As a GM guy who owns a few big '72 Buicks, I just love this Imperial!. It's such a classy looking automobile. Big luxury cars of the early to mid 70's were just amazing with their length and plush interiors. Cars today no matter how luxurious just don't have the character or styling of these beauties.
Very true, my dad had a '72 Buick Riviera GS Stage 1, it was fast even for a landyacht. It also came with a primal traction control. "Max-Trac". It would retard the ignition system when activated & sensed loss of traction of the rear wheels. It also had a sunroof that leaked in car wash. Still, those cars had persona.
Absolutely agree with you. All cars think they are luxurious… they’re not. They are identical across the brands with ludicrous amounts of useless tech.
Syd Mead was and remains a genius. Kudos for you to have interacted with him and (effortlessly I'm sure) gotten him to hand over this spaceship's stewardship to you. Respect.
Congratulations and admittedly, I envy you. My parents bought Syd's house before he moved to California in 1975. My father came close to buying this spectacular Imperial from Syd as he hadn't decided if he was going to take the car with him. He obviously decided to take it along with his incredible Mercedes sports coupe with gull wing doors. Two unbelievable classics.
Your Imperial's features takes me back to my Dad's 72 Imperial. I used to love sitting in those luxurious seats and playing with the turn signals, adjusting the st wheel, play with the map light, and ran the antenna up and down more than my dad was happy with. More importantly, that Imperial probably saved my life (I was in the back seat), when a semi exceeding the 75 mph limit rear ended us as we entered the hwy. LSS - The car was so beefy the semi didn't collapse the full depth of the trunk and Dad was able to pull off the road with no injuries inside the Imperial! Loved that car. 440 great ride.
See this is when American cars were in their element. Look at that interior and the whole presentation. Fast forward 10 years into the 80's and it all turned to junk. This was an absolutely amazing car. Just wow.
What exactly did this car do well besides look good and give you a place to sleep when you were too hungover to drive? Couldn’t accelerate, handle, stop, and would stall on left turns. These cars were junk. I’d take an 85 Daytona turbo or the 87 aero Lebanon turbo over that toilet any day of the week.
@@MercOne my family owned about 10 of the K car derivatives through the 80s and early 90s and had no issues for the most part. My Daytona went 200k miles without issue and could run circles around that 70s toilet. They were simple cars to perform scheduled maintenance on and could run 14s with the intercooled turbo and a stick…13s with the Omni GLHs…which is why they’re collectible. We drove all mopar from 60s onward, which is how I know you’re just full of turd and cocaine tranny flashbacks.
@@FancyAnimal 1984 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z was a hell of a cool car. My brother worked for Chrysler back at that time and he had access to the executive motor pool vehicles for weekend trips. Often he’d drive home to PA with one of these cars. And I beat the hell out of every car he brought home. These were cars for evaluation and were destroyed at the end of their duty. The Turbo Z looked like no other car at the time and was quite fast compared to other 1984 American sports cars. What will I always remember? “All monitored systems functioning…the driver’s door is ajar…” For those too young to remember, some cars in the early 1980s talked. Most notably some Chrysler and Ford products, and the Nissan Maxima. The good old days…
I meet Syd Mead in New Zealand in the early 1980's as our design School brought him over to talk to us as well as do a lecture tour. Amazing man, amazing lecture on how Blade runner and his other movies got their look!! This beautiful Imperial Lebaron suited him..!
You're absolutely right about the ride and handling. I finally sold my 73 Imperial three years ago. In the time I had it, I replaced the ball joints and control arm bushings. I drove it daily for years. People would say "Wow I bet it's like riding on a cloud". And I would tell them, "Not exactly. Lincolns and Caddys do because they have coil springs. This car has torsion bars and leaf springs and it's stiffer." My Imperial had 135K on it when I bought it and the shocks were old blue Monroe's, probably from the 80's. I replaced the sway bar bushings and put on Monroe sensatracs. It took all the floatiness out and handled better. However, it definitely did not ride like a pillow. The 1973 sales film touted "Torsion-quiet ride. Torsion bars and rear leaf springs give you a stable ride. A comfortable ride." That sums it up. The ride was comfortable, but not pillowy or soft.
I think a lot of the ride of these is the lack of isolation of the unit rather than body on frame design. Ford had refined the concept with the 1965's, with a stiffer body mounted on the frame only with a few big rubber mounts located at the unvibrating (there's a word for that I can't think of ) points of the frame.
Very TRUE. Jihn DELOREAN orriginalkt WORKED fir general motors. Look at the similarities. From the bauutifull green 67 caddillac Eldorado. On the steghen king movie ruding the bullet. HOLY FUCK. Love the SCARY sinister front ENDS wuth hide away headlights and the back styling wuth the smalk head lights. The ither thing us t h e smaller REAR WINDOW. Makes a big dufference. And the fender skirts. And the chrome trim on bottom 8 or 10 inches if CAR.THATS FULL GANGSTA BROTHER. FUCKIN LIVE IT TI DEATH FRED NOBKE NOBKE FENCE GATEKEEPER NIGHTFENCER BRAINTREE HOLBROOK BOSTON. MA. I THINK. ISSAC WAS SMOKIN PURPLE HAZE. OR TOO MUCH PANAMA RED. LIKE 6HE REAL COLUMBIAN RED. THAT WAS AROUND IN EATLLY 70 S. AND TOOK.IY IT A LITYLE TO FAR ON SHAFT. CRAZY THEY HAD THE CURB FEELERS. I CALL THEM 🐀 INSTERGATORS. SO THEY WOUDNT FUCK UP THERE THERE WHUTE WALLS. ACTUALLY. THEY JUST OAUD OFF THE COPS AND EIULD OARJ RIGHT IN TGE MIDDKE OF TGE STREET. LIJE WILKY THE WIMP. AND HUS CADDILLAC COFFIN. STECEYBRAY VAUGHN VUR SING SUNG WAY VEFIRE THAT BRO BY ISELY. WAR. ETCETRA. LOOK UP PIMPS IN THE 7OS AND YOU WILL SHIT YOUR OABTS. HILLARRIOS AND TRUE. WATCH DURTY HARRY. WHEN HUTCH PULKS OVER THE PURPLE ONE. ON THE 650 TRIUMMP MOTORCYCLE. YOU CANT MAKE THID SHIT ☝ CRAZY. NIGHTFENCER GATEKERPET. BRAINTREE. KINDA SCARY
I've owned and enjoyed almoat every car you've showcased on this channel. The exception? This Imperial. And sadly for me, it has always been my favorite. I almost bought a 71 model one time, in green, but it was sold out from under me. Even back in the day when I owned all these cars, 1980-85, these Imperial was even a bit rare at that time. There have never been very many of them on the road. As where the other cars you've showcased, used to fill our streets everywhere one after another. This Imperial is truly a classic beauty. If I ever have the chance to purchase one again before my time is up, rest assured I'm going to jump on it.
Absolutely beautiful! I first met Syd in California and a car show where he was showing his beautiful Imperial. I’m glad it’s gone to somebody who can appreciate it.
I eagerly awaited this video, and my anticipation was not in vain. Your in-depth review of this stunningly beautiful Imperial did not disappoint. I so appreciate the detailed narratives you provide on every car in your collection and the unhurried tour from stem to stern, inside and out. I get to drink my fill of every last detail and nuance without pausing for anything but the occasional envious sigh. This car was no exception. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into all your posts, and especially for sharing this particular piece of automotive art. It's truly a thing of beauty.
Wonderful. Syd was my favourite designer and artist ever. I would have loved it if his designs were used by car makers. He was such an influence in sci-fi. A wonderful car and video. That paint is sublime!
This car is gorgeous! Thanks for posting. Being a Mopar fan, I have always loved their muscle car line up. Having said that, I really appreciate the luxury cars they built as well. Nice to see it so well preserved. Plate C
You are absolutely amazing in finding these magical classic cars that are in magnificent original condition ! It's like being in a time machine back to the 60s and 70s ! Thank you so much for sharing your videos ❤
A wonderful review of a wonderful automobile. My father had a ‘67 and then a ‘73 New Yorker. He loved both of them. As you commented, he too, appreciated the handling of Chryslers and the performance of the 440. Thank you for making this video of your beautiful Imperial by Chrysler.
@@moosecat I had a 1983 Chrysler New Yorker (the one on the K-Car chassis), after I had 150K on it I was wishing I had bought the Fifth Avenue instead. The 2.6-I4 from Mitsubishi was a horrible engine, I had to dump the car because the engine was bad in it. I ended up trading it in for a V6 powered Ford Taurus. I also had a 1985 Dodge D-250 with a 318 in it. I was happy with that, I had that thing for about 20 years and almost 300K miles (I did have the engine rebuilt at 137K because it started burning some oil, something that would have been impossible with the New Yorker four cylinder due to the POS engine blocks in them).
Totally thrilled you were able to acquire Syd’s imperial I met him a number of years ago at an LA car show he named the car “Fabulon” !!! He was such an amazing and talented man 💕
This is one of my dream cars, and I’ve driven two of them in my life. They are not pillowy, as you say, but they drive like much smaller cars… responsive, with good road feel, and good body control. I was astounded at how good they were to drive. Both Imperials had the trunk-mounted dual a/c, as well. The right time and financial circumstances for buying one of my own have always eluded me. But someday, I will have a 72-73 Imperial. Thanks for bringing this car to life here.
That is a really neat front grille and bumper on that car, amazing to think of how lucky a car it was to have a good owner and not be a victim of neglect and be entered in some demolition derby.
The Imperial was commonly used in demolition derbies because of the full frame, and the front crossmember that was basically a 4x4 steel tube that was almost indestructible.
Brings back a flood of memories- my 72 had same interior but had the rear heat and floor tuner stereo. I Remember washing and waxing which was virtually an all day affair. These look so great at night too with the light placement. I could go on and on......
I had a 1969 4 door Imperial Lebaron, cream color with saddle interior. It had the sequential taillights. Same body styling, but with better looking front and rear ends. Very nice in many ways. Had air conditioning, power window, and other little problems. Sometimes you get tired of dealing with the problems, and just decide it's time to move on. My father had a 1957 and 1961 Imperials. He drove the family across the country a few times in those Imperials. I didn't have enough knowledge back then to appreciate those cars. It's nice to see them once in a while being saved and appreciated.
Interesting thought, Robert. Didn't think of it until you said it. On the other hand I've always felt the '79-'81 Firebird/Trans Am had a totally Darth Vader front end. In that case it was ugly, in this one though, quite beautiful.
@Jay & Laong's World!🤪²⁰²¹ Okay. It's a handsome car vs. the ugly Trans Am I mentioned. You do see the resemblance of the T/A front end I mentioned. If you don't recall it, look it up and you should see right away.
What a gorgeous car. These "land yachts" of the late 60's and early 70's were the epitome of American luxury. I'm partial to the fuselage theme of the Chrysler lineup . Keep up the great work. Let's keep these classics alive.
Always enjoy your very informative videos! And digging this Imperial. We had a ‘71 LeBaron hardtop sedan when I was a kid - in fact I learned to drive in it. Loved the wide open side windows. I prefer the segmented horizontal taillights on the ‘71 - with the centered reverse light - to the vertical style on the ‘72. Though I do kinda prefer the front of the ‘72. As a kid, I though the rim-blow steering wheel was amazing, and the foot-operated radio seek function. Oh, and the radio frequency scale was printed on a cylinder; switching from AM to FM would rotate the cylinder so that you needn’t be bothered having to see both scales at the same time.
Thank you for the memory I had the same car in high school , my best friend had a 1971 Imperial . And we would drive are cars to school. Every day . Good times!
Adam I’ve been watching your channel for several months now. Not gonna lie…when I saw my 1st episode (I believe you were discussing the GM X cars from a porch swing) I thought it was dry & boring. But I loved the cars you showcased and, the more I watched, the more I grew to respect & enjoy your casual, relaxed style & amazing knowledge! I particularly enjoy the level of detail with which you discuss the styling, the features, the engineering as well as the ride & handling & interior components. Every time I think: I wonder if he’s gonna show us THAT? - you invariably read my mind & focus on the very thing I hoped you would! Today, I absolutely love your channel & have immense respect for both your candid presentation style & impressive knowledge. I also share your (excellent) taste in automotive style & find I agree with almost every opinion you share (such as the incredibly understated & elegant styling of this 72 Imperial). THANKS for investing the time & effort to make these videos. They’re excellent & I (now) look forward to each & every one!
It’s quite a coincidence that Syd Mead drove the largest luxury production car ever made. He created one of the largest (if not the largest) sci-fi movie antagonist ever: the V’ger probe in Star Trek: The Motion Picture. Much of his futuristic concept art for that movie made it into the film during Spock’s space walk sequence. Quite a guy. You’re lucky to have his old car...which is an amazing automobile flaws and all. Another interesting review: really enjoy them because I love cars from this era but never devoted enough time to really learn about them. Carry on.
Sid owning this makes perfect sense. I think that grill has an amazing presence. When we were kids we would have said it looked mean but I think it also looks beautiful.
i had 2 1967 Imperials, thanks for showing this big beauty! i could almost feel the ride with the way you utilized he camera position and sound, i dont know why but it took me back to my 67's. thanks
A neighbor across the street from me when I was growing up had one of these. He was an executive for a grocery distributor in a large city and used it for a daily driver. It was definitely a luxurious boat of that era, but it was also a maintenance nightmare. As meticulously as he had it maintained, there was _always_ something that wasn't working. The headlights and windows were frequent culprits.
I really enjoy joining you as you travel down memory lane bringing us the incredible classic cars that were owned by my family members, their friends or the parents of friends of mine in high school during this time period. In this case, my friend Richie would get dropped off at high school every day in an Imperial just like this but with a black interior. I, like you really like the gold interior. Quite unique. I remember always marveling at how massive that car was. Anyway, I really enjoy learning all I do about the cars and always look forward to your next vid.
Adam,I like seeing such a young man taking an interest in all of these incredible cars! I always appreciate the beginning when you show yourself to the world on TH-cam.
Adam, Once again, thank you. I am so impressed that you got this car out of Hollywood where a former "Tonight Show" host has a penchant for gathering up vintage Imperials. A car bigger than a Suburban is a rare thing and we are so fortunate it went to a collector who shares rather than hoards classics. :D
Oh, I am sooo envious. I grew up liking all Chrysler products, as my father had always been loyal to Dodge automobiles. I would get my father or oldest brother to drive me to the dealerships when the new cars came out in October each year. (I was 14 years old when the 1972 models came out). I would grab every brochure that I could, but the Imperial brochure was the holy grail. I would read the brochures over and over, and stare at the pictures for hours. I got Motor Trend every month, and when they did comparison tests of say Cadillac, Lincoln, and Imperial, I was offended that they always ranked Imperials last. How dare they! LOL Your comments in this video are accurate though, and I am quite impressed. I have subscribed to this channel and will watch other videos soon. Thanks!
Adam, your videos On this channel are my happy place on the internet! I thoroughly enjoy every bit of information, styling, options, etc. In my estimation, yu are more enjoyable and more informative than any automotive periodical. Thank you
I went to the Kiss concert in a biege colored Imperial like that in 1975. I was so impressed with it being bigger than my first apartment! The only bummer, it wouldn't fit in the garage LOL but you felt like 'Somebody' in that land yacht and a spacious back seat.... Memories
Hey great review of a great car. I grew up in a Chrysler family so watching your review brought back many fond memories of the Chrysler Corporation and It's great cars we had and It's overall contribution to the auto industry with it's many industry inventions over it's years. Way too many to mention here. Your 1972 black 4 door Imperial is a beautiful work of art, as most Imperials were. My particular favorites are the 1964 through 1966 model years. I owned a '66 4 door hardtop Crown that had silver metallic exterior over silver cloth and black leather interior. It was just gorgeous. The '66 was the first year for the 440 engine and dual exhaust. I'm here to tell you that car could really move, and I can't mention that engine without mentioning the sound of the engine and exhaust. I still love that car and always will. So after watching your video I can relate to how much you really love yours. Continue to enjoy it for many years to come. I hope you never have to part with it. Thanks again for sharing.
Supremely rattle free cruising down & up the road. The front end is imposing and very minimalist. The rear fender marker lights are almost a Gothic shield. Fabulous car!
Awesome. I don't think I have ever seen this version of the Imperial before. There is something mysterious an ominous about it as if whoever is driving it must be important and has it good.
THIS was truly a delight, Adam!! 🙌🏻 We had a 59 Imperial sedan, then moved to a 66 New Yorker. Dad gave that NY’r to me eventually, and really loved it. I SOOO wish I’d never sold it. 😭 I did a few things to that 66 that improved it substantially. Then after married, I found myself a 67 Imperial Crown Coupe in Black/Gold. That was quite a gem, but had been flooded, so had numerous electrical system problems in the accessories … still, was a hoot to drive, and the kids loved it too. As dad always said, the New Yorker and Imperial were the “driver’s cars among the luxury car choices”.
What an outstanding presentation...not only on the Imperial but the fact that it was Syd's car. My son and I went to Syd's home just after he acquired this car and it was parked outside under a cover. My son, realizing that I am a car nut, wanted to see if I could identify the car while covered. A quick examination of the front right fender indicated that it was a Chrysler product and the length had to be am Imperial. Once again, he was impressed by my auto prowess. His grandfather was a Chrysler dealer and I owned a bunch of the products. You mentioned that the Imperial and the New Yorker consolidate in 1974. The Imperial disappeared and became the New Yorker in 1976. I had a beautiful black coupe of that year. Syd, Roger, my son, granddaughter and I mounted the Imperial and went down town for burgers. What a treat. I am so glad that you have the car and are, obviously, caring for it as Syd would have wanted. We used to kid each other as he would not believe that the BMW was the "Ultimate Driving Machine". In his opinion, it was the Cadillac. Chuck in Allen, TX.
Hi Adam. I've been watching your channel for some time and absolutely love it. We have identical tastes and approaches to classics. Your collection and expertise is quite impressive. I can't really say that I love a certain auto manufacturer, I tend to love all of them. Having said that, the 1972 and 1973 Imperials are a top favorite of mine. I've looked for years but really haven't been able to find a nice, original one. Your's is a true museum piece beauty.....congratulations on that. Thank you for sharing your collection and knowledge, it really makes my day!
Ok Adam I am starting to wonder ....how many cars does this guy own? I used to think when watching your channel that you would borrow a different car but when you say " I bought this car and is one of my favorites" , now I realize that you are Jay Leno #2. Where do you keep all of them? You must have a warehouse and did very well in the stock market to own all these beautiful cars. Great presenter! Keep up your great program.
Syd was an early design hero to me. I admired his ground breaking work that led to many auto designs in later years. This video gave me an opportunity to learn more about this fine motorcar.
Yes, I did enjoy this review and drive. Excellent work showcasing this marvelous example of some of the best styling ever put into production, and for taking over the reigns of caretaking for it. I honestly do believe you have the best collection of cars on TH-cam. Felt like a lifetime since you teased this one, but it was definitely worth the wait! Also, the marching band playing in the background was unintentionally perfect- it reminded me of the film Mean Streets where one of these Imperials showcased prominently, while taking place during a feast in NYC where a lot of marching band music was playing.
There are a lot of Elwood Engel styling cues on this car & he was still Chrysler VP in charge of styling at this point & it was Elwood who gave Syd Mead his start at Ford.
YES!! Elwood Engel replaced Virgil Exner at Chrysler in the early 60's. He designed the 61 Lincoln, saving the Lincoln division from being closed. Most of the Ford Products of the 60's had his styling cues, and he brought them to Chrysler. The '67 Imperial looks a lot like the 61 Lincoln because he designed it. As you know, the brightwork on top of the fenders and doors was his cue.
I had a low mile 71 Fury Gran Coupe for a while, and I have a love affair for these full-size Mopars now. These c-body's really have to be seen in person and driven to appreciate.
Neat as hell. WOW! The front end of that beauty looks like it's rear end. That said, I remember seeing lots of those cars around, even into the mid 1980's. Keep em coming!
Monstrous and elegant. Three people could sunbathe on that hood, lol. And, "The King's Interior." Love the speedometer and steering wheel. Has a myriad of thoughtful, neat little appointments, like those reading lights. I'd love to drive something like that just one time.
That’s one bigga beautiful car. It should have a “beep” alarm to reverse. Must be fun to parallel park😊 Fun fact: the 67’ Imperial had real interior wood inlays.
I had a '75 caddy, it was actually very easy to drive, you could tell exactly where the car was in relationship to the road - all 4 corners were so square. But yes finding a big enough place to park was a chore sometimes.
If you're used to driving a boat such as this and you have 3 inches to spare front and back between the cars you're parking between, you can parallel park it easily. Used to do it all the time with my '62 Lincoln. Line up your back bumper with the the back bumper of the car that's front of the space (with about a foot between you and the other car parallel), turn the wheel to extreme right, back up until your passenger door lines up with the back bumper of the other car, then turn to extreme left and back up to within an inch of the rear car (while keeping an eye on your right front bumper. Now straighten the well, pull forward an inch or two and you're done. You can't do this with newer cars because you can't see where the front or back bumpers end. Unless you're drunk, then just back up until you hear glass shattering... you're done. (now's the perfect time for a good piece of running, no matter HOW drunk you are)
@@dlambert6139 IMHO the 440 was one of the best engines ever built. Had one in a '66 New Yorker. Only thing it wouldn't effortlessly pass was a gas station.
This car is Excellent!! Love these...I really would love to get a hold of a 1974 Dodge Monaco. 440 preferred. My grandfather bought one from the Berkeley CA highway patrol. Painted at Earl Scheib..painted a burgundy red color and gave it to my grand Mother...she didn't like it...said it had to much power...but my aunt's sure did!!!
I really love the look of this car. To me it's what an executive would have driven back in the day. I never see cars like this anymore. I was a child in Detroit in the 70's, and I remember seeing these early to mid 70's cars still in great condition everywhere. I've had a love for cars my entire life. My first muscle car was a 69 RoadRunner hardtop (RM23). I got it in 1990, and by that time, the engine was changed to a 440, from a 69 Chrysler 300. That is awesome you own and can appreciate what the 72 Imperial is.
Excellent. This is my most anticipated TH-cam video in recent memory. Am currently looking for fuselage Mopar. Lots of New Yorkers and Newports out there, even a few T&C wagons - Fuselage Lebarons are proving hard to find. But I'm looking!
seein this 70s cars always blows me away- so sad they arent built like this anymore- for me- as european and growin up with kojak and streets of .sfrancisco love this cars- this is one beauty !!
Adam!!!!!! I love you!!! Thanks for bringing us back to these cars of yesteryear. Some of these cars definitely bring back memories!!! I always enjoy your videos and publications!! I wish i could have a collection and of these beefy cars
This car needs no introduction, it's so classy, beautifully kept, & looking at it it looks like a time capsule, & the color, "Always bet on black!" 🤣 To me it's a baby limousine. 🤜🏾💥🤛🏾
I drive a 2016 CX-9. One detail it has is that the headlights are shaped almost the same as the tail lights-very much like the running lights and tail lights on this one. Superlative example of one of the finest cars made in the 1970’s. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Just an amazingly beautiful car. I love the endlessly long hood and pronounced front fender tops so visible from behind the wheel, reminiscent of a '64 Olds. Great lines.
A neighbor in Arizona had a white/white one, he paid me to keep it clean. I really liked air-drying it by driving down the highway and back. At the time I thought it was fancier than my dad's 73 Coupe Deville. Just cool and fun! At night, I also liked the way the instrument panel, buttons and dials were lighted or back lighted. It just felt right.
This is the car I’d buy if I won the lottery as it blows away the new vehicles. This is a real land yacht and I like big cars because I’m a large person. I like that wide brake pedal as I use my left foot on the brake (yeah, I know you’re not supposed to but it’s how I learned to drive). Great video and a very rare find. You’ve got it looking great 👍
I loved my 1973 Imperial LeBaron! Except for the rust! Would love to find another on like yours! The car was easy to drive, in spite of its long hood, because the fenders had a raised edge that made it easy to see each corner.
Great video Adam. I love the door trims & the interior looks pretty upmarket. The space between the radiator & the front grille my goodness, it’s massive. Lovely car!
I’m not a mopar guy but this one has clean lines. The hood is amazingly long which probably explains the overall length. Very attractive color combo and beautiful condition inside and out. The interior area looks small by comparison to say a C body GM. I wonder if the interior floor pan is the same as the Chrysler models? The dash looks rather cheap for an Imperial but in fairness all early 70 cars had that issue. I have to say I agree with Bill Mitchell about it looking like it’s going backward, it was the first thought I had at the start of the video.
My mom had one. I took my driving test in one. It did take a bit to keep it in its lane on the freeway but we took many 1000 mile trips in it. Oh the memories. ❤❤🙏 . Drove it through whiteout blizzards going to Tahoe and so much more. What a ride. For this reason you have a new subscriber
Adam, You've given me a new appreciation for the fuselage Imperials, although the grille doesn't sit well. Otherwise, an elegant, imposing automobile. Mopar was not well represented in my hometown. In fact, I can remember only three Imperials: a survivor 1951 in daily use, a beautiful 1960 rose metallic hardtop sedan, and a 1966 Crown coupe' owned by a friend's parents. There must have been more, but I never saw them.
Wow. Love the car, and have been a huge fan of Syd Mead for decades. Seriously envy you. Syd has done industrial design of everything from cars, to thermos bottles, to yachts. As to movies everything from Blade Runner to 2010 a space odyssey and Star Trek.
I really like the the looks of the full size cars from the 60's and 70's. If we are heading towards all cars and trucks being electric (time will tell I guess) then I suppose they could always build cars more like this if they wanted to, since they wont have restrictions on obtaining a certain MPG. You sure fit a big battery in this car. Just a thought.
I have never met anyone besides you, with the exact taste in cars as me!
And me. Haha !!!
@@paulpeterson4311 Count me in too.
As I have the very same. I have told Adam this a few times! My collection is just about the same as Adam’s. Love my BIG 4 door sedan 🚗’s! ❤️
I seem to be developing a taste for these cars as well but I think this is due to these videos!
Me also!!
I really like the fact that cars of this era had a "vacuum reservoir", which could store the excess nothing until it wasn't needed.
😂😂😂😂
LOL
As a GM guy who owns a few big '72 Buicks, I just love this Imperial!. It's such a classy looking automobile. Big luxury cars of the early to mid 70's were just amazing with their length and plush interiors. Cars today no matter how luxurious just don't have the character or styling of these beauties.
Very true, my dad had a '72 Buick Riviera GS Stage 1, it was fast even for a landyacht. It also came with a primal traction control. "Max-Trac". It would retard the ignition system when activated & sensed loss of traction of the rear wheels. It also had a sunroof that leaked in car wash. Still, those cars had persona.
Absolutely agree with you. All cars think they are luxurious… they’re not. They are identical across the brands with ludicrous amounts of useless tech.
Yes, the luxury cars of this era were massive! They were true six-seaters.
@@citibear57 Nowadays their just 4 seaters
Love the luxury centurion👍🏻
Syd Mead was and remains a genius. Kudos for you to have interacted with him and (effortlessly I'm sure) gotten him to hand over this spaceship's stewardship to you.
Respect.
Your car used to be a regular at the annual ArtCenter Car Classic in Pasadena, California. Mead is a legend in the design world. RIP Syd Mead.
Congratulations and admittedly, I envy you. My parents bought Syd's house before he moved to California in 1975. My father came close to buying this spectacular Imperial from Syd as he hadn't decided if he was going to take the car with him. He obviously decided to take it along with his incredible Mercedes sports coupe with gull wing doors. Two unbelievable classics.
Absolutely gorgeous styling and condition.
I agree...I love it!
1972 was probably the LAST good year for automobile styling!
@trip. Big YES.
Your Imperial's features takes me back to my Dad's 72 Imperial. I used to love sitting in those luxurious seats and playing with the turn signals, adjusting the st wheel, play with the map light, and ran the antenna up and down more than my dad was happy with.
More importantly, that Imperial probably saved my life (I was in the back seat), when a semi exceeding the 75 mph limit rear ended us as we entered the hwy. LSS - The car was so beefy the semi didn't collapse the full depth of the trunk and Dad was able to pull off the road with no injuries inside the Imperial! Loved that car.
440 great ride.
Great memories
I have to agree the styling is 10/10. The beauty is mesmerizing to me. Love it!
OMG. One of the best videos I’ve seen on your channel. Love, Syd mead.
See this is when American cars were in their element. Look at that interior and the whole presentation. Fast forward 10 years into the 80's and it all turned to junk. This was an absolutely amazing car. Just wow.
What exactly did this car do well besides look good and give you a place to sleep when you were too hungover to drive? Couldn’t accelerate, handle, stop, and would stall on left turns. These cars were junk. I’d take an 85 Daytona turbo or the 87 aero Lebanon turbo over that toilet any day of the week.
@@FancyAnimal Well any 80s Chrysler was absolute junk also so same difference really.
@@MercOne my family owned about 10 of the K car derivatives through the 80s and early 90s and had no issues for the most part. My Daytona went 200k miles without issue and could run circles around that 70s toilet. They were simple cars to perform scheduled maintenance on and could run 14s with the intercooled turbo and a stick…13s with the Omni GLHs…which is why they’re collectible. We drove all mopar from 60s onward, which is how I know you’re just full of turd and cocaine tranny flashbacks.
@Jay & Laong's World!🤪²⁰²¹ I never saw a single K car or K car based Mopar with a properly aligned trunk lid. Not a single one.
@@FancyAnimal 1984 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z was a hell of a cool car. My brother worked for Chrysler back at that time and he had access to the executive motor pool vehicles for weekend trips. Often he’d drive home to PA with one of these cars. And I beat the hell out of every car he brought home. These were cars for evaluation and were destroyed at the end of their duty. The Turbo Z looked like no other car at the time and was quite fast compared to other 1984 American sports cars.
What will I always remember?
“All monitored systems functioning…the driver’s door is ajar…”
For those too young to remember, some cars in the early 1980s talked.
Most notably some Chrysler and Ford products, and the Nissan Maxima.
The good old days…
I meet Syd Mead in New Zealand in the early 1980's as our design School brought him over to talk to us as well as do a lecture tour. Amazing man, amazing lecture on how Blade runner and his other movies got their look!! This beautiful Imperial Lebaron suited him..!
You're absolutely right about the ride and handling. I finally sold my 73 Imperial three years ago. In the time I had it, I replaced the ball joints and control arm bushings.
I drove it daily for years. People would say "Wow I bet it's like riding on a cloud".
And I would tell them, "Not exactly. Lincolns and Caddys do because they have coil springs. This car has torsion bars and leaf springs and it's stiffer."
My Imperial had 135K on it when I bought it and the shocks were old blue Monroe's, probably from the 80's. I replaced the sway bar bushings and put on Monroe sensatracs.
It took all the floatiness out and handled better. However, it definitely did not ride like a pillow.
The 1973 sales film touted "Torsion-quiet ride. Torsion bars and rear leaf springs give you a stable ride. A comfortable ride."
That sums it up. The ride was comfortable, but not pillowy or soft.
But apparently, it rode better than the New Yorker. That's what I've heard anyway.
I think a lot of the ride of these is the lack of isolation of the unit rather than body on frame design. Ford had refined the concept with the 1965's, with a stiffer body mounted on the frame only with a few big rubber mounts located at the unvibrating (there's a word for that I can't think of ) points of the frame.
I am not surprised at all that this is Syd Mead's car. His vision of the future was amazing.
One of the most stylish cars ever made by Chrysler corporation.
It’s not Chrysler
@@bluwng imperial is part of chrysler corporation
Very TRUE. Jihn DELOREAN orriginalkt WORKED fir general motors. Look at the similarities. From the bauutifull green 67 caddillac Eldorado. On the steghen king movie ruding the bullet. HOLY FUCK. Love the SCARY sinister front ENDS wuth hide away headlights and the back styling wuth the smalk head lights. The ither thing us t h e smaller REAR WINDOW. Makes a big dufference. And the fender skirts. And the chrome trim on bottom 8 or 10 inches if CAR.THATS FULL GANGSTA BROTHER. FUCKIN LIVE IT TI DEATH FRED NOBKE NOBKE FENCE GATEKEEPER NIGHTFENCER BRAINTREE HOLBROOK BOSTON. MA. I THINK. ISSAC WAS SMOKIN PURPLE HAZE. OR TOO MUCH PANAMA RED. LIKE 6HE REAL COLUMBIAN RED. THAT WAS AROUND IN EATLLY 70 S. AND TOOK.IY IT A LITYLE TO FAR ON SHAFT. CRAZY THEY HAD THE CURB FEELERS. I CALL THEM 🐀 INSTERGATORS. SO THEY WOUDNT FUCK UP THERE THERE WHUTE WALLS. ACTUALLY. THEY JUST OAUD OFF THE COPS AND EIULD OARJ RIGHT IN TGE MIDDKE OF TGE STREET. LIJE WILKY THE WIMP. AND HUS CADDILLAC COFFIN. STECEYBRAY VAUGHN VUR SING SUNG WAY VEFIRE THAT BRO BY ISELY. WAR. ETCETRA. LOOK UP PIMPS IN THE 7OS AND YOU WILL SHIT YOUR OABTS. HILLARRIOS AND TRUE. WATCH DURTY HARRY. WHEN HUTCH PULKS OVER THE PURPLE ONE. ON THE 650 TRIUMMP MOTORCYCLE. YOU CANT MAKE THID SHIT ☝ CRAZY. NIGHTFENCER GATEKERPET. BRAINTREE. KINDA SCARY
@@bluwng I know what you're saying, but it's like saying a Cadillac is not GM. Essentially, it is a Chrysler product.
@@bluwng
Brad was correct. It was manufactured by Chrysler corp. He didn’t say it was a Chrysler.
I've owned and enjoyed almoat every car you've showcased on this channel. The exception? This Imperial. And sadly for me, it has always been my favorite. I almost bought a 71 model one time, in green, but it was sold out from under me.
Even back in the day when I owned all these cars, 1980-85, these Imperial was even a bit rare at that time. There have never been very many of them on the road. As where the other cars you've showcased, used to fill our streets everywhere one after another.
This Imperial is truly a classic beauty. If I ever have the chance to purchase one again before my time is up, rest assured I'm going to jump on it.
Absolutely beautiful! I first met Syd in California and a car show where he was showing his beautiful Imperial. I’m glad it’s gone to somebody who can appreciate it.
*at a car show.
As I said in my comment, we are lucky this Imperial went to collector who shares their cars instead of merely hoarding them.
@@rightlanehog3151 Exactly :)
You present these cars so well and informatively...highly enjoyable and educational! I love Imperials from all eras.
I eagerly awaited this video, and my anticipation was not in vain. Your in-depth review of this stunningly beautiful Imperial did not disappoint. I so appreciate the detailed narratives you provide on every car in your collection and the unhurried tour from stem to stern, inside and out. I get to drink my fill of every last detail and nuance without pausing for anything but the occasional envious sigh. This car was no exception. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into all your posts, and especially for sharing this particular piece of automotive art. It's truly a thing of beauty.
Thx for the nice note!
Well said!
STEM??? 🤔
@@RareClassicCars back to future actually should have this in it instead of the delorean
Wonderful. Syd was my favourite designer and artist ever. I would have loved it if his designs were used by car makers.
He was such an influence in sci-fi.
A wonderful car and video. That paint is sublime!
The front end view can be really appreciated with the angles you shot.Just gorgeous
This car is gorgeous! Thanks for posting. Being a Mopar fan, I have always loved their muscle car line up. Having said that, I really appreciate the luxury cars they built as well. Nice to see it so well preserved.
Plate C
One of the most stylish Imperials of the "feselage" chassis. 1972 Inperial and Plymouth Gran Fury were my favorite of this era. Great car,, RIP Sid.
I also love the 72 Gran Fury. Awesome looking car.
I’m surprised you don’t own one of those as well Adam.
My first car was a 72 Fury III 4 door hardtop.
I remember the magazine ads for Chrysler “fuselage” styling!
@@RareClassicCars
The Gran gets you the hidden headlights not on lesser models for extra coolness.
You are absolutely amazing in finding these magical classic cars that are in magnificent original condition !
It's like being in a time machine back to the 60s and 70s !
Thank you so much for sharing your videos ❤
A wonderful review of a wonderful automobile. My father had a ‘67 and then a ‘73 New Yorker. He loved both of them. As you commented, he too, appreciated the handling of Chryslers and the performance of the 440. Thank you for making this video of your beautiful Imperial by Chrysler.
I know it's later on, but my Dad (God rest his soul) loved his '83 5th Avenue. That 318 was more than adequate to get your your butt in gear.
@@moosecat I had a 1983 Chrysler New Yorker (the one on the K-Car chassis), after I had 150K on it I was wishing I had bought the Fifth Avenue instead. The 2.6-I4 from Mitsubishi was a horrible engine, I had to dump the car because the engine was bad in it. I ended up trading it in for a V6 powered Ford Taurus.
I also had a 1985 Dodge D-250 with a 318 in it. I was happy with that, I had that thing for about 20 years and almost 300K miles (I did have the engine rebuilt at 137K because it started burning some oil, something that would have been impossible with the New Yorker four cylinder due to the POS engine blocks in them).
Totally thrilled you were able to acquire Syd’s imperial
I met him a number of years ago at an LA car show he named the car “Fabulon” !!!
He was such an amazing and talented man 💕
This is one of my dream cars, and I’ve driven two of them in my life. They are not pillowy, as you say, but they drive like much smaller cars… responsive, with good road feel, and good body control. I was astounded at how good they were to drive. Both Imperials had the trunk-mounted dual a/c, as well.
The right time and financial circumstances for buying one of my own have always eluded me. But someday, I will have a 72-73 Imperial. Thanks for bringing this car to life here.
That is a really neat front grille and bumper on that car, amazing to think of how lucky a car it was to have a good owner and not be a victim of neglect and be entered in some demolition derby.
The Imperial was commonly used in demolition derbies because of the full frame, and the front crossmember that was basically a 4x4 steel tube that was almost indestructible.
Brings back a flood of memories- my 72 had same interior but had the rear heat and floor tuner stereo. I Remember washing and waxing which was virtually an all day affair. These look so great at night too with the light placement. I could go on and on......
Heh..that reminds me cleaning my 77 correctly was exhausting..i liked treating the leather pillow seats the most.
I had a 1969 4 door Imperial Lebaron, cream color with saddle interior. It had the sequential taillights. Same body styling, but with better looking front and rear ends. Very nice in many ways. Had air conditioning, power window, and other little problems. Sometimes you get tired of dealing with the problems, and just decide it's time to move on. My father had a 1957 and 1961 Imperials. He drove the family across the country a few times in those Imperials. I didn't have enough knowledge back then to appreciate those cars. It's nice to see them once in a while being saved and appreciated.
QUILLA COX
Happy Saturday night all! Now THIS is the video I've been waiting for. Oh this car is an utter dreamboat.
Yes beautiful car! the front end has no equal. Syd Mead was a genius
I can see Darth Vader making this his official ride. That front end has such a menacing look.
Yea maan that look kool if he drive around in this , elbow out and a smoke in the grill , and a couple of storm troopas in the back seat
Interesting thought, Robert. Didn't think of it until you said it. On the other hand I've always felt the '79-'81 Firebird/Trans Am had a totally Darth Vader front end. In that case it was ugly, in this one though, quite beautiful.
@Jay & Laong's World!🤪²⁰²¹ Okay. It's a handsome car vs. the ugly Trans Am I mentioned. You do see the resemblance of the T/A front end I mentioned. If you don't recall it, look it up and you should see right away.
Yea if darth Vader was a pimp 🤣🤣🤣 that would be sick lol
@Jay & Laong's World!🤪²⁰²¹ Yes and it's an attractive grill. I'm kind of indifferent on Star Wars and company.
What a gorgeous car. These "land yachts" of the late 60's and early 70's were the epitome of American luxury. I'm partial to the fuselage theme of the Chrysler lineup . Keep up the great work. Let's keep these classics alive.
Always enjoy your very informative videos! And digging this Imperial. We had a ‘71 LeBaron hardtop sedan when I was a kid - in fact I learned to drive in it. Loved the wide open side windows. I prefer the segmented horizontal taillights on the ‘71 - with the centered reverse light - to the vertical style on the ‘72. Though I do kinda prefer the front of the ‘72. As a kid, I though the rim-blow steering wheel was amazing, and the foot-operated radio seek function. Oh, and the radio frequency scale was printed on a cylinder; switching from AM to FM would rotate the cylinder so that you needn’t be bothered having to see both scales at the same time.
For the first minute or two I was thinking, meh ugly, but by the end I'm totally sold. This is an awesomely styled car. Love it.
Thank you for the memory I had the same car in high school , my best friend had a 1971 Imperial . And we would drive are cars to school. Every day . Good times!
Adam I’ve been watching your channel for several months now. Not gonna lie…when I saw my 1st episode (I believe you were discussing the GM X cars from a porch swing) I thought it was dry & boring. But I loved the cars you showcased and, the more I watched, the more I grew to respect & enjoy your casual, relaxed style & amazing knowledge! I particularly enjoy the level of detail with which you discuss the styling, the features, the engineering as well as the ride & handling & interior components. Every time I think: I wonder if he’s gonna show us THAT? - you invariably read my mind & focus on the very thing I hoped you would! Today, I absolutely love your channel & have immense respect for both your candid presentation style & impressive knowledge. I also share your (excellent) taste in automotive style & find I agree with almost every opinion you share (such as the incredibly understated & elegant styling of this 72 Imperial). THANKS for investing the time & effort to make these videos. They’re excellent & I (now) look forward to each & every one!
Ha. That’s nice to hear. Thx for the feedback!
It’s quite a coincidence that Syd Mead drove the largest luxury production car ever made. He created one of the largest (if not the largest) sci-fi movie antagonist ever: the V’ger probe in Star Trek: The Motion Picture. Much of his futuristic concept art for that movie made it into the film during Spock’s space walk sequence. Quite a guy. You’re lucky to have his old car...which is an amazing automobile flaws and all. Another interesting review: really enjoy them because I love cars from this era but never devoted enough time to really learn about them. Carry on.
Syd Mead, of course, was also the stylist of the original Blade Runner released in '84- well ahead of it's time, and still a classic!
Glenn Gould drove one too.
@@ktkt1825 ,KT are my initials,😉
@@KNT.63 Lucky you!
Sid owning this makes perfect sense. I think that grill has an amazing presence. When we were kids we would have said it looked mean but I think it also looks beautiful.
I'd love to drive that big beauty, even once! Great car, thanks Adam.
i had 2 1967 Imperials, thanks for showing this big beauty! i could almost feel the ride with the way you utilized he camera position and sound, i dont know why but it took me back to my 67's. thanks
The Car Is Absolutely Gorgeous Museum & Show Time Piece🥇🏆🤩
A neighbor across the street from me when I was growing up had one of these. He was an executive for a grocery distributor in a large city and used it for a daily driver. It was definitely a luxurious boat of that era, but it was also a maintenance nightmare. As meticulously as he had it maintained, there was _always_ something that wasn't working. The headlights and windows were frequent culprits.
I really enjoy joining you as you travel down memory lane bringing us the incredible classic cars that were owned by my family members, their friends or the parents of friends of mine in high school during this time period. In this case, my friend Richie would get dropped off at high school every day in an Imperial just like this but with a black interior. I, like you really like the gold interior. Quite unique. I remember always marveling at how massive that car was. Anyway, I really enjoy learning all I do about the cars and always look forward to your next vid.
That must have been Richie Rich!
Adam,I like seeing such a young man taking an interest in all of these incredible cars! I always appreciate the beginning when you show yourself to the world on TH-cam.
Adam, Once again, thank you. I am so impressed that you got this car out of Hollywood where a former "Tonight Show" host has a penchant for gathering up vintage Imperials. A car bigger than a Suburban is a rare thing and we are so fortunate it went to a collector who shares rather than hoards classics. :D
Oh, I am sooo envious. I grew up liking all Chrysler products, as my father had always been loyal to Dodge automobiles. I would get my father or oldest brother to drive me to the dealerships when the new cars came out in October each year. (I was 14 years old when the 1972 models came out). I would grab every brochure that I could, but the Imperial brochure was the holy grail. I would read the brochures over and over, and stare at the pictures for hours. I got Motor Trend every month, and when they did comparison tests of say Cadillac, Lincoln, and Imperial, I was offended that they always ranked Imperials last. How dare they! LOL Your comments in this video are accurate though, and I am quite impressed. I have subscribed to this channel and will watch other videos soon. Thanks!
This car just blows my mind. That front end styling is amazing (it does look like a back end) . We just don't see styling like this any more.
Agree on all your points, but must mention 'styling like this' has been gone for DECADES, much longer than just any more.
They don't make them like this anymore!
@@johnwelchs3576 That's true, but I had already said that yesterday.
I was gonna say the front looks like the rear.
What a gorgeous car! I've never seen one. I always look forward to watching your incredibly comprehensive and interesting videos. Thank you.
I definitely love the unique styling and how well integrated the bumpers are. Just a great car, and a great review!
oh wow !! Syd Mead? WOW!!! That''s extraordinary!!!
Adam, your videos On this channel are my happy place on the internet! I thoroughly enjoy every bit of information, styling, options, etc.
In my estimation, yu are more enjoyable and more informative than any automotive periodical.
Thank you
I went to the Kiss concert in a biege colored Imperial like that in 1975. I was so impressed with it being bigger than my first apartment!
The only bummer, it wouldn't fit in the garage LOL but you felt like 'Somebody' in that land yacht and a spacious back seat.... Memories
That is one beautiful piece of craftsmanship!! Thank you for sharing this..
Hey great review of a great car. I grew up in a Chrysler family so watching your review brought back many fond memories of the Chrysler Corporation and It's great cars we had and It's overall contribution to the auto industry with it's many industry inventions over it's years. Way too many to mention here. Your 1972 black 4 door Imperial is a beautiful work of art, as most Imperials were. My particular favorites are the 1964 through 1966 model years. I owned a '66 4 door hardtop Crown that had silver metallic exterior over silver cloth and black leather interior. It was just gorgeous. The '66 was the first year for the 440 engine and dual exhaust. I'm here to tell you that car could really move, and I can't mention that engine without mentioning the sound of the engine and exhaust. I still love that car and always will. So after watching your video I can relate to how much you really love yours. Continue to enjoy it for many years to come. I hope you never have to part with it. Thanks again for sharing.
Supremely rattle free cruising down & up the road. The front end is imposing and very minimalist. The rear fender marker lights are almost a Gothic shield.
Fabulous car!
this car looks like a mobster. Not a car a mobster would drive, but a car that's going out on its own after dark to collect debts and break kneecaps.
Good one
Great description! You should be a writer.
Lol…apt description! This is definitely the most gangster car ever made!
Stunning! Appreciate your tribute to the previous owner. Love your knowledge of these cars!
Awesome. I don't think I have ever seen this version of the Imperial before. There is something mysterious an ominous about it as if whoever is driving it must be important and has it good.
THIS was truly a delight, Adam!! 🙌🏻
We had a 59 Imperial sedan, then moved to a 66 New Yorker. Dad gave that NY’r to me eventually, and really loved it. I SOOO wish I’d never sold it. 😭 I did a few things to that 66 that improved it substantially.
Then after married, I found myself a 67 Imperial Crown Coupe in Black/Gold. That was quite a gem, but had been flooded, so had numerous electrical system problems in the accessories … still, was a hoot to drive, and the kids loved it too. As dad always said, the New Yorker and
Imperial were the “driver’s cars among the luxury car choices”.
Obviously your family has good taste in cars......
What an outstanding presentation...not only on the Imperial but the fact that it was Syd's car. My son and I went to Syd's home just after he acquired this car and it was parked outside under a cover. My son, realizing that I am a car nut, wanted to see if I could identify the car while covered. A quick examination of the front right fender indicated that it was a Chrysler product and the length had to be am Imperial. Once again, he was impressed by my auto prowess. His grandfather was a Chrysler dealer and I owned a bunch of the products. You mentioned that the Imperial and the New Yorker consolidate in 1974. The Imperial disappeared and became the New Yorker in 1976. I had a beautiful black coupe of that year. Syd, Roger, my son, granddaughter and I mounted the Imperial and went down town for burgers. What a treat. I am so glad that you have the car and are, obviously, caring for it as Syd would have wanted. We used to kid each other as he would not believe that the BMW was the "Ultimate Driving Machine". In his opinion, it was the Cadillac. Chuck in Allen, TX.
Hi Adam. I've been watching your channel for some time and absolutely love it. We have identical tastes and approaches to classics. Your collection and expertise is quite impressive. I can't really say that I love a certain auto manufacturer, I tend to love all of them. Having said that, the 1972 and 1973 Imperials are a top favorite of mine. I've looked for years but really haven't been able to find a nice, original one. Your's is a true museum piece beauty.....congratulations on that. Thank you for sharing your collection and knowledge, it really makes my day!
Ok Adam I am starting to wonder ....how many cars does this guy own? I used to think when watching your channel that you would borrow a different car but when you say " I bought this car and is one of my favorites" , now I realize that you are Jay Leno #2. Where do you keep all of them? You must have a warehouse and did very well in the stock market to own all these beautiful cars. Great presenter! Keep up your great program.
Syd was an early design hero to me. I admired his ground breaking work that led to many auto designs in later years. This video gave me an opportunity to learn more about this fine motorcar.
Yes, I did enjoy this review and drive. Excellent work showcasing this marvelous example of some of the best styling ever put into production, and for taking over the reigns of caretaking for it. I honestly do believe you have the best collection of cars on TH-cam. Felt like a lifetime since you teased this one, but it was definitely worth the wait!
Also, the marching band playing in the background was unintentionally perfect- it reminded me of the film Mean Streets where one of these Imperials showcased prominently, while taking place during a feast in NYC where a lot of marching band music was playing.
Ha. Thanks for the nice note!
I really love these cars! Drove my father's 73 in the late 80s while going to high school. Fully loaded. What a car hope to own one of my own some day
you had one already, and you let it go. are you worthy of another?
There are a lot of Elwood Engel styling cues on this car & he was still Chrysler VP in charge of styling at this point & it was Elwood who gave Syd Mead his start at Ford.
YES!! Elwood Engel replaced Virgil Exner at Chrysler in the early 60's. He designed the 61 Lincoln, saving the Lincoln division from being closed.
Most of the Ford Products of the 60's had his styling cues, and he brought them to Chrysler. The '67 Imperial looks a lot like the 61 Lincoln because he designed it.
As you know, the brightwork on top of the fenders and doors was his cue.
@@ginowagonucci
Good job Gregg!!
:)
Saw Syd at a conference in LA back in the day. One of my heroes. I’m glad the Imperial is in good hands!
I had a low mile 71 Fury Gran Coupe for a while, and I have a love affair for these full-size Mopars now. These c-body's really have to be seen in person and driven to appreciate.
Agree. I had a 70 Fury III, and living in Seattle with a lot of windy roads it was a blast to drive.
what a majestic and beautiful car. Amazing.
Gorgeous... I was really shocked by its sheer size when I suddenly saw one up close in NYC... ;)
I want one ! Beautiful piece of history!
Neat as hell. WOW! The front end of that beauty looks like it's rear end.
That said, I remember seeing lots
of those cars around, even into the
mid 1980's. Keep em coming!
Monstrous and elegant. Three people could sunbathe on that hood, lol. And, "The King's Interior." Love the speedometer and steering wheel. Has a myriad of thoughtful, neat little appointments, like those reading lights. I'd love to drive something like that just one time.
That’s one bigga beautiful car. It should have a “beep” alarm to reverse. Must be fun to parallel park😊 Fun fact: the 67’ Imperial had real interior wood inlays.
I had a '75 caddy, it was actually very easy to drive, you could tell exactly where the car was in relationship to the road - all 4 corners were so square. But yes finding a big enough place to park was a chore sometimes.
Yes, real wood, my Dad had a 67 LeBaron, I drove it a lot, it was big, powerful, luxurious !
If you're used to driving a boat such as this and you have 3 inches to spare front and back between the cars you're parking between, you can parallel park it easily. Used to do it all the time with my '62 Lincoln. Line up your back bumper with the the back bumper of the car that's front of the space (with about a foot between you and the other car parallel), turn the wheel to extreme right, back up until your passenger door lines up with the back bumper of the other car, then turn to extreme left and back up to within an inch of the rear car (while keeping an eye on your right front bumper. Now straighten the well, pull forward an inch or two and you're done. You can't do this with newer cars because you can't see where the front or back bumpers end. Unless you're drunk, then just back up until you hear glass shattering... you're done. (now's the perfect time for a good piece of running, no matter HOW drunk you are)
@@dlambert6139 IMHO the 440 was one of the best engines ever built. Had one in a '66 New Yorker. Only thing it wouldn't effortlessly pass was a gas station.
@@brianmorgan1354 Funny!😊
This car is Excellent!! Love these...I really would love to get a hold of a 1974 Dodge Monaco. 440 preferred. My grandfather bought one from the Berkeley CA highway patrol. Painted at Earl Scheib..painted a burgundy red color and gave it to my grand Mother...she didn't like it...said it had to much power...but my aunt's sure did!!!
This channel is great. Love the cars, delivery and cold opens.
I really love the look of this car. To me it's what an executive would have driven back in the day. I never see cars like this anymore. I was a child in Detroit in the 70's, and I remember seeing these early to mid 70's cars still in great condition everywhere. I've had a love for cars my entire life. My first muscle car was a 69 RoadRunner hardtop (RM23). I got it in 1990, and by that time, the engine was changed to a 440, from a 69 Chrysler 300. That is awesome you own and can appreciate what the 72 Imperial is.
Excellent. This is my most anticipated TH-cam video in recent memory. Am currently looking for fuselage Mopar. Lots of New Yorkers and Newports out there, even a few T&C wagons - Fuselage Lebarons are proving hard to find. But I'm looking!
Lebarons are not common I have yet to see one in my life except for the one I'm viewing 👍
Good luck. I would love to find a 71 300 like my dad's back in the day.
seein this 70s cars always blows me away- so sad they arent built like this anymore- for me- as european and growin up with kojak and streets of .sfrancisco love this cars- this is one beauty !!
I absolutely love the early 70s Imperials & this black beauty is gorgeous!!! Thanks for sharing this fun video 👍👍
Adam!!!!!! I love you!!! Thanks for bringing us back to these cars of yesteryear. Some of these cars definitely bring back memories!!! I always enjoy your videos and publications!! I wish i could have a collection and of these beefy cars
Thx!
This car needs no introduction, it's so classy, beautifully kept, & looking at it it looks like a time capsule, & the color, "Always bet on black!" 🤣 To me it's a baby limousine.
🤜🏾💥🤛🏾
I drive a 2016 CX-9. One detail it has is that the headlights are shaped almost the same as the tail lights-very much like the running lights and tail lights on this one. Superlative example of one of the finest cars made in the 1970’s. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Just an amazingly beautiful car. I love the endlessly long hood and pronounced front fender tops so visible from behind the wheel, reminiscent of a '64 Olds. Great lines.
A neighbor in Arizona had a white/white one, he paid me to keep it clean. I really liked air-drying it by driving down the highway and back. At the time I thought it was fancier than my dad's 73 Coupe Deville. Just cool and fun! At night, I also liked the way the instrument panel, buttons and dials were lighted or back lighted. It just felt right.
This is the car I’d buy if I won the lottery as it blows away the new vehicles. This is a real land yacht and I like big cars because I’m a large person. I like that wide brake pedal as I use my left foot on the brake (yeah, I know you’re not supposed to but it’s how I learned to drive). Great video and a very rare find. You’ve got it looking great 👍
I too use both feet. My wife complains all the time about using both feet but I let it go in one ear and out the other!! 😂
@@mikesells4726 that’s what I do when friends ride with me 😂
I loved my 1973 Imperial LeBaron! Except for the rust! Would love to find another on like yours! The car was easy to drive, in spite of its long hood, because the fenders had a raised edge that made it easy to see each corner.
Great video Adam. I love the door trims & the interior looks pretty upmarket. The space between the radiator & the front grille my goodness, it’s massive. Lovely car!
Gorgeous!
I love classic American luxury cars like Chryslers ,Imperials and Lincolns
Love love love this car!!! The rear looks like the 1974-1977? 1972&1974 are my favorite and I would like to own one one day. Thanks for the video!❤️
What a great car! The styling, the technical features at this time! Thank you for sharing the impressions.
I’m not a mopar guy but this one has clean lines. The hood is amazingly long which probably explains the overall length. Very attractive color combo and beautiful condition inside and out.
The interior area looks small by comparison to say a C body GM. I wonder if the interior floor pan is the same as the Chrysler models? The dash looks rather cheap for an Imperial but in fairness all early 70 cars had that issue.
I have to say I agree with Bill Mitchell about it looking like it’s going backward, it was the first thought I had at the start of the video.
My mom had one. I took my driving test in one. It did take a bit to keep it in its lane on the freeway but we took many 1000 mile trips in it. Oh the memories.
❤❤🙏 . Drove it through whiteout blizzards going to Tahoe and so much more. What a ride.
For this reason you have a new subscriber
Thx! Cool story.
Adam, You've given me a new appreciation for the fuselage Imperials, although the grille doesn't sit well. Otherwise, an elegant, imposing automobile. Mopar was not well represented in my hometown. In fact, I can remember only three Imperials: a survivor 1951 in daily use, a beautiful 1960 rose metallic hardtop sedan, and a 1966 Crown coupe' owned by a friend's parents. There must have been more, but I never saw them.
I just remembered a 4th, a 1962 Crown Coupe'. Tom
Wow. Love the car, and have been a huge fan of Syd Mead for decades. Seriously envy you.
Syd has done industrial design of everything from cars, to thermos bottles, to yachts. As to movies everything from Blade Runner to 2010 a space odyssey and Star Trek.
Our neighbors had one of these when I was a kid. It was cream colored. I remember thinking it was the biggest car ever!
The older I get the more I love these old luxury barges. This car is beautiful in black.
I really like the the looks of the full size cars from the 60's and 70's. If we are heading towards all cars and trucks being electric (time will tell I guess) then I suppose they could always build cars more like this if they wanted to, since they wont have restrictions on obtaining a certain MPG. You sure fit a big battery in this car. Just a thought.
As parts become hard to come by a 'drop in' electric motor will make a lot of sense.
I've never seen these cars, glad you are able to review them. Amazing