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FOR SALE: 1948 Chrysler Town & Country Sedan


Matt Harwood

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Well, the debate's settled on these, and they're Full Classics. Now regardless of whether that's a situation you agree with or not, you can't really argue that they aren't charming cars. Personally, I like this sedan a lot more than the convertibles--it offers the same kind of homey comfort as a log cabin in a more portable size. This particular T&C sedan has an interesting ownership history, as the current caretaker purchased it in 2001 from the original owner's grandson. He gave it a thorough frame-on restoration, including new paint, refinished wood with new mahogany panels (the ash frame is 100% original wood), an a spectacular new Highlander Plaid interior. All the chrome was done at the same time, so it glitters like the fittings on a million-dollar yacht, which was surely the inspiration. It's loaded with just about every accessory you can imagine, from the visor to fog lights to the rare roof-mounted luggage rack. Catalina Tan is the car's original color, and settles into the background so that the wood becomes the star of the show.

The interior was fully refinished, including fresh upholstery, new carpets, and rebuilt gauges. Everything works, including the radio and heater, although the clock is disconnected to avoid draining the battery. Overhead wood slats reinforce the rustic feel and that back seat is as inviting as a cracking fire in a stone fireplace. As the current owner is a T&C expert of some note, all the little things are right, including the red emergency brake lever and the courtesy light above it that blinks if you've forgotten to release it. The trunk is upholstered to match the interior, and comes with a set of period luggage that the owner found and has decided to include with the sale of the car.

The 250.6 cubic inch Spitfire six has guts, I'll give it that. Performance is pretty good, and even in high range, the Fluid Drive moves the car around town quite easily without the use of the clutch. It cruises on the highway at 60-65 MPH and pulls down decent fuel mileage at the same time. The body was not removed from the chassis for the restoration, so it's a bit crusty underneath, but everything is in top mechanical condition. I have personally been on several tours where this car was a participant, and it always shows exemplary manners and has never had any issues on the road.

They built about half as many sedans as convertible Town & Countrys (Towns & Country?), and fewer than 100 are known to exist today. This one is a fantastic combination of originality and expertly restored bits that's ready to tour and enjoy this summer. Asking $99,900 and we're always open to reasonable offers. Thanks for reading!

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Guest Rob McDonald

Oh, Matt. Once again, you're killing me. My soul needs this car even more than it needed that 60 Special you dangled in front of me last month. Please, stay focussed on brokering Hemi Cudas or rare stamps or something, so I can get on with my miserable life.

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