Chrysler Airflow
One of the first mass-produced American cars to use streamlining, the Chrysler Airflow was a commercial failure but an engineering triumph. It's now a sought-after Art Deco classic appreciated for its historical significance and rarity.
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25 listed in the past year. The last was 8 weeks ago.
Chrysler Airflow prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1934 | $55k | $55k–$81k | 5 | 0 |
| 1935 | $63k | – | 3 | 3 |
| 1936 | $21k | $11k–$44k | 5 | 5 |
| 1937 | $29k | – | 3 | 6 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
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.
Buying Tips
- Rust is a major enemy of the Airflow's semi-unibody structure. Thoroughly inspect the floors, rocker panels, and the integrated frame sections for corrosion.
- Exterior and interior trim is extremely difficult to find. Prioritize a complete car, as sourcing missing chrome, dashboard plastics, or hardware can be a long and expensive process.
- The flathead straight-8 engines are durable, but they can be prone to cracking if they've overheated. Check the block carefully and look for signs of coolant in the oil.
- Coupes command a significant premium over the more common 4-door sedans. Be sure you're paying a price appropriate for the body style you're considering.
Prices range from around $15,000 for sedans to over $68,000 for top-spec coupe variants.
129 Chrysler Airflow vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 14 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Chrysler Airflow listings are for sale right now?
There are 14 Chrysler Airflow listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.