![]() ![]() The company proudly declared the Airflow as 'The first rear motorcar.' ![]() Chrysler demonstrated the Airflow's structural strength by pushing one off a 110-ft high cliff, then driving the car away. Its power-to-weight ratio and structural integrity were stronger than other similar models of the day. They had exposed chromed tubular frames and most featured cloth upholstery that had leather accents and piping, while a few received all-leather upholstery. The rear seat was deeper, and the front seat was wider than in other vehicles. The interior was comfortable and well-appointed, with plush fabrics, tight-fitting doors, decorative chrome, and a well-thought-out arrangement of dashboard gauges. Most automakers of the era used wood structural framing members in their car bodies, while the Airflow utilized a full-steel body. The 'Vee'd' split windscreen was considered revolutionary for its day, reducing air resistance and complementing the gentle sloping body lines and aerodynamic features. The Airflow pioneered many new construction methods for the industry that is still in use today, including being one of the first to use wind tunnel testing which has become commonplace in modern automotive designs. In an effort to stimulate sales, the front end and grille styling were toned down, gaining a more conventional appearance. Introduced in 1934, the public did not agree with its radical styling and sales were lower than expected. It was roomy, comfortable, and its styling was among the most revolutionary and influential of the 1930s. Its semi-unitary truss bridge chassis was based on aircraft principles and its engine was positioned forward, over the front axle, which allowed both seats to be placed within the wheelbase. Carl Breer, Owen Skelton, and Fred Zeder were known as 'Chrysler's Three Musketeers,' and the Airflow was their implementation of 'form follows function' and its streamlined 'Art Deco' inspired shape was perfected in a wind-tunnel. They followed him when the Chrysler Corporation was launched and helped build a strong organization. Chrysler was working for Studebaker in 1920 and when he left for Willys when he took over operations of that company, three engineers came with him. ![]()
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