This 1934 Chrysler Airflow (chassis 9755181) appears to be a fairly complete, very early example in need of some attention in order to return to optimal condition. The Airflow was among the first cars ever designed with the aid of a wind tunnel, and these first year cars offer the purest representation of this groundbreaking but ultimately unsuccessful model. Find this one here on eBay in Harrisonburg, Virginia for $16k OBO.

Features read a lot like a modern car–spaceframe construction, 54/46 weight distribution, a relatively low drag coefficient and improvement fuel economy over contemporary American cars. This early example features the most aerordynamic nose, as later versions received more conventional, upright grilles. Interestingly, a relative of Hans Ledwinka (designer of the highly aerodynamic streamlined Tatras) worked at Budd Mfg Co. in Philadelphia when this car was being developed there.

This particular airflow is presently not running but appears very complete, and the owner has provided a list of spares and extra parts. This car is mid-restoration already and features rebuilt brakes, starter and generator, plus rebuild kits for the fuel pump and carburetor. The gas tank has been cleaned, and several replacement gaskets are provided for the free-turning straight eight. Per the seller, the car was driven until the previous owner started taking it apart.

Inside it looks very intact and possibly original. The driver’s side windshield glass is out, and the seller states that a frame needs to be made, though the glass is still with the car and will help in making a template. This car is apparently one of the earliest, and is supposedly the 10th produced by Chrysler of Canada.

These Chryslers, while commercial failures when new, are now very interesting artifacts of American manufacturing of the pre-war period.