An underated
car made by Chrysler Co. First appeared in the 20's. In the late 50's, it was sold as it's own model to compete with
Cadillac and Lincoln. It failed though, due to obvious reasons. There was no seperate "Imperial" dealership. Imperials were sold in Chrysler dealerships, and customers thought of them as a higher priced Chrysler with a different badge. Poor quality was another factor, as they had
rust and mechanical problems. By 1964, the Imperial ditched it's outdated
rust prone 50's style for the nicer boxy look similar to the Lincoln Continental. This body style was used in the 2011 movie "The Green Hornet". 1964-1968 were probably the best years for the make. 1969-1973 models were quite impressive looking too, with huge grills, and a sleek fuselage bodystyle. 1974 introduced an even bigger body style that came out at the
wrong time. With the gas crisis in full swing, Chrysler decided not to waste anymore
time on an already failing marque. So the last Imperial was made in 1975.
Several attempts to resurect the name have happened, what with the 1981-1983 bustle back coupe that nobody liked. And the 1990-1993 boring small 4
door sedan that looked like all other Chrysler cars at the
time.
Max: I just saw "The Green Hornet" at the movie theatre. Dude....that black
car was fuckin'
awesome. What was it, a Lincoln??
Pat: It was a 1964 Imperial Crown. The Black Beauty...One bad ass
ride!