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FOR SALE: 1949 Chrysler Town & Country Convertible


Matt Harwood

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No Full Classic controversy here, just a gorgeous 1949 Chrysler convertible. The Town & Country had a new body in 1949, although the mechanicals were still pretty much the same as 1948. The new body was longer, lower, and wider than the earlier cars with a very different wood pattern. No longer structural, the wood was simply decorative and used Dynoc simulated wood decals in place of the original mahogany panels. But never fear, the owner of this particular convertible understands the appeal of real wood and since today's wood decals don't look particularly convincing, he had real Mahogany panels installed on the body a few years ago. Park this Town & Country next to a standard one, and the difference is shocking. Experts might note that both the deck lid and rear panel should also have woodgrained decals on them, however the owner points to a period T&C ad in the trunk that shows a car in this very color combination without wood on either of those areas, so it's technically correct (which is the best kind of correct). The paint was done a few years ago and still shows well, with great chrome throughout.

That's the original yellow leather interior, which should tell you how well preserved this ragtop really is. The hides have been re-dyed to freshen them a bit, but their condition is remarkable for their age. They remain supple and there are no cracks or dry areas, with the back seat looking almost like new. The dash was all-new in 1949, with a central instrument cluster ahead of the driver and a wide band of matching leather that foreshadows the padded dashboards of the future. Everything works, including the radio and power top, and there are new carpets on the floor in the correct material. The trunk is original, with great side panels and original brown sisal carpet. Experts will note that the black canvas top should have a large plastic rear window, but the owner prefers the look of the smaller window and therefore had it made like this. It also originally featured a yellow boot, but he had a black one made at the same time the top was done, which looks fantastic against the black paint.

The engine is Chrysler's 323 cubic inch flathead straight-8 connected to a Fluid Drive transmission. With a large collection, including several Town & Country models, the owner admits that this is by far his favorite simply because the controls are light, the engine is powerful, and it's a pleasure to drive. The engine bay is highly original and I'm guessing that it's never been apart. It starts quickly, idles smoothly, and pulls with big torque even in high range. Cruising is effortless at highway speeds, and the suspension soaks up road imperfections without complaint. Newer wide whitewall radials have been fitted to the original wheels, which only improves the handling. It's original underneath, so there's some crustiness, but it's solid and rust-free, perfect for touring without worries.

While some may argue that the non-Classic status hurts values, I'd argue that this car is far more handsome than the earlier cars and drives superbly. It's also less expensive, yet ready to tour this summer. Asking $99,900 and we'll happily entertain reasonable offers. Thanks for reading!

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