1958 Chrysler 300D Convertible Coupe

This 1958 Chrysler 300D Convertible was offered for sale at the 2007 RM Auctions held in Amelia Island, Florida where it was expected to sell between $175,000 - $225,000. It is powered by the coveted 392 cubic-inch hemispherical cylinder head V8 engine that is capable of producing 375 horsepower. There is a pushbutton, three-speed, Torqueflite automatic gearbox, and four-wheel power-assisted drum brakes.

The American market was doing rather well; the war was over and people were buying cars. Chrysler's large, powerful, and luxurious automobile, the 300, was exactly what many were seeking. In 1957, Chrysler introduced its 392 cubic-inch V8 engine with Hemispherical cylinder heads and produced 375 horsepower.

In 1958, the economy began slowing down and an industry-wide strike did not help improve the evolving situation. As a result, production numbers for nearly all manufacturers decreased. The Chrysler 300D production numbers were no different. In total, 190 examples of the 300D convertibles were constructed in 1958, with about 53 examples existing in modern times. Due to the high cost of production and low production numbers, Chrysler discontinued its Hemi engine after 1958. The 300E of the following year was powered by a 413 cubic-inch wedge head V8 engine.

This example shown has not been offered for sale in twenty-five years. It has an electric top and many luxurious amenities such as power seats, power windows, an upgraded radio with a foot tuner, and correct Kelsey Hayes wire wheels. About fifteen years ago, it was treated to a complete nut-and-bolt restoration. A touch-up restoration was performed in 2006.

At the auction, the car was sold. The purchaser got a bargain, with a selling price of $140,250.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2007

The Chrysler 300D was powered by a 340 cubic-inch overhead V8 engine. Four-wheel power-assisted hydraulic brakes did all they could to keep this car in the control of the driver. There were only 140 convertibles of the 300D produced in 1958 with about 23 remaining in modern times. The 1958 Chrysler 300D Convertible finished in black paint with a white interior was offered for sale at the 2006 Worldwide Group auction held on Hilton Head Island where it was expected to bring in between $175,000-$225,000. It has the original 392 Hemi engine and 727 Torque Flight transmission. It is equipped with many desirable amenities including power seats, power windows, a radio with a foot tuner, and Kelsey Hayes wire wheels. Since new, it has had a nut-and-bolt restoration. At the conclusion of the auction, the vehicle was left unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2011