1931 Chrysler CM Six

The Chrysler Series CM was introduced in January 1931 as a mid-year model. Though it was introduced in 1931, they were actually an early release 1932 model. The two-door Roadster with seating for four was economically priced at around $885. Total series CM production would amass 38,817 sales for 1931, proving to be a rather popular model for Chrysler.

The new Chrysler CM wore the 'L-29' styling theme with a wide profile and V-type radiator built atop a new 'Double-Drop' frame design. Mounted under the bonnet was a six-cylinder, 'Silver Dome' engine with a cast-iron block. There were seven main bearings, solid valve lifters, a Stromberg carburetor, and a displacement size of 217.8 cubic inches for the L-head unit. Horsepower was rather impressive at just under 80. The CM models were fitted with a three-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel hydraulic brakes.

The most popular of the CM Series configurations was the four-door sedan with seating for five. At a base price of $895, they were a great value in performance, design, materials, and styling. In total, 28,620 units were sold accounting for the majority of the CM sales. 99 examples were just rolling chassis, probably later fitted with custom coachwork or possibly even truck bodies. 196 were the dual windshield Phaetons which sold for $915. There were a total of six body styles to select from, plus the chassis-only option.

by Dan Vaughan

Sport Roadster
Chassis number: 6 532 542
Engine number: CM 14224

Between 1925 and 1931, Chryslers competed internationally at events such as the Le Mans 24 Hours and Spa 24 Hours, and the Mille Miglia where they earned impressive results amidst world-class competition.

This Chrysler CM-6 was prepared in the style of the sporting competition cars of the period. Martin Swig purchased the car in 2002 after being in long-term ownership of Charles Giese in Billings, Montana. Mr. Giese had owned it since at least 1964. The car was owned briefly by Mark Hyman before entering the care of Mr. Swig where it was transformed into the dual purpose competition/touring car. Triple Zenith updraft carburetors were installed on a custom manifold, along with forged pistons and a higher 9:1 compression ratio. A windshield that could be folded flat and a pair of Brooklands competition windscreens were installed to help complete the look. A Jaeger tachometer was added for the driver.

In 2013, the car was offered for sale at Bonhams Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $70,150 including the buyer's premium.

by Dan Vaughan

Rumble Seat Coupe

The first Chrysler automobile to appear on American roads was a 1924 model, and Walter P. Chrysler's new car was a success right out of the barn.

In 1931, a new Chrysler model was introduced - the CM6. A total of 1,492 Convertible Coupe model CM6s were built. The new series had a 116-inch wheelbase, weighed around 2,700 pounds, and had a 217 cubic-inch 6-cylinder engine. The base price was $935.

The current owner's father bought this car in 1964 and gave it to his son to drive. The current owner drove this car to high school and then parked it - or more accurately, 'stored' it because it sat for 45 years. Then he decided to restore the car, bringing his first car back to its former glory.

Sport Roadster
Chassis number: CM 27545
Engine number: CM25720

The Chrysler CM New Six was introduced partway through the 1931 model year and its styling continued the styling theme of the 'L-29' with its V-Type radiator, sporty lines, and wide stance. The elegant body rested upon a new 'Double-Drop' frame design and was powered by a 217 cubic-inch, L-head 'Silver Dome' six-cylinder engine backed by a three-speed manual transmission. There were hydraulic drum brakes at all four corners.

This particular Roadster wears a polychrome color scheme featuring a cream base finished with blue trim and orange flourishes, including the wire wheels. There are period-correct optional equipment, a chrome-framed windscreen, an integrated Chrysler clock, a woodgrain dash insert with a full suite of instrumentation, and a tan convertible top. There are side mount wheels, a rear carriage trunk, a correct gazelle hood ornament, and a pair of external spotlights.

by Dan Vaughan