Stanley Doble
Call Me a Cab
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It was not just the styling which was revolutionary. The Airflow and Airstream pioneered the chassis geometry and weight distribution which became the industry standard until the coming of front-wheel drive in the 1970's. Before the Airflow/Airstream the engine was hung well behind the front axle, and the rear seat was centered over the rear axle. This tended to make for sloppy handling and a bumpy ride. The Airflow centered the engine over the front axle, and so the entire passenger compartment was moved well forward, placing the rear seat passengers well in front of the rear axle, insuring a much more comfortable ride.
The main benefit to the Airflow layout was, it moved the engine and passenger compartment forward of the rear axle, allowing the seats to be lowered 4 or 5 inches. This in turn permitted lowering the whole body.
The Airflow was also wider than the typical car of the time. An Airflow of normal size, had more interior room and comfort than the largest luxury cars. This is one reason the custom built luxury cars went out of favor. When the rest of the industry got wise to the Airflow layout, you could buy a stock Chrysler or Buick with similar room, comfort and performance to a custom built Cadillac or Packard that cost more than twice as much money.