Unveiling the Grandeur of the 1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40

Stepping into the spotlight with a blend of opulence and engineering prowess, the 1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 was a testament to post-war automotive excellence. Born from the storied assembly lines of Chrysler Corporation, this vehicle emerged as a symbol of American luxury and innovation in an era ripe for change. The Imperial C-40, with its grandiose design and advanced features, not only captured the essence of its time but also set a benchmark for future generations of luxury automobiles. One notable moment in its history was when it became known as one of the first cars to offer fully automatic transmission – the famed "Presto-Matic" – a feature that would become ubiquitous in later years.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 was nothing short of majestic. Its long, flowing lines and pronounced front grille exuded confidence and prestige. The car's silhouette was accentuated by sweeping fenders and a stately chrome bumper that mirrored the opulence of its era. Inside, passengers were cradled in luxury with sumptuous leather upholstery and rich wood grain accents that adorned the dashboard and door panels. For its time, the Imperial C-40 boasted technological marvels such as fluid drive transmission and advanced suspension systems that delivered a smooth ride reminiscent of gliding on air. Color options ranged from elegant blacks to deep blues, with popular choices often reflecting a buyer's status and taste. Among body styles, the four-door sedan stood out as an icon of American luxury.

Historical Significance

The Chrysler Imperial C-40's impact on automotive design was profound. It elevated expectations for what a luxury car should be, blending aesthetics with cutting-edge technology. This vehicle distinguished itself from contemporaries with features like its "Safety Rim" wheels designed to keep a flat tire from coming off the wheel entirely – an innovation that prioritized passenger safety at a time when such considerations were just beginning to gain importance.

Performance and Handling

Beneath the hood, the 1947 Imperial C-40 housed an impressive 135 horsepower straight-eight engine that propelled it to respectable top speeds for its class. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved with grace rather than aggression, befitting its stature as a luxury cruiser rather than a sports car. On the road, it handled with poise, absorbing imperfections with ease while shielding occupants from the turbulence outside. The driving experience was one of tranquility, punctuated by the dignified hum of its powerful engine.

Ownership Experience

The Imperial C-40 served various roles ranging from a stately daily driver to an esteemed show car that turned heads at every corner. Its reliability was commendable for its time; however, like many vehicles of its era, it required regular maintenance to preserve its grandeur. For modern-day enthusiasts, sourcing parts can be challenging but is part of the joy that comes with owning such a classic piece of automotive history.

Fun Facts

This Chrysler model has been associated with prestige since its inception – even finding its way into presidential motorcades. While not known for breaking speed records, it set standards in comfort and style that would influence future models for years to come. Criticisms were few but did touch upon its size and fuel consumption – common traits for vehicles in this class during that period.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 is a cherished collectible with values ranging significantly based on condition and provenance. While production numbers were not as low as some exclusive marques, finding one in pristine condition can be akin to uncovering hidden treasure. Values fluctuate but typically range in the tens of thousands of dollars, with particularly well-preserved or historically significant examples fetching higher prices.

Conclusion

The 1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 remains an emblematic figure in automotive history – a beacon of luxury and forward-thinking design from an era poised on the cusp of modernity. Its legacy endures not only through surviving examples but also through its influence on subsequent generations of vehicles that dared to dream bigger and bolder. As we reflect on this majestic machine's contributions to automotive culture, we are reminded that true elegance is timeless.

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 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

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each-DP 12Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates-FS 31Gravel Shields. Molded flat without metal backing plates. Apply with contact cement. 18" long X 9-3/4" wide at bottom. Pair

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/4" I.D., 3-3/4" O.D-GF 18Gas Filler Grommet. 2-1/4" I.D., 3-3/4" O.D., 1/2" top thickness. Each

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Hood Corners. Fits flat corners-HC 19Hood Corners. Fits flat corners. 80° angle, 1/4" to 3/8" corner radius. 1-3/8" wide. Pair

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Door side seal. Same as LP 40-A, but for a heavier seal-LP 40Door side seal. Same as LP 40-A, but for a heavier seal. Fits many domestic passenger cars and trucks. Used in Cobra kit cars as trunk weatherstrip. Per foot.

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Door side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal-LP 40-ADoor side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal. Fits many domestic passenger cars and trucks. Universal seal for street rods and customs. Used in Cobra kit cars as door weatherstrip. Per foot.

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Trunk Light Pad. 13-1/8" wide X 6-1/2" long. Each-MP 604-ATrunk Light Pad. 13-1/8" wide X 6-1/2" long. Each

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Trunk Handle Pad. 2-1/4" X 5-1/2". Each-MP 604-BTrunk Handle Pad. 2-1/4" X 5-1/2". Each

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Door Handle Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair-MP 605-BDoor Handle Pads. 1-1/4" wide X 2-5/8" long. Pair

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Antenna Mounting Pad. Made with angled front bead-MP 959-CAntenna Mounting Pad. Made with angled front bead. Narrow type. 1-1/4" wide X 1-3/4" long. Each

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Cowl Vent Seal. 4" wide X 18" long. Each-RP 100-QCowl Vent Seal. 4" wide X 18" long. Each

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Clutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair-RP 31-JClutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Accelerator Rod Grommet-SM 43-BAccelerator Rod Grommet. For accelerator rod through floorboard. Each

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 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.

1947 Chrysler Imperial C-40 Front Vent Window Seals. For many closed models only-WR 2703Front Vent Window Seals. For many closed models only. Replaces OEM #977232-3. Pair R&L