Somebody woke up Monday with no idea they’d be the proud owner of a Chrysler Royal by late in the week, but that’s exactly what’s going to happen when folks spy the 1950 Chrysler Royal here on craigslist. It’s in great shape, having been preserved for years, and it’s not expensive. The asking price is $12,500, which in today’s collector car world is a bar-goon. Is this one for you? If so, you’ll collect it from Carlisle, PA. Heck, if you time it right, you might be able to get to one of their famous car swap meets and load your trailer up further. The tip on this one is thanks to Mitchell B, it must be noted. Good eye!

What’s a Chrysler Royal? You can find lots of info on the internet, but in short, it’s a full-sized car offered by Chrysler (remember the “Big Three”—GM, Chrysler, and Ford?)  What’s special here is that this one has traversed only 46,000 miles and is in what is properly called “excellent original condition.” Sure, there are needs, but there’s little you should touch, if the photos tell no lie. The engine is a “Spitfire” flat-head six-cylinder, and the transmission is a manual. This is a car you have to work a bit to drive, but it will be very much worth the effort.

The car resided in Oregon for a number of years and even under recent east-coast ownership, it has always been kept indoors, seats covered. That’s why it’s still as-built in almost every aspect. Do you care if it’s been repainted? The claim on this one is a bit vague (“The exterior and chrome are original,” the seller says) but even if it’s had a respray, it’s fine how it looks. In fact, there are some needs in the exterior detailing department, but when you touch one thing, you’ll have to touch another, and that’s an endless road.

The charm exudes from every angle as you take the driver’s seat position. The art deco influence is reflected in the IP. How about that gear selector and its knob? You’re not going to find anything with more flair no matter how hard you look, and I’m willing to bet that the more you examine this car, the more such features will pop out. This car is old enough that almost nobody  remembers how cars looked back then, and it will most definitely be the star of your local cruise-in. You need to ask the seller some questions about mechanical fitness and work needed, because this ride is older than almost everyone alive, after all (I checked), but after putting a few things right, you’re gonna love that you got this car for not much over ten grand. Take care of it—people need to see how these looked back when even everyday sedans had a splash of style.