The 1955-1956 Imperial, Chrysler's best car, spun-off as a separate make beginning with the 1955 models, which were terrific. It was styled by Virgil Exner along the lines of his 1954 Parade Phaeton show cars. A big split eggcrate grille was used up front, distinctive gunsight taillights adorned the rear, and sculpted, flowing body lines with fully radiused rear wheel openings appeared in between.

The '56 Imperials gained modest tailfins plus a slightly longer wheelbase and length. Power was supplied by Chrysler's Hemi V-8, with a displacement and power boost for '56. Also that year, a four-door hardtop sedan was added to the line in common with other Chrysler divisions.

Pluses of the 1955-1956 Imperial:
  • Fine styling
  • Good quality control
  • Great road car
  • One of the more affordable luxury Milestones
Minuses of the 1955-1956 Imperial:
  • Thirsty
  • Handling and braking not up to the horsepower
Production of the 1955 Imperial:
4d sdn, 7,840; Newport 2d htp, 3,418

Production of the 1956 Imperial:
4d sdn, 6,821; Southampton 2d htp, 2,094; Southampton 4d htp, 1,543

Specifications of the 1955-1956 Imperial:
Length, inches: 223.0 (1955), 226.0 (1956)
Wheelbase, inches: 130 (1955), 133.0 (1956)
Weight, pounds: 4,565-4,680
Price, new: $4,483-$5,225 (U.S.)

Engines for the 1955-1956 Imperial:

TypeSize
Horsepower
Years
ohv V-8331 cid
2501955
ohv V-8354 cid2801956

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