1955 Chrysler New Yorker Deluxe Series St Regis

This vehicle is a 1955 Chrysler New Yorker St. Regis Hardtop Coupe that is powered by a 331 cubic-inch V8 'Firepower' engine with hemispherical cylinder heads. It is capable of producing an astonishing 250 horsepower. There is a three-speed Powerflite automatic gearbox and four-wheel power-assisted drum brakes.

The St. Regis was distinguished from the base New Yorker by the two-tone paint scheme, exclusive to St. Regis, excessive use of chrome, color-keyed two-tone steering wheel, full carpeting, and upgraded fabrics.

1955 was a big year for the Chrysler Corporation as they introduced their new line of cars which showcased the new styling influences of their chief stylist, Virgil Exner. All vehicles in the Mopar family were treated to his team's expertise and talents and the work they are among the most memorable in history.

This particular St. Regis Hardtop Coupe was purchased new by a lady owner in Texas, who used it sparingly and kept it stored in a garage and protected from the elements. The car was inherited by her son when she passed away, at which time the odometer read just 43,000 miles since new.

The car was treated to a complete cosmetic restoration in 1998. The car came standard from the factory with chrome wire wheels, radio, clock, heater, seat belts, power-assisted brakes and steering, and a two-tone paint scheme. This car was brought to the 2005 Walter P. Chrysler Club's meet in Minneapolis, Minnesota where it was awarded Best of Show honors.

In 2007 it was brought to RM Auctions at Meadow Brook where it was estimated to sell for $40,000 - $50,000 and offered without reserve. This car proved to be very popular on auction day, possibly because the Chrysler Museum was just a few miles away, as bidding surpassed the estimated value and settled at $60,500.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2007