1997 Chrysler New Yorker

The New Yorker name helped define the Chrysler brand as a maker of upscale models priced and equipped above mainstream brands like Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge/ Plymouth, but below full luxury brands like Cadillac and Packard. During the New Yorker's tenure, it competed against models from Buick, Oldsmobile, Lincoln, and Mercury.

The New Yorker Special luxury package was originally introduced as an option for the 1939 Chrysler Imperial. The package's popularity caused the car to become its own model for 1939, based on the same platform as the Chrysler Windsor. It was available as a 2-door coupe or sedan with a 323CID Straight-8 and a generous amount of comfort and space to the passengers.

Due to the tensions of war in Europe, and the later rubber and steel war rations of 1941, Chrysler ceased production of its cars to civilians. However, a limited number of 1940 models did make it to the showroom floor. Chrysler would produce and experiment with engines for tanks and aircraft during World War II. One post-war application of this would lead to the creation of the first generation Hemi of the 1950s.