Here’s one of the best old promotional films we’ve run across—a ten-minute demonstration of the 1937 Plymouth. If you’re into auto history, you’ll find a lot to enjoy here.
We’ve taken quite a liking to this old Plymouth sales film from 1937. Not that it’s perfect—for one thing, the frame bounces all over the place for the first 90 seconds or so. But once things settle down, there’s plenty of substance to be found in this clip, titled Sailing Along and produced for the Plymouth division of Chrysler by Wilding Picture Productions of Detroit.
Yes, the film does a fine job of pitching the Plymouth brand and illustrating all the convenience and technical features of the 1937 product line. You can’t go down to your local dealer and kick the tires on the ’37 Plymouth, unfortunately, but this is the next best thing.
But for us, where this film really shines for us 21st-century viewers is in illustrating the state of the art in production car technology in 1937. Plymouth was a soundly engineered low-priced car of the era, with advanced features including four-wheel hydraulic brakes and an isolated body shell. We’re given a detailed look at the nuts and bolts of a typical American car of the period, from the cooling system to the leaf springs and telescopic dampers. It’s fun and fascinating—we know you’ll enjoy it.
Wow, I’m sold, man, where can I get me one of them ’37 Plymouths? This is exactly why I like this era of cars, styling and innovations really took off. I worked on a friend’s ’38 Pontiac, which was very similar to this Plymouth, and I was amazed how many of the things on that car (tube shocks, hydraulic brakes, etc.) didn’t change for years. I like the lady reading “Collier’s” magazine. Oh boy. Great video, thanks MCG.
Agreed, this is an excellent study of 1937 auto technology. You have a gem here.
Great little film. I was a bit surprised at the way they featured the thin leaf springs on the solid front axle – an attempt to counter Chevrolets knee-action?
I’ll take a coupe please! Now where’s that time machine?
Me too,, though can I option it with a Hemi?
Seriously though a excellent clip for what was an advanced car for its day.