1924 Chrysler Model B-70 Roadster

The Chrysler Corporation was officially founded in 1925 although an all-new model was already well underway. Walter P. Chrysler had plans of producing a higher quality car than the Ford but more affordable than Cadillacs and Buicks. The first Chryslers actually appeared the year before the company was made official. In 1924, production of the Model 70 began, although it was dubbed the 'Chrysler Six' for its high-compression six-cylinder engine. The Model 70 was in reference to its top speed. The Model 70 was given many never-before-seen engineering feats. The Model 70 featured a seven-bearing crankshaft, carburetor air cleaner, full-pressure lubrication system, and the first replaceable oil filter. It had a 4.7:1 compression ratio and there were hydraulic brakes at all four corners. At the time, most other manufacturers offered a 4:1 compression ratio and two-wheel mechanical brakes.

In 1924, Chrysler offered nine body styles. They set many speed records and hill climb victories. These included several drives by Ralph de Palma, including overall victory at the 1924 Mt. Wilson Hill Climb, and several 1000-mile outright speed records. The Chryslers were also brought overseas and raced, with Land Speed Record holder Malcolm Campbell winning the '100 Short' at Brooklands in 1925 in an aerodynamic-bodied '70'. The Model 70 was also the first-ever American car to compete at the Le Mans 24 Hours.

This particular Model 70 Roadster was purchased in northern Washington State in 1998 by Martin Swig. The early history is not known, however, it is quite possible that it was delivered new to Washington, as the car wears a 1924 Washington license plate that was on the car at the time of Swig's purchase. The car was bought by Swig out of an estate collection. It is believed that it was in the previous ownership for decades, possibly since the 1960s. At some point, the car was repainted in a period color scheme. It has the correct wood-spoke wheels, nickel radiator, and ornamental winged radiator cap. Swig reupholstered the original bench seat, however, he left the original upholstery on the door panels. The odometer currently shows fewer than 36,000 miles which reflects the original mileage.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2015