Despite the pandemic circumstances, Jay Leno continues to create videos from his personal garage, occasionally catching glimpses of himself strolling away from tripods, ensuring a smooth flow. This past week, the spotlight shone on his 1939 Chrysler Royal four-door, a vehicle previously owned by the six-time Emmy Award-winning host of The Tonight Show, Johnny Carson. Originally acquired by Carson’s father in Nebraska, NBC later repurchased the car as a gift for Carson and eventually passed it on to Jay Leno in his will. While this verdant ’39 Royal carries a star-studded history, even one with a less colorful past would not disappoint.
In 1939, Chrysler delivered exceptional value with their vehicles, offering over 100 horsepower from a highly efficient 4.1-liter flathead straight-six engine, a three-speed manual transmission with overdrive for extended journeys, generous cabin and trunk space, suicide doors, as well as luxurious additions like chrome mirrors, a radio, and dual horns.
Chryslers from the pre-war era, such as this one, were commonly chosen as affordable first cars for young drivers by their parents, proving to be ideal vehicles for snowy conditions.
$1,010 in 1939. , Flickr/Alden Jewell
During the tumultuous period preceding World War II, Chrysler not only provided a reliable six-cylinder engine and effective heating but also showcased the “Airflow styling,” with an abundance of brightwork and Art Deco elements that exceeded expectations for the price point. Equipped with bias-ply tires and drum brakes for adequate speed control, the 1939 Royal boasted a dashboard crafted with molded plastic, metal trim concealed by a wood grain pattern, and a substantial ivory-finished steering wheel.
Even today, a Chrysler Royal remains an affordable yet distinctive American classic that can be cherished for years to come. Quite impressive for a model dating back to 1939.
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