Engine No. RM54444

Chevrolet's lineup for 1934 included two different models, with the somewhat sportier Standard series built on a five-inch-shorter wheelbase. It was mildly redesigned from prior years, with a longer hood with streamlined horizontal louvers, a more detailed hood ornament, and a simpler grille accented by painted headlights. With 60 horsepower on tap from the overhead-valve six-cylinder engine, this was a surprisingly quick little automobile, reportedly capable of a top speed of 80 mph – and it looked truly stylish as it purred down the road.

Unsurprisingly Chevrolet sold 556,666 cars in 1934, including 99,499 Standard models. Yet among this vast parade of automobiles were some truly rare styles. The Standard phaeton, the only example of that classic style available from Chevrolet this year, sold just 234 examples, very few of which have survived.

Mr. Taylor acquired his phaeton in 2008 from the vast and diverse collection of radio station magnate Art Astor in Anaheim, California, who was known for the excellent, turn-key upkeep of his cars, many of which were enthusiastically shown all over Southern California and featured in his private museum. It was restored in this cream and brown livery some years ago, with button-tufted brown leather upholstery and a tan canvas roof, and reportedly was lightly freshened cosmetically during its Astor ownership. Accessories include a rear-mounted spare, front license plate bracket, and vacuum windshield wiper. While the presentation is now older throughout, it shows more light age than actual use, with its owners having largely preserved it. California climate and ownership assisted in its survival, and resulted in a solid rust-free body.

For the enthusiast of rare Art Deco Chevrolets, they are seldom found more attractive or scarce than this car, a body style that is virtually impossible to find and which holds the promise of open-air fun on country roads this autumn.