1960 Chrysler Saratoga
Quite possibly the finest in the world. Rare 413 cubic inch V8, known ownership history to day one, recent high-quality professional restoration. Amazing car!
There’s an argument to be made that this could be the finest 1960 Saratoga hardtop in the world. It has a well-documented history, including more than a decade in storage, and just two owners from new. Following a comprehensive frame-off restoration, it remains in exceptional condition with documentation that includes the original Chrysler Corporation Broadcast Sheet, original bill of sale and title, and other documentation from the initial purchase. It was restored in a factory-correct Black over Toreador Red color combination that’s simply stunning on the massive coupe, emphasizing the long, low Virgil Exner lines and bubbletop cockpit that was cutting-edge fashion in 1960. Park this car next to almost anything else from 1960 and you’ll see that few can compare to the big Mopar.
Given that the car was always protected, the restoration was able to preserve all the original sheetmetal, including the floors and quarter panels, a testament to the single-family ownership that lasted more than four decades. The bodywork is laser-straight, the paint shines, and the chrome was restored for show. Meticulous maintenance since it was completed ensures that everything is in top condition and it doesn’t even show polishing marks on the black top. This is a car that can roll off the trailer and collect awards without working very hard. There is no aspect of this car that is merely adequate. In fact, this is one of very few cars that’s actually even better in person than it looks in photos.
Inside, the two-tone black and red leather upholstery demonstrates Chrysler’s intention to build true drivers’ cars. The unique driver’s seat with its extended seat back is your first clue that this car is something special and the wonderful Astra-Dome instrument panel is science-fiction come to life. The seats, of course, were fully restored with new foam and leather (not vinyl) seat covers with their own special metal crests embedded in the seat backs, and the carpets are entirely new. Everything in this car is fully functional, including the radio, clock, gauges, and even the power antenna on the rear deck. There’s also a massive trunk, as you’d expect, and it has been outfitted with correct mats and cardboard side panels, as well as a bias-ply spare tire and jack assembly that are quite correct for 1960.
Most Saratogas got by with a garden-variety 383 cubic inch V8, but this astounding hardtop carries a 413 cubic inch Golden Lion V8, which was rated at a very strong 350 horsepower. We have every reason to believe this is the car’s original engine, although matching numbers is not knowable on 1960 Chryslers. The engine is fully rebuilt and highly detailed for show, ready to drive or compete at a moment’s notice. Little things like the hose clamps, fasteners, and even the factory inspection markings are accurate, giving it a factory-fresh look. The battery is a parts store replacement, but a correct reproduction Mopar battery will be installed before the car is shipped to its new owner, eliminating one of the only possible complaints about the engine bay.
The undercarriage is also highly detailed, starting with body-colored floors that provide an awesome backdrop for the detailed hardware. The 1960 Chryslers were unibody cars with an exceptionally stiff structure that was both stronger and lighter than the frame it replaced. As a result, handling is adept and this Saratoga shows off one of the first applications of disc brakes on a US production car. The TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission (push-button controlled, of course) offers crisp shifts and powers a 2.93 gear set out back, so it’s a superlative highway cruiser. Dual exhaust is standard and has a subdued rumble, perfectly appropriate for the car’s luxury/performance mission and offering the sound of great power held in reserve. Flashy chrome wire wheels were optional and quite appropriate on this spectacular coupe and wear recent 215/70/15 Goodyear wide whitewall radials for a perfect look and upgraded handling.
As I mentioned, there is extensive documentation on this car dating back to the initial owner. The restoration is fresh and the car remains in exceptional condition throughout. The 300F is already a six-figure car, as are convertible New Yorkers. Can this stunning show-quality Saratoga be far behind? Don’t miss this opportunity for a truly remarkable Mopar.
Year: | 1960 |
Make: | Chrysler |
Model: | Saratoga |
Exterior Color: | Black over Toreador Red |
Interior Color: | Black and Red leather |
Engine: | 383 cubic inch V8 |
Transmission: | Automatic |
VIN: | 8203143204 |
Stock Number: | 111068 |
DISCLAIMER: While we do our best to present all vehicles as honestly and accurately as possible, Harwood Motors Ltd. cannot guarantee the veracity of the information contained herein. This site and all advertising information may be updated without notice whenever new information is obtained and may contain mistakes and inaccuracies. Information is provided to the best of our knowledge and that of the owners of the vehicles, and we make no warranty or representation regarding the accuracy, truth, suitability, or reliability of such information. We cannot be responsible for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies contained in information provided by third parties. Harwood Motors Ltd. is not an expert in the construction, metallurgy, engineering, finishes, materials, and componentry of every single vehicle ever made. Harwood Motors Ltd. strives to perform extensive visual inspections on all vehicles we represent but we do not disassemble vehicles or components for inspection purposes and therefore it is always possible that there is hidden damage that is not readily apparent. We cannot guarantee the fitness of any components beyond a visual inspection and normal operation of the vehicle. We do not perform internal examinations, so we cannot guarantee the condition of unseen internal components such as crankshafts, bearings, gears, and other mechanical equipment. This also applies to electronics such as radios, clocks, gauges, light fixtures, switches, or other electrical devices. Buyer should personally inspect the vehicle and satisfy himself as to its mechanical and cosmetic fitness. We always welcome inspections by Buyers and/or third parties who wish to undertake such examinations at their own expense. Harwood makes no warranty or representation regarding mileage unless otherwise stated. Listed prices do not include additional fees, state, federal, or local taxes, or shipping and delivery costs. Harwood Motors Ltd collects a $150.00 documentation fee on every vehicle purchase. Buyer is entirely responsible for satisfying himself that the car is as-represented prior to purchase and there are no warranties, expressed or implied, involved in the sale of any motor vehicle represented by Harwood Motors Ltd.
Recent Additions to the Harwood Inventory