This 1937 Chrysler Airflow Series C-17 Eight Coupe is an original example that can be enjoyed as-is as a survivor or as an excellent base for restoration.  In excellent mechanical condition and rust-free, this survivor can be driven to any car show or CCCA CARavan.  These incredibly rare art deco masterpieces are gorgeous to behold and are an important part of American automotive history.  When the Airflow debuted, it had set 72 land speed records as well as numerous engineering firsts.

Chrysler had always been an engineering led automotive company.  Chrysler engineers Owen Skelton, Carl Breer and Fred Zeder, known as the Three Musketeers, relied on science to develop one of the most advanced cars of its time, the Airflow.  They even contracted with Orville Wright to develop aerodynamic theories on automotive design.  But the breakthroughs didn’t stop with its unique looks; the unibody construction, nearly 50-50 weight distribution, advanced suspension design and mechanical overdrive were far ahead of its time.  The 1937 Chrysler Airflow is the last year of the Airflows and the most refined.  This example, being the C-17 Eight Coupe, is a full classic with the Classic Car Club of America and as such is accepted at leading concours and touring events across America.  There were only 230 C-17 Eight Coupes produced, a mere 5% of the C-17 Eight production.  Of the 230 examples, it is likely that no more than 10% survive today.   The coupes truly represent one of the ultimate streamlined art deco masterpieces and are typically acquired by major collections.

HISTORY OF THIS AIRFLOW COUPE- The history of this Airflow Coupe is well documented for the past 20 years.   The Airflow was owned by Samual Cubete of Huntington Beach, CA and is presumed to be a California car.  By August 30, 2004, the Coupe was acquired by Mark J. Smith of Lynchburg, PA for $45,000.  Mr. Smith was one of the truly great collectors in the hobby, having amassed a very large and important collection before his passing.  The last owner of this C-17 Coupe was Brent DuCoing of Anaheim Hills, CA, who inherited the Airflow in 2022 from the Mark Smith estate.  Mr. DuCoing has a fantastic collection of important and interesting motorcars.

The patinaed livery of this sexy and curvaceous Coupe is Skytint Blue (Paint Code 229) with very nice chrome and stainless-steel art deco trim.  The paint is assumed to be an older repaint in its original color that at one point was likely covered with a tarp causing some of its paint to peel on its roof.  Sky Tint Blue is a fantastic color on the Airflow Coupes.  This is a rust-free example, and it would be a straightforward repaint or the roof section could be repainted leaving a wonderful patina as a survivor.  The wide white wall tires look right on this Coupe, giving it a very elegant look.  The chrome and stainless steel are in very good condition.  The running boards are original and in good condition.  We have included many close-up photos in the photo gallery of the paint imperfections and running boards, so rest assured this is a very nice example.

The interior of all the Airflows are simply stunning.  Being art deco inspired, there are gorgeous design cues throughout that make these cars special.  And being a senior C-17 Eight, the quality of the interior is superb.  The tan wool Bedford cord upholstery is original and has many areas of moth holes, as is visible from the photo gallery.  The seating is very comfortable with excellent support for the passengers.  The brown carpeting is in good condition and shows some wear.  The faux wood dashboard is all original and marvelous in its art deco inspiration.  The instruments all work well, including the tachometer which is discreetly integrated into the speedometer.  Overall, the interior is very similar to the exterior- showing some patina but absolutely stunning in its design and originality.

The engine compartment is well detailed.  The engine compartment is just beautiful, including the wiring, inner fender panels and accessories.  The 323.5 cid straight eight engine produces about 138 hp.  The engine is whisper quiet and has very good performance with no smoking or other issues.  We fully serviced the Airflow and went through the brakes with new master and wheel cylinders.  Watch the drone and driving videos to see how well she performs.  The three-speed transmission with mechanical overdrive also operate perfectly at 35 mph, dropping the engine speed and making for an even smoother, quieter ride.  Airflows handle very well with their 50-50 weight distribution and advanced suspension, absorbing even the largest bumps with ease and confidence.  The ride and handling are simply outstanding when compared to any other classic of the era.

This Airflow Coupe comes complete with an original Owner’s Handbook, original Sales Brochure, spare wheel, supporting documentation, and some spare parts.

It is rare to find a C-17 Eight Coupe and nearly impossible to find one in this remarkable condition.  For more information and details, please call or text or Harry Clark at +1.602.245.7200 or email us at sales@classicpromenade.com.  This Coupe is available for viewing and inspection at our Phoenix showroom.  We are pleased to offer FaceTime or WhatsApp live video inspections and we help coordinate shipping worldwide.  We also have financing partners if you are interested in financing.