WICKED-COOL SPACE-AGE DESIGN, 413 V8, PUSHBUTTON AUTO, DUALS, COOLEST CAR AROUND
1962 Chrysler Imperial
We'll admit that the 1962 Chrysler Imperials are polarizing machines, ut when you consider that this Imperial convertible was the equal of any Cadillac or Lincoln of its day, ell, ou start to have a new appreciation for Chrysler's top-of-the-line. The styling has aged well and those polarizing looks are now one of the Imperial's biggest selling points!The first thing everyone notices on this Imperial is the headlights. Ostensibly designed to resemble the lights on the grand Classics of the 1930s, hey're tucked into the front fenders to blend the old look with space-age sleekness. The second thing you'll notice is the color, hich is a stunning burgundy metallic that still looks good even after nearly 20 years. There's no arguing that this car is going to generate attention no matter where you go. The look is pure 1960s cool, ith that dramatic grille and the sweeping side trim, nd again, ut back you get a touch of the past with those taillights perched up top. There's plenty of chrome, on't worry about that, nd it's in good overall condition with a clean look that makes the car look complete. The jewelry sparkles.Inside you'll find one of Chrysler's finest designs, ith perhaps the most fantastic dashboard ever created. Asymmetrical seat backs for the driver and passenger offer a cool twist on the bucket seat theme and they're covered in handsome burgundy leather that is quite likely original. Plush carpets feel expensive under your feet and those door panels are beautifully crafted. But the real star of this show is the instrument panel, hich is framed by an awesome squared-off steering wheel and a pair of vertical pods that almost look like tailfins. The pushbutton TorqueFlite controls are on the left while the ventilation controls are on the right. Double-decker gauges put everything right in front of the driver and you'll have to really concentrate on the road, ecause watching the speedometer in action is fascinating. You'll note that this car carries power windows, hich are always useful on a convertible, s well as an AM radio in the center of the dash (yes, t works!). The white power convertible top is slightly older and uses a plastic rear window, ut given this car's top-down look, ou'll only be using it for emergencies anyway. And there's a giant trunk in back, ully carpeted and outfitted with a full-sized spare with jack assembly.Chrysler's big 413 cubic inch V8 makes effortless torque and moves the big ragtop with ease. It is quite neatly finished under the hood, ith corporate turquoise paint on the block itself, correct air cleaner, nd body-colored inner fenders. A newer polished alternator is a good idea for reliability's sake and the giant radiator ensures that the big V8 never gets too hot. Power steering and brakes are probably mandatory in a land yacht like this and the fresh dual exhaust system has a muted hum that sounds suitably powerful and refined. The TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and the original rear end has highway gears in it so this is the ideal car for a long road trip. The original wheels are gone, eplaced by a set of flashy Kelsey Hayes style wire wheels and wrapped in modern whitewall radials. This car has obviously been loved and with top examples closing in on the six-figure mark, t might also be considered a smart investment. Not perfect, ut offering top-shelf motoring that rivals anything else you could buy in 1962. Call today!
- Condition: Used
- Make: Chrysler
- Model: Imperial
- Type: Convertible
- Doors: 2
- Year: 1962
- Mileage: 70452
- Color: Burgundy
- Engine size: 413 V8
- Power options: Power windows
- Transmission: Automatic
- Interior color: Burgundy
- Vehicle Title: Clear Want to buy? Contact seller!
