALL BUMPER 6 CYLINDER AUTOMATIC IMPORT IN 1985 TO SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
ONE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA OWNER SINCE NEW WITH 36K ORIGINAL MILES WITH ORIGINAL OWNERS CALIFORNIA 'PINK SLIP' TITLE!
ALWAYS GARAGED AND ALL ORIGINAL VIRTUALLY PRISTINE EXAMPLE! NONE FINER!
RECENT FULL SERVICE AT MALIBU MOTORS, MERCEDES INDEPENDENT SPECIALISTS OF SANTA MONICA, CA.
The Euro spec R107 280SL is a European-market version of the SL-Class, which were all privately imported from Germany, and are very rare and not nearly as common as the V8-powered 380SL in the United States
The 2.8-liter M110 inline-six features Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection and was rated at 182 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque when new. A four-speed automatic transmission sends power to the rear wheels.
Desirable attributes of this rare R107 include;
Engine: The 280SL is powered by a 2.8-liter inline-six cylinder engine with fuel injection. This engine makes the car lighter and gives it sportier handling compared to its V8 counterparts.
Transmission: Available with an automatic or five-speed manual transmission.
Appearance: European-market SLs, often called "Euro-spec," are distinguished by their slim bumpers and different headlights, which differ from the heavier bumpers required for U.S. safety standards.
Features: These roadsters were produced with a convertible soft top and a removable hardtop. They often feature power windows, four-wheel disc brakes, and air conditioning.
This particular car is not only all original with only 36K original miles but has just recently been fully serviced by a marque specialist and drives exactly like such a well maintained and serviced Mercedes should and truly must be seen and driven to be truly appreciated. The engine is extremely strong with no noticeable oil leaks, the transmission shifts smoothly through the gears and the temperature always remains cool. The car has a recent California smog certificate.
Without doubt, this is one of the finest classically beautiful roadster designs built by Mercedes-Benz, probably the last classically beautiful convertible series they built and now becoming more desirable and collectible than ever before - certainly you will look long and hard to find a finer head-turning Euro-spec with slim bumpers example with only 36K original miles with only one mature southern California owner who cherished and has always garaged and babied the car since new available anywhere else!
West Coast Classics are proud to present an absolutely beautiful example of this all American classic 1948 Mercury Eight Woody Station Wagon, a truly exceptional surviving example with the highly desirable 255 CID V8 Mercury engine as opposed to the Ford 239 CID V8 in 'Taffy Brown' with its very rare all original Red leather interior and original hand selected Bird's Eye Maple Wood and with this example having been previously part of the legendary 'Nick Alexander Woody Collection' in California. Acquired by Nick Alexander in 1996 and both mechanically and cosmetically refurbished by his curators as required with the rare original 'Birdseye Maple Wood' being beautifully restored . The wagon will be sold with a magazine featuring it, manuafacturer's literature and a Rogue award.
255 CI Flathead V-8 engine
Columbia two speed rear end differential
Oil-bath air cleaner and oil filter
Column shifted 3-speed manual transmission
'Taffy Brown' exterior with Maple Woodgrain panels
Red leather 3-row interior
Fold down 2nd row seat and removable 3rd row
Wood trimmed door cards
Early Ford V8 Club of America Rouge Award/National Merit Award Winner
Henry Ford famously instructed his workers at the Iron Mountain plant to set aside the prized pieces of Birdseye and Tiger Striped lumber to be used only on Special Jobs, usually friends or important business associates. This particular example boasts its original Birdseye wood. The Red leather seats are also all original and whilst obviously showing some minor signs of wear, which is very minimal, the patina must be considered quite beautiful and highly sought after and which should prove most desirable and an extraordinarily rare accompaniment for the most discerning of collectors!
The engine, transmission, and Columbia 2 speed rear end were rebuilt and the brakes and suspension were serviced as required. The V8 was upgraded with a new radiator, electric fuel pump, and Fenton headers with dual exhaust.
The wagon drives as good as it looks with the 2 speed Columbia rear differential making highway speeds attainable. Documented with receipts, a magazine feature, and notes during ownership. 70,000 miles believed to be original.
Power comes from a 255ci flathead V8 paired with a two-speed automatic transmission, and additional equipment includes a wooden split tailgate, sliding rear side windows, as well as a push-button AM radio and a Merco-Therm ventilation and heating system. 15steel wheels with chrome hubcaps and trim rings are mounted with 225/75 Coker Classic wide-whitewall tires. A covered spare is mounted to the split tailgate, and braking is provided by four-wheel drums.
The cabin features a split front bench and two rear benches upholstered in the same all original 'Red' leather upholstery. Matching materials line the ceiling, and the doors, tailgate, and side panels are trimmed with refinished wood. Equipment includes an AM radio along with a Merco-Therm ventilation and heating system. The two-spoke steering wheel features a chrome horn ring and frames a 110-mph speedometer, auxiliary gauges, and an analog clock. The 255ci flathead V8 features a single downdraft carburetor with an offset oil-bath air cleaner. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a Merc-o-Matic two-speed automatic transmission.
The first woodies were manufactured in the early 1900s by local coach makers. As was customary for all coach builders they bought chassis without bodies and then constructed and crafted the bodies out of wood themselves. The coach makers would then sell these bespoke creations to local business owners who would use them to transport guests to and from the train stations and local resorts and attractions and later airports. These wagons were multi-seat transporters, with room for up to 8 passengers plus luggage and this early usage led to the vehicles being known first as depot hacks, referring to the depots and the old horse-drawn carriage nickname of "hack".
The woody continued to grow in popularity, until finally in 1929, Ford released its own version of it. Ford marketed the cars as all-purpose utilitarian vehicles with a low initial cost, as wood-bodied cars were at that time less expensive to build than steel-bodied cars. Through 1939, Fords station wagon bodies were assembled by Murray Corporation of America, from wood grown in Henry Fords very own northern Michigan forests. That year, however, relations between Ford Motor Company and Murray soured. This led Ford to consider in-house production of the station wagons. Discussions with the management of the Iron Mountain operation, then providing the wood parts to Murray for assembly, resulted in a proposal for all body assembly to be done in the northern Michigan locale and the bodies would then be sent to assembly plants fully finished and trimmed. The change took place at the beginning of the 1940 model year.
The bodies then took on a much different appearance. The roofline was subtly altered, becoming more rounded at the windshield header. Panel spacing was changed, such that the lower panel became narrower, and the rear quarter panels were consolidated into one piece. The rear doors, formerly hinged at the back, suicide style, now swung toward the front. The spare tire, housed inside in 1938 and 39, on the back of the drivers seat, was returned to the tailgate, where it had been located from 1935 to 1937. Deluxe wagons were given the option of maple or birch framing, while Standards came in maple only. Darker-colored gumwood began to be used for panels, in addition to birch, in both series. The choice of material was random. Bodies were given three coats of varnish, hand-sanded between each application. Three engines were available: the popular 221 cubic inch 85 hp V-8, the small 136 cubic inch 60 hp V-8 (installed in just two Standard wagons), and the larger 239 cubic inch 95 hp V-8 from the new Mercury, which was fitted to 354 Deluxe station wagons.
By the late 1940s, it became apparent to auto manufacturers that the woodies were becoming too increasingly expensive to produce and although still very popular in appearance, they were no longer a viable option for most buyers combined with the inconvenience and high cost of cleaning and maintaining the wood, so the manufacturers started making wood-paneling instead as an option for their higher-end models.
The first all new post war Mercury's, from 1949-51 were known as the 'bath tub' generation and popularized in legend by James Dean in 'Rebel Without A Cause' and beloved today as then as a cult all American 1950's classic! Four body styles, with Mercury's structural wood wagon shifting from four to two doors in this generation whilst sharing its bodyshell with Ford's wagon. The familiar flathead V8 was enlarged from the 1946-48 models and offered with a self shifting Merc-O-Matic transmission in 1951. Horsepower was also raised and these Woody Wagons were the rarest of all these models and the most prized today amongst collectors.
This particular 1948 Mercury V8 Woody Wagon is a very well know example and superb in every respect and so rare in its originality that it is surely one of a kind and the one to won for the most descerning of collectors. The wagon is so original as to still hold true to its roots and which obviously sounds and drives absolutely magnificently - see the video on our You Tube Page on our website for visuals. The floors are original and rock-solid, with no signs of any repairs ever performed. All of the sheet metal is original, rust-free and very straight.
In summary this must be one of the finest examples anywhere from the most prominent of collections of a fully operational and turn-key ready 1948 Mercury 255 CID V8 Woody Wagon n the most striking of color combinations; a wonderful and very collectible example of an all American Mercury Woody Wagon!
]]>West Coast Classics are proud to present an excellent example of this very desirable 1959 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 2-door Sceni-Coupe Hardtop with the Rocket 371 CID V8 engine with the 3 speed manual transmission, more formally known as the Holiday SceniCoupe, a 2 Door Hardtop with the distinctive and stylish new Oldsmobile "Linear Look" design for 1959. The SceniCoupe is known for its expansive glass and large "bubble top" greenhouse, which created an airy, open feel for passengers.
Key features:
Engine and drivetrain: The Dynamic 88 came standard with a 371 cubic-inch "Rocket" V8 engine, generating 270 horsepower. It was paired with a standard Jetaway Hydramatic automatic transmission or a 3 speed manual transmission.
The 1959 models were a complete design change from the previous year. They featured long, low horizontal lines and flattened fins that began on the front fenders and rose toward the tail, a styling cue that Oldsmobile called the "Linear Look".
Like other Oldsmobiles of this year, the Dynamic 88 SceniCoupe featured a stylish and futuristic dashboard design for the time. It also included a "Safety-Spectrum Speedometer," which used a color-bar instead of a needle, changing color to indicate speed range (green for 035 mph, amber for 3565 mph, and red above 65 mph).
The Oldsmobile 88 (a.k.a. the Eighty-Eight) was a full size car sold by the Oldsmobile division of GM and produced from 1949 until 1999. From 1950 to 1974 the 88 was the division's top-selling line, particularly the entry-level models such as the 88 and Dynamic 88. The 88 series was also an image leader for Oldsmobile, particularly in the early years (1949-51) when it was one of the best performing automobiles thanks to its relatively small size, light weight and advanced overhead-valve high-compression V8 engine. With the large, high performance V8, the Oldsmobile 88 is considered the predecessor to the muscle cars of the 1960s.
This particular example is a beautiful older restored example which looks extremely impressive throughout. The original spare wheel and jack is in the trunk and the car has no signs of ever having any rust or accidents.
This particular car also drives very well, straight as an arrow with no strange road wobbles, shakes or rattles. The transmission shifts smoothly through all the gears and the temperature always remains cool!
This is a rare opportunity to own a very rare and desirable 1959 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 2 Door Scene Coupe Hardtop - one very desirable, collectible and unabused example of one of the outstanding all American cars and a truly beautiful GM classic car design.
]]>West Coast Classics are proud to present a fully operational 1932 Packard Light Eight Model 553 5 Passenger Sedan and one of 6,750 produced and now reportedly one of approximately 17 Light Eight sedans left in the world.
Beautifully refurbished lush interior, runs well with a Chevrolet 360 crate engine. The car was reportedly first purchased in March of 1932 in Arizona before coming to California in June of 1953 where it was located in Death Valley until 1978. Purchased by most recent owner in 1978 and by 2006 it was completely restored to the beauty it remains today.
Always built to the highest standards, the Packard was unquestionably one of the finest American cars of the pre-war era. Packard introduced its first 'Eight' in 1924 and by the decade's end was building eight-cylinder cars only. The Depression years that followed the Wall Street Crash of October 1929 hit the USA and particularly the American automobile industry hard.
Introduced in January 1932, together with the new V12 (aka the Twin Six? in its first year to honor the pioneer Packard model built from 1915 to 1923). Standard Eights and Super Eights were to be introduced to the line up in June 1932.
Powered by Packard's 5.2-litre engine, the Light Eight was of a very advanced design for its day and was very well received. The work of Packard's chief designer Werner Gubitz, the Light Eight's handsome coachwork boasted sweeping modern lines flowing back from a distinctive 'shovel nose' radiator. The motor incorporated a built-in thermostat, thus dispensing with the need for radiator shutters, while other noteworthy featured chassis ride control, an automatic clutch and vacuum-powered brakes.
One of 6,750 Light Eights made between January and December 1932, this sedan is a very well maintained older restoration, the car features twin side-mount spares, a rear-mounted luggage rack, and trim rings on the wheels.
Options for the Light Eight included Dual sided or rear-mounted spare wheels, sidemount cover(s), cigar lighter, a right-hand tail-light, luggage rack, full rear bumper, and fender park lights, the latter was priced at $65.00. Construction of the Light Eight followed the Packard tradition. It had a heavy duty frame with X-bracing, 8-inch deep side members and the usual rear-wheel drive. Wheelbase was 127.75 inches. Power came from a 319.2 cu in (5.2 L) flat head straight eight engine with a compression ratio of 6:0, delivering 110 hp. This particular example has a crate 360 c.i Chevy engine It had a vacuum-plate clutch and an angle set hypoid differential. Battery and toolboxes were mounted on the fenders. Full instrumentation was used.
The car was distinguished by a grille that had the traditional ox-yoke shape, but also with a then fashionable "shovel" nose. Closed Light Eights had a quarter window layout that was not shared by other Packards.
Amidst the Great Depression, many potential buyers for a Standard Eight ended buying a Light Eight. Although it offered not quite as much luxury, it had many features found in Packard's bigger model. It was powered by the same 110 hp engine as the Standard Eight and had a shorter wheelbase that was only 1.75-inch shorter but its significantly lower weight with the same engine brought much better performance. The Light Eight therefore included the Packard prestige and whilst priced at the upper end of the medium bracket and costing almost as much to build as the other models it was a bargain for a Packard at this lower price.
Packard learned its lesson quickly, the factory hardly broke even and so the Light Eight was dropped after but one year, making this one very rare model today! There was no Light Eight for its 10th series line in 1933, instead Packard renamed the Standard Eight as simply the Eight and integrated a four-model sub-series that was patterned after the Light Eight. Although the shovel nose was gone, the quarter window treatment remained.
]]>West Coast Classics are pleased to present this 1963 Plymouth Fury Custom Convertible, a rare B-body Mopar, which in 2024 was modified with a 505ci stroker V8 that is equipped with FAST fuel injection, Indy Max Wedge cylinder heads, a Comp Cams hydraulic roller camshaft, Harland Sharp roller rockers with the rebuilt 727 TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission fitted with a Dynamic torque converter.
Other equipment includes a Detroit Truetrac differential, frame connectors, a TTi exhaust system, and an aluminum radiator as well as American Racing Salt Flat Special 15 wheels, front disc brakes, power steering, aftermarket auxiliary gauges, lap belts, and a Kenwood CD stereo.
The car is finished in an older Silver color repaint with a power-operated Black convertible top over Gray cloth and Black vinyl upholstery.
65k Miles Shown (TMU)
FAST EZ EFI Fuel Injection
Detroit Truetrac Rear End
Silver Paint
Power-Operated Black Convertible Top
Gray Cloth & Black Vinyl Upholstery
American Racing 15" Wheels
Power Front Disc Brakes
Power Steering
TTi Exhaust System
Less than 1,000 miles on 505ci stroker V8 motor (Muscle Motors in Lansing MI)
Ported Indy EZ Max Wedge Cylinder Heads
Comp hydraulic roller cam
Erson lifters with Harland Sharp 1:5 ratio roller rockers.
Custom manifold injection
New Aeromotive fuel system
PTFE lines Front to back
Titanium full exhaust
New radiator
Billet Pulleys and belt kit
Engine bay fully restored
Rebuilt 727 3 Speed Automatic transmission with custom Dynamic converter
Rebuilt 742 pinion
True track rear end
Front discs
Custom frame connectors, fully sealed.
American racing salt flat wheels.
A rust-free, straight, accident-free, original CA black plate car, native from new, should be considered a good driving older restoration.
Its a genuine 600bhp+ sleeper with a recent $4,500 spent on fuel and cooling to make ready for sale
Plymouth manufactured 5,221 base Fury convertibles for 1963. This example has been repainted in Silver, with bright moldings with Black inlays stretch down both sides of the car.
The power-operated Black convertible top has been replaced, and other exterior details include quad headlights, a hood ornament, a door-mounted circular driver-side mirror, a fender-mounted rectangular passenger-side mirror, a ribbed tail panel, and chrome bumpers with overriders. Side-marker-style reflectors have been added.
American Racing Salt Flat Special 15 wheels are wrapped in Cooper Cobra Radial G/T tires measuring 225/70 at the front and 235/70 out back. The car is equipped with power steering, and braking is provided by power-assisted front discs and rear drums. Custom frame connectors have been added.
The cabin houses bench seats upholstered in Gray cloth and Black vinyl. The front seat offers a fold-down center armrest, and other interior equipment includes a push-button shifter, front and rear seatbelts, a Kenwood CD stereo, Infinity speakers, and a Black carpeted dashboard cover. A Crunch amplifier and a JL Audio subwoofer are located in the trunk compartment.
The Deluxe steering wheel features a bright horn ring and fronts a 120-mph speedometer, a clock, a warning lamp for oil pressure, and gauges for alternator status, coolant temperature, and fuel level. An Equus Pro Tach tachometer is affixed to the steering column, and Sunpro gauges for oil pressure and coolant temperature are positioned below the dashboard next to a PAC audio-level controller and an interface for the FAST fuel injection. The five-digit odometer shows 65k miles, approximately 5k of which were added under current ownership. True mileage should be considered as unknown.
The 505ci stroker V8 was installed in 2024 and uses components from Muscle Motors of Lansing, Michigan with the engine augmented by the following components.
Power is routed to the rear wheels through a rebuilt TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission that uses a torque converter from Dynamic Powertrain Reman. A Detroit Truetrac differential is housed in a rebuilt 8 Mopar 742 rear-end case.
West Coast Classics are proud to present an exceptional example of this completely rust free 1962 Pontiac Bonneville 2 door Sports Hardtop powered by a 389ci four-barrel V8 backed by an automatic transmission. Features include power steering, power brakes, a column-mounted automatic shifter, a Red two-spoke steering wheel with a chrome horn ring, a Red steel dashboard with a Red top pad, and a Wonderbar AM radio.
Power is provided by a 389ci four-barrel V8 engine paired with an automatic transmission. Underhood features include power steering and brakes, a closed-element air cleaner with a 389-4 decal, and a generator. This Pontiac is factory-equipped with an independent front suspension and a solid rear drive axle. Braking is provided by four-wheel power drum brakes. A factory dual-exhaust system exits at the rear.
The floor boards, trunk and all the typical rust-prone areas are completely solid and rust-free and the car has no indication of any accidents or rust of any kind - obviously an always garaged and cherished car since new!
This particular car drive absolutely magnificently - must be driven to be believed - drives straight as an arrow with no strange road wobbles, shakes or rattles - a truly remarkable daily driver that will really give any modern day sports car a run for it's money! The transmission shifts smoothly through all the gears and the temperature always remains cool!
It is hard to pin down the first actual muscle car; some have asserted that it is the 1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88, which was built with speed in mind and with an overhead valve V8 placed in a mid-size car with a relatively lightweight body.
A lot of observers cite the next big step in the evolution of the early muscle car to be the introduction of the 1955 Chrysler C-300 with its 300 horsepower Hemi engine that could go from zero to sixty in 9.8 seconds and reach a top speed of around 130 miles per hour.
A car that came along a few years later that is of note to many collectors and muscle car enthusiasts is the Pontiac Ventura. The Ventura hardtop of 1961 cost the same as the 1960 model but weighed 180lbs less. The new and shorter wheelbase by 4 inches 1961 Pontiac with the lighter bodies and stronger engines made Pontiac drag racers hard to beat on the street or strip and Pontiac won 21 of 52 NASCAR Grand National stock-car races this year. The 1961 Pontiac Ventura 389 with the standard 389 cubic inch OHV V8 and three two-barrels was capable of going from a standing position to sixty miles per hour in a brief 8.2 seconds, and it could get a quarter mile in 15.5 seconds and reach 93 miles per hour in the process. They were offered with the famed bubble-top body style and the eye catching 'Jeweltone Morrokide' upholstery and were similar in design to the marque's top of the line model the legendary Pontiac Bonneville!
The Bonneville name was introduced in 1954 on a pair of bubble-topped GM Motorama concept cars called the Bonneville Special. It entered the production lineup as a high-performance, fuel-injected luxury convertible within the Star Chief line in the 1957 model year and was loaded with every conceivable option as standard equipment with the exception of optional air conditioning. This put the Bonneville in a Cadillac-like price range of $5,000 - more than double the base price of a Chieftain four-door sedan.
A fully equipped Bonneville could cost more than a Cadillac. Only 630 units were produced that first year, making it one of the most collectible Pontiacs of all time today. The following year it would become its own separate model and it would endure until 2005 as the division's top-of-the-line model. The name was taken from the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, the site of much early auto racing and most of the world's land speed record runs, which was named in turn after U.S. Army officer Benjamin Bonneville. Bonneville became a separate model in 1958 and was available as a coupe or a convertible. It paced the Indianapolis 500 in its first year.
In its third year, the 1959 Bonneville became a full top-line series with the addition of the four-door hardtop sedan and Safari station wagon body styles. The Bonneville played an important part that year in the introduction of two of Pontiac's greatest marketing inspirations the split grille and the Wide Track slogan. The latter was not just ad copy, either, as Pontiac pushed its wheels further out toward the fenders than anyone else and created what were considered to be the best-cornering full-size cars in the industry. Both the grille design and the Wide Track phrase remained part of Pontiac's image up to its termination. A "Safe-T-Track" differential, used to minimize wheel spin, was an option beginning in 1959. The Bonneville remained as Pontiac's costliest and most luxurious model throughout the 1960s and was instrumental in pushing Pontiac to third place in sales from 1962 to 1970.
The Bonneville differed from its lesser Catalina and Star Chief counterparts by featuring more luxurious interior trim with upgraded cloth and Morrokide vinyl or expanded Morrokide upholstery in sedans and coupes, expanded Morrokide in Safari wagons or genuine leather seating in convertibles. Bonnevilles (with the exception of Bonneville Safari Station wagons) were also (along with Star Chiefs) built on a longer wheelbase version of GM's B-Body. Also found in the Bonneville were instrument panels and door panels with walnut veneer trim, carpeted lower door panels, grab bar on passenger side of dash and courtesy lights and rear arm rest. Beginning in 1964, a Bonneville Brougham option package was available that included an even more luxurious interior trim level with front and rear seats featuring center armrests, upgraded door panels and a standard Cordova (vinyl) roof with 'Brougham' nameplates.
Bonneville models were standard equipped with Hydra-Matic (through 1964) or Turbo Hydra-Matic (1965-on) automatic transmissions. Other options included power steering and power brakes as well as air conditioning. The Bonneville also had more powerful standard V8 engines than other full-sized Pontiacs including the 389 cu in (6.4 l) or 400 cu in (6.6 l) V8s with four-barrel carburetors with many optional V8 offerings available including Tri-Power (three two-barrel carburetor) options on both the 389 cu in (6.4 l) and 421 cu in (6.9 l) V8s that offered up to 376 hp (280 kW) through 1966. For 1962, Pontiac also offered the 421 cu in (6.9 l) Super Duty with two four-barrel carburetors, rated at 405 hp.
This is a rare opportunity to own a great daily driving and never abused example of a restored and always rust free 1962 Pontiac Bonneville 389 V8 4 Barrel 2 door Hardtop, one very rare and highly desirable, collectible and unabused example of one of the outstanding early muscle cars and beautiful GM designs of the sixties.
West Coast Classics are proud to present this extraordinarily rare, award winning of prestigious events and very original 1935 Rolls-Royce 20/25 Coupe with aluminum body and wood frame by Freestone & Webb.
Chassis # GLG53
Engine # D3T
Fixed Head Three Quarter Coupe 20/25 GLG53
One of two examples of this attractive body on the 20/25 chassis
Beautifully finished, national award-winning restoration
Accompanied by copies of build records, restoration photos, and invoices
A CCCA Full Classic
Chassis number GLG53 was one of two Rolls-Royce 20/25s fitted with coupe bodies to this design by Freestone & Webb, who were renown and highly regarded for their sporting razor edge style.
Featuring sweeping fenders and an especially tasteful roofline, it was specified for continental touring with firmer springs, lower headlights, and dual spares by its original owner, Sir James Henderson, Esq., a British diplomat living in Milan, Italy at the time.
The elegant coupe is shown as delivered in Lawrence Daltons legendary Rolls Royce bibles "Those Elegant Rolls-Royce", as well as in a period advertisement by legendary London dealer Jack Barclay Ltd, who appeared especially proud of this sale and chose this particular car over any other for his 1935 advertisements.
Factory records indicate that the car next passed to a Mr. Stroppel, then to Donald Fraser of Harley Street, London, and to American enthusiast W.E. Hurlock in 1965. Two additional owners, Fred Pennington of Pennsylvania and Thomas Moody of Florida, followed before the car was acquired by its most recent caretaker, an avid Rolls-Royce enthusiast, before we recently acquired the car.
Beginning in 2016, the owner undertook a full restoration of the car to its original condition. Much of the work was completed in his own hands, including rebuilding the inner wood framework, repairing the sheet metal, and finishing the body in a period-correct color scheme of Embassy Beige and Sandstorm Beige. The engine was rebuilt by James Long and the upholstery done by L&S Auto Trim of Gainesville, Florida, using wool and leather materials matched to samples of the originals.
With restoration at last complete, the car was shown quite successfully in competition, including appearances at Keeneland and Hilton Head in 2018, a very prestigious Antique Automobile Club of America First Junior at Palatka in 2019, and winning the coveted first place in the Early Small Horsepower Concours class at the Rolls-Royce Owners Club Annual Meet at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, in 2023. Still in excellent overall condition, it is accompanied by a particularly interesting history file, including photographs and invoices from the restoration.
One of the most award-winning and best-finished small Rolls-Royces offered in recent memory, with especially pleasing and dramatic styling, this is an exceptional example of the 20/25, offered from one excellent caretaker to the next.
The Rolls-Royce 20/25 is the second of the inter-war entry-level models. Built between 1929 and 1936, it was to prove very popular, becoming the most successful selling inter-war Rolls-Royce.
Its success enabled Rolls-Royce to survive the Great Depression, unlike the majority of its competitors in the luxury market, and remain one of World's great brands.
Only 3,827 20/25s were produced over its 7 years of production, and as a testament too their incredible build quality more than 70% of these reportedly still survive in use today.
The target market for the 20/25 was the same as the Twenty the luxury, owner driver, not chauffeur driven, market. The project to develop the next generation 20 hp was code named Goshawk with the goal for the new model to increase both power & performance.
This was achieved by increasing the bore from 3 to 3.25 inches. The stroke was unchanged at 4.5 inches. This increased capacity by 17%, from 3,128 to 3,675cc, and raised the RAC rating up to 25.4 hp!
In 1936 the 20/25 model was replaced by the 25.30, in which the bore was further increased to 3.5 inches. In 1938 the 25/30 was given a new chassis with independent front suspension, and became the Wraith.
The 20/25 also enabled Rolls-Royce to quickly capitalize on its 1931 acquisition of Bentley Motors Ltd and as part of integrating its acquisition, Rolls-Royce discontinued the Bentley 8 litre due to the perceived market overlap with the Phantom II. This meant the acquisition brought with it the Bentley brand but with no car to produce!
They quickly decided to create a new Bentley using the 20/25 engine with some adaptations, and a chassis that had been developed for a 2 litre Rolls-Royce that had been intended as an economy version of the 20/25 but had been cancelled. This formed the basis of the first "Derby Bentley" aka know as the 3 1/2 liter.
The coachbuilding firm of Freestone & Webb was formed in 1923 for the sole purpose of car body building. Mr freestone being from Crossley Motors and Mr Webb from a French firm of coachbuilders. Its workshops were in Brentfield Rd, Willesden, London and they concentrated primarily on private order Rolls Royce & Bentley chassis, with output eventually averaging some 15 cars per year. During World War II the company switched to aircraft production working mainly on the renown Spitfire wing tips. Freestone & Webb exhibited regularly at the London Motor Show and for no less than nine consecutive years took the Gold Medal in the private coachbuilders competition. On the death of Mr Webb in 1955 the copany was taken over by H. R. Owen of Berkeley Street, London.
The general technical specification of the 20/25 are as follows:
Engine:
Inline 6-cylinder, overhead pushrod operated valve engine with 3,699cc capacity. Separate cast iron block and aluminum crankcase with detachable cast iron 6-plug head. It has an 82 mm bore with a 114 mm stroke. 7-bearing crankshaft with vibration damper. Pressure fed lubrication with relief valve feeding rocker shaft and timing gears.
Ignition System:
Independent coil and standby magneto systems. 12V system. Centrifugal advance with hand override. Distributor gap 0.017-0.021inches
Cooling System:
The famous Rolls-Royce radiator with triangular top with vertical louvres, the angle of which can be adjusted to control engine cooling. In early models, the radiator shutters is operated manually via a lever on the dashboard. Cars from 1931 onward have an automatic control via a thermostat. Engine driven centrifugal pump and belt-driven fan.
Carburation:
A single Rolls-Royce two-jet type with starting carburetor, automatic air valve and steering column control.
Fuel:
14-gallon rear tank, increased to 18 gallons from 1932 onward. "Autovac" vacuum-fed fuel pump. Electric fuel gauge from 1933 onward.
Transmission:
Four-speed gearbox. Gearboxes from 1932 onward have synchromesh in third and top gears. Right hand gearchange. Single dry plate clutch. Open drive propeller shaft.
Suspension:
Semi-elliptic leaf springs front and rear. Hydraulic dampers.
Brakes:
Internal expanding four-wheel operation with independent handbrake on the rear wheels. Mechanical servo motor driven from the gearbox.
Chassis lubrication:
"One-Shot" Bijur centralized chassis lubrication system.
Steering:
Worm and nut.
The 20/25 engine and chassis were designed for owner drivers: ideally to be fitted with a saloon or coup? body, however, many 20/25's were fitted with larger and heavier limousine bodies, which impaired their performance.
Rolls-Royce made only the chassis and mechanical parts. The body was made and fitted by renown coachbuilders such as this particular example by Freestone & Webb
Today 20/25s are very popular with enthusiasts. They are significantly less expensive than the inter-war large horsepower Rolls-Royces and Bentleys, and are solid drivers on modern roads. The 20/25 is a joy to drive. The steering is quite high-geared, so little turning of the wheel is required, and it is accurate, enabling the car to be placed exactly where the driver wants. On country road cruising at 40 to 50 mph, all but the heaviest bodied cars are un-stressed.
West Coast Classics are proud to present this extraordinarily rare and 1 of only 1 1955 Rolls Royce Silver Dawn Lightweight Sedan built by renown coachbuilders H.J. Mulliner with a lightweight body. Documented in the renown Rolls-Royce bible, "The Elegance Continues" by Lawrence Dalton, as follows: "Whilst delving in the H.J. Mulliner records I came across the above car (with photo above!) hiding among the Bentley 'R' Type Lightweight saloons. Knowledge of her was denied by all and sundry and it is assumed that she was produced with a batch of Bentleys and given a Sliver Dawn radiator and the last Silver Dawn chassis number, that of LSVJ133 and design number 7243."
The car offered here was one of one coachbuilt aluminum bodied saloons by the coachbuilders 'H.J. Mulliner' to their design no. 7243, a beautifully proportioned saloon with curvaceous razor edge lines, in this case with a sliding sunroof in its original 'Black Pearl over Shell Gray' body..
Powered by a 4.6-liter engine paired with an automatic transmission. Only Lightweight Silver Dawn built by H.J. Mulliner with an aluminum body. Features a two-tone silver and black exterior, Cream leather interior, factory sunroof and picnic tables.
This 1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn is unique in being the only Lightweight Silver Dawn built by H.J. Mulliner with a handcrafted aluminum body.
Originally built as a Left Hand Drive vehicle for the 'Bowes Builder Corporation' of Denver CO and shipped on the 'Queen Elizabeth II' on 5/12/1955 from Southampton England to New York, it is powered by a 4.6-liter engine paired with an automatic transmission. This left-hand drive example was built for the U.S. market. Features include a factory sliding metal sunroof, rear wooden picnic tables, an after market 'Blaupunkt' AM/FM/cassette radio and a custom-fitted luggage set. It is finished in its original two-tone Shell Gray over Black Pearl exterior with a Cream leather interior and burled wood trim.
Restored to original specifications in 1987 with an invoice totaling over $119,000
Specially made for The Bowes Builder Corporation in 1955 to their specifications
U.S. spec delivery with Left Hand Drive on the last Silver Dawn chassis produced and the only Lightweight Silver Dawn made by H.J. Mulliner
Known as LSVJ133, it was made by H.J. Mulliner & Co. Ltd.
Made from hand-formed Aluminum
Odometer reads 37,660 miles
Optional picnic set containing a lunchbox, plates, thermos and matching silverware mounted in a sliding access door inside the driver's door
Crystal decanter and 3 shot glasses in the front passenger door, also inside a sliding access door
Rear seat wooden picnic tables
6-piece set of fitted bags by Velation Planned Luggage
Featured in the books Rolls Royce, the Elegance Continues by Lawrence Dalton and Silver Dawns & Silver Wraiths by Bernard King
Copy of handwritten Certicard
Copies of factory works specs instructions and copy of the ledger showing LSVJ133 as being the last chassis produced
Today the saloon presents beautifully, with the interior, swathed in Connolly leather with beautiful rich woodwork, which is particularly comfortable and sumptuous. Further, the car is offered with full sets of road and hand tools, as well as its original handbook.
This increasingly desirable and legendary marque, 1955 Rolls Royce Silver Dawn Lightweight Saloon is a moving work of art from a time when Rolls-Royce and Bentley were famously building the "Best Cars in the World" with the craftsmanship and quality of these cars obviously speaking for themselves.
So buy with confidence, this Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) Full Classic, will no doubt prove a fabulous investment for the astute investor, Bentley or Rolls Royce enthusiast or collector to own one of the last remaining coachbuilt and the only aluminum built Silver Dawn ever built!
West Coast Classics are proud to present an exceptionally well maintained and very rare and collectible example of this original owner 1979 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow II with only 45K original miles and finished in a gorgeous and very striking 'Horse Chestnut Metallic' (9510315) factory color paint with painted pin stripes and with a beautiful all original 'Beige' (VM3234) Connolly leather hides interior and matching carpeting with original factory sheepskin rugs and footrests!
The paintwork is in superb condition and the chrome-work, including the Rolls Royce grille and both bumpers, is also in absolutely outstanding condition. The Tan leather interior is virtually flawless and in truly superb all original condition with the original mohair headliner is also in exceptional condition. The original and magnificent burled walnut woodwork is also in very fine condition throughout and all the power options and electric windows are working as they should, as is the air conditioning.
The car has its original owner's manual and all the supplements, as well as its original jack and tools and has 45,906 original miles The car's original purchase price would have been just over $65,614 ($296,512 in 2024 dollars!)
This 1979 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow II sedan boasts recent service records over the past 6 months, totaling more than $30,000 and with all new tires, brakes, fuel system, tune-up, all fluids, belts and hoses, as well as a rebuild of the air-conditioning system, flush of the gas tank, and cleaning and servicing of the fuel system.
A few years ago we had previously sold Jack Paar's (the legendary comedian and host of the Tonight Show from 1957-62, preceding Johnny Carson) original U.S specification example (Left Hand Drive Model) 1963 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud III, which had been imported to the U.S. from England to New York and delivered to the Rolls Royce dealership of 'J.S. Inskip, Inc' who had ordered the car for the legendary Jack Paar. Mr Paar owned that car for twenty-one years before selling it in 1984 to only it's second ever owner who lived in southern California and who had owned the car prior to our purchasing it.
Jack Paar's wife had purchased this 1979 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow II for her husband and he had kept it until his death in 2004 at the age of 85 and it will be sold with the original owners manuals, registrations and recent service history. It was purchased by the renown TV talk show host's wife as a gift for her husband and would stay in the family until after his death in 1994 and then pass to the family, from whose estate the car was recently acquired.
This obviously well maintained Rolls Royce must still run the same as when new - the engine purrs like a kitten, there is plenty of power to pull away at the lights and it cruises at high speeds with absolute ease. The transmission shift is almost imperceptibly smooth and the temperature always remains cool.
The Silver Shadow II is truly a sensual car that you can drive with your fingertips, smooth and relatively silent, it's thoroughly therapeutic for both drivers and passengers. The delightful precision action of the electrically powered steering column gear change and the ultra light weighted power steering allows one to park this 5000lbs of pure luxury with literally one finger and this long but actually quite slender car is anything but ponderous thanks to it's torque and brilliant turning radius!
This exceptional example with only some 45K original miles in this striking color combination with such a storied history must be both seen and driven to be fully appreciated. Without a doubt you will look long and hard to find a finer example increasingly very collectible 1979 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow II model available anywhere. Always garaged and covered with no accidents and obviously always cherished since new by its owners!
For those who are unfamiliar, Rolls Royce no longer exists as it had for over one hundred years. This is the one of the last in the original line of cars hand built in the legendary Rolls Royce factory in Crewe, England with a quality and craftsmanship that far surpasses that of today's mass produced models with many BMW parts - this is indeed a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history, from a time when Rolls Royce was truly building the world's finest automobiles - a great investment for the Rolls Royce enthusiast or collector or simply an outstandingly and striking example of a very rare and unusual Rolls Royce with 45K original for the discerning luxury classic car owner!
West Coast Classics are proud to present an exceptional example of this beautifully restored and rust free 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk 289/225HP 4BBL V8 rare 4 speed manual coupe, a super striking example repainted in its original 'Ermine White' color paint with a Red interior and original factory wheels with new white wall tires. The floor boards, trunk and all the typical rust-prone areas are completely solid and rust-free - obviously an always garaged and cherished car since new!
1 of 9,335 Gran Turismo Hawks for 1962
1 of 2,911 in 'Ermine White', of those 2,911 only 1,441 were fitted with Red vinyl interiors.
Of those 1,441 'Ermine White/Red GT Hawks only 536 were equipped with a 4 speed transmission.
Of those 536 only 284 were equipped with a four barrel carburetor.
The car looks extremely impressive with the interior in exceptionally good and mostly completely original looking condition throughout with its original 'Studebaker' AM radio! The dashboard, the headliner, the carpets and all the seats have been restored and are in absolutely exceptional condition throughout! All the chrome-work has also been restored and the original spare wheel and jack are located in their compartment in the trunk.
The car was special ordered with the rare High Performance package, verified with Studebaker Museum documentation and dash plaque. This special order GT is equipped with the factory 4 barrel carburetor 289 V8, dual exhaust and TT (twin traction) and 4 speed manual transmission (4 speed stick on the floor)
The Studebaker Museum verified there were only 284 GT s ordered equipped this way.
Recently refurbished with new 'Ermine White' over rust free (California/Arizona) sheet metal, new chrome bumpers, and professionally polished stainless steel trim. The interior was also refurbished with new foam and a complete detail, study the photos. It performs like a high performance 1962 muscle car, a pleasure to drive.
Under the hood the engine and engine bay are also refurbished and the trunk floor is also solid rust free. The under carriage has been power washed and remnants of some undercoating remain with usual surface corrosion visible, but no rot or rust, again this vehicle is California / Arizona vehicle.
The car has a correct 289 V8 engine which is extremely strong and powerful and this particular car drives absolutely magnificently - must be driven to be believed - drives straight as an arrow with no strange road wobbles, shakes or rattles - a truly remarkable daily driver that will give any modern day sports car a run for it's money! The transmission shifts smoothly through all the gears, there are no noticeable oil leaks and the temperature always remains cool!
After the Ford Thunderbird had been restyled in the late fifties, the Studebaker Golden Hawk emerged as one of the most handsome two door coupes on the market in 1956 with performance to match its styling. In 1962, the last year in which Packard would be part of the Studebaker-Packard Corporation, the company's president Sherwood Egbert enlisted the renown designer, Brooks Stevens, to modernize and redesign the Hawk and Lark. Stevens created the the new Hawk model with flowing lines and squarer shapes and it was newly named the'Gran Turismo' Hawk and proved to be even better than before with this last generation of the Hawk (1962-64) to be the only one to earn the coveted 'Milestone Car Status' recognition of the 'Milestone Car Society' of post war cars (1945-72) who judged their cars in five catagories; styling, engineering, roadability, performance and innovation and craftsmanship. A Milestone car had to be superior to its contemporaries in at least two of these catagories.
The GT Hawk Coupe was an update of the pillar-less Hawk body-style of the mid to late 1950's with a bolder grille and a more formal roof-line. Still built on the old 'Loewry Coupe' bodyshell and 120.5" wheelbase from 1953 minus the 1957-61 now outdated tail-fins, Stevens added a Thunderbird style formal roof with broad C-pillars, removed needless trim from the bodysides and outlined them in bright metal, installed a new three element dash design with enough room for a clock and large tachometer. Powered by a 289/225HP V8 engine, it had a top speed of 120mph and although the updated continuation of Studebaker's sporty four-seater coupe received good press, it unfortunately couldn't save the 'Studebaker Corporation', which had been founded as a wagon producer back in 1852 and sadly folded in 1966.
In summary, this particular example must be amongst one of the rarest available anywhere with a 4 speed manual transmission and in great daily driving and turn-key ready condition to enjoy today! An obviously always garaged and rust free example of this increasingly desirable and collectible 1962 Studebaker Gran Turismo Hawk 289 V8 coupe! A sure-fire investment that's sure to appreciate over the years for any classic American sixties car collector or simply any Studebaker enthusiast!