Such was the demand for vehicles in the immediate aftermath of WW2, that the 1946 Chryslers – like most other American makes – reappeared looking much the same as in 1942, though the wood-embellished Town & Country model, previously available only as a station wagon, was now made either as a sedan or two-door convertible on both the New Yorker (eight-cylinder) and Windsor (six-cylinder) chassis. With their contrasting ash framing, mahogany veneer and steel panels, and boasting a level if finish that would be the envy of the finest yachts, these Town & Country models were certainly very striking. They were also the best-equipped and most expensive models in the Chrysler range, and today are among the most highly prized American automobiles of their era.

First introduced in 1938 as the ‘New York Special’, the stylish New Yorker was based on Chrysler’s up-market Imperial and used the latter’s sidevalve straight-eight engine. In Chrysler nomenclature ‘New Yorker’ signified luxury, these models being distinguished by high quality interior trim and an occasionally adventurous choice of upholstery materials including Scottish tartan (on the New Yorker Highlander). The 1947 and ’48 Chryslers exhibited only minor detail changes from the ’46 line-up, though now the Town & Country Sedan was available on the six-cylinder Windsor chassis only, while all the T&C Convertibles were built on the eight-cylinder New Yorker chassis.

For 1949, the final year of the Town & Country Convertible, production was delayed until March and only 993 were completed by the season’s end. Costing $3,765, the T&C Convertible was the most expensive model in the Chrysler range and even more costly than the equivalent Cadillac. Built on the longer (131.5″) wheelbase, these later cars remain highly regarded for their superior ride quality and driving dynamics.

This final-year Town & Country Convertible was purchased by its last owner from Berliner Classic Motorcars Inc in March 1991 and imported into Italy. The accompanying copy Certificate of Title shows that the car had previously been resident in Tennessee. Additional documentation consists of Italian registration papers and the car’s ASI/FIVA certificate. A rare ‘California’ hardtop – that we have never seen before on such a car – is included with the car. One of the most glamorous and iconic of post-war American automobiles, this beautiful Town & Country Convertible is the perfect companion with which to enjoy next summer.

This Chrysler New Yorker Town and Country Convertible is for sale. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for further details.