AUCTION: 1956 Chrysler New Yorker Newport Hardtop

This 1956 Chrysler New Yorker Newport Hardtop is set to steal the spotlight at Mecum Monterey on Friday, August 18th, 2023. This immaculately preserved masterpiece is not just a car; it’s a journey back in time, a testament to the craftsmanship and elegance of an era gone by.

Once owned by the iconic Richard and Karen Carpenter, famed for their musical prowess as The Carpenters, this 1956 Chrysler New Yorker Newport Hardtop is a living testament to the golden age of American automobiles. Adorned in a striking two-tone Cloud White and Soft Rose paint, it’s one of the mere 4,155 Newport hardtops produced in the pivotal year of 1956. A year when Chrysler heralded its “PowerStyle” design, a vision originally introduced in 1955 under the visionary eye of Virgil Exner.

Under the hood lies a powerhouse of innovation—a 5.8-liter (354 cubic-inch) HEMI® V8 engine, capable of generating 250 horsepower. This HEMI marvel is a symphony of cast iron engineering, boasting a dual exhaust system that adds a touch of visceral excitement to every journey. The PowerFlite automatic transmission, controlled by dash-mounted pushbuttons, seamlessly connects this vintage gem to the road.

Stepping into the cockpit is like stepping back into a time when cars were not just vehicles but expressions of luxury. This New Yorker Newport is graced with an array of features that define indulgence—power steering and brakes for effortless maneuvering, dual side-view mirrors for added elegance, power windows that invite the outside world in, and a power bench seat that redefines comfort.

Inside the cabin, time has been suspended, preserved in the intricate details that make this New Yorker Newport a collector’s dream. From the dual clocks, with both a steering wheel and an in-dash timepiece, to the rare Highway Hi-Fi 16-2/3 RPM record player, every facet of this car evokes a sense of nostalgia. The matching original interior, dressed in opulent leather upholstery, resonates with an air of sophistication.

But what truly sets this New Yorker Newport apart is the unique touch of history curated by Karen Carpenter herself. A scrapbook, lovingly crafted by the talented musician, captures moments frozen in time—pictures and memorabilia from car shows where this beauty once stole the limelight. It’s a personal connection to the past, a portal into the world of the Carpenters and their appreciation for automotive excellence.

This remarkable New Yorker Newport has graced the halls of the Northeast Classic Car Museum in Norwich, New York, where it has been showcased for two years, drawing enthusiasts into its orbit. As a part of the distinguished four-car Doug and Christine Dressler Collection, this automobile represents more than just metal and machinery; it’s a work of art, a symphony of design and engineering.

The anticipation is palpable as the 1956 Chrysler New Yorker Newport Hardtop prepares to cross the auction block at Mecum Monterey. With an estimated value of $200,000 to $225,000, it’s not just a car seeking a new owner—it’s an opportunity to possess a piece of history, a slice of a bygone era when cars weren’t just means of transportation, but gateways to adventure and expressions of refined taste.

1956 Chrysler New Yorker Newport Hardtop Image Gallery:

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