1940 Chrysler New Yorker

Chrysler's attempt at offering a modern and aerodynamic vehicle with advanced styling during the mid-1930s was unsuccessful. While the Chrysler Airflow had witnessed limited sales, Ford's attempt was successful, with its Lincoln-Zephyr being very popular. Through the late 1930s, Chrysler went back to offering more conventional models.

Six and eight-cylinder models were offered in 1940 on wheelbase sizes of 122.5-, 128.5- 139.5-, and 143-inches. Both the six-cylinder Royal and Windsor were offered in standard and long-wheelbase lengths (122.5-inches and 139.5-inch respectively), and the Highlander added Scotch plaid and moleskin leather upholstery. Eight-cylinder Chryslers included the New Yorker, New Yorker Highlander, Saratoga, and the Traveler. These eight-cylinder models rested on the 128.5-inch wheelbase platform and had styling similar to the Chrysler Sixes with the addition of front fender parking lights and a slightly longer footprint.

Above the Chrysler Six and Eight-cylinder models was the Crown Imperial (C-27) Eight, resting on the stretched 143-inch wheelbase. The styling was similar to the other Chrysler models, and body styles that included a 6- and 8-passenger sedan, and a Parade Phaeton. Six-cylinder Chryslers were priced from $900 to $1,350, the eight-cylinder Chrysler ranged from $1,100 to $1,450, and the top-of-the-line Crown Imperial sold for $2,350 to $2,450.

The six-cylinder engine displaced 241.5 cubic inches and delivered 108 horsepower in standard form (112 hp with the optional higher compression ratio utilizing the 'Silver Dome' aluminum head). The 323.5 cubic-inch eight-cylinder engine had an L-head design, cast-iron block, six main bearings, solid valve lifters, and a Stromberg carburetor. It developed 135 horsepower at 3,400 RPM or 143 horsepower with the higher-compression setup. The C-27 Crown Imperial also used a 323.5 CID inline-8 with either 132 or 143 horsepower depending on the configuration. The engine was backed by a Fluid Drive transmission, while the other engines received a three-speed manual with synchromesh. Lockheed hydraulic brakes on all four wheels provided the stopping power.

The 1940 Chrysler New Yorker, powered by the eight-cylinder engine and resting on the 128.5-inch platform, was offered as a two-door coupe with seating for either three or six passengers, a convertible coupe, Victoria Sedan, and a Formal Sedan. Prices began at $1,175 for the three-passenger coupe and rose to $1,335 for the formal sedan. The New Yorker received an upgraded interior and Fluid Drive was optional.

The New Yorker Highlander was available as a six-passenger coupe priced at $1,260, a sedan at $1,285, and a convertible coupe.

Styling changes for the 1940 Chryslers included sealed beam headlights, large front fenders with recessed headlamps, and longer hoods. Although appearances were similar, models could be distinguished from their siblings by the model names appearing on each side of the hood near the front end. Standard equipment included Solar Spark ignition, dual sun visors, dual windshield wipers, dual taillights, and hydraulic brakes. Conventional running boards were optional. Cars without the running boards had chromed trimmed rocker panels.

Chrysler produced 115,824 vehicles during the 1940 calendar year, a dramatic increase over the 67,749 units produced during the 1939 calendar year. 1941 would continue Chrysler's rebound, with 141,522 units produced.

by Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2020