1958 Chrysler New Yorker Convertible

 

The salesman brochure for 1958 told dealerships to describe the redesigned Chrysler New Yorker as the “glamour girl of the Forward Look,” and there is nothing on this spectacular automobile to dispute that.

From its flagship 392 CI Hemi powerplant to the flight-sweep styling cues that resulted in a look of motion even when standing still, this New Yorker from the Best of Show Collection is truly in a class of its own. This stunning convertible has been driven only 5,500 original miles since new and received a world-class restoration that has garnered awards across the country.

Even its “critics,” the judges at nationally recognized auto shows, have agreed. Multiple AACA Junior and Senior titles, the SEMA/ARMO Restoration of the Year award in September 2008 following its refreshing by American Classic Auto Restorations, an AACA National Historical Preservation of Original Features Certification at Melbourne, Florida, prior to that, and noteworthy event recognition from Florida to California adorn its legacy.

Of course, beyond the new-for-1958 styling cues, one is immediately drawn to the Matador Red paint, contrasting black top and accessory equipment. Under the hood was the largest iteration of the first-generation 392 CI Hemi engine rated at 345 HP engine with its Carter AFB 4-barrel carburetor. The area beneath the hood is exquisitely detailed on this car.

The engine is backed by the TorqueFlite 3-speed transmission, which utilizes the dash-mounted pushbutton shifter, and this New Yorker features power steering and brakes. Inside this car’s well-upholstered interior are power seats and windows, Air-Temp factory air conditioning, tinted glass and the Auto Pilot cruise control.

For audio equipment, it features the AM radio with a power antenna and rear speaker, and the very desirable Highway Hi-Fi in-dash record player. Overall, Virgil Exner’s flight-sweep styling perhaps reached its epitome in the Chrysler lineup during this model release, creating exclusivity in this popular arena of ownership today.

With a record of excellence on the show field and a gorgeous 9,000-hour restoration that took three years to complete, this Hemi-powered New Yorker is documented with a copy of its original build card and more than 4,000 photos of the restoration.