Classic Car Insurance: How Chrysler Transformed the Auto Industry

In the early 1920’s a man named Walter Chrysler teamed up with three ex- Studebaker engineers; Fred Zeder, Owen Skelton, and Carl Breer, to design a revolutionary new car. The defined what the products of the Chrysler brand would be, which was “affordable luxury vehicles”, known for innovative, top-flight engineering.

The first of these vehicles was the 1924 Chrysler Six, an all-new car priced at $1,565 that featured two significant innovations; a light, powerful, high-compression six-cylinder engine, and the first time four-wheel hydraulic brakes were a standard on a passenger car. This well-equipped vehicle also featured aluminum pistons, replaceable oil and air filters, full-pressure lubrication, tubular front axles, shock absorbers, and indirect interior lighting.

This was just the beginning of the innovations we would see in personal vehicles. The Chrysler Corporation has been responsible for many more innovations than one ever expected. Co-founder Carl Breer was constantly seeking out and developing new technologies. In the 1940’s we saw additions such as resistor spark plugs to avoid radio interference, a padded dashboard for fewer injuries in collisions, a splash-proof ignition system, and more.

The 1950’s and 60’s saw even more auto technology introduced by Chrysler. For example, in 1951 Chrysler introduced the first full-time power steering function. GM used one in 1952, however GM’s had no assist until 3 pounds of pressure was applied to the steering wheel. These two decades also saw the first use of modern electronic fuel injections, the first curved side windows, and the introduction of cruise control, all thanks to Chrysler.

The early 70’s is when the electronic age began. In 1973, an electronic ignition became standard in all Chrysler models. Studebaker used electronic ignition before this, however it was only on a single model. Chrysler beat every other automaker by several years in making it standard. The 1970’s and 1980’s models of Chrysler also sported stamped aluminum wheels, standard radial tires on all cars, and a permanent-memory electronic display odometer. The modern cupholder even came from Chrysler, in 1983.

Safety was becoming a bigger priority in the 70’s and 80’s, which Chrysler responded to. The company was the first to include standard driver side airbags in 1988, and then include them on all of their models in 1991. They were also the first to include integrated child restraints in their vehicles, and developed the first minivan with a blind spot monitor. Chrysler continued to make many more advancements through the 90’s that other automakers would quickly follow. Suffice to say, Chrysler was a trendsetter.

Whether you own a classic Chrysler vehicle or any other type of classic or antique car, it’s important to protect it financially with the right type of Classic Car Insurance Coverage. At Condon Skelly, we know how exciting it can be to start a classic car collection. We’ve been helping our customers protect their classics with affordable, industry-leading insurance coverage since 1967. We’re a group of collectors, enthusiasts, and professionals who specialize in insuring all types of collector vehicles. For more information, please contact us today at (866) 291-5694.

Classic Cars: ‘57 Chevy Bel Air

For many car enthusiasts in their 50s or older, the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is one of the most desirable classic cars there is. The ’57 Chevy Bel Air was a full-size vehicle that was produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors. This vehicle was part of the second generation of Chevys and was called the “Hot One” in GM’s advertising campaign.

Motor Trend Magazine gave the ’57 Chevy Bel Air top marks for handling. In 1957 the Chevy’s engine displacement grew to 283 cu in with the “Super Turbo Fire V-8” option producing 283 horsepower with the help of continuous mechanical fuel injection. These so-called “fuelie” cars are quite rare today, since most Bel Airs were fitted with carburetion.

The ’57 Chevy Bel Air is among the most recognizable American cars of all time, and well-maintained vehicles, especially Sport Coupes and Convertibles, are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The most popular color back then and still today is Gypsy Red, especially in the convertible form. Red and silver paint and upholstery typically decorated the car’s fresh-looking interior.

At Condon Skelly, we understand that your classic car is your pride and joy, and that you want to do everything you can to protect it for years to come. We are able to insure a wide variety of collector vehicles, from original antiques to brand new exotic sports cars, as long as the vehicle is a true collectible. For more information, please contact us today. (866) 291-5694

Why Classic Cars Are a Good Investment

Are you an investor looking for alternative ways to make money, while having fun at the same time? Investing in classic cars could be an excellent idea! Many people now are leaning towards classic cars as an investment, due to their increasing value. Most classic car collectors are in it for their love of cars, but for those who are on the fence about whether to purchase a classic car or not, here’s why classic cars are a good investment.

• Many financial advisors are looking at classic cars for investor’s portfolios in the same way they have looked at property in the past. There are actually several financial agencies that track the classic car investment market, and the success rate has been very good.
• There are a high number of classic vehicles that are rising in value. Rare cars only get rarer, so if you find one that is considered rare now, purchasing it will be a good investment.
• People look for heritage and “pedigree”. You’ve got security in your investment if your car has a good history.
• Classic cars simply have a “cool” factor. Rare and hard to find cars are especially appealing to older individuals who may have had that car in their youth, or knew somebody that had one.

It’s important to keep in mind, investing in classic cars isn’t easy. But, if you do your research and know what you’re looking for you could find yourself with a very smart investment. At Condon Skelly, we understand that your classic car is your pride and joy, and that you want to do everything you can to protect it for years to come. We are able to insure a wide variety of collector vehicles, from original antiques to brand new exotic sports cars, as long as the vehicle is a true collectible. For more information, please contact us today. (866) 291-5694