AIRFLOW PAIR AUCTIONED IN USA

The two Airflow models on offer at the auction event in Plymouth, Michigan (formerly known as the Meadow Brook concours and auction) comprised a 1935 Chrysler C2 Imperial coupe and 1935 DeSoto SG sedan.

When they debuted in 1934, the Airflow models revolutionised car design with their faired-in headlamps, rounded front end and slippery shape. The aerodynamic benefits of the design were proven in a number of economy runs and speed records, with one particular run from New York yielding an impressive MPG figure of 22mpg. This was followed by a number of speed record runs at Bonneville. Repackaging the layout of the Airflow models allowed for more interior space, too, by shifting the engine forward and moving the rear seats to be ahead of, rather than on top of the rear axle. Despite all the benefits in performance and economy, the design proved to be too radical a step for most buyers and sales were poor. Chrysler reacted by modifying their range to look more 'conventional' over the following years, to the point where their offerings at the end of the 1930s differed little from those of other manufacturers.

The Chrysler on offerwas restored to concours standards in the early 1990s by a marque expert. The quality was such that it won an AACA First Senior badge and was chosen as the cover car for 'The Hemmings Book of Prewar Chryslers'. Since being purchased by the current owner in 2002, the Imperial Airflow was displayed at the Greenwich Concours d'Elegance where it was shown in the competitive Prewar class. While in its current ownership, it has required only regular maintenance and the occasional drive. The exterior color of Putty Beige is complemented by a brown mohair interior. Interesting features included the roll-out vee'd windshield, aircraft-inspired interior and vent windows that roll out automatically when the windows are rolled down. Fitted options included fender skirts, front and rear bumpers and front bumper guards. The engine bay was correct in presentation and was restored just as nicely as the exterior.

This top-of-the-line Series SG DeSoto Airflow Sedan from 1935 was one of less than 7,000 built for that model year. It featured a 241.5ci six cylinder engine and three speed manual synchromesh transmission. Until 2007, it was part of the well-known Iowa-based DeSoto collection of Chris and Connie Binder, in whose ownership it had been stored and kept covered for over 30 years. In June, the rare Airflow emerged from a high-quality, ground-up restoration to original appearance and specifications, with wonderful results. As offered, it has not yet been shown, affording the new owner the opportunity to show and tour this stylish and forward-thinking motor car.

If the results from RM Auctions' St. John's event are any indication, interest in these vehicles seems to be gaining momentum. Being one of 200 built and only six known to still be in existence,the Chrysler was easily the more collectable of the two. The final sale price of US$66,000 was short of the auction's pre-sale estimate, but still a good price for a model that hasn't been on the collector's radar. The DeSoto sold for $27,500, within its pre-sale estimate.

Watch this space for more lots from this auction in the coming days.