Chrysler New Yorker

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In the complex American car hierarchy, Chrysler occupied a place above blue-collar brands like Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge, but below prestige brands like Cadillac, Lincoln and Packard.

The New Yorker was launched in 1940 as Chrysler’s flagship model, aimed squarely at the well-heeled urban professional who wanted a luxuriously trimmed sedan in which to waft down 5th Avenue in search of a nice new suit or a diamond ring for the wife (or toyboy). By the time production came to an end in 1996, the New Yorker had established itself as the longest running American model name.

The 12th generation model ran from 1983 to 1988 and was a much more compact machine than the increasingly grandiose models of the 70s, being based on the front-wheel drive Chrysler E platform which used a modest inline four rather than the gas-guzzling V8s of old. Although a frugal 2.2-litre was available, most buyers opted for the 2.6-litre unit (actually sourced from Mitsubishi, but we won’t mention that) which ran on unleaded fuel and produced a respectable 137bhp.

The real headline grabber was the state-of-the-art digital dashboard with soothing blue lights and integrated Electronic Voice Alert. To keep Wilbur and Nancy safe after they had stopped for a quarter-ton burger and a gallon of Coke, a voice would softly remind them of a few basics, such as: “A door is ajar”; “Please fasten your seatbelts”; “Don’t forget your keys”, followed by a “Thank you” once they had complied.

To continue the pampering, a Landau vinyl roof with electroluminescent opera lamps came as standard, as did fake wire wheel trims, cruise control, lashings of real imitation wood, ankle-deep shagpile carpets and power-operated squelchy buttoned-leather armchairs. Never before had going to the shops been quite so easy – or so tasteful...

This Charcoal Grey New Yorker has been owned by one family from new, mother handing it to daughter in 1986 who then brought it to England when she left South Carolina in 1987. It comes with a large history file including a highly detailed spec sheet, original handbooks, maintenance records and the original bill of sale for $16,256 in October 1983. 

In regular use until 2011, it has been laid up for the last few years and although it still runs and drives it will doubtless benefit from some precautionary recommissioning before use. The vendor also advises that the exhaust is blowing so this will certainly need attention before a new MOT can be obtained.

Being offered here at no reserve, this one-owner slice of 80s Americana has covered some 92,800 miles to date and no doubt has years of useful life ahead of it. And with that helpful voice to guide them, the new owner will never have any excuse for driving off with the door ajar. Thank you.