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1960 Imperial Custom: A Testament to American Luxury and Style

The 1960 Imperial Custom wasn't just a car; it was a statement of luxury, power, and American automotive ambition. Born from the minds at Chrysler, the Imperial line sought to compete with the likes of Cadillac and Lincoln for the crown of American luxury. With its distinctive "Forward Look" styling and space-age design cues, the Imperial Custom stood out as a high-water mark for opulence in an era where cars were symbols of personal success and style.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1960 Imperial Custom was a feast for the eyes, with its bold front grille and long, imposing silhouette. The car's design featured Chrysler's signature tail fins, though more subdued than in previous years, giving it an air of sophistication. The headlamps, ensconced in chrome nacelles, added to its futuristic appeal. Inside, passengers were treated to an expansive interior with rich fabrics and top-tier materials. The dashboard housed an array of instruments and controls that were state-of-the-art for the time, including push-button drive selection and an automatic headlight dimmer.

Color options for the Imperial ranged from elegant to extravagant, with hues like Alaskan White and Royal Lilac catching buyers' eyes. Among body styles, the Southampton four-door hardtop was particularly popular for its sleek lines without a B-pillar. This model exemplified the era's love affair with hardtop styling.

Historical Significance

The 1960 Imperial Custom didn't just turn heads—it left an indelible mark on automotive design. Its unique blend of luxury features and bold styling set it apart from competitors and influenced future design trends. The Imperial's exclusivity was underscored by its separate marque; Chrysler positioned it as a standalone brand to elevate its status further.

Performance and Handling

Beneath the hood lay a potent 413 cubic inch V8 engine that propelled the Imperial Custom with authority. While top speed figures hovered around the 120 mph mark, it was the smooth acceleration that impressed drivers of the time—zero to sixty in under ten seconds was no small feat for such a sizable automobile. On the road, the Imperial's "Torsion-Aire" suspension smoothed out imperfections while providing a controlled ride that belied its considerable dimensions.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the 1960 Imperial Custom enjoyed a blend of daily usability and show-car prestige. While some used their Imperials as stately daily drivers, others reserved them for special occasions or as cherished collectibles. Maintenance required a dedicated owner due to the complexity and rarity of some components, but overall reliability was commendable for such a luxurious vehicle.

Fun Facts

The 1960 Imperial Custom has graced many collections over the years, including those of celebrities and dignitaries. It has appeared in films and television shows, adding to its allure as a symbol of period-specific luxury. Despite criticisms over its size during an era when fuel efficiency began gaining attention, enthusiasts celebrate it for its unabashed celebration of excess.

Collector's Information

Today's collector market values the 1960 Imperial Custom highly due to its rarity—production numbers were limited as it catered to an exclusive clientele. Though exact figures are elusive, estimates suggest that few thousand were produced across all body styles. Values can vary widely based on condition and provenance but expect well-maintained examples to fetch anywhere from $20,000 to well over $50,000 at auction.

Conclusion

The 1960 Imperial Custom is more than just a classic car; it is a rolling testament to an era when American automobiles were synonymous with luxury and grandeur. Its combination of bold design, advanced features, and powerful performance make it a standout vehicle that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.

1960 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

1960 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

1960 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