1948-Chrysler-Town and Country Convertible

Description

1948 Chrysler Town and Country Convertible
s/n: 7405704, Engine no. C39-51414
Green with Tan Interior

Chrysler introduced the Town and Country line for their post-war selection, featuring sedans and convertibles. This body style was the most memorable of all the Chryslers with its name coming from the combination of the steel front end representing ‘Town’ and the wood paneled rear portion resembling ‘Country.’

The convertible was the most favored of the Town and Country line. Virtually unchanged during its first three years of production, the expensive Town and Country convertible attracted 2,936 buyers in 1948 despite the lofty price tag of $3,395. The body was framed with white ash (adding structural rigidity to the doors and deck lid), fitted with interlocking miters, and varnished to perfection. Mahogany veneer plywood filled the spaces within the framing. The Town and Country convertible was built on Chrysler’s C-39 chassis and featured a Spitfire Straight Eight, 323.5 cubic-inch engine developing 135 horsepower coupled to a fluid drive transmission.

The iconic Town and Country has always been a favorite with Hollywood personalities. In period, one example was specially constructed for actor Leo Carrillo, better known as Poncho from The Cicso Kid television show. Jay Leno’s Garage would not be complete without a resto-mod Town and Country in this very same color combination.

This particular example is a structurally sound and solid, running and driving car, with “good driver” cosmetics in keeping with an older restoration. While the early history is unknown at this time, the current owner purchased it out of Illinois. The car runs well making good power, and with ample stopping power. It shifts well, and rides smooth. The undercarriage, while not overly detailed, is exceedingly solid suggesting that this example has enjoyed a very dry, fair weather lifestyle.

As stated in Chrysler’s 1948 advertisements “There’s an air about this glorious convertible, a whisper of country clubs and moonlight rides. There’s poise in every dashing line- a car that’s at ease in any company.” Always received with much positivity, this stylish Chrysler Town and Country is a car truly loved by an entire American generation.