Old School Cool: Flamed 1955 Chrysler Newport

Given the high future costs of restoring a neglected vintage automobile, it generally makes more sense to hold out for the most solid example you can afford, no matter what the make or model of your dream car happens to be.  However, the waters can get a bit muddied if that vehicle has already undergone a restoration with custom touches that may not appeal to the masses.  This 1955 Chrysler Newport here on Craigslist is one such auto that would fall into that category, and the owner seems to be aware of this, as it’s already scheduled to have the flames painted over in the near future.  If you’re digging the current appearance, you might want to act fast, so head on over to Northwest Georgia to check this one out.  Bring along $29,500 in cash, as this is said to be the firm price.

Jack M., thanks for finding this fun ride and sending us the tip!  Fire along the lower extremities is one of those mods that usually either works fairly well or not at all, but fifties-style bodies generally seem to be receptive to this touch, with the orange and red flames seen here accenting the black paint rather well.  The bad news is that the seller mentions the exterior was done 15 years ago, and the front section has some chips in the finish, so the appearance isn’t flawless in its current state.  On a positive note, the imperfections outside seem quite minimal, and just enjoying this one without doing anything is undoubtedly an option worth considering.

A peek inside reveals a few custom touches as well, and much of the work done would likely be considered tasteful upgrades by many mid-fifties car enthusiasts.  This one features upgrades such as a tilt column, a custom steering wheel, cruise control, and a power-assisted driver’s seat.  The red accents throughout the interior nicely complement the roof color, and the condition in here appears to be very good overall.  Popping the trunk shows that this area has also been dressed up, and those Kenwood amps look like they’d provide plenty of power for a rockin’ sound system.

Although topped with aftermarket Mopar components, the seller reports this is a 350 Chevrolet engine under the hood, with no additional information beyond stating that this car runs and drives like a dream.  I’m a bit torn about the future of this 1955 Chrysler Newport, as the owner says plans are in place to have the flames painted over soon, which will result in a higher price once that work is completed.  However, taking some quick action can preserve this one as-is, which isn’t a bad idea either.  Which do you feel is the better choice here?