In 1934, Buck Rogers made his worldwide film debut at the Chicago World's Fair, inspiring a new generation of forward thinkers. It was an era known as the 'streamlining of America' where anything with wheels or wings was aerodynamically designed to keep up with a world that was spinning faster. One of the more notable innovations that year was the revolutionary Chrysler Airflow which also made its debut at the World's Fair - the first modern automobile to offer uni-body construction, wind tunnel tested styling and the ultimate in safety and reliability.
Although a big hit with fair goers, the Airflow was perceived as too futuristic for its time and was only offered in the Chrysler lineup until 1938. Very few survivors exist today making them a valuable favorite among classic car admirers, and RM auctions is offering two at their annual Meadow Brook auction.
Several historic corporate films of the introduction of the Chrysler Airflow in 1934 can be viewed on YouTube:
- Cross country economy run: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZC5lQwq5g4
- Testing at Bonneville Salt Flats: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2WpAnFJBgVc
Held on the grounds of America’s famous Meadow Brook Hall estate in Rochester, Michigan on August 1, 2009, this single-day auction of 100 important collector cars will be held in conjunction with the 30th anniversary of Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance.
"As one of the most established car events in North America, the Meadow Brook weekend offers a comfortable atmosphere at a relaxing pace to truly enjoy some of the world’s finest automobiles and Michigan’s own unique automotive legacy", says RM President, Ian Kelleher.
In addition to the Airflows, other exciting American and European classics offered from private collections include an original 1956 Jaguar XK 140MC Roadster formerly owned by television host Alex Trebek, a Tango Red, Hemi-powered 1955 Chrysler C-300 and a national award-winning Rick Dore custom 1953 Buick Hardtop aptly named "Breathless". The auction event will be followed by the internationally renowned Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance, celebrating its 30th anniversary.
Attracting an international audience, the Meadow Brook weekend is one of several unique ‘autotourism’ events held during Autopalooza - a celebration of Southeast Michigan's automotive heritage through a series of major cruises, races, and shows during the month of August. www.autopaloozaaugust.com
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