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68k Original Miles: 1974 Chrysler New Yorker Brougham

While some enthusiasts focus on classics offering stunning performance or jaw-dropping good looks, others prefer those that provide a luxurious motoring experience. This 1974 Chrysler New Yorker Brougham undoubtedly falls into the second category and is a tidy and solid survivor with 68,000 miles on the clock. It remains original and unmolested and should be considered a turnkey proposition courtesy of recent maintenance. The Brougham is listed here on eBay in Akron, Ohio. Bidding has raced past the reserve to sit at $3,355.

Buyer tastes are an evolving phenomenon, with yesterday’s “must-haves” becoming largely unloved quickly. Such was the case when Chrysler unveiled the latest edition of the New Yorker in 1974. The “fuselage” styling that broke cover in 1969 made way for a more square and aggressive appearance with the latest model. This Brougham is from the first production year, presenting impressively in Deep Sherwood Metallic with a matching Dark Green vinyl top. It is an unmolested and unrestored classic that has only seen weekend action under the seller’s care. The paint retains an impressive shine, but the seller states that potential buyers shouldn’t expect perfection from a vehicle with forty-nine years of active service. There are small chips and nicks, but nothing that might motivate the new owner to perform a restoration. Protecting its survivor status is a valid approach that many might consider. The vinyl is in good order, and there are no signs of bumps, bruises, or rust. The chrome, trim, and tinted glass are excellent, and the seller includes a set of factory Rally wheels for those seeking a more purposeful appearance.

Chrysler adopted a “one size fits all” approach with the mechanical configuration of the 1974 New Yorker. Buyers received a 440ci V8, a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. The engine produces 230hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque, giving the 4,674 lb Brougham surprisingly energetic performance. However, the large V8 and high curb weight brought a penalty when the subject turned to fuel economy. The New Yorker Brougham struggled to better 10mpg, a sales hurdle for a car released during an unexpected energy crisis. Still, this car’s new owner is unlikely to utilize the vehicle as a daily driver, meaning such figures are acceptable for the occasional weekend outing. The seller recently lavished some care and attention on the fuel system, completing a complete flush before installing a new sender unit, pump, hoses, and an Edelbrock carburetor. They include the factory carb for those preferring originality. They replaced the starter, rebuilt the alternator, and replaced many other electrical components. The only fault they note is a weeping driver’s side valve cover gasket, but a replacement is included for the buyer to install. The seller states it runs and drives well, and with the gasket replaced, it is ready to provide immediate motoring enjoyment.

This Chrysler’s interior carries the hallmarks of a classic that has been treated respectfully and protected from the elements. Its Dark Green cloth and vinyl upholstered surfaces show no wear or damage, and the carpet is as-new. The dash and pad are free from UV damage, and the faux woodgrain is excellent. The seller indicates the AM/FM stereo radio doesn’t produce sound and that the wipers need new bushes installed that they include in the sale. Otherwise, the air conditioning, power windows, and power driver’s seat function as they should.

Finding an affordable, tidy, original classic can be challenging, but this 1974 New Yorker Brougham could fall into that category. It has received fifteen bids to reach the current price, and there is time for the total to increase before the hammer falls. I would be surprised if the sale price crept far past $10,000, although the market does spring the occasional surprise. It could be worth monitoring the listing if luxury is a key consideration in your search for a classic. You never know, but today could be your lucky day.

Comments

  1. Mark

    Tip of the hat to the seller for the pics including a peek inside the radiator.
    Nothing like a green on green car.
    To all the younger set….if you’ve never had the oppotunity to get behind the wheel of a ride of this size, easing back in a sofa-like bench seat, taking it out on the highway and progressively depressing the gas pedal while only having to steer with one hand; you’ll never fully appreciate the phrase “gliding down the road”.

    Like 29
    • Ricardo Ventura

      Exactly. It’s like being on board a magic flying carpet.

      Like 8
    • Terry

      Yup,a living room on the road. The 440 is big power pulling like a giant magnet is sucking you forward

      Like 6
    • Kevin

      Thanks, I am the one selling it, and have been on barn finds for a few years, I always try hard to be thorough, and honest, hat’s off to the BF editor etc.for a well rounded commentary.

      Like 1
  2. Stan

    2.71std. or 3.23 option ⚙️ offered from fhe Chrysler factory. This is a beautiful and powerful flyer. Love it.
    Good and accurate comment Mark 👌 👍

    Like 8
  3. BA

    Always loved big cars to drive around in & this car is a drive – in Movie special ! While the trunk could stow away plenty of friends I think a limit on passengers would be a wiser move. Of course this also fits the bill for a mafia staff car & the trunk option should be avoided at all cost lol.

    Like 5
  4. Bick Banter

    I remember having an Edmunds used car guide back in 1981. I distinctly recall these full sized Mopars having depreciated into the low 3 digits. We’re talking $350-$550 here. Undoubtedly, this was due to the record high fuel prices at the time and Chrysler’s bad reputation for quality. So very few of these survived.

    Like 7
    • George Mattar

      I prepped these cars new in 1974 at a Chrysler Plymouth dealer. These were pretty Lean Burn disasters. Nothing today rides like these cars. This beauty is going to make its next owner very happy. Why buy a pile of crap new car when you can have this?

      Like 0
  5. Zen

    A very comfortable cruiser to enjoy, and not very desirable meaning it should be affordable to buy and maintain. I hope it finds a good home. I wouldn’t want it because I had a dark green Cordoba, and I dislike green.

    Like 3
  6. D. Shepard

    This is far from a sports car. Were never meant to be. For the era in which they were made they were made they were comparable to any of the cars that size. Someone with a large family would ever trade one in for a compact car and a dealer would rarely if ever pay money for a trade in to give it away. SMH.

    Like 0
  7. Greg

    My Dad had a 74 Newport with a 400 and thermoquad, 12mpg. Till we did a proper valve job, rebuilt the 4bbl. and installed the secret C clamp on the Lean Burn modules. Our trip to Chicago netted 21mpg. at 55mph of course.

    Like 0

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