Image of 1966 Chrysler Imperial, sourced from www.mcecars.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the Majesty of the 1966 Chrysler Imperial

The year 1966 heralded the arrival of a vehicle that would leave an indelible mark on the luxury car segment: the Chrysler Imperial. Born from the ambitious vision of Chrysler Corporation, this automobile was not just a mode of transportation; it was a statement of elegance and engineering prowess. The Imperial's lineage can be traced back to the early 1920s, but it was in the post-war era that it truly found its footing as a symbol of American opulence. A unique fact that car enthusiasts might find captivating is that the '66 Imperial was a favorite of Frank Sinatra, adding a touch of Rat Pack cool to its legacy.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1966 Chrysler Imperial was a masterclass in sophistication. With its long, sculpted body lines and imposing front grille, it commanded attention on every boulevard. The quad headlights were neatly integrated into the fenders, while the taillights were elegantly housed in a chrome bumper, giving it a futuristic yet timeless appeal. Inside, passengers were cocooned in luxury with rich leather upholstery and genuine wood trim accents. Technological features such as automatic climate control and power windows were considered cutting-edge for the time. The color palette ranged from refined to bold, with hues like Persian White and Royal Blue being popular choices among discerning buyers. The most iconic body style was undoubtedly the Crown Coupe, with its formal roofline and spacious interior.

Historical Significance

The 1966 Chrysler Imperial didn't just set new standards in luxury; it redefined what American cars could be. It stood apart with its unibody construction, which contributed to an exceptionally quiet and smooth ride. This innovation would influence automotive design for decades to come, as manufacturers sought to replicate the Imperial's serene driving experience.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its elegant exterior, the '66 Imperial housed a robust 440 cubic inch V8 engine that delivered impressive performance figures for its class. With a top speed nearing 120 mph and an acceleration from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds, it was no slouch on the open road. Handling was surprisingly nimble for such a large car, absorbing bumps with grace and maintaining composure on windy roads. Driving an Imperial was akin to piloting a luxurious yacht – powerful yet serene.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the 1966 Chrysler Imperial enjoyed a diverse range of uses for their vehicles – from daily commuting in unmatched style to showcasing their prized possession at car shows. Reliability was commendable for such an intricate machine, though maintenance could be costly due to the premium components used throughout. Nevertheless, those who owned one often spoke of their Imperial not just as a car but as a cherished member of their family.

Fun Facts

The '66 Imperial is no stranger to trivia enthusiasts. For instance, it featured in numerous films and TV shows, including "The Green Hornet" television series where it starred as the Black Beauty. Despite some criticisms over its fuel consumption – hardly surprising given its size and performance capabilities – it remains an iconic piece of automotive history.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors cherish the 1966 Chrysler Imperial for its grandeur and rarity. While exact production numbers are elusive, estimates suggest that several thousand were produced. Values vary widely based on condition and provenance but expect well-maintained examples to fetch anywhere from $15,000 to over $50,000 at auction or private sale. As appreciation for classic American luxury grows, so too does interest in models like the '66 Imperial.

Conclusion

The 1966 Chrysler Imperial stands as a testament to a bygone era of automotive excellence – where luxury reigned supreme and attention to detail was paramount. Its blend of design innovation, performance prowess, and historical significance ensures that it will continue to captivate classic car enthusiasts for generations to come.

1966 Chrysler Imperial Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D-BN 20Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D. X 1-5/8" high, with 9/16" I.D. Each

1966 Chrysler Imperial Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D-BN 8Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high, with 3/4" I.D. Each

1966 Chrysler Imperial Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 3-7/8" long. Pair-CB 27Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 3" wide X 3-7/8" long. Pair

1966 Chrysler Imperial Roof Rail Seal for Convertibles. 1-1/4" wide X 97" long-FK 13Roof Rail Seal for Convertibles. 1-1/4" wide X 97" long. Each

1966 Chrysler Imperial Hood Adjustment Bolt and Bumper-HA 8Hood Adjustment Bolt and Bumper. 1-3/16" diameter rubber head. 5/16" thick X 18 threads/inch X 1-1/4" long bolt. Each

1966 Chrysler Imperial Trunk Bumper. Each-HF 62Trunk Bumper. Each

1966 Chrysler Imperial License Plate Bumper. 7/16" O.D., fits a 1/4" hole. Each-SB 86License Plate Bumper. 7/16" O.D., fits a 1/4" hole. Each

1966 Chrysler Imperial Flocked Glass Run Channel-WC 33-96Flocked Glass Run Channel. For models with framed side glass. 96" Piece. Each

1966 Chrysler Imperial Door Weather Strip to Inside Panel Clip-WF 7-DDoor Weather Strip to Inside Panel Clip. Made of white nylon, 3/8" long. Each

1966 Chrysler Imperial Suspension bumper. '62-up Mopar A-, B- and C-body-XB 1Suspension bumper. '62-up Mopar A-, B- and C-body. Fits over the rear axle. Each.