You certainly did your homework on features of this car. Thank you! My God parents who were millionaires back in the 50’s, had one of these luxury Imperials. At 10 years old, riding in the back seat was cavernous! This car was way ahead of its time. Cruising on the brand new interstate, my Godfather ran it up to 90mph and it felt like 50mph. Incredible ride!
Back then a million dollars bought you a LOT of things. It was a “big deal” to have a millionaire in the family since “loaded wallets” were far fewer in number. Almost a forgotten era but ,nevertheless , the stuff of our childhood. 👍
As a kid in the '50's and '60's, as kids we looked forward to the car magazines that would show the new designs for next seasons new styles and options. I've said it so many times, I'm glad I grew up when I did. All I missed was steam locomotives😢!
No one thought about safety back then!...Those large, pretty vehicles had no side protection, no collapsing steering columns, no airbags, only optional seatbelts, marginal shocks and brakes...I could go on, but you get my point. I love the styling of those barges, but I would never want to own and drive one, nowadays. And I owned a couple of these beasts, back in the 1960s and 70s. Cars of today are dull and boring, for the most part...but they are much more safe!
What a beautiful aero-shape to this car!! A friend of mine has a '57 rotting away in his back yard that still looks magnificent even in its current terrible shape. Part of the unfortunate Imperial legacy he discovered while looking for parts for his was that they made great demolition derby cars! More than one person told him how legendary they were with that crowd: That the only thing that could beat an Imperial was another Imperial; guys would refuse to compete if an Imperial showed up and that they were even banned in some places. Sad, but true, that was the fate of many of these beautiful cars
Virgil Exner was the Eero Saarinen of Detroit, and the 1959 & '60 Imperials are pretty much the height of Mid Century Modern Luxury. This car is nothing but Atomic Age Class. And as @groovy1937 pointed out, its called a "Southampton" because this is what a 'Don Draper' would've driven from his penthouse in Manhattan to the Hamptons for a long weekend of golf, yachting, and martinis galore! Great video, liked and Subscribed!
This car really has a commanding presence! As I recall Mr. Drysdale (Beverly Hillbillies) was always chauffeured around in a black LeBaron. 😊. Always enjoy your thorough videos! Thanks James for this presentation! 👍
Cadillac didn't have nothing on this one and I'm lifelong Caddy guy. I was able to drive one these around WA. And OR. Back in The late 1970s. Sweet ride.
So gl;ad to see this! The early 60s Chryslers are some of the most interesting, ornate, and creatively-executed designs, and the subject car is stupendous.
I'm glad to see a late 1950s Foward Look Imperial featured here! Unfortunately, the last Hemi engines appeared in the 1958 Imperials, and never again would a Hemi be offered in an Imperial or Chrysler Imperial. Also, Chrysler Corporation's use of the Southampton name made reference to Southampton, NewYork.
Thanks for verifying that information. I kind of started when he mentioned that the hemi had returned later. The hemi was originally discontinued due to complexity and high cost of manufacture.
James; Another great detailed video and a fantastic example of the magnificent IMPERAL automobile. When you met one of these going down the road, there was no mistaking what make it was!
The 1959 Imperial did use the same 413 V-8 with 350 Horsepower from the Chrysler New Yorker (replaced by the 440 V-8 in 1966). However, the window glass on those Imperials was uniquely curved which was rare as almost all brands were still using flat pane side windows. This 1959 Imperial has the larger diameter 15-inch wheels which replaced the smaller (but wider) 14-inch wheels used earlier in the 1959 model year. Sales of new Imperials during the independent years of 1955 from 1975 were inconsistent... with only strong sales in 1957, 1964, and 1969 when the Imperial had a completely new look. Unfortunately, sales of Imperials in the other model years with carryover styling was rather weak. Some of the blame on poor sales was its luxury car image which was not as strong as Cadillac (along with being sold in the same showroom with cheaper Chrysler models). Other reasons for mostly poor sales were the Imperial's low resale value and inconsistent quality control (Cadillac did better on both counts).
I think the Southampton was for Southampton, New York. Chrysler/Imperial used names from the Empire State often - thus New Yorker, New Port, Saratoga, Southampton . . .
👆🌟…New York City …Long Island …South Hampton…” The Hamptons “ …🌟…use of “ Southampton “ was distinguishing way to describe Imperial hardtop sedans of this era and was in line with use of “ Newport “ for Imperial 2 door hardtops during 1950’s🌟
Excellent review James! That car is truly magnificent and really a piece of art in so many ways. I've never seen one of those before and I'm a pretty avid Mecum watcher. You can tell whoever owns it has shown it a lot of love over the years. Thanks again for this and hope all is well for you!
DUDE! I have MAD RESPECT for you, your reviewing skills & honestly, EVERY aspect of your podcast. Thanks to the "Algorithm Gods" diligently at work at TH-cam, this episode showed up in my feed today. After watching just this one, random installment, I have already (gladly) hit the Subscribe button. Moving on . . . The Imperial you're reviewing is a drop-dead BEAST of American luxury, circa late 1950s. It's one of THE MOST BEAUTIFUL cars I've ever seen & I'm almost 73 years old! Can't wait to enjoy more of your Auto Reviews.
I was a 'kid' when Chrysler Corporation came out with their 'Forward Look' design in 1957. It was then I decided I liked the Imperial better than the Caddy or Lincoln models. This car you tested is a beauty, wouldn't mind having it or one like it as a classic in my garage. Thanks!
White and black interior? I wasn’t ready for that. The view of the car in motion was beautiful. Chrysler’s offerings from the late ‘50s to mid ‘60s are some of the most impressive in their history. Imperials are fascinating cars with unique designs and features. Loved watching that car moving on the highway. Thank you for an excellent examination.
Well, you wouldn't want a white carpet in your car... but it was a fairly common combination... as well an all-black interior, with light or dark exterior colors. My sister had a '70 Duster in brown with a black interior...
Wow, James! I am thoroughly impressed! You always outdo yourself with every video you present, and this one is no exception. The videography, the knowledge you impart, and the overall production is first-rate. It's guys like you who keep me from getting into this same kind of thing! LOL! Seriously, though, well done! I think this is one of your best. And this is from someone who enjoys all of your videos. Keep it up!
Happy to see you review an Imperial. A great review of a truly beautiful and unique automobile. My grandfather had a 62 Imperial and we all loved it. These old cars have a presence about them regardless of the manufacturer. It's great that you are keeping the memories of these old cars alive for all of us to see. I look forward to more reviews from you about any old cars you come across. Thank you.
I had driven a 1967 Chrysler Newport V8 318 or 383 engine from Detroit to Flint, 68.5 miles one way and back on a full tank of gas traveling at 55mph. When I returned to Detroit hone the gas needle barely budged to 3/4 of a tank. I was amazed how great the car was on gas. This was Christmas of 1990
Hello! Thank you so much for your excellent view of this 1959 Imperial. I happened to come from a family that not only drive Chrysler vehicles but since we lived in Detroit, but my family only drove Chryslers. I have given a few of your points some extended thoughts that fit in to the points you made. In the late 50s, American automotive technology and had reached a high point that allowed the creature comforts to become almost expected. Probably most people reading this don't remember a time when most American cars did not include air conditioning. In fact it was so novel the manufacturer put little decals. On the right lower rear window that pointed out the car had air conditioning. The other point I would make for this reply is this. When buyers make the jump to a luxury car much of that decision is steeped in emotion that states you have made it. In the American 50s, one of the biggest status symbols that measured success was a new Cadillac in the driveway and in California, a swimming pool in the back yard. The Imperial and Lincolns are both much better machines but when we were showing off it had to be Cadillac. Today it's BMW and that's too bad because that's just the tip of the ice berg. I have a lot more to say.
Hi James, in 1960 press photographers for the major news networks must have loved the Imperial sedan because during the 1960 presidential campaign, Vice-President Richard Nixon was forever filmed getting into, or out of, a limousine black Imperial LeBaron sedan. Mr. Nixon must have wondered if the photographers were there to capture him, or the Imperial. Even in newspaper photos, Nixon was near to the Imperial, as if the LeBaron sedan made him look presidential. Strange to think that in my childhood I only saw Imperials on television!
Just a stunning automobile, and great job of showing this vehicle and highlighting its unique characteristics and features Thank you, enjoyed this very much!!!
James, great video. What a stunning car! I had thought the name was based on the town in the Hamptons on Long Island. Good to know the real source! I'm already looking forward to the next video!
I’ve always been a Cadillac owner from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and some 90’s when I switched to Mercedes. With that being said, Imperial is a very interesting brand with such beautiful lines and many first that I like as a vintage car enthusiasts. Keep up the great videos my friend, I’m enjoying them! 😎
Torqueflite transmission! Powerflite was a 2-speed available 1954 to mid-year 1956 when the 3-speed Torqueflite was introduced in the New Yorker, 300, Adventurer and Imperial, and on the full Chrysler line beginning in 1957, with both offered in Plymouth and Dodge thru 1960.
The epitome of gorgeous, luxurious cars of the 50s. Stunning, inside and out! In 1960, the Imperial got power vent windows as an option, but standard on the LeBaron. The car had a three-speed Torqueflight, Powerflight was a two-speed automatic which was not available after 1956 on the Imperial.
If you notice on this car unlike the cadillac, the rear door does not cut around the rear wheel opening, it basically goes straight down, with just a mild curve.
..while the front fenders may have been from the previous 1958 Imperial models, Chrysler stylists dropped the headlights down from the upper under fender area to mid grill creating a lower front/"face" appearance popular at the time as lower flat horizontal silhouettes (by Ford and Chrysler) were the rage. GM was playing a radical catch up in '59.
James. My Uncle had a 1966 Imperial. I don't remember if it was a Crown or LeBaron. I couldn't believe all the features that car had. It rode like you were on a cloud. It was a forest green with a matching vinyl top. I felt like I was so rich riding in that car. Especially when he drove me to school one day. All the kids just looked as I got out of that car. They don't make them like this anymore. In 1975 he purchased a New Imperial as it was the last year of them. After that he purchased Cadillacs.
A beautiful and well engineered automobile, both inside and out. As far as I'm concerned, American luxury cars of the 50s and 60s remain some of the nicest cars ever made, with distinct styling and class that has never gone out of style. I'm a Cadillac guy through and through, but the 57 Chrysler Forward Look design absolutely inspired the iconic 59 Cadillac. It's a shame that Imperial doesn't get the notoriety deserves. Even if you do just look at it as a Chrysler... It's still a seriously impressive machine!
ABSOLUTELY ENJOYABLE review of this IMPERIAL produced the year I was born …… I believe it would take some time to remember by heart ALL the gages in this video…. This one looked the best out of all the versions next would be the convertible.. THANKS for sharing !
…Superb looking 1959 Imperial Crown …appears to have had a deep dive cosmetic / appearance / drivetrain / chassis restoration done to it …The 2 color body paint colors with strikingly stylish roof & white interior get a easy 5💫💫💫💫💫… 🔆1959 Imperials were given a newly styled grille that was quite different in theme from the 1957 -58 Imperials and from following year 1960 Imperials…1959 Imperial grille seems to have been derived from early 1950’s DeSoto / 1954 Imperial grille themes / styling… 🔆The 1959 Imperials had nicely done rear quarter trim and one of the best looking tail fin / taillights /rear deck / rear bumper styling workouts of the 1957 thru 1963 Imperials which were all largely based on the 1957 Imperial body on frame, 129 inch wheel base, chassis, cowl & windshield, doors and side windows…1964 thru 1966 Imperials also largely shared same basic 1957 Imperial chassis, cowl & windshield / door components…1959 Imperials had a 1 year only instrument panel styling / theme layout which for 1960 Imperials was replaced by another 1 year only restyled instrument panel with Chrysler’s innovative & futuristically themed in appearance “ Electro Luminescent “ instrument panel / gages / controls lighting design… 🔆Chrysler’s Hemi V-8s cost more to manufacture which with this being Detroit led to a less costly alternative being designed / developed which was the “wedge” 413 V-8 …The less costly to manufacture 413 V-8 was installed in 1959 Imperials to replace the higher cost per engine 392 Hemi V-8…The 413 V-8 was made thru 1965 & for 1966 was improved upon & enlarged in displacement to become the 440 V-8… 🔆Why are these Imperials rare and now rarely seen? 🔆 First off not many were built & sold from 1957 thru 1960 or 1961 to 1963 or from 1964 to 1966 or 1967 to 1968 compared to luxury car Cadillac’s annual sales #’s… 🔆Secondly it was the fate for all years of Imperials to most often end up being under appreciated, under valued as used cars & not seen as special interest / collectible cars… 🔆Thirdly it was discovered early on that all 1957 thru 1966 Imperials had very well built full frames and solidly assembled bodies that were very tough demolition derby smash & crash contenders…Many Imperials regardless of whether in used & well kept or indifferently owned or carelessly driven & heedlessly discarded condition often ended up being taken & used up in demo derby races during last 50 - 65 years…There are demo derby YT vids from just the last 10 years which serially highlight(ed) gutted out / welded up vintage 1960’s / 70’s Imperials ignorantly being demo derby destroyed to entertain demo derby grandstand crowds…The ongoing decades of demo derby smash & crash mayhem & destruction toll on Imperials has been steep which makes remaining Imperials now rare cars whether pristine intact & original examples or are restoration candidates or derelict / junked sitting in the weeds parts donor cars… 🔆Many still driveable Imperials were sought out and acquired to take out & use / repurpose the 392 / 413 / 440 V-8s or Torqueflites / desirable rear axels with the rest of the car then heedlessly junked / scrapped… 🔆The1959 Imperial Crown Southampton shown and driven by JW in this vid was / is a very lucky 65 year old survivor Imperial…Thankfully 1950s & 1960s era Imperials have in the last 15 years become somewhat more appreciated as special interest & worthy as investment grade historic collectible cars🔆
I was 7yrs old when I saw my first '59 Imperial.. I loved it then and still do. What a magnificently designed automobile ! It puts Cadillac to shame !!
1. 1958 was the last year for the hemi engine in any Imperial. 2. You called the trans PowerFlite multiple times. The 3-speed automatic in any MoPar is the TorqueFlite. 3. The dash guage you called a volts gauge is actually an ammeter. It measures/displays the battery rate of charge or discharge.
The main problem with Imperial sales, was that people did associate it with Chrysler vehicles...and Chrysler Corp was known to make the least reliable vehicles, across the board. They had innovative styles and "extra" goodies...but nagging reliability problems kept sales down.
A well done review on a beautifully styled automobile! Chrysler products were long considered to have engineering a notch above the competition. It's surprising to see that the doors had electrically activated locks on top of everything else. That was a rare feature in a car of that era. The Imperials were particularly impressive.
Chrysler tested a concept car in 2006 with the Imperial name. The car was a four door sedan with center opening doors, in the style of the newer Rolls Royce sedans.
Hi James. I have a 1960 Imperial Crown Southampton coupe. I believe that the Southampton designation means that it did not have a B pillar, not that it was a hardtop. I think that Imperial was better engineered than Cadillac at the time. I'd love for you to review my '60 Imperial sometime. Keep making these great videos. We really love them.
@@danielulz1640 Sorry for the confusion. What I should have said was that Imperial made models with and without B pillars. If the car had a B pillar is was called a Custom, Crown, or LeBaron. If is did not have a B pillar, then it was a Southampton Custom, Southampton Crown, or a Southampton LeBaron.
really the style and performance of the forward-look mopars can't be beat, and I say this as a Cadillac and Lincoln owner. The imperial was so good than it was car of choice for none other than Tom McCahill of Popular Mechanics. This '59 is loaded...pretty much every option...beautiful colors...just gorgeous...and the stainless roof too to cap it all off. For a real wild roof line, check out the Crown Coupe...looks like the thing is wearing a damn tiara. Thx James for stepping out into another side of the hobby
Whoever ordered that car must have had plenty of money. Not many cars back then had all those options especially air conditioning. It is truely a work of art even a Cadillac in 1959 wasn't this over the top.
Not only did the competition attempt to actively sabotage the Imperial branding, the customer experience was not as special as the car. There were no Imperial dealerships. The only changes made at the Chrysler dealerships were a couple of signs. One facing the street, and a small metal sign over the service department that said "Imperial Serviced Here". Chrysler put all their eggs into styling and build quality. And even though these earlier cars were built in a special plant, there was no "Imperial" division. These cars were still designed by and managed by and completely run by all the Chrysler people. Chrysler CEO oversaw it all. No division head. Designer, Virgil Exner, was Chrysler's one and only designer. Chrysler filed legal papers in 1955 to officially declare it a "brand", but then did nothing else. If you built these cars on the line you were a Chrysler employee, and your paychecks showed that. There was no specific engine or suspension for these either. 413 was what New Yorkera and 300 letter cars got. Same for the transmission. And the torsion bar suspension was used on all full size models too! So the cars looked great and we're nice, but under the skin they had no bragging rights, and when you went to the dealership you got a cheap metal sign that pointed at the place where all the other Chryslers were serviced. These facts are what hampered the re-branding. Then the failed 1961 premature downsizing and styling sales losses that cost Exner his job, bled out Chrysler financially until they got sorted out by about 1965. Then the Mustang hit and delt a death blow to the Old Guard attitudes.and re-focused Chrysler towards youth market muscle cars right up into the 1970s when the Imperial was watered down into a re-badged New Yorker, then dropped leaving the New Yorker Brogham as the top model. Mismanagement and some bad timing really doomed the car. It is amazing they were ever built, but they were too expensive to just force their owners to take a number behind other Chrysler buyers, and not even have a different engine under the hood. So the "Chrysler Imperial" razzing they got from other dealers was somewhat justified. Chrysler just couldn't afford to to make the car any more mechanically distinct and Exner pushed style over engineering and Chrysler paid for it. Cool cars but tragic history.
In 1968 I went with my father to a Chrysler Dealership to look at a Imperial. When my father used the Driver side door latch to open the door, it snapped off!! That spoke volumes, we left, never to return.
The previous Imperials had the Hemi engines which were the favorite of drag racers. If an Imperial was in the junkyard the engine was soon removed by a drag racer. My dad had a 57 Imperial and I can attest to the smooth ride of these 2.5 ton cars. The automatic transmission shift was imperceptible as it was so well engineered. And the Hemi engine had lots of power. My dad would demonstrate how the car would accelerate at highway speeds just by pushing down on the gas pedal and the power would push you back in your seat. Chrysler cars and the Imperial of that era were not perfect as moisture from rain or snow could make the engine difficult or nearly impossible to start. That problem was eventually overcome when Chrysler went to electronic ignition in the early 1970s.
New subscriber sends Greetings from Tucson, Arizona. I grew up with Chrysler products and have had two Imperials, along with 5 New Yorkers and a DeSoto Coronado. NO other car company could compare with Chrysler engineering. In my youth, it was said that Cadillacs could be found 'anywhere' but Imperial and Packard were found only in the 'best' areas. The badging on the early 1960's LeBarons were considered jewelry and carried an excise tax. My 1966 Crown Southampton averaged 16-17 mpg and the 1975 LeBaron got 8-9 mpg. To lock the front doors, push the handle forward - a Chrysler feature from the late 1940's
I fell in love with these 50's cars as a post war kid reading Car & Driver magazine in the UK. So much style, sleek and spacious, just forget the road holding cruising down I-95 from Connecticut to Florida.
Once upon a time we used to build, buy, and sell cars. We used to have style inside and outside of these cars. And then we had the audacity to put in details that you notice with each visit to the vehicle that you missed the first time. These were details. So lost is this art that today we call these "easter eggs" when they are actually skilled artistry, not eggs. And now we build garbage vehicles like CUV's and SUV's that have no style and you cannot see through them or over them to help you drive defensively. This is a beautiful car in its own way of being overdone. The color augments the styling.
They are cars. And they are Art.
Never used to think it, but these cars are extraordinary. They are design wonders, like cathedrals of car design.
You certainly did your homework on features of this car. Thank you!
My God parents who were millionaires back in the 50’s, had one of these luxury Imperials. At 10 years old, riding in the back seat was cavernous!
This car was way ahead of its time. Cruising on the brand new interstate, my Godfather ran it up to 90mph and it felt like 50mph. Incredible ride!
Back then a million dollars bought you a LOT of things. It was a “big deal” to have a millionaire in the family since “loaded wallets” were far fewer in number. Almost a forgotten era but ,nevertheless , the stuff of our childhood. 👍
Imagine changing the look of the car you build EVERY YEAR! Those days are long gone.
Just jellybean shapes 😅
As a kid in the '50's and '60's, as kids we looked forward to the car magazines that would show the new designs for next seasons new styles and options. I've said it so many times, I'm glad I grew up when I did. All I missed was steam locomotives😢!
Love Virgil Exner’s Chrysler designs from 1957 to 1960. The 1960 Imperial styling was my favorite.
Born 1960, those cars from 1950's, 60's are my favorites, big, comfortable cruisers, as a toddler I'd stand on the front seat when my parents drove
No one thought about safety back then!...Those large, pretty vehicles had no side protection, no collapsing steering columns, no airbags, only optional seatbelts, marginal shocks and brakes...I could go on, but you get my point. I love the styling of those barges, but I would never want to own and drive one, nowadays. And I owned a couple of these beasts, back in the 1960s and 70s. Cars of today are dull and boring, for the most part...but they are much more safe!
All I can say is WOW! So good looking! Virtually a perfect 10. I really like, like a lot! Super impressive. The car is nice too-
Nice walk down memory lane who remembers when these were new. Beautiful
What a beautiful aero-shape to this car!! A friend of mine has a '57 rotting away in his back yard that still looks magnificent even in its current terrible shape. Part of the unfortunate Imperial legacy he discovered while looking for parts for his was that they made great demolition derby cars! More than one person told him how legendary they were with that crowd: That the only thing that could beat an Imperial was another Imperial; guys would refuse to compete if an Imperial showed up and that they were even banned in some places. Sad, but true, that was the fate of many of these beautiful cars
Virgil Exner was the Eero Saarinen of Detroit, and the 1959 & '60 Imperials are pretty much the height of Mid Century Modern Luxury. This car is nothing but Atomic Age Class. And as @groovy1937 pointed out, its called a "Southampton" because this is what a 'Don Draper' would've driven from his penthouse in Manhattan to the Hamptons for a long weekend of golf, yachting, and martinis galore! Great video, liked and Subscribed!
This car really has a commanding presence! As I recall Mr. Drysdale (Beverly Hillbillies) was always chauffeured around in a black LeBaron. 😊. Always enjoy your thorough videos! Thanks James for this presentation! 👍
That's very true! So glad that you enjoyed the video. Thank you Lon 😁
Glad you remembered!
Miss Hathaway
So happy to see you branching out to review other unique cars. And this Imperial certainly fits that bill. What a beauty!
Garbage in, garbage out!
@@sckernvery rude and unnecessary.
FINALLY a Review and Reviewer who DOESNT refer to the car as a “Chrysler” !!
That's because it isn't.
Wow, that is a stunner. Imagine seeing that kind of car on the road today.
Cadillac didn't have nothing on this one and I'm lifelong Caddy guy. I was able to drive one these around WA. And OR. Back in The late 1970s. Sweet ride.
Cars had so much style back in the day
So gl;ad to see this! The early 60s Chryslers are some of the most interesting, ornate, and creatively-executed designs, and the subject car is stupendous.
1959 showroom condition. Just incredible.👍
Have you ever seen so many beautiful ornaments hung on a car? Gorgeous.
Beautiful Land yacht, nice posting!
An absolute work of art
I'm glad to see a late 1950s Foward Look Imperial featured here! Unfortunately, the last Hemi engines appeared in the 1958 Imperials, and never again would a Hemi be offered in an Imperial or Chrysler Imperial.
Also, Chrysler Corporation's use of the Southampton name made reference to Southampton, NewYork.
Thanks for verifying that information. I kind of started when he mentioned that the hemi had returned later. The hemi was originally discontinued due to complexity and high cost of manufacture.
The Imperial was one of the most beautifully crafted and designed cars. Gorgeous!
James; Another great detailed video and a fantastic example of the magnificent IMPERAL automobile. When you met one of these going down the road, there was no mistaking what make it was!
The 1959 Imperial did use the same 413 V-8 with 350 Horsepower from the Chrysler New Yorker (replaced by the 440 V-8 in 1966). However, the window glass on those Imperials was uniquely curved which was rare as almost all brands were still using flat pane side windows. This 1959 Imperial has the larger diameter 15-inch wheels which replaced the smaller (but wider) 14-inch wheels used earlier in the 1959 model year. Sales of new Imperials during the independent years of 1955 from 1975 were inconsistent... with only strong sales in 1957, 1964, and 1969 when the Imperial had a completely new look. Unfortunately, sales of Imperials in the other model years with carryover styling was rather weak. Some of the blame on poor sales was its luxury car image which was not as strong as Cadillac (along with being sold in the same showroom with cheaper Chrysler models). Other reasons for mostly poor sales were the Imperial's low resale value and inconsistent quality control (Cadillac did better on both counts).
What a beautiful car! Great review, keep up the good work!
Very good video! I’m so glad you didn’t call it a Chrysler. Thank you.
Nice body ! Both the car and Driver!
I think the Southampton was for Southampton, New York. Chrysler/Imperial used names from the Empire State often - thus New Yorker, New Port, Saratoga, Southampton . . .
👆🌟…New York City …Long Island …South Hampton…” The Hamptons “ …🌟…use of “ Southampton “ was distinguishing way to describe Imperial hardtop sedans of this era and was in line with use of “ Newport “ for Imperial 2 door hardtops during 1950’s🌟
Ah, I didn't even think of New York! Thank you for the informative comment.
@@JW_Reviews 👍😉
You're 100% correct!
Didn't Mr. Drysdale drive an Imperial on Beverly Hillbillies?
Excellent review James! That car is truly magnificent and really a piece of art in so many ways. I've never seen one of those before and I'm a pretty avid Mecum watcher. You can tell whoever owns it has shown it a lot of love over the years. Thanks again for this and hope all is well for you!
DUDE! I have MAD RESPECT for you, your reviewing skills & honestly, EVERY aspect of your podcast. Thanks to the "Algorithm Gods" diligently at work at TH-cam, this episode showed up in my feed today. After watching just this one, random installment, I have already (gladly) hit the Subscribe button. Moving on . . .
The Imperial you're reviewing is a drop-dead BEAST of American luxury, circa late 1950s. It's one of THE MOST BEAUTIFUL cars I've ever seen & I'm almost 73 years old! Can't wait to enjoy more of your Auto Reviews.
I was a 'kid' when Chrysler Corporation came out with their 'Forward Look' design in 1957. It was then I decided I liked the Imperial better than the Caddy or Lincoln models. This car you tested is a beauty, wouldn't mind having it or one like it as a classic in my garage. Thanks!
What a beautiful car! Thanks for showing. Love the late 50's/early 60's Chrysler cars!
White and black interior?
I wasn’t ready for that.
The view of the car in motion was beautiful.
Chrysler’s offerings from the late ‘50s to mid ‘60s are some of the most impressive in their history.
Imperials are fascinating cars with unique designs and features.
Loved watching that car moving on the highway.
Thank you for an excellent examination.
Well, you wouldn't want a white carpet in your car... but it was a fairly common combination... as well an all-black interior, with light or dark exterior colors. My sister had a '70 Duster in brown with a black interior...
Wow, James! I am thoroughly impressed! You always outdo yourself with every video you present, and this one is no exception. The videography, the knowledge you impart, and the overall production is first-rate. It's guys like you who keep me from getting into this same kind of thing! LOL! Seriously, though, well done! I think this is one of your best. And this is from someone who enjoys all of your videos. Keep it up!
Happy to see you review an Imperial. A great review of a truly beautiful and unique automobile. My grandfather had a 62 Imperial and we all loved it. These old cars have a presence about them regardless of the manufacturer. It's great that you are keeping the memories of these old cars alive for all of us to see. I look forward to more reviews from you about any old cars you come across. Thank you.
I had driven a 1967 Chrysler Newport V8 318 or 383 engine from Detroit to Flint, 68.5 miles one way and back on a full tank of gas traveling at 55mph. When I returned to Detroit hone the gas needle barely budged to 3/4 of a tank. I was amazed how great the car was on gas. This was Christmas of 1990
James, another outstanding review! I learned a lot watching this TH-cam.
Thank you so much!!
@@JW_Reviews you are welcome
Always loved the styling of these Imperials! Great video !
Hello! Thank you so much for your excellent view of this 1959 Imperial. I happened to come from a family that not only drive Chrysler vehicles but since we lived in Detroit, but my family only drove Chryslers. I have given a few of your points some extended thoughts that fit in to the points you made. In the late 50s, American automotive technology and had reached a high point that allowed the creature comforts to become almost expected. Probably most people reading this don't remember a time when most American cars did not include air conditioning. In fact it was so novel the manufacturer put little decals. On the right lower rear window that pointed out the car had air conditioning. The other point I would make for this reply is this. When buyers make the jump to a luxury car much of that decision is steeped in emotion that states you have made it. In the American 50s, one of the biggest status symbols that measured success was a new Cadillac in the driveway and in California, a swimming pool in the back yard. The Imperial and Lincolns are both much better machines but when we were showing off it had to be Cadillac. Today it's BMW and that's too bad because that's just the tip of the ice berg. I have a lot more to say.
top of the list… really impressed… BRAVO
Always enjoy watching you profile the Cadillac vehicles but gotta ❤️ the Imperial. An absolute beauty!
My parents had a gold one when I was a kid. Great car, and very beautiful.
love it James ! my fave, '60 black LeBaron, grey wool broadcloth.
A 10! You don't do enough of these - not sure what your day job is, but cars/reviews/vintage is your calling.
Of All Of The Imperials The1959 Imperial Has To Be My Favorite Year. Thanks For Showing It JAMES Its A Rolling Piece Of Art.
Hi James, in 1960 press photographers for the major news networks must have loved the Imperial sedan because during the 1960 presidential campaign, Vice-President Richard Nixon was forever filmed getting into, or out of, a limousine black Imperial LeBaron sedan. Mr. Nixon must have wondered if the photographers were there to capture him, or the Imperial. Even in newspaper photos, Nixon was near to the Imperial, as if the LeBaron sedan made him look presidential. Strange to think that in my childhood I only saw Imperials on television!
Just a stunning automobile, and great job of showing this vehicle and highlighting its unique characteristics and features
Thank you, enjoyed this very much!!!
Gorgeous Imperial. Imperial would offer power vent windows for the 1960 model year.
Majestic work of art!!
James, great video. What a stunning car! I had thought the name was based on the town in the Hamptons on Long Island. Good to know the real source! I'm already looking forward to the next video!
I’ve always been a Cadillac owner from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and some 90’s when I switched to Mercedes. With that being said, Imperial is a very interesting brand with such beautiful lines and many first that I like as a vintage car enthusiasts. Keep up the great videos my friend, I’m enjoying them! 😎
What a gorgeous beast. (laughably flamboyant but that was the style back then, but still gorgeous 😁)
Torqueflite transmission! Powerflite was a 2-speed available 1954 to mid-year 1956 when the 3-speed Torqueflite was introduced in the
New Yorker, 300, Adventurer and Imperial, and on the full Chrysler line beginning in 1957, with both offered in Plymouth and Dodge thru 1960.
I went through all the comments to see if anyone taught that. The button arrangement was different though with D N R 2 1 instead of R N D 2 1.
The epitome of gorgeous, luxurious cars of the 50s. Stunning, inside and out! In 1960, the Imperial got power vent windows as an option, but standard on the LeBaron. The car had a three-speed Torqueflight, Powerflight was a two-speed automatic which was not available after 1956 on the Imperial.
Wow, James, that steering wheel is giant. Your review is excellent; I can't wait to see your next one.
If you notice on this car unlike the cadillac, the rear door does not cut around the rear wheel opening, it basically goes straight down, with just a mild curve.
Wow…what a real beauty…American craftsmanship at its finest. And those white walls rock…
..while the front fenders may have been from the previous 1958 Imperial models, Chrysler stylists dropped the headlights down from the upper under fender area to mid grill creating a lower front/"face" appearance popular at the time as lower flat horizontal silhouettes (by Ford and Chrysler) were the rage. GM was playing a radical catch up in '59.
James. My Uncle had a 1966 Imperial. I don't remember if it was a Crown or LeBaron. I couldn't believe all the features that car had. It rode like you were on a cloud. It was a forest green with a matching vinyl top. I felt like I was so rich riding in that car. Especially when he drove me to school one day. All the kids just looked as I got out of that car. They don't make them like this anymore. In 1975 he purchased a New Imperial as it was the last year of them. After that he purchased Cadillacs.
Take the kids to school in a Bugatti - watch the idiots drool at the sight.
A beautiful and well engineered automobile, both inside and out. As far as I'm concerned, American luxury cars of the 50s and 60s remain some of the nicest cars ever made, with distinct styling and class that has never gone out of style. I'm a Cadillac guy through and through, but the 57 Chrysler Forward Look design absolutely inspired the iconic 59 Cadillac. It's a shame that Imperial doesn't get the notoriety deserves. Even if you do just look at it as a Chrysler... It's still a seriously impressive machine!
Lucky to get an Imperial of that vintage to review. Incredibly rare and this car looks showroom new.
Fabulous.
Great video, perhaps the best video ever on TH-cam regarding Imperial.
nice review handsome
ABSOLUTELY ENJOYABLE review of this IMPERIAL produced the year I was born …… I believe it would take some time to remember by heart ALL the gages in this video…. This one looked the best out of all the versions next would be the convertible.. THANKS for sharing !
…Superb looking 1959 Imperial Crown …appears to have had a deep dive cosmetic / appearance / drivetrain / chassis restoration done to it …The 2 color body paint colors with strikingly stylish roof & white interior get a easy 5💫💫💫💫💫…
🔆1959 Imperials were given a newly styled grille that was quite different in theme from the 1957 -58 Imperials and from following year 1960 Imperials…1959 Imperial grille seems to have been derived from early 1950’s DeSoto / 1954 Imperial grille themes / styling…
🔆The 1959 Imperials had nicely done rear quarter trim and one of the best looking tail fin / taillights /rear deck / rear bumper styling workouts of the 1957 thru 1963 Imperials which were all largely based on the 1957 Imperial body on frame, 129 inch wheel base, chassis, cowl & windshield, doors and side windows…1964 thru 1966 Imperials also largely shared same basic 1957 Imperial chassis, cowl & windshield / door components…1959 Imperials had a 1 year only instrument panel styling / theme layout which for 1960 Imperials was replaced by another 1 year only restyled instrument panel with Chrysler’s innovative & futuristically themed in appearance “ Electro Luminescent “ instrument panel / gages / controls lighting design…
🔆Chrysler’s Hemi V-8s cost more to manufacture which with this being Detroit led to a less costly alternative being designed / developed which was the “wedge” 413 V-8 …The less costly to manufacture 413 V-8 was installed in 1959 Imperials to replace the higher cost per engine 392 Hemi V-8…The 413 V-8 was made thru 1965 & for 1966 was improved upon & enlarged in displacement to become the 440 V-8…
🔆Why are these Imperials rare and now rarely seen?
🔆 First off not many were built & sold from 1957 thru 1960 or 1961 to 1963 or from 1964 to 1966 or 1967 to 1968 compared to luxury car Cadillac’s annual sales #’s…
🔆Secondly it was the fate for all years of Imperials to most often end up being under appreciated, under valued as used cars & not seen as special interest / collectible cars…
🔆Thirdly it was discovered early on that all 1957 thru 1966 Imperials had very well built full frames and solidly assembled bodies that were very tough demolition derby smash & crash contenders…Many Imperials regardless of whether in used & well kept or indifferently owned or carelessly driven & heedlessly discarded condition often ended up being taken & used up in demo derby races during last 50 - 65 years…There are demo derby YT vids from just the last 10 years which serially highlight(ed) gutted out / welded up vintage 1960’s / 70’s Imperials ignorantly being demo derby destroyed to entertain demo derby grandstand crowds…The ongoing decades of demo derby smash & crash mayhem & destruction toll on Imperials has been steep which makes remaining Imperials now rare cars whether pristine intact & original examples or are restoration candidates or derelict / junked sitting in the weeds parts donor cars…
🔆Many still driveable Imperials were sought out and acquired to take out & use / repurpose the 392 / 413 / 440 V-8s or Torqueflites / desirable rear axels with the rest of the car then heedlessly junked / scrapped…
🔆The1959 Imperial Crown Southampton shown and driven by JW in this vid was / is a very lucky 65 year old survivor Imperial…Thankfully 1950s & 1960s era Imperials have in the last 15 years become somewhat more appreciated as special interest & worthy as investment grade historic collectible cars🔆
Awesome car and video, thank you , I can’t believe all of the technology for 1959 😮
That Fuel consumption of 17mpg is really impressive my 1993 Corolla 1,6L 113hp did 0.9 to 1 litre per 10km or 23,5 miles to the gallon Lovely video
What a beautiful Imperial! I couldn't help but notice though that there is no rubber pad on the floor parking brake.
I imagine it's difficult to find a "correct" replacement, eh?
I was 7yrs old when I saw my first '59 Imperial.. I loved it then and still do. What a magnificently designed automobile ! It puts Cadillac to shame !!
1. 1958 was the last year for the hemi engine in any Imperial.
2. You called the trans PowerFlite multiple times. The 3-speed automatic in any MoPar is the TorqueFlite.
3. The dash guage you called a volts gauge is actually an ammeter. It measures/displays the battery rate of charge or discharge.
What a wonderful car. Present day designers need to up their game.
Absolutely Gorgeous Car. And in a Awesome
Very Beautiful Color.
My neighbor had one! It was white and black it was the crown. My 1st take was the seats jus so awesome
The main problem with Imperial sales, was that people did associate it with Chrysler vehicles...and Chrysler Corp was known to make the least reliable vehicles, across the board. They had innovative styles and "extra" goodies...but nagging reliability problems kept sales down.
A well done review on a beautifully styled automobile! Chrysler products were long considered to have engineering a notch above the competition. It's surprising to see that the doors had electrically activated locks on top of everything else. That was a rare feature in a car of that era. The Imperials were particularly impressive.
Chrysler tested a concept car in 2006 with the Imperial name.
The car was a four door sedan with center opening doors, in the style of the newer Rolls Royce sedans.
That automobile is scary beautiful. Bravo!
Simply amazing, opulent to the max! Love the drop down mirror too😊
Beautifully narrated!
A big thank you sir!
An Imperial enthusiast
Denver Colorado
Hi James. I have a 1960 Imperial Crown Southampton coupe. I believe that the Southampton designation means that it did not have a B pillar, not that it was a hardtop. I think that Imperial was better engineered than Cadillac at the time. I'd love for you to review my '60 Imperial sometime. Keep making these great videos. We really love them.
Uh, not having a B pillar IS what makes it a hardtop!
...to add to Daniel, the name "hardtop" is basically shorthand for "Hardtop Convertible"...
@@trudygreer2491correct, not to be confused with a convertible hardtop, such as a Ford Skyliner or several more modern models.
@@danielulz1640 Sorry for the confusion. What I should have said was that Imperial made models with and without B pillars. If the car had a B pillar is was called a Custom, Crown, or LeBaron. If is did not have a B pillar, then it was a Southampton Custom, Southampton Crown, or a Southampton LeBaron.
Nice review James!
a real beauty !!! a Real car!!! A Great Automobile !!!!
really the style and performance of the forward-look mopars can't be beat, and I say this as a Cadillac and Lincoln owner. The imperial was so good than it was car of choice for none other than Tom McCahill of Popular Mechanics. This '59 is loaded...pretty much every option...beautiful colors...just gorgeous...and the stainless roof too to cap it all off. For a real wild roof line, check out the Crown Coupe...looks like the thing is wearing a damn tiara. Thx James for stepping out into another side of the hobby
Whoever ordered that car must have had plenty of money. Not many cars back then had all those options especially air conditioning. It is truely a work of art even a Cadillac in 1959 wasn't this over the top.
Gorgeous car! Thanks for sharing
Not only did the competition attempt to actively sabotage the Imperial branding, the customer experience was not as special as the car. There were no Imperial dealerships. The only changes made at the Chrysler dealerships were a couple of signs. One facing the street, and a small metal sign over the service department that said "Imperial Serviced Here".
Chrysler put all their eggs into styling and build quality.
And even though these earlier cars were built in a special plant, there was no "Imperial" division. These cars were still designed by and managed by and completely run by all the Chrysler people. Chrysler CEO oversaw it all. No division head. Designer, Virgil Exner, was Chrysler's one and only designer. Chrysler filed legal papers in 1955 to officially declare it a "brand", but then did nothing else. If you built these cars on the line you were a Chrysler employee, and your paychecks showed that. There was no specific engine or suspension for these either. 413 was what New Yorkera and 300 letter cars got. Same for the transmission. And the torsion bar suspension was used on all full size models too! So the cars looked great and we're nice, but under the skin they had no bragging rights, and when you went to the dealership you got a cheap metal sign that pointed at the place where all the other Chryslers were serviced.
These facts are what hampered the re-branding. Then the failed 1961 premature downsizing and styling sales losses that cost Exner his job, bled out Chrysler financially until they got sorted out by about 1965. Then the Mustang hit and delt a death blow to the Old Guard attitudes.and re-focused Chrysler towards youth market muscle cars right up into the 1970s when the Imperial was watered down into a re-badged New Yorker, then dropped leaving the New Yorker Brogham as the top model. Mismanagement and some bad timing really doomed the car. It is amazing they were ever built, but they were too expensive to just force their owners to take a number behind other Chrysler buyers, and not even have a different engine under the hood. So the "Chrysler Imperial" razzing they got from other dealers was somewhat justified. Chrysler just couldn't afford to to make the car any more mechanically distinct and Exner pushed style over engineering and Chrysler paid for it. Cool cars but tragic history.
I own a '65 Imperial. These were all special cars. It's still on the road with 123,000 miles.
In 1968 I went with my father to a Chrysler Dealership to look at a Imperial. When my father used the Driver side door latch to open the door, it snapped off!! That spoke volumes, we left, never to return.
Wow, that is one gorgeous car !!!
Great Review! 1959 is my favorite Imperial, with '61 as second favorite!
The previous Imperials had the Hemi engines which were the favorite of drag racers. If an Imperial was in the junkyard the engine was soon removed by a drag racer. My dad had a 57 Imperial and I can attest to the smooth ride of these 2.5 ton cars. The automatic transmission shift was imperceptible as it was so well engineered. And the Hemi engine had lots of power. My dad would demonstrate how the car would accelerate at highway speeds just by pushing down on the gas pedal and the power would push you back in your seat. Chrysler cars and the Imperial of that era were not perfect as moisture from rain or snow could make the engine difficult or nearly impossible to start. That problem was eventually overcome when Chrysler went to electronic ignition in the early 1970s.
I enjoyed this thorough review. Thanks
New subscriber sends Greetings from Tucson, Arizona.
I grew up with Chrysler products and have had two Imperials, along with 5 New Yorkers and a DeSoto Coronado.
NO other car company could compare with Chrysler engineering.
In my youth, it was said that Cadillacs could be found 'anywhere' but Imperial and Packard were found only in the 'best' areas.
The badging on the early 1960's LeBarons were considered jewelry and carried an excise tax.
My 1966 Crown Southampton averaged 16-17 mpg and the 1975 LeBaron got 8-9 mpg.
To lock the front doors, push the handle forward - a Chrysler feature from the late 1940's
I fell in love with these 50's cars as a post war kid reading Car & Driver magazine in the UK.
So much style, sleek and spacious, just forget the road holding cruising down I-95 from Connecticut to Florida.
The denoted the Southampton name....for the wealthy enclave on Long Island
Once upon a time we used to build, buy, and sell cars. We used to have style inside and outside of these cars. And then we had the audacity to put in details that you notice with each visit to the vehicle that you missed the first time. These were details. So lost is this art that today we call these "easter eggs" when they are actually skilled artistry, not eggs. And now we build garbage vehicles like CUV's and SUV's that have no style and you cannot see through them or over them to help you drive defensively.
This is a beautiful car in its own way of being overdone. The color augments the styling.
This is more than a car. It's a work of art.
I had 1969 Imperial by Chrysler. It was fantastic. Had 1981 Imperial by Chrysler. Both was good cars.
The black landau roof was originally painted in a dull matte paint not a gloss. it was to mimick the vinyl roof.