Chrysler Airflow

The Chrysler Airflow was a radical departure from automotive design when it debuted for the 1934 model year. Its streamlined, aerodynamic shape was born from wind-tunnel testing and was a stark contrast to the upright, boxy cars of its era. Beyond its looks, the Airflow featured advanced engineering with a form of unibody construction that provided a stronger, lighter structure and a superior ride. Despite its technical merits, the public wasn't ready for such a futuristic design, and the Airflow was a commercial failure.

Today, the Airflow is a celebrated piece of Art Deco design and a landmark in automotive history. Collectors prize the car for the very reasons it failed in the 1930s: its unique, forward-thinking styling and its advanced engineering. With low production numbers across both the Chrysler and related DeSoto lines, rarity is a key factor in its appeal. The 2-door coupes are the most sought-after models, representing the purest form of the groundbreaking design.

The market for the Airflow is small but dedicated. With an average sale price around $37,500, they represent an accessible entry into significant pre-war classics. The price spread is wide, however, with excellent examples, especially the rare coupes from 1935-1937, selling for as much as $68,000. Sedans and cars needing restoration occupy the lower end of the market, often trading below $25,000.

Prices range from around $15,000 for sedans to over $68,000 for top-spec coupe variants.