Every car company has its Edsel, though for very different reasons. Whereas the Edsel was the offspring of ill-timed marketing decisions, Chrysler's Airflow was an engineering error. While the Edsel was over-styled, a mish-mash of chrome and exaggerated decor plus a grille that resembled either a horse collar or an Alfa-Romeo, depending how you saw it, the Airflow was designed by engineers who were influenced by aerodynamics ("streamlining" in those days) but lacked aesthetic tastes. Ford could survive the Edsel but the Airflow might have destroyed Chrysler had the company not backstopped itself with more conventional models. Like Ford, it was wise enough to quit while there was still time.
Today the Edsel, though definitely an important collector car, is still available in such numbers that values remain low. A Chrysler Airflow (and its DeSoto twin) is far rarer, especially in concours condition. The 1934 Airflow seen here is sheer perfection, and when it goes on the block at Auction America's Fort Lauderdale auction, March 16-18, it is expected to bring between $80,000 - $100,000. Some consider the styling to be beautiful, too far ahead ahead of its time, but I think that, when seen from the front, the Airflow was rather ugly. And that's the real reason why the public turned against it.
The engineering, however, was brilliant. A semi-unitary "truss bridge" chassis was based on aircraft construction principles. The eight-cylinder engine was placed over the front axle, which allowed the seats to be located entirely within the car’s wheelbase, resulting in a roomy and comfortable passenger compartment and a remarkably smooth ride. Needing superior handling dynamics, an innovative suspension system was designed. The engineering team then applied what they learned about aerodynamics to utilize monocoque construction. This would strengthen the body while reducing overall drag.
The windshield was composed of two sheets of glass that formed a raked 'vee' both side to side, and top to bottom instead of a flat panel of glass. While automakers like Ford, GM and even Chrysler continued to use wood structural framing members in their car bodies, the Airflow utilized a full steel body. Function dictated form but to the exclusion of style. If only they'd brought in one of the great designers of the day.
The car on auction had a complete restoration, finished in June, 2011 at a cost of nearly $200,000. Every nut and bolt was removed, cleaned or replaced. The engine, brakes, rear end and fuel tank were all rebuilt. This Airflow features an 8-cylinder inline engine, three speed transmission with overdrive and free-wheeling, and four-wheel hydraulic brakes. It is one of only 7,226 produced and is said to be among the best restored Chrysler Airflows in existence. Strangely, the passing of decades have given it a beauty that didn't exist in the first place.