Restored 1 of 250 Windsor Coupe Flathead 6 4 Speed Fluid Drive

While the phrase “pre-war classic” often conjures images of tired museum pieces that hang out with clueless volunteers, it can also stand for something great. The pre-war market is full of amazing design, impressive reliability and style in huge quantities. And with that in mind, this exclusive Chrysler is a living example of why, decades after their introduction, these cars still enjoy a dedicated fanbase. Featuring a correct flathead 6-cylinder and Fluid Drive 4-speed transmission, this coupe probably spent the better part of its 72 years as a stylish cruiser used for family fun. And today, as 1 of only 250 '42 Windsor 3-windows produced, it's poised for the spotlight and destined for the show field. If you're ready to step up to the charm and class that made America great, take a closer look at this streamlined MoPar!

Approaching this coupe, it's difficult not to be taken with its sleek profile. To achieve those striking good looks, the car had to be a solid starting point that benefitted from top notch metalwork. And once that metalwork was complete, it had to be shot with some of the best Dove Gray pigment on the market. Now, I know paintwork is often questionable on traditional pre-war metal, but this Windsor's enduring shine is a first rate testament to its 22 year old restoration. Reflections are straight and unbroken. There are no major imperfections visible anywhere. And overall, the car literally defines the term 'front row cruiser'.

Streamlined design at its very finest, this Chrysler is a stunning example of how modern aerodynamics began shaping the transportation industry. At the front of the car, a bold, stainless-trimmed grille flows past a curved bumper, elegant headlamps and a classy Chrysler hood crest. Behind that grille, sculpted fenders hang small “Windsor” emblems and straight trim spears behind stylish door handles and stainless rocker guards. At the top of those fenders, a chrome-capped hood anchors stainless-framed glass under an optional sun visor. And, opposite that hood, an ornate trunk rides between small tail lights, a second curved bumper and a polished stainless exhaust tip.

In the early '40s, Auburn Hills used flathead 6-cylinders as their main form of motivation. Given that Chrysler was the corporation's ultimate offering, our coupe moves thanks to an original Spitfire 6 which carries a correct “C34” assembly stamp. In factory-fresh form, this proven mill twisted healthy compression into a reasonable 120 horsepower. And, clocking in at 250 cubic inches, it was a relatively easy way for a prestigious brand to trump more pedestrian competitors. The antique mill was fully rebuilt in 2006 and thoroughly detailed in 2007, presenting much better today than when it growled off the assembly line. Aesthetically, the block, which perches a familiar oiled air cleaner and rare Ball & Ball carburetor above a correct head and correct exhaust manifold, has been coated in familiar Aluminum paint. There are many correct pieces like big horns, a MoPar red cap battery and an old school Chrysler distributor. A Dove Gray firewall combines with broad fenders to frame those pieces in a sea of old school bliss. And overall, the car's clean engine bay is a charming and 100% functional step back to a much simpler and, according to some, better chapter of American automotive history.

Speaking of simpler times, take one look under this reliable ride and you'll see just how much the automotive world has changed when it comes to comfort, handling and structural integrity. The car's clean floors, heavy duty frame and factory-accurate suspension are veiled in a subdued coat of Satin Black paint. A correct vacamatic 3-speed still lives behind the rock-solid engine, proving 'simple is good' by doing an excellent job of twisting an authentic Chrysler rear end. In front of that transmission, traditional control arms and coil springs utilize a manual steering rack to keep everything pointed in the right direction. Behind that transmission, stout leaf springs maintain ride height while providing ample grip. At the corners of the car, 4-wheel manual drum brakes ensure solid stops. At the center of the car, a low maintenance, single-pipe exhaust system gives the flathead a soft voice. And everything rolls on fresh 6.50-16 Allstate Super Safety Tread whitewalls which spin around red steelies, pinstriped trim rings and chrome hub caps.

The coupe's warm and welcoming interior looks straight out of pre-war America complete with vintage hides, tasteful colors and awesome marble accents. That cockpit centers on a heavily bolstered seat which provides good comfort and great visibility. At the sides of that seat, two-tone door panels hang chrome handles below painted window frames. At the bottom of those doors, traditional foot pedals front stain-free carpet, a clean cargo mat and color-keyed kick panels. Above those pedals, a stylish dash hangs a vintage radio and continuous-motion clock behind polished accessory buttons. Above that dash, a tight headliner flows to a small rear window. In front of the driver, a marbled, 2-spoke steering wheel spins a vintage horn ring around a flashy “Fluid Drive” script. And behind the cockpit, a cavernous trunk hides a full-size spare tire.

Formerly part of the Michael Leith Collection, this MoPar's provenance includes vintage documents, vintage photos, vintage parts, and a small stack of maintenance and restoration receipts.

With its elegant looks and proven running gear, this finely-tuned classic deserves a future in the limelight. If you're ready to start taking home trophies and making tons of car show friends, it's time to put this awesome Chrysler Windsor in your garage!