
Toby Wilson
Head of Department
LOT 488
1931 Chrysler Deluxe CD Eight Rumble Seat Coupé Registration no. YXS 195 Chassis no. 7522683
When Walter P Chrysler's up-market Imperial model debuted in 1926, the marque he founded was just two years old yet by the year's end would be the seventh-ranked US auto-maker. That first six-cylinder Imperial was superseded in 1931 when Chrysler joined the multi-cylinder club, introducing two new 'straight-eight' models: the CD Eight and Imperial CG Eight. Somewhat confusingly, the company introduced three versions of the former in quick succession; the first, 80hp type being built from July 1930 to around January 1931; the second, 88hp model from then until May 1931; and the Deluxe CD Eight from May '31 onwards. The more upmarket Chryslers, CD Eight included, adopted a distinctive, wide profile 'V'-shaped radiator for 1931, a styling device inspired by the Cord L-29, a model widely recognised by today's connoisseurs as among the period's finest. The Cord's front-wheel-drive configuration allowed it to be set very low to the ground and Chrysler cleverly repeated this trick with its conventional, rear-drive Eights. Four-wheel hydraulic brakes were standard on all Chryslers, while the CD and Imperial Eights also enjoyed the advantage of a four-speed gearbox.
Finished in charming two-tone green with tan leather interior, this Deluxe CD Eight has the 282.1ci (4.6-litre) 100bhp engine. Imported into the UK in 2018 by its current owner, it is very well presented and 'on the button'. The car is offered with various US title documents.
Vendor Score Total: 78 /100
Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.
Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well
EXTERIOR TOTAL: 20 /25
Body Work: 4
Paint: 4
Glass: 4
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 4
Wheels/Tyres: 4
RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 16 /20
Gearbox/Clutch: 4
Axles: 4
Suspension: 4
Brakes: 4
INTERIOR TOTAL: 16 /20
Seats: 4
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 4
Headlining: 4
Trim: 4
ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 8 /10
Main components: 4
Ancillary components: 4
ENGINE TOTAL: 16 /20
Starting: 4
Running: 4
Under Bonnet: 4
Mechanical components: 4
Car History File: 2





























Our Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialist
Head of Department