Image of 1959 Imperial Custom, sourced from www.motortrend.com , Image Link.

1959 Imperial Custom: A Symbol of American Opulence

The 1959 Imperial Custom wasn't just a car; it was a statement of luxury and a testament to the era's American automotive ambition. Crafted by Chrysler Corporation's Imperial division, this vehicle emerged as an emblem of high-end design and engineering. In an age where cars were a reflection of personal success, the Imperial Custom stood out with its bold styling and advanced features, capturing the essence of 1950s extravagance.

Design and Innovation

The Imperial Custom's exterior was a harmonious blend of grandeur and grace. Its distinctive front end boasted quad headlights, a feature that became iconic in late '50s automotive design. The car's long, sweeping lines culminated in soaring tail fins that exuded both elegance and power. Inside, passengers were enveloped in luxury with rich fabrics and top-tier leather options. The dashboard's AstraDome instrument panel was a marvel of its time, offering a futuristic feel with its electroluminescent lighting.

Color choices for the Imperial ranged from the understated to the vibrant, reflecting personal tastes of the era. Popular hues included formal black, regal blue, and opulent gold. Among the body styles available, the Southampton four-door hardtop captured hearts with its lack of B-pillars, offering an unobstructed view from side to side.

Historical Significance

The 1959 Imperial Custom didn't just follow trends; it set them. Its unique "FliteSweep Deck Lid," an optional faux spare tire cover, influenced design cues across manufacturers. The vehicle also introduced innovations such as "Auto-Pilot" cruise control technology, showcasing Chrysler's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a luxury car could offer.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stately exterior lay a 413 cubic inch V8 engine that propelled the Imperial Custom with authority. With 350 horsepower at its disposal, it achieved respectable acceleration for its size, reaching 60 mph from a standstill in under 10 seconds—a remarkable feat for such a substantial automobile. On the road, it floated over imperfections with ease thanks to its "Torsion-Aire" suspension system while providing drivers with a sense of control befitting a high-end cruiser.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the 1959 Imperial Custom enjoyed its versatility as both a daily driver and a showpiece at car events. Despite its complexity, maintenance was manageable for those familiar with Chrysler's engineering ethos. However, due to its exclusivity and specialized parts, some repairs could be costly.

Fun Facts

The Imperial Custom was not just another luxury car; it had its share of quirks and accolades. For instance, it was one of the first production cars to offer curved side glass. Celebrity owners added to its allure, with personalities such as Frank Sinatra reportedly owning one. While not known for breaking speed records, it certainly set benchmarks for comfort and style.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1959 Imperial Custom is a cherished collector's item with values that can range significantly based on condition and provenance. Production numbers were limited—estimates suggest fewer than 7,000 were made—adding to their rarity. As for appreciation potential, well-preserved models have seen steady increases in value over time due to their significance in American automotive history.

Conclusion

The 1959 Imperial Custom remains an icon of its time—a symbol of affluence and technological progress that continues to captivate classic car enthusiasts around the world. Its legacy is not merely in its luxurious trappings but in how it encapsulated a moment when cars were more than transportation; they were aspirational works of art.

1959 IMPERIAL CUSTOM 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

1959 IMPERIAL CUSTOM 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

1959 IMPERIAL CUSTOM 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

1959 IMPERIAL CUSTOM Rigid division-bar run channel-WC 31-96Rigid division-bar run channel. Made with very soft felt lining. Used on front and rear door side windows. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1959 IMPERIAL CUSTOM Rigid division-bar channel. Unbeaded. 96 in. long. Each-WC 41-96Rigid division-bar channel. Unbeaded. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.