1933 Chrysler CL Custom Imperial Phaeton

Historically overshadowed by the daringly radical (and commercially disastrous) 1934 Airflow series, the 1933 Chryslers marked the end of the company's traditional classics and the beginning of the end of Chrysler cars readily adaptable to custom coachbuilder bodies. Fabricated on the big (146-inch wheelbase) Imperial Custom chassis, this lordly dual cowl phaeton came from the LeBaron shops in Detroit.

With such sweeping change on the near horizon, the 1933 Chryslers were essentially carryovers from 1932. Chrysler discontinued its four-speed transmission, with its super low first gear, in favor of a conventional three-speed redesigned to accommodate helical-cut gears, an industry first that reduced gearbox noise. Downdraft carburetors were equipped with an automatic choke, and the starter was engaged by pressing the gas pedal to the floor. Cosmetic updates included a modestly redesigned grille canted slightly aft, and a fuller fender treatment on most models that enclosed more of the area behind the front wheels.

Interiors were lavish, with polished walnut dashboards and plenty of room for passengers, fore and aft, even with the rare LeBaron dual cowl partition amidships. The Imperials were big cars, with curb weights soaring well over 5000 pounds. Propulsion was supplied by Chrysler's biggest engine, a 385 cubic-inch flathead straight eight, with as much as 135 horsepower on tap, a 10-horsepower grain over the 1932 version. Just 151 Imperial Customs left the factory in 1933.

For 1933, the Custom Imperial was the top-of-the-line for the Chrysler Corporation. It was introduced mid-year, in February 1933. Three body styles were available: a sedan, a convertible coupe, and the phaeton.

The Custom series was powered by a Chrysler 384.84 cubic-inch inline eight that developed 135 horsepower. Improvements for 1933 included a three-speed silent helical gear transmission and improved steel alloy exhaust valve seats.

Interestingly, 1933 was the last year (pre-war) that Chrysler participated in the Indianapolis 500 race. Its Golden Seal Special finished 14th.