1933 Chrysler Imperial

LMC is very proud to offer for sale this 1933 Chrysler CL Imperial Dual-Windshield Phaeton.

To collectors and enthusiasts of the beautiful cars of the Classic Era, the timeless and enduring body designs of LeBaron require no introduction. The firm’s designs for the advanced and regal Chrysler CL Custom Imperial of 1933 represent some of its finest creations. Only 151 LeBaron-bodied examples were produced, with just 36 being dual windshield phaetons, and today, it is estimated that just 17 remain, including a handful of restored examples. In fact, LeBaron’s own Ralph Roberts was so enamored with the design of the 1933 dual-windshield phaeton variant that he ordered one for use as his personal car.

This stunning 1933 Chrysler was delivered new to the legendary Powerboat Racer, Lou Fageol. Fageol won many Powerboat races in his career, piloting some of the fastest boats on the planet at that time. He also built race cars that contended in famous land races like the Indianapolis 500. His racing career ended when he was seriously injured in a Powerboat accident in 1955. During Fageol’s ownership of this Chrysler, he had his shop fit a V16 Cadillac engine, creating an early high performance automobile. The next owner of this now high performance Chrysler would be well known Hollywood film actor Turhan Bey. It would eventually make its way into famous car collector Jack Passey before coming into ownership of a Laurence “Baron” Dorcy. Baron was the grandson of James J. Hill of the Great Northern Railroad and therefore, could live in a millionaire lifestyle sailing yachts, piloting aircraft, and collecting fine automobiles while living on the beautiful island of Maui. The Chrysler would be treated to a restoration by Harold Orchard between 1985 and 1987. Orchard is well known individuals for his award-winning restorations. Recently, a period correct Imperial engine was installed, replacing the V16 power unit. Over its career, this Chrysler had two different V16s powering it, and both numbers are still known. The restoration has turned this Imperial into a beautiful example of one of the rare and coveted Dual Windshield Phaetons. Its Scarlet red finish shines like brand new and adds an element of sportiness to the elegance that glows from this car. When you get behind the wheel, and fire it up with the push button starter, it is easy to forget that this beauty is 84 years old.

With less than 20 known surviving of these American classics, the rarity and collectibility is likely unmatched. The history of this particular Dual Windshield ensures that this beauty on a level above the rest of its surviving class.