Now, I’m not so sure. I googled images of early 50’s Chrysler products and didn’t see anything that looked like that. But it sure smacks of Chrysler to me. And I was talking about the knob underneath the gearshift lever when I mentioned vents.
Only later did I notice the four levers on that odd shelf-like contraption. Gee, I can only think they had to do with the heater. I fancy myself a pretty good authority on fifties cars, but I’m stumped on this one.
Ref the attached link below, it is funny how in the comments section, people are guessing what the levers are all used for?
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cv_dusty/7356708236/