The 1960 Chrysler New Yorker Convertible is much more than just a car: it is a piece of automotive history, a work of art on wheels. With only 556 units produced, this model has had an exceptional fate, selling for the handsome sum of $125,000 at an auction in 2015. But behind this beauty lie fascinating questions about its authenticity and value.
A Retro Beauty with Undeniable Charm
The 1960 Chrysler New Yorker Convertible is a bit like a cult film that never goes out of style. Its elegant lines, inherited from the Virgil Exner era, give it an unparalleled presence. Its sale at Mecum Monterey left a mark, but it also sparked a wave of questions. Why is such a prized car not accompanied by all the essential information during its auction?
Compared to listings of less expensive cars, where every detail of finish is meticulously mentioned, the catalogues of Mecum and Bonhams often merely designate colours vaguely, leaving room for uncertainty. For a potential buyer ready to invest such an amount, knowing the car’s history, including its paint specifications, seems to be the bare minimum.
Doubts About Colour and Authenticity
As I browsed the listings, a question came to mind: what is the actual colour of this New Yorker? Although it sports a captivating blue, poorly chosen lighting can deceive the eye. The description mentions a restoration during which the car was “refreshed” in Bluegrass, a metallic shade from the 1960s. However, the absence of a paint code on the trim plate raises doubts about the authenticity of this hue.
After some research in a 1960 Chrysler order codes book, it becomes clear that this combination of paint and interior was not common. The blue, which is normally associated with specific exterior colours, should not appear with Bluegrass. This is where the mystery thickens.
Technical Details That Raise Questions
Another intriguing aspect concerns the 413-cid “Golden Lion” engine that powers this car. Officially, it originally developed 350 horsepower, but modifications have increased its power to 380 horsepower. The nature of these changes remains vague, leaving uncertainty about the mechanical history of this iconic model.
The subject of braking also raises questions. Although the 1960 New Yorker comes standard with 12-inch drum brakes, the alleged presence of front disc brakes is questionable. A conversion that, while practical for more dynamic driving, could detract from the originality of the vehicle. At this stage, the dilemma between performance and authenticity becomes apparent.
An Unmissable Collector’s Model
This New Yorker has found refuge in the Tiriac Collection in Romania, owned by former tennis player Ion Tiriac. The collection’s page informs us that the car has been carefully restored, but it would have been wise to clearly explain the modifications made in the sales listing. Informed buyers deserve to know the entire history of the model they are considering acquiring.
Nonetheless, this car won an award at a Concours d’Élégance in Palo Alto after its restoration, demonstrating that it managed to impress the jury despite its possible modifications. This then raises a question: does originality really take precedence over aesthetics and the quality of the work done?
A Questionable Value
Ion Tiriac shelled out much more than the usual price for this type of model. Indeed, another similar red New Yorker convertible sold for $77,000 at an auction two years later. So, what justifies this price difference? Is it the captivating colour or the model’s reputation? Perhaps a bit of both.
It is fascinating to observe that buyers with unlimited means sometimes seem to place less importance on authenticity than on visual appeal. In the world of automotive auctions, the whims of the wealthy can seem strange, even irrational.
Dreams and Realities of Buyers
In the grand theatre of automotive auctions, it is easy to get carried away by the charm of beautiful bodies. However, for those of us who have never had $125,000 in hand, the reality is quite different. If by miracle such a sum fell into my lap, there are a thousand other things I would prefer to spend that money on before considering the purchase of a collector’s car.
For me, this Chrysler New Yorker Convertible remains an inaccessible dream: a fascinating beauty to behold without ever being able to touch it. Car enthusiasts will always appreciate this marvel, whether it is perfectly authentic or not.
