Lot details
Registration No: Un-Reg
Chassis No: EP-107-P
Mot Expiry: None

Something of an impertinent upstart when compared to its Cadillac 341, Packard 526 and Pierce-Arrow 81 opposition, the Chrysler Imperial L-80 was unveiled on 26th November 1927. Advertised as `America's Most Powerful Motor Car', the newcomer developed a claimed 112hp and 218lbft; outputs sufficient for a near 100mph top speed. Featuring a Lanchester vibration damper, seven main bearings, Lynite aluminium pistons and Riccardo squish-shaped combustion chambers, its 309.3ci (5070cc) straight-six engine was allied to three-speed manual transmission. Boasting a better power-to-weight ratio than any rival, the L-80 nevertheless sat on an imposing 136-inch wheelbase chassis equipped with a semi-floating back axle, all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, Ross cam-and-lever steering and Lockheed hydraulic drum brakes. Available with a choice of fourteen factory and semi-custom bodystyles at prices ranging from $2,795 to $6,795, Chrysler's high-profile flagship accounted for a mere 2,100 sales during 1928; the marque's hugely impressive performances at the Le Mans and Spa 24-hours seemingly counting for little.

Finished in two-tone metallic green with green upholstery, this particular LHD example is a rare survivor. One of only twenty-five '28 L-80 LeBaron Club Coupes ever made, it was subject to a four-page article in Car & Parts magazine (September 1981 issue). Belonging to Californian collector Pat Craig at that time, the Chrysler was later acquired by the vendor and imported into the UK during January 1995. Unfortunately, various parts went missing in transit including the radiator mascot, driver's door handle, windscreen wipers and twin side-mounted spare wheels etc which rather tempered the seller's enthusiasm for the car. Stored as part of a private collection over the last fourteen years, the Chrysler is now in need of some restoration. Nicely detailed, it sports an opening rear window (so that rumble seat passengers can communicate with those up front), Arvin heater and engine-turned dashboard, while, extras comprise the rear-mounted luggage trunk and wire wheels. Reported to turn over freely the `big six' retains its Stewart vacuum gasoline system, oil-filled coil and Stromberg UX4 carburettor etc. A potentially rewarding project, this stylish L-80 LeBaron Club Coupe is offered for sale with copy C&E 386 form.

PLEASE NOTE: Since the printed catalogue went to press we have been informed by the vendor that he has had a mechanic fettle the Chrysler with the result that its engine is now "running very well".