Image of 1946 Chrysler New Yorker, sourced from commons.wikimedia.org , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1946 Chrysler New Yorker stands as a testament to the resilience and innovation of the automotive industry in the wake of World War II. Emerging from an era of austerity, this vehicle heralded a return to civilian automotive production with gusto and style. Chrysler, an established American manufacturer known for its engineering prowess, introduced the New Yorker as a symbol of post-war prosperity and technological advancement. A unique fact that car enthusiasts may find fascinating is that the 1946 model was one of the first cars to feature a distinctive feature that would become a Chrysler hallmark: the Fluid Drive semi-automatic transmission.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1946 Chrysler New Yorker exuded elegance and modernity. Its sleek lines, pronounced front grille, and generous chrome accents were a sight to behold. The interior was equally impressive, with high-quality fabrics and materials that offered passengers a sense of luxury and comfort uncommon in many cars of the time. Technologically, it boasted features like the aforementioned Fluid Drive transmission, which allowed drivers to operate the vehicle with ease, reducing the need for constant gear shifting.

Color options ranged from stately hues to more vibrant tones, with popular choices including Royal Maroon and Windsor Blue. The New Yorker came in several body styles, including a four-door sedan, two-door coupe, and convertible. However, it was the Town & Country woodie wagon that captured hearts with its unique blend of utility and style.

Historical Significance

The 1946 Chrysler New Yorker played a pivotal role in redefining automotive design post-WWII. It set itself apart with its blend of luxury features and innovative technology, influencing subsequent models across various manufacturers. Its lasting influence can be seen in the way it bridged pre-war design elements with post-war modernity.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its hood lay an inline eight-cylinder engine that delivered robust performance for its era. The New Yorker could reach a top speed that was competitive at the time, while acceleration from 0-60 mph was considered brisk for a car of its size and stature. Handling-wise, drivers appreciated its solid road presence and ability to absorb road imperfections gracefully. Behind the wheel, one could hear the distinct purr of its engine—a sound that resonated with power and reliability.

Ownership Experience

The 1946 Chrysler New Yorker found its place as both a daily driver for affluent families and as an esteemed show car for collectors. Its reliability was noteworthy; however, like many vehicles of its time, maintenance could be involved due to the complexity of some mechanical parts. Yet for those who cherished classic craftsmanship, owning such a vehicle brought immense satisfaction.

Fun Facts

A little-known tidbit about this classic is that certain editions were so rare they almost reached mythical status among collectors. While celebrity ownerships added to its allure, it was also known for being part of significant historical events—gracing parades and political gatherings alike. Despite criticisms over fuel efficiency—a common trait among vehicles of this period—the New Yorker maintained its reputation as a paragon of American automotive excellence.

Collector's Information

The current value range for a well-maintained 1946 Chrysler New Yorker can vary widely depending on condition, originality, and history. Estimates suggest that thousands were produced; however, surviving examples in pristine condition are relatively scarce. Price trends indicate that values have been appreciating over time due to their rarity and historical significance. A well-preserved model could fetch anywhere from mid-five figures to over six figures at auction or private sale.

Conclusion

The 1946 Chrysler New Yorker is more than just a classic car; it's an emblematic piece of American history on wheels. From its luxurious design to its innovative features for the time, it captures an era where style met substance head-on. For collectors or enthusiasts who appreciate automotive artistry from bygone days, the New Yorker remains an enduring treasure worth cherishing.

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D-BN 16Spring and Shackle Bushing. 7/8" bottom O.D. X 1-1/8" high, with 1/2" I.D. Each

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each-DP 12Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates-FS 31Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates. Apply with contact cement. 18" long X 9-3/4" wide at bottom. Pair

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/4" I.D., 3-3/4" O.D-GF 18Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/4" I.D., 3-3/4" O.D., 1/2" top thickness. Each

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Hood Corners. Fits flat corners-HC 19Hood Corners. Fits flat corners. 80° angle, 1/4" to 3/8" corner radius. 1-3/8" wide. Pair

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Door side seal. Same as LP 40-A, but for a heavier seal-LP 40Door side seal. Same as LP 40-A, but for a heavier seal. Fits many domestic passenger cars and trucks. Used in Cobra kit cars as trunk weatherstrip. Per foot.

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Door side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal-LP 40-ADoor side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal. Fits many domestic passenger cars and trucks. Universal seal for street rods and customs. Used in Cobra kit cars as door weatherstrip. Per foot.

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Swing-Out Windshield Seal. 3/4" High. Sold by the foot-LP 97-ASwing-Out Windshield Seal. 3/4" High. Sold by the foot

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Trunk Light Pad. 13-1/8" wide X 6-1/2" long. Each-MP 604-ATrunk Light Pad. 13-1/8" wide X 6-1/2" long. Each

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Trunk Handle Pad. 2-1/4" X 5-1/2". Each-MP 604-BTrunk Handle Pad. 2-1/4" X 5-1/2". Each

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Door Handle Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair-MP 605-BDoor Handle Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Antenna Mounting Pad. Made with angled front bead-MP 959-CAntenna Mounting Pad. Made with angled front bead. Narrow type. 1-1/4" wide X 1-3/4" long. Each

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Cowl Vent Seal. 4" wide X 18" long. Each-RP 100-QCowl Vent Seal. 4" wide X 18" long. Each

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Clutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair-RP 31-JClutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Accelerator Rod Grommet-SM 43-BAccelerator Rod Grommet. For accelerator rod through floorboard. Each

1946 Chrysler New Yorker Front Vent Window Seals. For many closed models only-WR 2703Front Vent Window Seals. For many closed models only. Replaces OEM #977232-3. Pair R&L