1956 Chrysler New Yorker Newport 2-Door Hardtop

Description

The 1956 Chrysler New Yorker Newport Hardtop epitomized mid-century American automotive design, blending luxury, performance, and futuristic styling. As part of Chrysler’s fourth-generation New Yorker lineup (1955–1956), the Newport designation identified the sleek pillarless hardtop body style, available in both two- and four-door configurations. Designed under Virgil Exner’s celebrated “Forward Look,” the 1956 models showcased dramatic tailfins, a bold egg-crate grille, and sweeping chrome accents, reflecting the Space Age optimism of the era. 

Under the hood, the New Yorker Newport featured Chrysler’s formidable 354-cubic-inch FirePower Hemi V8, producing 280 horsepower. Paired with the push-button PowerFlite automatic transmission, it delivered smooth yet powerful performance. Chrysler marketed the car as part of its “PowerStyle” theme, emphasizing advanced features like power steering, power brakes, and optional power seats. Measuring 221 inches long on a 126-inch wheelbase, it provided ample interior space and comfort for six passengers. 

The Newport Hardtop was a premium offering, priced around $3,843 for the two-door and $3,993 for the four-door, with production figures of 4,115 and 3,599 units respectively. After years of quality engineering but antiquated styling, Chrysler could now boast “The $100 Million Dollar Look!” — and this Newport Hardtop formerly owned by esteemed Chrysler collectors Karen and Richard Carpenter of The Carpenters fame shows just 13,096 original miles. 

Highlights 

• Prior ownership by the family of Karen and Richard Carpenter of The Carpenters 

• Extraordinary preservation showing just 13,096 original miles  

• Finished in Desert Rose over Cloud White  

• 354 cu-in FirePower HEMI V8 engine rated at 280 horsepower 

• PowerFlite automatic transmission operated via push-button controls 

Features  

• Factory options include: 

  • HiWay Hi-Fi record player 

  • Town & Country Signal Seek Radio with foot activation 

  • Steering wheel clock 

  • Wire wheels 

  • Power steering 

  • Power brakes 

  • Power windows 

  • Power seats 

Known Imperfections 

• This 1956 Chrysler New Yorker Newport Hardtop is presented as a finely preserved example and is said to be free from any substantial imperfections.  

Included 

• Original 1956 California license plate 

• 1956 Chrysler brochure 

• Custom chrome license plate frame 

• Calendar with this this Chrysler New Yorker Newport Hardtop featured on the cover 

Ownership History

The consignor states, “Built at the Chrysler Los Angeles Plant, this Chrysler spent its early years in California. On April 9, 1978, Richard and Karen Carpenter of the popular singing group The Carpenters added the remarkably preserved vehicle to their museum, Yesterday Once More, where it remained for many years, occasionally being shown at local car events. This car has many options, including power windows, seats, steering, and brakes, and HiWay Hi-Fi record player, steering wheel clock, and wire wheels. This is an unrestored car including the original California black license plate.” 

Additional Notes

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty. 

Contact: Alexander Keck  Phone: 402.617.9770 ‬ email: akeck@hagerty.com