Notifications
Clear all
Forum 24
11
Posts
10
Users
27
Reactions
777
Views
Topic starter
06/12/2024 12:13 pm
The 1934 Chicago World's Fair featured two futuristic, aerodynamically styled transporters, The Burlington Zephyr diesel locomotive and Chrysler's Airflow coupe and sedan. Art Deco geometrics were replaced by flowing curves that reduced drag. The Airflow featured a waterfall grill rather than a vertical radiator assembly, a mildly raked windscreen and a rounded fastback rear. It also premiered a unibody construction for safety and rigidity. A promotional film showed the Airflow tumbling off a steep cliff and after landing, being driven away. Because of the expense, Chrysler wouldn't offer another unibody car until the mid-fifties "Forward Look" series. To further enhance the Airfow's performance, a flat head straight 8 was used. Production of this design, also offered on DeSoto models, lasted 4 years with a disappointing 55,000 built (mostly sedans). The general public just did not accept the looks of the car.
This Franklin Mint model is nicely done and, oddly was never released in another color. I would have taken any color but black! Photographing it was a bear. I sort of remember them having production (QC) problems with the chromed grill if anyone remembers.
06/12/2024 1:14 pm
A very well done model I have in my collection too, I would have loved a 4 door model in a different color!
David Vandermeer
Corinth, Texas
06/12/2024 1:59 pm
Fabulous photographs, as ever, and an interesting historical context. I do like seeing these models, (cars) in their natural surroundings.
06/12/2024 2:43 pm
This model has always been way underappreciated, IMO. FM did a great job on it.
Rich Sufficool and Geno reacted
06/12/2024 3:09 pm
Earlier than I collect, but that doesn't mean I don't appreciate their beauty. Great model and story Rich.💯😎👍
Rich Sufficool reacted
07/12/2024 12:12 am
I had this one, but a co-worker really wanted it. His one stipulation was that I change the tires to black sidewalls. It looked more modest and the way he remembered seeing these cars in his youth.
Steve Jacobs and Rich Sufficool reacted
07/12/2024 3:03 am
A promotional film showed the Airflow tumbling off a steep cliff and after landing, being driven away.
Try doing that with a Corolla!
great series Rich, love the model and the history surrounding the car
Jack Dodds and Rich Sufficool reacted
09/12/2024 3:08 pm
@ Rich,
Great pictures! I recently bought this car too and was amazed by the interior and the way the hood opened. One of FMs best.
Jack Dodds reacted
09/12/2024 3:48 pm
Have it, love it. The Airflows set Chryslers finances back a pretty penny.
09/12/2024 3:49 pm
I think the design is outstanding. Too bad the public didn't appreciate it.
Steve