Driving My 1959 (Chrysler) Imperial Crown

Imperial has nearly all options which includes a stainless roof with a simulated leather covered section, dual air conditioning, pwr swivel seats, pwr door locks, pwr windows, "Auto Pilot" (cruise), headlight dimmer and "Mirror-matic." Purchased in 1993 from the second owner who had it since 1962 and had last driven the Imperial in 1980. The first owner was a dealer at Harger-Haldeman Chrysler/Imperial/Plymouth in downtown L.A. This explains why it was fitted with so many options. All mechanicals, including an engine and transmission rebuild, was not done until 2003.

Category:

Film & Animation

Tags:

• Chrysler
• Imperial
• Crown
• 1959
• Classic
• Cars
• 413
• ci
• engine

[1962RS]

Does the mirrormatic and the auto dimmer work?

[59imperial]

@1962RS They didn't seem to work when I tested them with a flashlight. I've yet to test them on the road.

[RobDog65]

Color-bar speedometer...the '59 Dodges had this feature as well. I rented one for a special occasion some years ago, and that was a FUN car to drive. Got plenty of attention! I'll bet your '59 Imp does as well.

[flightmaster178]

I love how the dashboard looks, also that's a cool looking speedometer.

[59imperial]

@TheReformed1 The "neo-classics" are definitely gaining some well deserved respect in recent years.  For me a '75-'79 Seville would definitely be my next non-Imperial that I'd like to own. As for Lebarons, the club definitely allows the ones made from '57-'75. I can't see why they wouldn't accept them. Outside of club events, I haven't really hanged other members. I think Nannette still has her amazing '55 although lately she's been driving a '56 to the events.

[59imperial]

@TheReformed1 The club of course welcomes anyone who has an interest in Imperials regardless of whether they own one or not. But in terms of the car shows and the club's registry, it seems to be just limited to Imperials.

[59imperial]

@TheReformed1 I agree, the fins kind of got out of hand by '60-'61. They weren't as graceful as the '57-'59, which are my favorite years for Imperials. I also like the fuselage era Imperials; especially those from '69-'71. Good luck in acquiring the '55.

[59imperial]

@TheReformed1 If you're talking about the So Cal Imperial Owners Club then yes.  Are you a member too?

[59imperial]

Yes. All Imperial models in 1959 had the 413.

[beast5431]

did all imperials in 1959 have the 413