There is one undeniable fact about Mopar products from the 1950s that benefitted from the Virgil Exner “forward look” philosophy: They all had a genuine sense of presence. No vehicle demonstrates this more graphically than this 1959 Chrysler New Yorker 2-Door Hardtop. From its swooping lines to its enormous fins and stunning Black paint, it is a car that is guaranteed to draw crowds of admiring enthusiasts. The seller describes it as a survivor and, if that is true, its condition is astounding. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting the Chrysler listed here on Craigslist in Los Angeles, California. Handing the seller $55,000 will allow you to drive home in this turnkey classic.

Virgil Exner’s “forward look” philosophy virtually defined American vehicle styling during the late 1950s. Buyers suddenly discovered that cars didn’t need to be upright and boxy. They could be low, sleek, wide, and sport enormous fins. This 1959 New Yorker shares those features, and the seller describes it as a survivor. That term can be loose in some circumstances, and I suspect that might be the case here. The panels, trim, mechanical components and interior are as they left the factory. However, the lack of visible flaws in its Formal Black and Spanish Silver paint suggests it may have undergone a cosmetic refresh at some point. If it hasn’t, its condition is astounding. It retains a mirror shine, the panels are laser-straight, and, thanks in part to its favorable location, this classic is claimed to be rust-free. The bright trim and glass look flawless, and the whitewalls add the perfect finishing touch to the exterior.

I have long been a fan of classics from this era because they typically feature interiors that guarantee that even the most mundane journey feels like a special occasion. This New Yorker is no exception. Whether it is the leather and cloth trim in Black and White, or the acres of bright trim on the dash, this interior makes a bold statement that is impossible to ignore. The presentation is as impressive as the exterior, with no evidence of wear or abuse. The dash and pad are excellent, and the wheel is almost a work of art. Looks alone don’t always define an interior, because features like the six-way power swivel seats, radio, and clock, provide occupants with a luxurious motoring experience.

I’m disappointed that the seller supplies such a poor engine shot because the V8 hiding under the hood adds to its appeal. Chrysler adopted a common drivetrain configuration for the 1959 New Yorker, with buyers receiving the 413ci “Wedge,” a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. The New Yorker tips the scales at around 4,200 lbs, but with its engine generating 350hp and 470 ft/lbs of torque according to the company’s Sales Brochure, its performance is quite impressive for a car that will comfortably swallow six occupants. The seller may not provide great engine shots, but they assure potential buyers that this classic is in excellent mechanical health. It runs and drives perfectly, and if a trip to LA is on your agenda, driving home in this New Yorker is a viable option.

The recession of 1958 hurt sales of the Chrysler New Yorker, and the situation was no better in 1959. An overall sales total of 16,328 cars included a mere 2,435 examples of the 2-Door Hardtop. That represented a decline of 25% from 1958, and the situation would prove no better for its replacement. That makes this New Yorker a relatively rare classic and, if it is a genuine survivor, the seller’s price is justified. The challenging factor for the seller is that it sits in a price range where it can’t be considered genuinely affordable. That will limit their pool of potential buyers, although it only requires one for this Chrysler to find a new home. Could that person be you?