1931 Chrysler CG Imperial Roadster

It is believed that about 12 examples of the LeBaron-bodied Roadster remain in existence. This example is an early example that was delivered in February 1931 finished in Pembroke Gray and likely had a red leather interior. It has a 3.82:1 rear-end gear ratio and only two owners since the late 1950s. It was owned in the 1940s by a gentleman in San Bruno, California, and then lived in Oakland, California before being acquired by Chrysler enthusiast Doug O'Connell of Sunnyvale. While in his care, the car was treated to a restoration. It was shown at a number of concours events including Pebble Beach where it secured a class award.

The current owner acquired the LeBaron Roadster from the O'Connell Estate in the late '70s, and in the early '80s, the car was stripped down to the bare chassis for a restoration to modern standards.

The engine, which is not original to this chassis but reportedly a correct 1931 unit, does have the rare 'Red Head' cylinder head as opposed to the 'Silver Dome' head and in this case was likely added after delivery. It also has a four-speed transmission. The first gear is an ultra-low ratio which a period literature state is only to be used in emergencies for climbing steep grades. This first gear also allowed the Chrysler engineers to install higher ratios for the other three gears, resulting in a higher top speed.

A restoration was finished in 2001 and is finished in red with a black cloth top and black leather interior. It won its CCCA National First Senior Badge #2331 in 2001 and was displayed for the second time in its life at Pebble Beach in 2002. The list of features includes dual Klaxons, radiator stone guard, Trippe lights, rear trunk, dual spotlights, chrome wire wheels with dual open side mounts and mirrors, wind wings, dual wipers, and altimeter.

In 2011, the car was offered for sale in Monterey, Ca. presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $250,000-$300,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $258,500, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2011