Vehicle Description
In 1955 the Chrysler corporation decided that its top trim models
called "imperials" should become its own stand alone brand to
better compete with its North American rivals, Cadillac and
Lincoln. Some of the brand values were to have a new and improved
model introduced every two to three years as well has make V8
engines and automatic transmission standard. Introduced in 1957,
the new Imperials featured Virgil Exner's "Forward Look" styling
and featured strong and complicated engineering including the first
curved side glass in an American automobile. Utilizing separate
full perimeter frames and cross boxes as well as an internal drive
shaft the Imperials were over engineered.
With a bullet style grill, quad headlights, tall tailfins, and the
trademark "gunsight" taillights, the Imperials were just as stylish
and sophisticated like their Cadillac and Lincoln competitors.
Another advanced design was "Torsion-Aire" suspension which was an
indirect-acting, torsion-bar front suspension system which reduced
unsprung weight. One of the first cars to offer "autopilot" cruise
control and power door locks meant it's an important part of
history.
GR Auto Gallery is pleased to present this all original 1958
Imperial Southampton four door hardtop for your consideration.
Purchased by the current owner's father in 1960, this example has
tons of documentation including a owners log book with dates of
service history and oil consumption and mileage. In addition it has
some of the original advertising literature which is a treasure
trove for history buffs. In all original condition, the car
features a decent paint job with even wear. The plentiful chrome
has a large amount of pitting but all trim parts are intact. The
392cid Hemi V8 starts well and the unique push-button transmission
shifter is nearly a half century ahead of the latest cars that
claim that as a groundbreaking feature. The interior is worn and as
a few stains and rips in the upholstery but the instrumentation is
functional as is the power windows and power front bench seat. The
99,707 reading on the odometer seems accurate and the car is a
unique piece of history. With less than 17,000 of all Imperial
models sold in 1958, this is a rare opportunity to collect a unique
vehicle.
To see over 80 photos of this car, including under carriage please
visit our website www.grautogallery.com
Gr Auto Gallery, LLC and our sister company, Wheelz Sales and
Leasing Inc. makes every effort to represent each vehicle
accurately and with integrity. We also welcome third party
inspections when necessary. Although we try to do our very best to
be accurate in our description writing we are human and do make
mistakes. Unless otherwise noted, All vehicles are sold AS IS, No
Warranty Expressed or Implied. All sales final.
