Some classics emerge from hiding and seem to tick many of the right boxes for potential buyers seeking a vehicle to restore or preserve. This 1955 Chrysler Windsor is a perfect example, having spent over a decade in dry storage. Its rust issues are insignificant, and the car is complete. The seller is set to send the Chrysler to a new home, listing it here on eBay in Buckeye, Arizona. They set their auction to open at $6,995, but have received no bids.
Chrysler introduced a new Windsor range in 1955, marking the first time that the badge benefitted from styling input from Virgil Exner. Renowned for his love of fins and other radical touches, it would be fair to describe the 1955 Windsor as one of his most conservative efforts. The seller confirms that this classic spent a decade in hiding and that its rust issues are pretty minor. There are a few small holes between the trunk lid and rear bumper, and the trunk pan has tiny holes that are almost impossible to spot amongst the heavy surface corrosion. However, since these problems aren’t severe, the winning bidder could address them as time and circumstances allow. The White and Blue paint combination exhibits some deterioration that might prompt the new owner to perform a cosmetic refresh, but with the panels looking remarkably straight, the process shouldn’t be difficult. The trim looks acceptable for a survivor-grade classic, and the glass is clear.
The first owner teamed Chrysler’s 300.5ci V8 with a two-speed PowerFlite transmission to provide an effortless driving experience. The company’s Sales Brochure quotes power and torque figures of 188hp and 275 ft/lbs, making the Windsor an effective weapon in almost any circumstance. The seller indicates that they haven’t tried to coax the engine to life, which could be positive news for potential buyers. We have probably all encountered situations where an owner has attempted a revival, but used a process that actually did more harm than good. This vehicle will allow the buyer to perform the work their way to ensure that the process meets their standards. If the engine turns freely, the dry storage environment may mean that returning the Windsor to a roadworthy state would be an achievable short-term goal.
If this Windsor has a weakness, that dubious honor could fall to its interior. It is complete and unmodified, but the Arizona sun has taken a heavy toll on the upholstered surfaces and the dashpad. The wheel has cracked, and the paint looks tired. A complete retrim will be the only solution. However, with kits almost impossible to find, the buyer may need to hand the car to an upholsterer to use the existing items as templates to stitch new seatcovers and door trims.
This 1955 Chrysler Windsor is a classic that the winning bidder could preserve or restore. Either approach is valid, depending on whether the buyer prefers perfection or a survivor look. It hasn’t attracted any bids, but with over 200 views and a Watch List tally of eleven, it appears that a few people like what they see. Do you feel the same? If so, are you tempted to submit a bid on this Mopar classic?
Just me but the ’55-’56 Chrysler product 2 door hardtops were very attractive. This could be an easy driver and fix as you go.
As I recall, the 55 Chrysler Corp cars were referred to The Million Dollar Look. IMO, DeSoto was the best. The taillights always seemed awkward. Combined with the interior on this Windsor, it’s a hard sell. Fun fact for 54? Chrysler built a special CORONATION for QUEEN ELIZABETH for her visit to the US. It’s a beauty in white and Royal purple with a custom interior. THAT might be a Million Dollar Look 💵 🤔
Rick, the special Coronation car Chrysler built in `54 was an Imperial 4dr. sedan, resplendent in royal purple with a white rook and gold trim! I have a MoPar ad that depicts that car.
Chrysler’s “official” slogan in `55 for the whole line was “$100 Million dollar look” probably referencing what they spent restyling the entire lineup.
I never was much of a Mopar fan but I have to admit that I really liked the ’55 Chryslers. This would be a great driver. Needs a complete interior overhaul but a person could throw some blankets over the seats until that job was complete. I always expect to see a Hemi under the hood in one of these but a Poly-head will do the job just fine. Overall you could park this at my place and I’ll do the rest…
Didn’t Chrysler have a special edition in 1955 called the Green Heron and also the Blue Heron? This would be the latter.
@ Will, yes I also have a printed copy of The CORONATION. It was based on Imperial, but the Family name WINDSOR seemed to be a nod to Royalty. 🤔 @ Pete, There was a Blue Herron, available in several Blue and White combinations. Good catch, I had forgotten about it. This looks like one of those.
What temptation. My brother and nephew live about 40 miles from Buckeye. I really like the color combination too. 1955 is my favorite Chrysler year. Looks like a deal for someone.
I see one of these mid fifties Mopars and it always makes me nostalgic for my 1955 DeSoto. These cars are seventy years old now and still can hold their own in modern traffic. GLWTS
CarBob! I learned to drive on a55 Black 🎵 Delightful 🎶Delovely 🎵 DeSoto 🎶 Firedome, purchased November 22,1959 fresh out of service from a local funeral home where it had been a *Family* car. Ever since, I’ve loved them. Favorite was final 61(3200 produced).As a teenager, I wrote to DeSoto and received a letter and 61 sales brochure. Using parts from other brochures, I made a collage (also did the same with 61 Imperial) which is now framed and hanging in my home. I also have many various years and scales Diecast DeSotos. I may be OLD and GROUCHO, but I can still recall Exners fabulous finned fantasies for Chrysler. Guess I’m still crazy 🤪 after all These gears ⚙ 🙃.
I think this one has Calsie Hayes wheels and extra trim. I have one and mine does not have the stainless drop spear off the full trim nor the stainless over the bumper around the rear. This is a cool car. The 301 does the job pretty good.
Some of the trim upgrades mentioned in the comments might be due to this car being a, “Spring Special.” Chrysler bought out some revised trim for the spring season in order to boost sales.