Chrysler Airstream

Chrysler Airstream
Overview
Manufacturer Chrysler
Model years 1935-1936
Body and chassis
Layout FR
Related DeSoto Airstream
Dodge Model DU
Plymouth Model PJ
Powertrain
Engine 93 hp (69 kW) six-cylinder, L-head engine;[1] 273.8CID L-head 105hp inline 8 engine[2]
Transmission 3-speed manual[2]
Dimensions
Wheelbase 118 in (3,000 mm)[1]
Length 16 ft 1 in (4,900 mm)[1]
Curb weight 3,048 lb (1,383 kg)[1]
Chronology
Successor Chrysler Royal

The Chrysler Airstream was an automobile produced by Chrysler in 1935 and 1936. The Airstream was a conventional looking automobile that was trimmed to evoke a feeling of streamlined design, and was a smaller luxury car to the larger Imperial. A similar car, with the same Airstream name was also sold by Chrysler's companion brand DeSoto during the period.

The creation of the Airstream was an outgrowth of the unpopularity of the streamlined Chrysler Airflow, which consumers failed to embrace. The Airstream was based on the 1933 Chrysler "CO" model, which was carried over into the 1934 model year as the Chrysler "CA". When the Airflow failed to capture the attention of the buying public, Chrysler retrimmed the "CA", gave the car rear fender skirts, and rolled out a model that they hoped would appeal to Depression-era buyers. By marketing the Airstream alongside the Airflow, Chrysler could meet the needs of the public while hoping to produce enough Airflows to offset their development.

1935 Chrysler Airstream Coupe

During its two years of production, the Airstream outsold the Airflow five to one in its first year, and nearly nine to one in 1936.

Chrysler discontinued the "Airstream" model name for both Chrysler and DeSoto at the beginning of the 1937 model year.[2]

See also


References

  1. 1 2 3 4 Archived November 2, 2006, at the Wayback Machine.
  2. 1 2 3 Kimes, Beverly (1996). standard catalog of American Cars 1805-1942. Krause publications. ISBN 0-87341-428-4.
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