Im pretty sure that Milburn Dyrsdale limo was one of these Imperial models on the Beverly Hillbillies .The show was supplied by Chrysler Dodge and Plymouth motors. Miss Jane drove a 63 Valiant I think.
This car totally intrigued me because of how radical and ahead of other designs at this time..And that this design was So refined in style compared to previous Chryslers.
Back in 1964, I worked as a salesman for Martin Chrysler-Plymouth in San Diego Ca. Oh how I miss those "Days of Yesteryear". Great automobiles back then, GM, Ford, and Chrysler Corporation. Boy, they just don't make 'em like that anymore. Back then, you didn't have to guess what model of car it was. Everyone had it's own style and look.
Dave, I'm not familiar with what a "rigged zone" is. I don't remember if any of the cars back then had "crush zones" either. Of course I'm a "dinosaur", and my remember parts don't work as well as they used to. @@daveridgeway2639
HI mike, I think you are very correct! I also want to add, by todays standards all cars are engineered with safety crush zones, in the mean time, older cars did not have them. The car that you drive should be designed to protect YOU! Not the other FOOL! Please reply. Dave...
Imperials were so successful in Demolition Derbies that they were banned from competing by the Demolition Derby Drivers Association. The Imperial's prowess in demo derbies was due to its body on frame construction at a time when all other Chrysler-built cars were unibody construction. Imperials had extremely strong steel frames and many other heavy duty components. They deserved to be called, "tanks." Great video about a great car.
Are you sure you didn't live on the set of the Beverly Hillbillies cuz I belive that this was the car that Mr Drysdale drove in that series and he was the President of the Bank where Jed Clampett had all his money and Investments!!!!.Seems as though he alwways Drove an Imperial!!!!.@What.its.like.
@@mikeweizer3149 lol no, it was a real town with a small bank and The bank president had a wooden leg. He would get himself out of the car every day and the kids would watch him limp into the bank. The rumor was that he made his fortune during the depression from foreclosure property. I can still see that car in my memories and the big cigars he always smoked.
The exterior color was called Sequoia Green. The best part about it was in certain light it was black in others green. My dad had one of these with a matching Green leather interior. It was Stunning.
My uncle and aunt who lived in Wichita, KS would purchase a Imperial every two years. He was a surgeon and made good money. I remember seeing these elegant cars parked outside their home. Being a kid back then (early ‘50’s) I remember thinking, “Oh why can’t we have a car like this?” Not at all realizing how expensive they were . We had a ‘56 Ford Fairlane two door hardtop, which was pretty nice for us. My uncle and aunt would take us somewhere and my brothers and I were allowed to ride in the back seat. Wow!
That’s awesome thank you so much for sharing those memories with us. It’s crazy to think that he was able to afford an imperial every two years but then again surgeons make good money.
I know how you felt back then , I use to think "Why can't we as well ?" When I was a child I use to look at all the catalogs and dream .The sad thing today as an adult is ,"Why can't I "?
What an absolutely beautiful work of art, and exceptionally well preserved! The dash padding has a tendency to shrink and peel up (much like panther platform Lincolns and their glove box padding), and this one is pristine! I had to opportunity to drive a '65 once, and lemme tell you, it was a substantial feeling car to drive on the road. While I do like the '62/'63 Exner Imperials, his designs for all of MOPAR were, schizophrenic at best during the early 60's after a great run in the mid to late 50's. The '60/'61 Imperials were hideous, as was the '61 Dodge. Coming out of that, MOPAR shined! As I'm sure was mentioned somewhere in the comments, these were banned from running against other vehicles in demo-derbies, being relegated to their own "Imperial Class" because of their toughness. It is gut wrenching to see them destroyed like that, but also a thrill to see the damage they can endure. Beautiful car, thank you, J, so much for this video! WYR: 1) Imperial, hands down (sorry Lincoln) 2) How dare you throw a T-bird into the mix! Naughty, naughty, naughty... LOL... If I could only have one, I'd have to go with the Bird... but the Imperial is no slouch...
Hahaha yeah thunderbird was cheaper tho so optioned up one Buick Rivera was almost on the list as well Thank you so much fir sharing the information and insight =) What was the ride like
@@What.its.like. It's a heavy handling car, but not in a bad way, a very, very good way. Power for days, steering and brakes worked by just blowing on them. It just felt like it was glued to the road, until a sharp curve, then she would heel over a bit. Bumps? What bumps? It might have been the age (this was in 2001, so car was 36 years old) but it seemed like there was a lot of wind noise from the side windows. If you ever get the chance to sail one over these ocean liners, do it!
@@billhowes7464 My dad had a '65. It was white with this gawdawful lime green vinyl interior with gold flecks in it. The back seat was "lounge seating"... the back curved from the sides and there was no way to stop from sliding into the center of the seat... but whata car!
WE HAD A WHITE ON WHITE 64 IMPERIAL BACK IN 1972....IT FLOATED DOWN THE ROAD. IT HAD THE BEST AIR CONDITIONER...AND THE RADIO COULD REACH OUT 5 STATES AT NIGHT....
Thanks for an excellent look at a beautiful car! You had to be pretty limber to film this one, Jay, and your gymnastics are appreciated. You're absolutely correct about Imperials not getting the respect they deserve. The restrained elegance and quiet strength of this design was pleasing from every angle.
I think the 64-66 were the most elegant and well built of all Imperials. I think Exners wild styles and dramatic changes hurt the brand because people who buy Premium cars in that era didn't want their new car to look obsolete the next year.
Glad you found another Imperial , my favorite luxury car this side of Packard. 64-66 Imperials are the most beautiful of the classic 57-66 ones. Nice green shade, and luxurious interior Take one over a Cadillac or Lincoln any day I'll take the 64 Lebaron 4 door and a 66 Imperial Crown coupe with the glass headlight covers, and the 64 GT Hawk for good measure.
My mother owned a '64 which I drove on several occasions. A beautiful boat. Probably the most luxurious car I have seen (except RR, etc). Even nicer than her '78 Caddy. Loved it: turquoise with brocade upholstery. Nice to think of it!!
In 1965 came the 100 year old Claro Walnut dash and interior trim. Engel hit it out of the ballpark for '65. The 413 V8 is a smooth running engine. Even now at 124,000 miles mine runs like a new engine. Original interior still beautiful.
Ads of the day called this the Incomparable Imperial. I like how the 64-66 Imperials retained the wraparound windshield and curved side window glass, vestiges of the Exner Forward Look Imperials.
Absolutely gorgeous car when I was looking for it because Classic automall is a big place they have over 1000 cars for sale.. I’m not sure how many rooms there are but there’s a lot so I usually have to go find these cars when I came around the corner and I saw this I was like jackpot lol
Great video just started following you. I used to dream of either an early 60s Lincoln Continental or an Imperial my parents owned a 1964 and 1966 imperial before I was born. After driving both and considering the difference in price I chose imperial. I have both a 1964 and 1966 Crown Coupe and am now addicted to the imperial marque. The joy of driving these cars is unmatched. Beauty, design, and driving performance are all stellar. Ultimately, for the less than the price of one mid condition Lincoln Continental I have two beautiful IMPERIALS !
Possum welcome to the community curious, where are you located? Imperials are really hard to find. I would love to feature both of your cars on the channel if you’re up for it. Depending on where you’re located of course.
Both rounds of “would you rather” go to the Imperial. In my book, there’s just nothing that can outclass them. Gorgeous, gorgeous car. Chrysler used to call it “America’s most carefully built car,” and they weren’t just boasting. The amount of time they lavished on each car is astounding, including a ridiculous amount of time spent on just the fitting of the doors. Even after so many decades, that care is still evident when you close the doors of one.
I am 68 yrs of age and ever since I can remember, motorbikes and cars have held a very special place in my heart. Being born in the mid 50s I had the privilege of seeing some of the best engineering and design projects that led to some of the most outstanding machines when looking at design and development along with engineering brilliance. I don't know how I would get on in a world without the internal combustion engine, cars made of plastic components and recycled Coca-Cola cans, plus the added burden of mostly front wheel drive.
Don't forget about serviceability. Today's cars with all the electronic goo-ga on them will be thrown away after 5 years due to lack of available spare parts. Today, you are not supposed to repair your car, you are supposed to buy a new one. I saw a video by a mechanic who could not get a gearbox controller for a 2005 Bentley Arnage. Without that part, the car was a paperweight.
The end of "Exner excess". The similarities to the Lincoln are there, but there are enough differences to give it little more than a nod. I always have liked these cars and their styling. Of course, I think of the Green Hornet as well. Combine the two, definite dream car. Mr Engel did himself proud with this one. WYR: 1964 Cadillac and 1964 Thunderbird (I had a 65, I'm not being objective).
This is the most beautiful Imperial with the cleanest lines. It takes many cues from the 63 Continental and that is no surprise because Elwood Engel had left Ford for Chrysler. Two door models of this car are rare and command a high price. Virgil Exner created many positive innovations for Chrysler but by the 60's he had run off the rails.
Well that explains a lot. Now I know why '64 Imperials suddenly looked like Lincoln Continentals. Gone was Virgil Exner and in was Elwood Engle. As a side note, The 64-66 Imperial was the last body-on-frame Chrysler cars, and they were so well built and crash worthy, they were banned from Demolition Derby's
Absolute plush luxury, like driving your living room around 😄Lots of striking styling with lots of more subtle touches, these were beautiful cars and IMHO the full equal of the Caddy's and Lincolns it was up against. There's still some Exner-like aspects which was the Chrysler style but no excesses. Those were storage pockets on the seat backs to compensate for them lacking under the armrest like in front. The interior door handles tempt you to have your hand on it which wasn't as safe as the usual kind but they're a nice touch. The "W" shaped front ends were in vogue, but would soon go away as another safety comcern: a pedestrian would be drawn into and under the car instead of being pushed away. If you blinked you probably wouldn't know it when driving one of these as the ride was a lot like floating along over bumps and dips 🙃 Chrysler was leading the performance game and they didn't forget the exhaust system. The mufflers on these cars were huge, you almost couldn't hear it running with your ear at the tailpipe but they flowed almost as freely as straight pipes. Neither Ford nor GM put the effort into exhaust systems that Chrysler did. I've seen more of these on the roads than the same year Lincolns, but about twice as many Caddy's as either. Best I can recall it's been about 20 years since I've seen any of them street-driven not in conjunction with a car show nearby. Huge cars these all were, dwarfing today's 'big' cars, and even compared to their contemporary more ordinary brethren. These were the cars that said you'd 'made it' financially back then with nothing but a Rolls saying that better😎 WYR the Imperial edges out the Lincoln this year but not later even though Cadillac was on top of it's game during those times. And as much as I like the Studebaker, it's really from a different era in styling; part of the reason it would soon be gone. Once again the Imperial wins but by a larger margin this time. From a "Ford Man" who loves their mid- 60's and up, that's high praise for the Imperial 👍
Great choices. Thank you so much for taking the time to share all of that insight and information. Greatly appreciate it. Sorry for the delayed response.
Unlike Lincoln and Cadillac, this Imperial shared no body structure of its lesser brand sisters. It was nearly a handbuilt car that was followed down the line by assigned engineers.
Hi Justin, good video, nice car. The secret compartment/cubby holes on the two front doors are actuality "map pockets" the rear passenger compartment (if you noticed) has two map pockets down low on the back of the front seat one on either side. The rap around windshield is very good for visibility, but can be a "knee buster" when entering or exiting the vehicle, especially if your a tall person. The courtesy mirror that you mentioned on the right hand sun visor is called a vanity mirror. You can see this car in the 1966 20th Century Fox Movie "Fantastic Voyage" staring Raquel Welch. At the end of 1965, Chrysler Corporation donated two 1966 black Chrysler Imperial Crown vehicles to 20th Century Fox that where slightly used by high up Chrysler employees. They where to be used for the 1966 "The Green Hornet" TV series, but only one was ever used. The one that was used was modified at the Barris custom auto shop in San Fernando Valley California, to be used in the series as "The Black Beauty" the original intent was to lengthen the wheelbase to an executive limo (business limo) but, not a stretch limo (party limo) but there wasn't enough time to perform the modification before the first filming of the series. Please reply. Dave...
@@What.its.like. Thank you Justin! I am 64 years old, and I remember all of it, because I paid attention to all of it, on network cathode ray tube color TV Movies and TV series shows. By the way, there was NO internet at that time! I am talking about the 1960s and 1970s. Cable television in my area (Washington DC Metropolitan/Montgomery County MD) did not come out until about 1984, and before that we where STUCK with VHF/UHF network and local TV. Please reply. Dave...
Hey jay another WINNER! I love how excited you get! Like you’re seeing this model for the first time. Maybe you are seeing this style for the first time. Reminds me of me back in the day haha.
If you wanted prestige in the early 1960s you bought a Cadillac or perhaps a Lincoln. Yes, Imperials were great cars but they had a stodgy reputation back then. Note that the wraparound windshield was very passe by 1964. My recollection is that we would see a lot of Cadillacs and Lincolns at the country club parking lot & perhaps the occasional Imperial (usually driven by an elderly retired bank president or similar).
I can see by the comments below referencing demolition derbies and Beverly Hillbillies that this channel is attracting a sophisticated and well educated demographic
These cars actually were built like tanks. New Yorkers aren't allowed in demolition derbies because the front end is built so solidly. Get yours today.
O M G, one of my favorite cars in my favorite car color. Amazingly, 63 and 64 Imperials are the same structuraly, hence the compound curved windshield.
I have always held the Imperial as a top of the line American luxury automobile. My favorite years are 1931-1933, absolutely beautiful, then I jump to the 1955-1956 models, elegant, powerful, great style. Just skip over the Virgil Exner designs, and jump to 1964-1966 the last of the body on frame designs and probably the best automobile of the era.
WYR #1: DANG, I love the early Lincolns, so I love the '64 Lincoln, and I LOVE LOVE LOVE this Imperial ... so I don't know what to say ... either of the first two are such GREAT choices.
After being in both, I think the imperial is better, but that’s just my humble opinion you can’t go wrong with either of them the imperials on another level I think the Lincoln in the Cadillac are on their own level and this is just something totally different.. the Cadillac Fleetwood in my opinion, of course left a little bit to be desired when compared to these two
Thank you for the review. I thought this generation of the Imperial was good looking. The interior is so elegant. It is amazing how elegant and forward thinking it was in 1964. I noted the flush exterior door handles. I recall this generation being used on television on Batman and The Green Hornet and Beverly Hillbillies. I recall the ones from the 1970's especially 1974-1975 that become New Yorker Brougham as you said. I recall the 1981-1983 and the last one 1990-1993. I liked those generations too. You did a great job showing the interior and exterior. At the end the New Yorker Fifth Avenue and Imperial were really close. Imperial had some differences. I do recall that concept car that never made it into production. Thank you so much for the information and more you offered. You did an excellent job.
Thanks to a GREAT CAR SALESMAN FRIEND, I owned a '66 Imperial Crown and a '77 New Yorker Brougham! The '66 Imperial LIVED UP to my 10-year-old dream of owning one! THE BEST CAR I EVER DROVE! The '77 New Yorker Brougham was CLASS AND IRON TOUGH! My ex-wife TRIED HER BEST TO "kill it"! I MISS THESE TRULY GREAT CARS!
Supposedly Imperials were banned from demo derbies because the frame was so thick and heavy, heavier than a truck frame plus they had the heaviest gauge steel of any other car.
My third cousin had a 1965 Chrysler imperial,,,,(silver gray black leather interior) first car I ever knew,,,, to have power windows 🪟,,, very impressive,,,, love this car as a kid 👍🏽💯🫶🏽
Perhaps the most beautiful Imperial year. I know - my Dad had one, quiet, smooth, comfortable. WYR 1: Imperial (and the Continental) WYR 2: Imperial. That said, All of them.
Looks too much like a Lincoln which I don't care for. I loved my '63 LeBaron. Wish I really had it back. Wrong about the taillights being on the fenders of the '63. Those were more akin to marker lights. The taillights/brake lights were between the trunk lid and the bumper. Where is the tire silhouette bulge in the trunk lid of the '63? Is that actually a LeBaron or a lesser model( I think the lesser). Apparemntly you have never had a real '63 Imperial LeBaron to see with your own eyes. I used to own one. I had all the electrics and stuff. Highly optioned. It weighed 5400 lbs curb weight( yes I had it weighed). My mileage was 15mpg in town. 413 dual inline 4 bbls and it ran sweet. It is my preferred model and always will be. Mine had a gold color exterior with a gold brocade cloth interior.
Hi Jay! A VERY nice Imperial! Saw them on the roads back in the day, is nice to actually see one up close thanks to the video. Like the color on the one you show! Bet it rides like a dream. Chrysler Corp. were sure lucky to lure Engel from Fomoco! These are the most elegantly styled cars. When you showed the pic of the three cars during the WYR#1 the Cadillac sort of looks outdated next to the Lincoln and the Imperial! On to the WYR's. . .#1 have to go with the Lincoln, Engle did a fine job on that one, too. #2 Was going to pick the Imperial, UNTIL the GT Hawk popped up! Not as fancy, but the GT Hawk was SO COOL!
Hahaha great choices =) I love hawks want one, some day my wife has never seen a golden hawk if I ever get one she would probably be like nah that’s my car
WYR BOTH IMPERIALS This car, even more so than the Lincoln Continental, meant MONEY. they made a lot of limousines out of this car. Was also a. diplomats car with corner flags.. Saw these on Beverly Hillbilly's alot
The camera doesn't show just how huge these cars are! I always liked the styling of the 64-66 Imperials. I also always liked the trunk lock being just a small hole, rather than a whole bezel around it. Looks like the one you are looking at needs a heater core, as it is bypassed. WYR: 1st scenario= Lincoln; 2nd= yes! What other commenters are saying about Imperials being banned from demo derbies is true. The 2nd choice for demos are full size Chryslers of similar vintage.
Bumpers! This is one of the few non-GM cars that have bolt head free bumpers. Usually you only see those on Caddies, top end Buicks and top end Oldsmobile of the early to mid 1960's. The hood is unusual because the corners are rounded and the installation of the hood is what they call a 'pocket' installation so all the hoods edges have to match up with the rest of the body on all four sides which makes the body assembly quality people very nervous cause there is no room for mistakes.
Mid 60's was Chrysler and all Mopar at their best. They don't build them like that anymore and Stellantis is going to destroy Dodge. And I would absolutely take the Imperials in both cases.
In my opinion, the "64 was a much-needed update, not unlike the '63 Chrysler being a much-needed update to the '62. Not a complete redesign, but a nice update. This is another gorgeous car. I have always thought the tail end was very interesting. For WYR, I would pick Lincoln for the first scenario, the Imperial for the second.
Sad that CHRYSLER was run by exceptionally stupid people forever being that the IMPERIAL division disappeared because of horrible quality. Not much left of the CHRYSLER brand now.
1964 Fleetwood 1964 Imperial Many years ago I went to a demo derby in Indio California. Would be participants tried to pass off an early 1960s Imperial with most trim removed as a Chrysler Lebanon. I set the guys at the entrance kiosk straight.
Scenario 1 I would go with the 1964 Cadillac Fleetwood, and scenario two, as an acolyte of the GM Mark of Excellence, I will have invent a fourth option of the 1964 Buick Riviera since no GM option was offered there..
Oh Jay, if I had things to do over again, I would've bought a house with some land in the County, as opposed to the City. I would've owned several OLD, BIG cars, this would've been one of them. The "GREEN HORNET", from the 60's , this is/was the Green Hornets carl
I don’t know how you did it man I couldn’t live in the city everything’s too close neighbors I like having my own place that I don’t have to worry about neighbors.. lol
This was such in improvement to the previous year Imperial WYR 1 the Lincoln WYR 2 let me look in my stable and there sits my T Bird so you can guess how I would answer
This car doesn't appeal to me but it has some great features and I think the 7.7 second 0-60 time is impressive for the size of this beast. For the asking price this will make a really nice example for someone. I'd choose the 1964 Cadillac Fleetwood and the 1964 Ford Thunderbird which is my favorite year for Thunderbirds so it just edges out the GT Hawk.
Beautiful car, so sad we will never see the likes of these ever being built again - we've gone from these to bland "jellybeans" with no style! The only thing I can find fault with these Imperials is the A/C vents didn't blend in with the dash and had an "aftermarket/added on" look not becoming of an expensive luxury car of this caliber, where as Cadillac/Lincoln of the time did a better job incorporating their A/C vents.
Totally agree and it’s a pity that’s why this channel exists to bring to light the cars that are out there that can be driven.. this car doesn’t get great gas mileage but can swap reared and Improve it keeping original driven train
I own a 64 Imperial crown, I bought it 3 years ago for the 1964 MSRP, beautiful car, solid built, the split grill always reminds me of later Pontiacs, you failed to show a few neat features, the sliding door key covers, the gas cap under the imperial " bird" emblem on the back bumper and the "auto tune" radio operated by a switch on the floor that looked like a second dimmer switch, a car truly ahead of its time
Its funny how many of the cars of the mid sixties have fenders that come out on both sides, kind of like they are trying to hug you. I'll bet they act like an air dam scooping air into the front grill don't you? It is hard to imagen that that car could get to 60 mph in 7,7 seconds and could run up to 125 mph. Almost 5000 lb. wow.
12 interior color choices. Today on lower tier cars you might get 2 or 3 choices but, I doubt you get 12 choices on a Rolls Royse nowadays. The mid 30's to the late 60's had such beautiful car designs inside and out. Even in the '70's until the safety standards messed with bumpers.
Yeah we live in such a depressing era as far as car interior color options go.. We’ve been looking at vans and the van my wife has now has plushier seats, then the later generations
I cringed when you mentioned shutting the door on one’s hand! I slammed the door of a ‘77 Coupe deVille on my 9 y.o. hand (the door latched in the safety position) and I bled everywhere! I wore a splint for 6 weeks while my fingers healed. I remember it vividly.
Hahaha that was sort of a joke sort of because you very well could damage your hand it that door wouldn’t be the idea situation to find yourself in that’s for sure I’m sorry that happened to you
I prefer the split grill on the '64 Imperial to what came right after. Also 1964 was the last year for Chrysler products to be available with push button automatic transmission. My cars of choice would be the Imperial and Hawk.
63' was more modern than the 64' which looks better but is more retro. I think the 64' looks better, it has that movie star look to it Jay, so I expect you to be riding in the back with a chauffeur driving, stepping out in style. ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Let’s be real I would be the chauffeur lol and would love driving that car I miss floaty cars not everything needs sport seats I really wanna do nostalgia episode this year or sometime in the future. I don’t know if it’s going to happen this year 1988 Lincoln town car signature series was probably one of my favorite cars that I’ve ever owned ever. I would love to do an episode with that and just show just because it has 160 hp on paper doesn’t mean it sucks in reality
The Imperial shown is a better stronger car than the lincoln and cadillac. I am a cadillac man, but I am also an honest cadillac man and that 64 Imperial is a much tougher car. I was in a destruction derby at the Houston astrodome in 1979 and a 64 imperial completely tore up some cadillacs and lincolns. To me thats massive waste, but I was coerced to go for my wife so she could join her dad and step mother
I believe George Barris modded an Imperial for the "Green Hornet" television series. These cars were the pinnacle of luxury. The 413 was a power plant the inspired songs. Just a cool classic!
I don't think you mentioned it, but the Imperial was resurrected for the 1981-83 model years. They were based on the Chrysler Cordoba, but with a hump trunk. Lincoln and Cadillac also did the retro hump trunk treatment on their mid-sized cars. Unfortunately, this generation of Imperial only came with a Bendix fuel-injected 318 V8. Having lots of problems with the fuel injection, many were changed over to carburetors and even the dealers would swap in a 360 carbureted V8. The 1964 to 1966 Imperials were the "Green Hornet" era. Years later, when they did the full-length "Green Hornet" movie, quite a few Imperials disappeared , being used, cut-up and destroyed in the movie. Just like in the "Dukes Of Hazzard" TV show, countless 1968 Dodge Chargers disappeared. Imperial had been resurrected for the 1974-5 model years in it's final full-size body. Although the 440 V8 had become anemic by this time, one of the key features was 4-wheel disc brakes. This was the first time for Imperial since the late-50's. True, Chrysler didn't just throw the Imperial body away, it became the New Yorker, sans the 4-wheel disc brakes.
The 1964 was almost a full redesign. There wasn't enough money to abandon that big old wrap around windshield. So technically, the 64, 65, 66 Imperials are a mashup design that left Virgil Exner's massive and distinctive wrap around windshield in place for 3 more years. Making 1967 the first year that Elwood Engles gets full credit for Imperial looks. But the full size Chryslers for 1965 and on were 100% Engels. 1964 Chrysler was the last of Exner, last of the wrap around, and last of the push button transmission. This 1964 Imperial is also the last to have the push button transmission. These really are the end of that crazy over-built, designer lead era of cars with truck drive trains. So epic!
Beautiful automobile. You can see Elwood Engel's work, relatively flat side surrounded by brightwork, like the Lincolns he worked on. And that rear bumper/taillight design, Elwood liked propellers, and that bumper is one big propeller. You can see that on early 50s Ford bumpers and some of the taillights have blades on them like the Turbine car headlight bezels,
I love 50's Exner. 60's Exner, makes you wonder if he'd passed the Acid test. I'll take the '64. I'd also take the Imperial over the other luxury yachts, but I'll take the Hawk GT from the two door options.
Great video Jay it’s a shame you couldn’t get in the back seat as it’s truly comfortable and roomy as far as the WYR I just can’t decide this time as they are all great choices
The Beach Boys, Get You Back
Yeah buddy spelling is a little different but not a sticker for spelling
I WISH I liked "The Beach Boys"!
@@johnmaki3046 You should.
Im pretty sure that Milburn Dyrsdale limo was one of these Imperial models on the Beverly Hillbillies .The show was supplied by Chrysler Dodge and Plymouth motors. Miss Jane drove a 63 Valiant I think.
Yes, I remember "Miss Jane" driving a Coronet convertible and the Drysdales having a '63 Imperial. @440coronet
My Spanish teacher drove a '72 Plymouth Swinger😅😂😊@440coronet
The producers always found some place in an episode to insert a "drive up" segment (giving the sponsor's product lines a little "face time").
Black Beauty with Bruce Lee at the wheel.
Touche' (smile)
Green Hornet!
My Step-dad had a'64. I can still smell that leather interior.
Had a really nice smell in there
This car totally intrigued me because of how radical and ahead of other designs at this time..And that this design was So refined in style compared to previous Chryslers.
Back in 1964, I worked as a salesman for Martin Chrysler-Plymouth in San Diego Ca. Oh how I miss those "Days of Yesteryear". Great automobiles back then, GM, Ford, and Chrysler Corporation. Boy, they just don't make 'em like that anymore. Back then, you didn't have to guess what model of car it was. Everyone had it's own style and look.
Model ID that's what I miss most about the automobile industry!!!
Yeah, me too!@@scottbiddle3967
They don't make them like they used do! Forget the "crush zones" how about the "rigged zones" that is the MOST protection! Please reply. Dave...
Dave, I'm not familiar with what a "rigged zone" is. I don't remember if any of the cars back then had "crush zones" either. Of course I'm a "dinosaur", and my remember parts don't work as well as they used to. @@daveridgeway2639
HI mike, I think you are very correct! I also want to add, by todays standards all cars are engineered with safety crush zones, in the mean time, older cars did not have them. The car that you drive should be designed to protect YOU! Not the other FOOL! Please reply. Dave...
I always thought this was a beautiful design...masculine, handsome.
💯 agree.
What a beautiful car. Beats the heck out of Cadillac and Lincoln.
Totally agree
It exuded quality and elegance like no other car in its time including Rolls-Royce. There was nothing better.
@@LlyleHunter I have a '65 and the build quality is still exceptional! Never been restored.
Imperials were so successful in Demolition Derbies that they were banned from competing by the Demolition Derby Drivers Association. The Imperial's prowess in demo derbies was due to its body on frame construction at a time when all other Chrysler-built cars were unibody construction. Imperials had extremely strong steel frames and many other heavy duty components. They deserved to be called, "tanks." Great video about a great car.
I saw a 64 in a demo derby at our fair last year… broke my heart.
@@djplonghead5403 Oh no. Sad.
Yeah, but that came later.. No new Imperial was ever in a demolition derby
It's a shame that these beautiful cars ended up being reduced to demolition derby Slugs.
Even the unibody Imperials (67 and up) are killer demo derby cars. I saw a 69 Imperial in a derby once, and it destroyed everything in its path.
When I was growing up in my small town in the 1960’s , the bank president had this exact car -color and roof. I was always amazed by this car
Awesome =) this would be the bankers hot rod
Are you sure you didn't live on the set of the Beverly Hillbillies cuz I belive that this was the car that Mr Drysdale drove in that series and he was the President of the Bank where Jed Clampett had all his money and Investments!!!!.Seems as though he alwways Drove an Imperial!!!!.@What.its.like.
@@mikeweizer3149 lol no, it was a real town with a small bank and The bank president had a wooden leg. He would get himself out of the car every day and the kids would watch him limp into the bank. The rumor was that he made his fortune during the depression from foreclosure property. I can still see that car in my memories and the big cigars he always smoked.
@@What.its.like. No, that was the Chrysler 300.
The exterior color was called Sequoia Green. The best part about it was in certain light it was black in others green. My dad had one of these with a matching Green leather interior. It was Stunning.
My uncle and aunt who lived in Wichita, KS would purchase a Imperial every two years. He was a surgeon and made good money.
I remember seeing these elegant cars parked outside their home. Being a kid back then (early ‘50’s) I remember thinking, “Oh why can’t we have a car like this?” Not at all realizing how expensive they were . We had a ‘56 Ford Fairlane two door hardtop, which was pretty nice for us.
My uncle and aunt would take us somewhere and my brothers and I were allowed to ride in the back seat. Wow!
That’s awesome thank you so much for sharing those memories with us. It’s crazy to think that he was able to afford an imperial every two years but then again surgeons make good money.
I know how you felt back then , I use to think "Why can't we as well ?" When I was a child I use to look at all the catalogs and dream .The sad thing today as an adult is ,"Why can't I "?
What an absolutely beautiful work of art, and exceptionally well preserved! The dash padding has a tendency to shrink and peel up (much like panther platform Lincolns and their glove box padding), and this one is pristine! I had to opportunity to drive a '65 once, and lemme tell you, it was a substantial feeling car to drive on the road. While I do like the '62/'63 Exner Imperials, his designs for all of MOPAR were, schizophrenic at best during the early 60's after a great run in the mid to late 50's. The '60/'61 Imperials were hideous, as was the '61 Dodge. Coming out of that, MOPAR shined! As I'm sure was mentioned somewhere in the comments, these were banned from running against other vehicles in demo-derbies, being relegated to their own "Imperial Class" because of their toughness. It is gut wrenching to see them destroyed like that, but also a thrill to see the damage they can endure. Beautiful car, thank you, J, so much for this video! WYR: 1) Imperial, hands down (sorry Lincoln) 2) How dare you throw a T-bird into the mix! Naughty, naughty, naughty... LOL... If I could only have one, I'd have to go with the Bird... but the Imperial is no slouch...
Hahaha yeah thunderbird was cheaper tho so optioned up one Buick Rivera was almost on the list as well
Thank you so much fir sharing the information and insight =)
What was the ride like
@@What.its.like. It's a heavy handling car, but not in a bad way, a very, very good way. Power for days, steering and brakes worked by just blowing on them. It just felt like it was glued to the road, until a sharp curve, then she would heel over a bit. Bumps? What bumps? It might have been the age (this was in 2001, so car was 36 years old) but it seemed like there was a lot of wind noise from the side windows. If you ever get the chance to sail one over these ocean liners, do it!
The T-BIRD was nice. I had a '65 and a '69. The '65 had some cool features like a a swing away steering wheel and other nice features.
@@billhowes7464 My dad had a '65. It was white with this gawdawful lime green vinyl interior with gold flecks in it. The back seat was "lounge seating"... the back curved from the sides and there was no way to stop from sliding into the center of the seat... but whata car!
WE HAD A WHITE ON WHITE 64 IMPERIAL BACK IN 1972....IT FLOATED DOWN THE ROAD. IT HAD THE BEST AIR CONDITIONER...AND THE RADIO COULD REACH OUT 5 STATES AT NIGHT....
Thanks for an excellent look at a beautiful car! You had to be pretty limber to film this one, Jay, and your gymnastics are appreciated. You're absolutely correct about Imperials not getting the respect they deserve. The restrained elegance and quiet strength of this design was pleasing from every angle.
Happy you dig this one need to do more imperial they are hard to find
I think the 64-66 were the most elegant and well built of all Imperials. I think Exners wild styles and dramatic changes hurt the brand because people who buy Premium cars in that era didn't want their new car to look obsolete the next year.
I totally agree. I own a black on black '65.
Glad you found another Imperial , my favorite luxury car this side of Packard. 64-66 Imperials are the most beautiful of the classic 57-66 ones. Nice green shade, and luxurious interior Take one over a Cadillac or Lincoln any day I'll take the 64 Lebaron 4 door and a 66 Imperial Crown coupe with the glass headlight covers, and the 64 GT Hawk for good measure.
It’s like a fine Coach built motorcar of the old days. Such fine build quality
Totally agree
My mother owned a '64 which I drove on several occasions. A beautiful boat. Probably the most luxurious car I have seen (except RR, etc). Even nicer than her '78 Caddy. Loved it: turquoise with brocade upholstery. Nice to think of it!!
Awesome thank you for sharing that memory =)
In 1965 came the 100 year old Claro Walnut dash and interior trim. Engel hit it out of the ballpark for '65. The 413 V8 is a smooth running engine. Even now at 124,000 miles mine runs like a new engine. Original interior still beautiful.
Ads of the day called this the Incomparable Imperial. I like how the 64-66 Imperials retained the wraparound windshield and curved side window glass, vestiges of the Exner Forward Look Imperials.
Wow….my kind of car! What a hefty MSRP! And yeah, very masculine design. Love it.
Close to $12 a pound
💯 Agree. Such a great looking car.
7:08 I have to agree with Jay, this is a *_*BEAUTIFUL*_* car.
Absolutely gorgeous car when I was looking for it because Classic automall is a big place they have over 1000 cars for sale.. I’m not sure how many rooms there are but there’s a lot so I usually have to go find these cars when I came around the corner and I saw this I was like jackpot lol
Great video just started following you. I used to dream of either an early 60s Lincoln Continental or an Imperial my parents owned a 1964 and 1966 imperial before I was born. After driving both and considering the difference in price I chose imperial. I have both a 1964 and 1966 Crown Coupe and am now addicted to the imperial marque. The joy of driving these cars is unmatched. Beauty, design, and driving performance are all stellar. Ultimately, for the less than the price of one mid condition Lincoln Continental I have two beautiful IMPERIALS !
Possum welcome to the community curious, where are you located? Imperials are really hard to find. I would love to feature both of your cars on the channel if you’re up for it. Depending on where you’re located of course.
I own a '65. Special cars. Never again.
The ultimate facelift of the 1957 Imperial
A beauty. Thanks for bringing it and the history to us!
Thank you so much for watching. Glad you dig this episode. =)
Both rounds of “would you rather” go to the Imperial. In my book, there’s just nothing that can outclass them. Gorgeous, gorgeous car.
Chrysler used to call it “America’s most carefully built car,” and they weren’t just boasting. The amount of time they lavished on each car is astounding, including a ridiculous amount of time spent on just the fitting of the doors. Even after so many decades, that care is still evident when you close the doors of one.
Awesome choices. Thank you so much for sharing all that insight and information greatly appreciate it.
I am 68 yrs of age and ever since I can remember, motorbikes and cars have held a very special place in my heart. Being born in the mid 50s I had the privilege of seeing some of the best engineering and design projects that led to some of the most outstanding machines when looking at design and development along with engineering brilliance. I don't know how I would get on in a world without the internal combustion engine, cars made of plastic components and recycled Coca-Cola cans, plus the added burden of mostly front wheel drive.
FWIW, I'm of a similar age, and LOVE this vintage automobile.
Don't forget about serviceability. Today's cars with all the electronic goo-ga on them will be thrown away after 5 years due to lack of available spare parts. Today, you are not supposed to repair your car, you are supposed to buy a new one. I saw a video by a mechanic who could not get a gearbox controller for a 2005 Bentley Arnage. Without that part, the car was a paperweight.
The end of "Exner excess". The similarities to the Lincoln are there, but there are enough differences to give it little more than a nod. I always have liked these cars and their styling. Of course, I think of the Green Hornet as well. Combine the two, definite dream car. Mr Engel did himself proud with this one. WYR: 1964 Cadillac and 1964 Thunderbird (I had a 65, I'm not being objective).
Great choices I liked exner but there is too much of a good thing..
This is the most beautiful Imperial with the cleanest lines. It takes many cues from the 63 Continental and that is no surprise because Elwood Engel had left Ford for Chrysler. Two door models of this car are rare and command a high price. Virgil Exner created many positive innovations for Chrysler but by the 60's he had run off the rails.
Well that explains a lot. Now I know why '64 Imperials suddenly looked like Lincoln Continentals. Gone was Virgil Exner and in was Elwood Engle.
As a side note, The 64-66 Imperial was the last body-on-frame Chrysler cars, and they were so well built and crash worthy, they were banned from Demolition Derby's
Absolute plush luxury, like driving your living room around 😄Lots of striking styling with lots of more subtle touches, these were beautiful cars and IMHO the full equal of the Caddy's and Lincolns it was up against. There's still some Exner-like aspects which was the Chrysler style but no excesses. Those were storage pockets on the seat backs to compensate for them lacking under the armrest like in front. The interior door handles tempt you to have your hand on it which wasn't as safe as the usual kind but they're a nice touch. The "W" shaped front ends were in vogue, but would soon go away as another safety comcern: a pedestrian would be drawn into and under the car instead of being pushed away. If you blinked you probably wouldn't know it when driving one of these as the ride was a lot like floating along over bumps and dips 🙃 Chrysler was leading the performance game and they didn't forget the exhaust system. The mufflers on these cars were huge, you almost couldn't hear it running with your ear at the tailpipe but they flowed almost as freely as straight pipes. Neither Ford nor GM put the effort into exhaust systems that Chrysler did. I've seen more of these on the roads than the same year Lincolns, but about twice as many Caddy's as either. Best I can recall it's been about 20 years since I've seen any of them street-driven not in conjunction with a car show nearby. Huge cars these all were, dwarfing today's 'big' cars, and even compared to their contemporary more ordinary brethren. These were the cars that said you'd 'made it' financially back then with nothing but a Rolls saying that better😎
WYR the Imperial edges out the Lincoln this year but not later even though Cadillac was on top of it's game during those times. And as much as I like the Studebaker, it's really from a different era in styling; part of the reason it would soon be gone. Once again the Imperial wins but by a larger margin this time. From a "Ford Man" who loves their mid- 60's and up, that's high praise for the Imperial 👍
Great choices. Thank you so much for taking the time to share all of that insight and information. Greatly appreciate it. Sorry for the delayed response.
My Grandmother had a 1965 Crown Coupe, three-way Red, Body, Interior, and Vinyl Roof. Gorgeous car!
Awesome thank you so much for sharing your grandmother’s car with us. It sounds like it was a stellar ride.
@@What.its.like. It was beautiful, and very well cared for over the years.
Unlike Lincoln and Cadillac, this Imperial shared no body structure of its lesser brand sisters. It was nearly a handbuilt car that was followed down the line by assigned engineers.
Hi Justin, good video, nice car. The secret compartment/cubby holes on the two front doors are actuality "map pockets" the rear passenger compartment (if you noticed) has two map pockets down low on the back of the front seat one on either side. The rap around windshield is very good for visibility, but can be a "knee buster" when entering or exiting the vehicle, especially if your a tall person. The courtesy mirror that you mentioned on the right hand sun visor is called a vanity mirror. You can see this car in the 1966 20th Century Fox Movie "Fantastic Voyage" staring Raquel Welch. At the end of 1965, Chrysler Corporation donated two 1966 black Chrysler Imperial Crown vehicles to 20th Century Fox that where slightly used by high up Chrysler employees. They where to be used for the 1966 "The Green Hornet" TV series, but only one was ever used. The one that was used was modified at the Barris custom auto shop in San Fernando Valley California, to be used in the series as "The Black Beauty" the original intent was to lengthen the wheelbase to an executive limo (business limo) but, not a stretch limo (party limo) but there wasn't enough time to perform the modification before the first filming of the series. Please reply. Dave...
Thank you so much for sharing all that information and insight =) greatly appreciate it
@@What.its.like. Thank you Justin! I am 64 years old, and I remember all of it, because I paid attention to all of it, on network cathode ray tube color TV Movies and TV series shows. By the way, there was NO internet at that time! I am talking about the 1960s and 1970s. Cable television in my area (Washington DC Metropolitan/Montgomery County MD) did not come out until about 1984, and before that we where STUCK with VHF/UHF network and local TV. Please reply. Dave...
Hey jay another WINNER! I love how excited you get! Like you’re seeing this model for the first time. Maybe you are seeing this style for the first time. Reminds me of me back in the day haha.
If you wanted prestige in the early 1960s you bought a Cadillac or perhaps a Lincoln. Yes, Imperials were great cars but they had a stodgy reputation back then. Note that the wraparound windshield was very passe by 1964. My recollection is that we would see a lot of Cadillacs and Lincolns at the country club parking lot & perhaps the occasional Imperial (usually driven by an elderly retired bank president or similar).
I can see by the comments below referencing demolition derbies and Beverly Hillbillies that this channel is attracting a sophisticated and well educated demographic
These cars actually were built like tanks. New Yorkers aren't allowed in demolition derbies because the front end is built so solidly.
Get yours today.
413 is really digging in...🎼🎶🎼
=)
O M G, one of my favorite cars in my favorite car color.
Amazingly, 63 and 64 Imperials are the same structuraly, hence the compound curved windshield.
I have always held the Imperial as a top of the line American luxury automobile. My favorite years are 1931-1933, absolutely beautiful, then I jump to the 1955-1956 models, elegant, powerful, great style. Just skip over the Virgil Exner designs, and jump to 1964-1966 the last of the body on frame designs and probably the best automobile of the era.
33 imperial now that’s a nice car
I like Exner I think he was cool, but I do agree that by the 60s it was too much of a good thing .
I would pick the Cad, but I also like this Imperial...
WYR #1: DANG, I love the early Lincolns, so I love the '64 Lincoln, and I LOVE LOVE LOVE this Imperial ... so I don't know what to say ... either of the first two are such GREAT choices.
After being in both, I think the imperial is better, but that’s just my humble opinion you can’t go wrong with either of them the imperials on another level I think the Lincoln in the Cadillac are on their own level and this is just something totally different.. the Cadillac Fleetwood in my opinion, of course left a little bit to be desired when compared to these two
The Imperial will drive more like a modern car compared to the Lincoln or Caddie.
Thank you for the review. I thought this generation of the Imperial was good looking. The interior is so elegant. It is amazing how elegant and forward thinking it was in 1964. I noted the flush exterior door handles. I recall this generation being used on television on Batman and The Green Hornet and Beverly Hillbillies. I recall the ones from the 1970's especially 1974-1975 that become New Yorker Brougham as you said. I recall the 1981-1983 and the last one 1990-1993. I liked those generations too. You did a great job showing the interior and exterior. At the end the New Yorker Fifth Avenue and Imperial were really close. Imperial had some differences. I do recall that concept car that never made it into production. Thank you so much for the information and more you offered. You did an excellent job.
Thank you so much for watching this one =) glad you dig this episode
@@What.its.like. You are welcome. I am always watching. Sometimes I do not say anything, but I am watching. This was a good episode.
=)
Imperial existed for model years 1955 - 1975 and 1981 - 1983. All other years were a MODEL of Chrysler division.
2:00 "Understated Elgegance," ... I have to say, that REALLY appeals to me.
Thanks to a GREAT CAR SALESMAN FRIEND, I owned a '66 Imperial Crown and a '77 New Yorker Brougham! The '66 Imperial LIVED UP to my 10-year-old dream of owning one! THE BEST CAR I EVER DROVE! The '77 New Yorker Brougham was CLASS AND IRON TOUGH! My ex-wife TRIED HER BEST TO "kill it"! I MISS THESE TRULY GREAT CARS!
Back in the 70s and 80s a lot of nice imperials were ran in demolition derbys which is a crime
I can see why though these were ocean liners.. and the interior 1st class smoking room
Supposedly Imperials were banned from demo derbies because the frame was so thick and heavy, heavier than a truck frame plus they had the heaviest gauge steel of any other car.
My third cousin had a 1965 Chrysler imperial,,,,(silver gray black leather interior) first car I ever knew,,,, to have power windows 🪟,,, very impressive,,,, love this car as a kid 👍🏽💯🫶🏽
Perhaps the most beautiful Imperial year. I know - my Dad had one, quiet, smooth, comfortable. WYR 1: Imperial (and the Continental) WYR 2: Imperial. That said, All of them.
Haha nice
What did your dad think of his imperial
@@What.its.like. His favorite car kept it drove it for 20 years.
Jed Clampet.... Milton Drysdale.....😮
Milburn
Yes, my first thought was, this is something out of the Beverly Hillbillies!
Not that song or band
Didn't Milton Drysdale own a '64 Imperial
@@ernielaw Milburn had several in the show as it went on. Each one a newer model of course, Jane drove newer Dodges too every season.
It was such a nice car ,that The Green Hornet used it as The Black Beauty .
Looks too much like a Lincoln which I don't care for. I loved my '63 LeBaron. Wish I really had it back. Wrong about the taillights being on the fenders of the '63. Those were more akin to marker lights. The taillights/brake lights were between the trunk lid and the bumper. Where is the tire silhouette bulge in the trunk lid of the '63? Is that actually a LeBaron or a lesser model( I think the lesser). Apparemntly you have never had a real '63 Imperial LeBaron to see with your own eyes. I used to own one. I had all the electrics and stuff. Highly optioned. It weighed 5400 lbs curb weight( yes I had it weighed). My mileage was 15mpg in town. 413 dual inline 4 bbls and it ran sweet. It is my preferred model and always will be. Mine had a gold color exterior with a gold brocade cloth interior.
My favorite Imperial of the 60s is the 67
Hi Jay! A VERY nice Imperial! Saw them on the roads back in the day, is nice to actually see one up close thanks to the video. Like the color on the one you show! Bet it rides like a dream. Chrysler Corp. were sure lucky to lure Engel from Fomoco! These are the most elegantly styled cars. When you showed the pic of the three cars during the WYR#1 the Cadillac sort of looks outdated next to the Lincoln and the Imperial! On to the WYR's. . .#1 have to go with the Lincoln, Engle did a fine job on that one, too. #2 Was going to pick the Imperial, UNTIL the GT Hawk popped up! Not as fancy, but the GT Hawk was SO COOL!
Hahaha great choices =)
I love hawks want one, some day my wife has never seen a golden hawk if I ever get one she would probably be like nah that’s my car
WYR BOTH IMPERIALS
This car, even more so than the Lincoln Continental, meant MONEY. they made a lot of limousines out of this car.
Was also a. diplomats car with corner flags..
Saw these on Beverly Hillbilly's alot
The camera doesn't show just how huge these cars are! I always liked the styling of the 64-66 Imperials. I also always liked the trunk lock being just a small hole, rather than a whole bezel around it. Looks like the one you are looking at needs a heater core, as it is bypassed. WYR: 1st scenario= Lincoln; 2nd= yes! What other commenters are saying about Imperials being banned from demo derbies is true. The 2nd choice for demos are full size Chryslers of similar vintage.
Totally agree it’s like trying to get the titanic in one shot lol
Bumpers! This is one of the few non-GM cars that have bolt head free bumpers. Usually you only see those on Caddies, top end Buicks and top end Oldsmobile of the early to mid 1960's. The hood is unusual because the corners are rounded and the installation of the hood is what they call a 'pocket' installation so all the hoods edges have to match up with the rest of the body on all four sides which makes the body assembly quality people very nervous cause there is no room for mistakes.
Very nice. Thank you.
I really like this car =)
Mid 60's was Chrysler and all Mopar at their best. They don't build them like that anymore and Stellantis is going to destroy Dodge. And I would absolutely take the Imperials in both cases.
In my opinion, the "64 was a much-needed update, not unlike the '63 Chrysler being a much-needed update to the '62. Not a complete redesign, but a nice update.
This is another gorgeous car. I have always thought the tail end was very interesting.
For WYR, I would pick Lincoln for the first scenario, the Imperial for the second.
Got my license in a '660 Lebaron. Incredible car that was way better than any Cadillac or Lincoln.
Sad that CHRYSLER was run by exceptionally stupid people forever being that the IMPERIAL division disappeared because of horrible quality. Not much left of the CHRYSLER brand now.
I totally agree
Wasn't this the type of car once used in the classic tv show 'The Beverly Hillbillies'?
1964 Fleetwood
1964 Imperial
Many years ago I went to a demo derby in Indio California. Would be participants tried to pass off an early 1960s Imperial with most trim removed as a Chrysler Lebanon. I set the guys at the entrance kiosk straight.
Awesome choices =)
Hahaha great story
The 1964 Imperial was one of the most beautiful cars ever made.
Totally agree it sucks they are rarely seen
For scenario 1 I'd take the Imperial and for scenario 2 I'd go with the Studebaker Hawk.
Scenario 1 I would go with the 1964 Cadillac Fleetwood, and scenario two, as an acolyte of the GM Mark of Excellence, I will have invent a fourth option of the 1964 Buick Riviera since no GM option was offered there..
Great choices
I once knew a New York mob boss , who owned that same black Imperial.
WYR1: '61 Lincoln Continental or '62 Imperial.
WYR2: The Hawk R1 with the full super package, or the Avanti, factory air in whichever, manual shift.
WYR #2: I hate to be so indecisive, but all three are great choices.
=)
Nice car, loved it but I have to go with the T-Bird cuz we had one... Fully loaded, brand new.
Oh Jay, if I had things to do over again, I would've bought a house with some land in the County, as opposed to the City. I would've owned several OLD, BIG cars, this would've been one of them. The "GREEN HORNET", from the 60's , this is/was the Green Hornets carl
I don’t know how you did it man I couldn’t live in the city everything’s too close neighbors I like having my own place that I don’t have to worry about neighbors.. lol
This was such in improvement to the previous year Imperial WYR 1 the Lincoln WYR 2 let me look in my stable and there sits my T Bird so you can guess how I would answer
Sweet choices =)
This car doesn't appeal to me but it has some great features and I think the 7.7 second 0-60 time is impressive for the size of this beast. For the asking price this will make a really nice example for someone. I'd choose the 1964 Cadillac Fleetwood and the 1964 Ford Thunderbird which is my favorite year for Thunderbirds so it just edges out the GT Hawk.
Sweet choices =) this would make a great driver and it will be something no one else has
Beautiful car, so sad we will never see the likes of these ever being built again - we've gone from these to bland "jellybeans" with no style! The only thing I can find fault with these Imperials is the A/C vents didn't blend in with the dash and had an "aftermarket/added on" look not becoming of an expensive luxury car of this caliber, where as Cadillac/Lincoln of the time did a better job incorporating their A/C vents.
Totally agree and it’s a pity that’s why this channel exists to bring to light the cars that are out there that can be driven.. this car doesn’t get great gas mileage but can swap reared and Improve it keeping original driven train
I own a 64 Imperial crown, I bought it 3 years ago for the 1964 MSRP, beautiful car, solid built, the split grill always reminds me of later Pontiacs, you failed to show a few neat features, the sliding door key covers, the gas cap under the imperial " bird" emblem on the back bumper and the "auto tune" radio operated by a switch on the floor that looked like a second dimmer switch, a car truly ahead of its time
Thank you so much for including the things I forgot to go over
Its funny how many of the cars of the mid sixties have fenders that come out on both sides, kind of like they are trying to hug you.
I'll bet they act like an air dam scooping air into the front grill don't you? It is hard to imagen that that car could get to 60 mph in 7,7 seconds and could run up to 125 mph. Almost 5000 lb. wow.
Legendary 413 =)
12 interior color choices. Today on lower tier cars you might get 2 or 3 choices but, I doubt you get 12 choices on a Rolls Royse nowadays. The mid 30's to the late 60's had such beautiful car designs inside and out. Even in the '70's until the safety standards messed with bumpers.
Yeah we live in such a depressing era as far as car interior color options go..
We’ve been looking at vans and the van my wife has now has plushier seats, then the later generations
I cringed when you mentioned shutting the door on one’s hand! I slammed the door of a ‘77 Coupe deVille on my 9 y.o. hand (the door latched in the safety position) and I bled everywhere! I wore a splint for 6 weeks while my fingers healed. I remember it vividly.
Hahaha that was sort of a joke sort of because you very well could damage your hand it that door wouldn’t be the idea situation to find yourself in that’s for sure
I’m sorry that happened to you
I prefer the split grill on the '64 Imperial to what came right after. Also 1964 was the last year for Chrysler products to be available with push button automatic transmission. My cars of choice would be the Imperial and Hawk.
Sweet choices =)
Such an elegant car. Thanks Jay for another great video!
=) happy you dig this episode
63' was more modern than the 64' which looks better but is more retro. I think the 64' looks better, it has that movie star look to it Jay, so I expect you to be riding in the back with a chauffeur driving, stepping out in style. ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Let’s be real I would be the chauffeur lol and would love driving that car I miss floaty cars not everything needs sport seats
I really wanna do nostalgia episode this year or sometime in the future. I don’t know if it’s going to happen this year 1988 Lincoln town car signature series was probably one of my favorite cars that I’ve ever owned ever. I would love to do an episode with that and just show just because it has 160 hp on paper doesn’t mean it sucks in reality
WYR: All of them.
Haha awesome =)
The Imperial shown is a better stronger car than the lincoln and cadillac. I am a cadillac man, but I am also an honest cadillac man and that 64 Imperial is a much tougher car. I was in a destruction derby at the Houston astrodome in 1979 and a 64 imperial completely tore up some cadillacs and lincolns. To me thats massive waste, but I was coerced to go for my wife so she could join her dad and step mother
billmcdevitt1298 Yes they were. They have also always made the best engines
Question 1: Imperial. Question 2: Studebaker (Imperial is a very close second).
Awesome choices =)
I believe George Barris modded an Imperial for the "Green Hornet" television series. These cars were the pinnacle of luxury. The 413 was a power plant the inspired songs. Just a cool classic!
Love the car! My family has one, but i dont think there are any seatbelts in it. Arent they were standard? Thanks!
I'm sorry you coudn't show all the car as usual because it was
awfully parked.
64 looks better
I don't think you mentioned it, but the Imperial was resurrected for the 1981-83 model years. They were based on the Chrysler Cordoba, but with a hump trunk. Lincoln and Cadillac also did the retro hump trunk treatment on their mid-sized cars. Unfortunately, this generation of Imperial only came with a Bendix fuel-injected 318 V8. Having lots of problems with the fuel injection, many were changed over to carburetors and even the dealers would swap in a 360 carbureted V8.
The 1964 to 1966 Imperials were the "Green Hornet" era. Years later, when they did the full-length "Green Hornet" movie, quite a few Imperials disappeared , being used, cut-up and destroyed in the movie. Just like in the "Dukes Of Hazzard" TV show, countless 1968 Dodge Chargers disappeared.
Imperial had been resurrected for the 1974-5 model years in it's final full-size body. Although the 440 V8 had become anemic by this time, one of the key features was 4-wheel disc brakes. This was the first time for Imperial since the late-50's.
True, Chrysler didn't just throw the Imperial body away, it became the New Yorker, sans the 4-wheel disc brakes.
Thank you so much for sharing this great information =)
Also resurrected 1990-93, but as 4 door sedans.
@@ernielawNo. The 1990 - 1993 were a Chrysler model.
The way I always heard it was that Lincoln and Cadillac were for the new money people. Imperial was for the old money people.
That’s a great way to put it imperial just seems like a cut above Lincoln and Cadillac especially this one
I’ll take the Lincoln Continental from the first selection and the T Bird from the second, thanks.
Great choices
Happy you dig this video
1964 was one of the best
model year for car manufacturers.
Kevin Phoenix ✝️
It was definitely a good year for cars
The 1964 was almost a full redesign. There wasn't enough money to abandon that big old wrap around windshield. So technically, the 64, 65, 66 Imperials are a mashup design that left Virgil Exner's massive and distinctive wrap around windshield in place for 3 more years. Making 1967 the first year that Elwood Engles gets full credit for Imperial looks.
But the full size Chryslers for 1965 and on were 100% Engels. 1964 Chrysler was the last of Exner, last of the wrap around, and last of the push button transmission. This 1964 Imperial is also the last to have the push button transmission. These really are the end of that crazy over-built, designer lead era of cars with truck drive trains. So epic!
They Used 1964 Model as the "Black Beauty" in 1966 "Green Hornet".
I believe they used a '66 Crown.
Beautiful automobile. You can see Elwood Engel's work, relatively flat side surrounded by brightwork, like the Lincolns he worked on. And that rear bumper/taillight design, Elwood liked propellers, and that bumper is one big propeller. You can see that on early 50s Ford bumpers and some of the taillights have blades on them like the Turbine car headlight bezels,
Imperial on on both pics 1964 very Good Year I was born😂 yeah man nice job on the show
=)
I love 50's Exner. 60's Exner, makes you wonder if he'd passed the Acid test. I'll take the '64. I'd also take the Imperial over the other luxury yachts, but I'll take the Hawk GT from the two door options.
Great video Jay it’s a shame you couldn’t get in the back seat as it’s truly comfortable and roomy as far as the WYR I just can’t decide this time as they are all great choices
Totally agree
This won’t be the last imperial I just wish they wasn’t so hard to find
What’s up Jay I have seen any new videos this week, everything okay with you I hope