Al Leamy who had designed the beautiful Cord L-29, created an even more stunning car, the 1931 Chrysler Imperial CG Dual Cowl Phaeton for Chrysler. The price new was $3,575.00 and 85 total vehicles were produced. NYC Mayor, Al Smith and movie star Myrna Loy owned similar CGs. The CG was equipped with an 8 cylinder, 385ci rated at 125HP and had a top speed of 96MPH.
This vehicle was restored in 1989 by specialist Ed Perkins of Guilford, CT and was restored a second time in 2014 by Hoyt’s of Sarasota, FL.
The 1931 Chrysler Imperial CG Dual Cowl Phaeton is a remarkable example of early 20th-century luxury and automotive engineering. Its advanced design, powerful engine, and exquisite styling make it a standout vehicle from the pre-war era. Today, it is celebrated as a classic masterpiece, appreciated by collectors and automotive enthusiasts for its beauty, performance, and historical significance.
Overview
- Production Year: 1931
- Manufacturer: Chrysler Corporation
- Class: Luxury car
- Body Style: Dual cowl phaeton (convertible)
Design and Specifications
- Engine:
- The 1931 Chrysler Imperial CG was powered by a 384.8 cubic inch (6.3-liter) straight-eight engine.
- This engine produced 125 horsepower, a remarkable figure for the early 1930s.
- It featured a high-compression design and was known for its smooth operation and reliability.
- Transmission:
- The car came with a 4-speed manual transmission.
- The transmission was designed for smooth shifting and efficient power delivery.
- Chassis:
- The CG model featured a robust chassis with a 145-inch wheelbase, providing a stable and comfortable ride.
- The chassis design contributed to the car's excellent handling and road manners.
- Suspension:
- The front suspension used an independent design with coil springs, which was advanced for its time.
- The rear suspension featured a live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- Brakes:
- The Imperial CG was equipped with four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes, offering superior stopping power compared to mechanical brakes.
Performance
- Top Speed: The top speed of the Chrysler Imperial CG Dual Cowl Phaeton was around 90 mph (145 km/h), impressive for a luxury car of its era.
- Acceleration: The car could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 20 seconds, which was quite good for the period.
- Handling: With its advanced suspension system and long wheelbase, the Imperial CG provided a smooth and controlled ride, making it a pleasure to drive.
Design Features
- Bodywork:
- The Dual Cowl Phaeton body style featured an open design with two separate windshields—one for the front passengers and one for the rear passengers.
- The bodywork was designed by LeBaron, a renowned coachbuilder known for its elegant and luxurious designs.
- The car's long, flowing lines and graceful curves exemplified the Art Deco design language of the time.
- Interior:
- The interior was opulent, featuring high-quality materials such as leather upholstery and rich wood trim.
- The dual cowl design provided a separate, enclosed area for rear passengers, adding to the sense of luxury and privacy.
- The dashboard was well-appointed, with clear and stylish instrumentation and controls.
- Styling:
- The car featured distinctive design elements, such as the bold, upright grille, large chrome headlamps, and elegant fender lines.
- The dual cowl design added a unique and prestigious look, making it stand out among other luxury cars of the time.
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Historical Significance:
- The Chrysler Imperial CG Dual Cowl Phaeton represents a pinnacle of pre-war American luxury car design and engineering.
- It was part of Chrysler's effort to compete with other luxury automakers such as Cadillac and Packard, showcasing the brand's ability to produce high-end vehicles.
- Cultural Impact:
- The car was favored by affluent buyers and became a symbol of status and sophistication.
- It has been featured in numerous classic car shows and events, often winning awards for its design and condition.
Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.
You may purchase a print of the 1931 Chrysler Imperial CG Dual Cowl Phaeton in our dElegance 2015 online gallery.
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