1938 Chrysler Imperial$42,500

• DESCRIPTIONBuilt on a 144 inch wheelbase, nineteen inches longer than the C-19 Imperial, Chrysler's limited production Custom Imperial C-24 model was the essence of exclusivity. Only 519 were built and in these tense days leading up to the beginning of the Second World War they were the ultimate in exclusivity and luxury, at a base cost of $2,395 accessible only to captains of industry and finance. This 1938 Chrysler Custom Imperial C-20 is bodied with Sedan Limousine coachwork, one of only 145 produced. Its expansive body with extra long front and rear doors for easy entry and exit has a division window, jump seats and overdrive. Its custom equipment includes a vanity and a smoker's kit each hidden in compartments in the blind rear quarters, clock in the rear compartment and unusual and attractive glass doored storage compartments above the jump seat recesses. The exterior is subtly impressive with whitewall tires, trim rings, enclosed sidemounted spares and separately-mounted headlights while skirted rear wheels continue Chrysler's recognition of the importance of aerodynamics. The most notable feature of this Custom Imperial Limousine, however, is its exceptional originality and careful preservation. Other than a repaint and replacement of the front seat's tan leather upholstery it appears to be exceptionally well preserved and in excellent condition for its age with a good look that belies its age and presents it as the elegant and stately survivor that it is. The upholstery in the rear compartment is all original and very well preserved with unusual details like the glass doored storage compartments. It runs and drives well and is equipped with overdrive that with the 299 cubic inch straight eight gives it quiet performance at highway speeds. A prior owner also has discreetly installed air conditioning to facilitate use in all weather conditions. In style, elegance, rarity, preservation and presence this is an exceptional automobile suitable for the finest collections.