Looking at the Chrysler line-up for 1931 can be a most confusing bit of automotive research. At the start of the model year on July 1, 1930, most models were hold-overs from the previous season with the “New” CM series not appearing until January 2, 1931. Using a modern engine that would prove to be more economical to produce, purchase, and maintained, this series found plenty of buyers even in a cash-strapped society fighting the grips of the depression.
Gracing the double-drop chassis of these new cars was extremely handsome coachwork from Chrysler’s recently established Art & Color Section under the direction of Herb Weissinger. A new lower profile had been the main goal of the design team providing a more modern theme plus a lower center of gravity for improved handling and ride for passengers. Sporting a handsome V-grille at the front of the car, vertical hood louvres, and the streamlined “bullet” headlights, the combination was a winning design attracting over 38,800 customers, of which just 2,281 selected the 2/4-passenger roadster.
78hp, 218 cid, inline, L-head 6-cylinder engine, 3-speed manual transmission, four-wheel leaf spring suspension with solid front axle and live rear axle, 4-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase 116"