Fantasy Junction

Description

1947 Chrysler Town & Country Sedan

VIN – 71002542
Engine No. - C38-133745
Exterior Color – Beige with Two-Tone Wood
Interior Color – Brown
Engine – 250.6 ci in-line “Spitfire” L-Head 6 cylinder
Transmission – 4-speed semi-automatic “Fluid Drive”
Mileage – 34,917 miles (TMU)

Highlights of this Town & Country

- Comprehensive restoration with excellent wood finishes
- Same California owner for over 40 years
- One of just 2,651 examples built in 1947

General History

In an age of hand-crafted beauty and American craftsmanship, Chrysler built some of the most impressive cars combining industrial steel and hand-hewn woodwork. For those seeking the combined elegance and country character of farm and urban life the Town & Country set the stage for an automobile design that remains one of the most desirable American icons of the 20th century.

Chrysler introduced the Town & Country in 1941 as a wood-bodied, barrel-back sedan. Unlike most wood-bodied utility vehicles of the period, Chrysler’s Town & Country sported lavishly varnished woods, quality upholstery, and chrome plated art-deco trim. Chrysler foresaw a market for an upscale production-based automobile that would attract wealthy buyers seeking both the Town and Country driving experience. Designers created a wood-bodied car with the same basic lines as contemporary Chrysler steel-bodied sedans, yet with greater refinement, quality, and a bespoke interior, reminiscent of wealthy country estates. Using structural white ash, accented by contrasting panels of rich Honduran mahogany, all wood was finished with furniture quality including exposed finger joinery, complex contours, and refined but sturdy hardware. Just 2,651 Town & Country Sedans were built for the 1947 year.

History of this Town & Country

This example has been under the same California ownership since the late 1970s. Records dating back to 1978 indicate the owner began purchasing parts for the restoration and by the 1980s had started selective work on components and trim. Restoration photos accompanying this car support the comprehensive work performed in the late 1980s and early 90s when the restoration was completed. The frame and inner fender components were stripped to bare metal, the entire interior removed, and inner surfaces finished with Imron paint. New wood was hand shaped and crafted to the same standards as the original construction, then carefully fitted to the car during reassembly and finishing. The interior was reupholstered using the correct patterns and materials, new carpets installed, interior roof and wood trim refinished. The exterior was finished in the correct beige color, chrome plating redone, emblems refinished, and red “Town & Country” lettering hand painted into the debossed rear bumper trim. The engine was rebuilt by Clay Cavanaugh in his machine shop, new wiring installed, and engine compartment features refinished to factory specifications. After the restoration was completed, the owners drove the car approximately 10k miles having their in-house mechanic tend to service needs. A handwritten ledger of service details is included spanning 20 years (2001-2022) outlining services including brake work, fluids, filters, lubrication, torquing bolts, radiator flush etc.

Current Condition

Today this 1947 Chrysler Town & Country Sedan is beautifully presented in beige with contrasting brown interior. The initial presence of this car instantly puts a smile on your face. Although the restoration was done more than 30 years ago, the quality still remains very good with excellent details throughout, including excellent paint and chrome, though the center rear bumper section has lost some of the chrome plate finish. The wood finish has been very well maintained and retains excellent sheen. There is no evidence of finger-joint gaps or excessive flaking in the finish. Both light and dark wood finishes are well maintained and retain the glossy varnish in keeping with the elegance of these handmade cars. Even the detailed wood and chrome roof rack and support rails are in excellent condition. The glass and various exterior lenses are all in excellent condition. The car rides on a set of Firestone FR380 white wall tires.

The interior is beautifully appointed with brown seats which create plush “library chair” seating for both front and rear passengers. Wide lounge-style seats comfortably hold three passengers in a row. The dashboard, instruments, and steering wheel are a visual delight of the period. Chrysler's “Juke Box” styling comes to life with chrome plated trim, painted details, and art-deco instrumentation that glows quietly in the evening light. The trunk is properly finished in keeping with originality. All hinges and joinery are also in excellent condition.

The engine compartment was properly restored some years ago and now shows modest signs of age. Finishes have acquired patina, but the engine area holds up well and remains serviceable, clean, and authentic. The underside continues the same visual theme as the engine compartment with consistent finishes, excellent floors, and no visual evidence of structural compromise.

The car starts and runs smoothly with a quiet idle and gentle manner. Fluid Drive engages easily with smooth acceleration from standing starts. Once in motion, the car shifts and operates much like an automatic transmission, with high gear engaged by lifting your foot from the gas pedal and advancing to cruising speeds. A low gear can be manually selected for more brisk starts, then manually shifting to the automatic mode. Ride and acceleration are leisurely. Braking is consistent with technology of the times and while non-power steering takes some effort given the wheelbase length and weight, general driving is delightful once in motion. Driving this Chrysler Town & Country, one is reminded that these sturdy cars are welcome companions and lofty agents of highway tranquility from a bygone era.

Included with this car

This car is accompanied by a car cover, a set of sun visors, a pair of floor mats, a scissor jack and tire iron, a used instrument cluster, various publications on Chrysler and woody cars, a file folder with numerous records including restoration receipts for woodwork and parts, a picnic case with spare automotive parts, and a tool roll with assorted tools.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608