The Chrysler Imperial, introduced in 1926, was the company's top of the range vehicle for much of its history. Models were produced with the Chrysler name until 1954, and again from 1990 to 1993. The company tried to position the cars as a prestige marque that would rival Cadillac and Lincoln. According to a feature article in AACA's magazine 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 quality model.
After six series beginning in 1926, Chrysler advised state licensing bureaus that beginning in 1955, the Imperial was to be registered as a separate make. It was an attempt to compete directly with GM's Cadillac and Ford's Lincoln distinct luxury-focused marques, rather than GM's traditional and lower-priced brands: Buick and Oldsmobile.
The Imperial automobiles continued to be retailed through Chrysler dealerships. A distinct marketing channel was not established; thus, the Imperial nameplate failed to separate itself from the other Chrysler models and become a stand-alone marque until 1990. Afterwards, it returns to Chrysler Imperial.
Specifications
Bodywork
Length : cm (in): 575 (226.3)
Width : cm (in): 203 (79.9)
Height : cm (in): 144 (56.7)
Wheelbase : cm (in) : 328 (129)
Weight: kg (lb) : 2100 (4636)
Mechanics.
Displacement : V8 6767 cc, front
Valve gear : 16
Fuel system : 4-barrel carter carburettor
Gearbox : 3 speed, automatic
Driven wheels : rear-wheel drive
Maximum power : 292 bhp at 4600 rpm
Maximum torque : 490 Nm
Top speed : 200 km/h (124 mph)
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