Unique Car with Minimal Mileage
Sometimes true time capsules appear that make you reconsider the concept of “low mileage.” Ordinary Chrysler Newport sedans, produced from the 1940s to 1981, are not considered special, but this specimen, listed for auction in the USA, has one key advantage.
Unlike most other Newports or other cars of that era that have traveled hundreds of thousands of miles, this 1977 model has covered less distance in the last 48 years than many people drive in a few days. In fact, its mileage can be called “delivery” – only 52 miles (83 km).
Storage History and Origin
The seller recounts that after purchasing the new car from the Cavalry Chrysler-Plymouth dealership in New York, it was immediately taken to the first owner’s house and stored in a heated garage. The current owner purchased it in 2009 when the mileage was only 31 miles (50 km).
Technical Specifications
The sedan, with a length of 226.6 inches (5,756 mm), still has the original 400 cubic inch (6.6-liter) V8 engine, whose power is estimated at approximately 190 hp and 305 lb-ft (414 Nm) of torque. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission, exactly as it was from the factory. According to data from that time, the car accelerated from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in approximately 12.4 seconds, and average fuel consumption was about 10.6 miles per gallon (22.1 l/100 km).
Car Condition: Age vs. Mileage
Due to minimal use, the car is in excellent condition, but not perfect. External photos show small paint chips, as well as damage and scratches on the chrome parts. On the underbody, the Chrysler shows signs of rust on the exhaust system and rear springs, indicating exposure to moisture. The engine bay also requires thorough cleaning. Time leaves its marks, even if the odometer has barely moved.
Recommendations for the Future Owner
If the new owner plans to drive this car, they should perform service maintenance and replace some consumable parts, such as rubber hoses in the engine bay. The interior looks even more impressive than the exterior: it is finished with green vinyl on the dashboard and door panels, and the seats are upholstered in green brocade fabric. A large three-spoke steering wheel, an AM radio, and numerous woodgrain inserts are also present.
Price and Auction
At the time of writing, the highest bid on the Bring a Trailer auction was only $2,800, which seems like a low price, although there is still time for it to increase. In 1977, the first owner paid $5,820 for the car, including additional options such as a rear window defroster, radio, and a delivery fee of $182. Adjusted for inflation, that is approximately $31,425 today, equivalent to the price of a base model Dodge Hornet.
This Chrysler Newport is a rare example of a car that was practically unused, making it valuable for collectors. Despite some signs of age, it remains technically sound and historically significant. Such finds remind us how the standards of the automotive industry and consumer expectations have changed over the decades.