281: 1955 Chrysler Imperial Newport Two-Door Hardtop
250 bhp, 331 cu. in. V8 engine with hemispherical cylinder heads, four-barrel carburetor, two-speed Power-Flite automatic transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 130"
With understated elegance and a well-deserved reputation for excellent engineering, the Imperial marked the pinnacle of the Chrysler product line. Notably, 1955 marked the registration of Imperial as a separate marque within the Chrysler Corporation, and the completely new-for-1955 models benefited from the full stylistic influence of the renowned Virgil Exner. For 1955, Imperials were available in two forms: the C-69 short wheelbase version known as the Newport Coupe or Sedan, along with the C-70 long wheelbase sedan version named the Crown Imperial. Featuring excellent build quality, the upscale Imperial was priced from $4,483, providing a very attractive alternative to the contemporary offerings from Cadillac and Lincoln.
The handsome 1955 Imperial two-door hardtop offered here is a solid, original car that spent 27 years in storage prior before being treated to a body-on restoration, commissioned by its current owner. The black finish, along with the period style gold stripe tires that surround steel wheels with full chrome wheel covers, complement the clean and timeless bodywork. Inside, the beautifully restored and opulent passenger cabin is trimmed with black leather upholstery featuring red cloth inserts, along with a red headliner and a red dash panel. Befitting its regal heritage, the Imperial features a host of passenger amenities including factory-installed air conditioning, along with a heater, defroster, power windows, and a power-operated front seat.
Mechanically, the powerful 331 cubic inch "FirePower" V8 engine has been completely rebuilt, along with the two-speed, fully automatic "Power-Flite" transmission. Meanwhile, using components from a 1956 Imperial parts donor, the electrical system and gauges have been upgraded to 12 volts in the interest of reliability. To enhance driving pleasure even further, the original AM radio unit features internal upgrades, which allow AM/FM reception while maintaining the original and correct appearance.
The current and enthusiastic owner reports that this Imperial is a true pleasure to drive. As one of the smoothest, most comfortable and powerful luxury cars of the 1950s, this Imperial will provide a great deal of enjoyment for its new owner. Highly sought after when new, they are even more so today -- particularly in the exceptional condition of the example offered here.
Auction House
RM Auctions 5 West Forest Ave Ypsilanti, MI United States 48197 519.352.4575
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Shipping
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Buyer's Premium
13%
Payment
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Local 6% tax applies when picking up items or shipping within the state of Michigan.
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