1955 Imperial Newport 331ci Hemi 4 Barrel/Same Owner Since 1959

1955 Imperial Newport

The Chrysler Imperial, introduced in 1926, was Chrysler's top-of-the-line vehicle for much of its history. Models were produced with the Chrysler name until 1954, and again from 1990 to 1993. The company positioned the cars as a prestige marque to rival Cadillac, Continental, Lincoln, Duesenberg, Pierce Arrow, Cord, and Packard. The adjective 'Imperial' according to Webster's Dictionary means sovereign, supreme, superior or of unusual size or excellence. The word Imperial thus justly befits Chrysler's highest priced model.

For consignment the C-69 short wheelbase coupe with the consigner owning the car for 60 years. They state that 35 years ago the car underwent a restoration with paint and interior at that time. A mostly original car otherwise with 84,077 original miles.

Exterior
With the exterior bathed in green and white on top, when we look it over one will see some dents and dings, scratches, a bit of rust bubbling under the paint, and overall 35-year-old paint that still holds its shine. Chrome and trim is very good with little to no corroding or dimpling, and overall shiny. This holds true for the bumper's bezels, and rear high mounted taillights. Badging is slightly worn in the color areas, and bumper on the rear shows some corrosion and staining at the point where the exhaust comes through it. Big steel panels are straight, and a wide trim spear with a rear quarter swoop is noted on both sides in good condition. 15-inch chrome wire wheels with faux spinners in the centers are mounted within wide whites all around.

Interior
A swing of the massive doors and we are swimming in a sea of tuck and roll, piping, and smooth white leather. The front split bench is mounted in a large metal base that provides power back and forth for the driver. If rear bench was not in this car it would be in my living room serving as my couch, it is that plush, and it has a pullout area rest. I also need to mention the door panels with their white uppers in wide vertical embossed stripes, and the lowers are a deep green with a metal thread pattern that drips 1955. Seen also are power window toggles within the door pull. Keeping in tune with the motif, the dash is a two-tone green and white, drivers' side in green with instrument cluster of 2 circles. The bezels show slight corrosion but are indeed original. There passenger's side has white in the glovebox area, which is beautifully sculpted in curved form, and has a large radio speaker, a clock and Imperial in your grandmothers handwriting badge. A white headliner above nice and tight and deep green carpet below, and we are in 1955 luxury.

Drivetrain
A raise of the hood, and we are greeted with the original unrestored 331ci Hemi engine topped with a 4-barrel carburetor. On back is a 2-speed automatic Powerflite transmission which throws power back to 3.54 rear gears.

Undercarriage
Surface rust has formed mainly on the rear frame and undercarriage; however, this car remains structurally sound. Body hangers, floorpans, and numerous parts have some of the surface rust as well but are good. Power drum brakes are all around and power steering is attached.

Drive-Ability
Just sitting inside this car we are in the lap of luxury and comfort. It started right up, idled smoothly, and took off with lots of Hemi 4-barrel power. It's a cruiser and provides a smooth ride. Cornering is good, and all appears to be working on the mechanical front, save for the left rear window can only be put up and down from the switch in that position, not the driver's door. Also, the horn did not blow as I had to yell for my decoder to hurry up and get into the car for the test drive!

60 years of ownership has its privileges and this car has been cared for. A few battle scars on the paint and body, some rust on the exterior steel panels in its early form, but overall nicely presenting, and runs just peachy. An overall fine example that can be driven right off the Classic Auto Mall floor to your driveway.

VIN Decode
C559297
C-Chrysler
55-1955
9297-Sequential Unit Number

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 450 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.