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1956 Chrysler Imperial: A Testament to American Luxury and Innovation

The 1956 Chrysler Imperial didn't just roll off the production line; it glided into the automotive scene with a presence that commanded respect and admiration. As a flagship vehicle of Chrysler Corporation, the Imperial was designed to compete with the luxury titans of its day, such as Cadillac and Lincoln. It wasn't merely a car; it was a statement of opulence and advanced American engineering, reflecting the era's optimism and post-war prosperity.

Design and Innovation

The 1956 Imperial's exterior styling was a work of art, courtesy of legendary automotive designer Virgil Exner. Its bold front grille, distinguished by a wide egg-crate design, was flanked by a pair of soaring tail fins that epitomized the space-age aesthetic of the 1950s. The car's long, sweeping lines and imposing silhouette were further accentuated by chrome accents that ran along its sides. Inside, passengers were enveloped in luxury with rich fabrics and top-tier leather options. The dashboard boasted an intricate display of gauges and dials encased in gleaming chrome bezels, while push-button controls for the PowerFlite automatic transmission offered a glimpse into the future of driving convenience. The Imperial's technological prowess extended to its innovative "Auto-Pilot" cruise control system, a rarity at the time. Color options ranged from elegant black to striking two-tone combinations, with hues like Cloud White and Regimental Red being popular choices. Body styles included a four-door sedan, two-door hardtop, and convertible. However, it was the Southampton four-door hardtop that became an icon for its pillarless design and graceful lines.

Historical Significance

The 1956 Chrysler Imperial left an indelible mark on automotive history. It was one of the first production cars to offer curved side glass, which enhanced its aerodynamic profile and set new standards for vehicle construction. The Imperial also introduced innovations such as electronic fuel injection—although this feature proved troublesome and was quickly discontinued. What truly set this car apart from its contemporaries was its commitment to luxury without compromise. It helped redefine what American luxury could be, influencing designs for years to come.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its grand exterior lay a 354 cubic inch Hemi V8 engine capable of producing 280 horsepower. This powerplant propelled the Imperial to impressive speeds for its size, with top speeds reaching around 110 mph. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took place within about 11 seconds—a respectable figure for such a stately vehicle. Handling was surprisingly nimble for a car of its dimensions thanks to power steering and Chrysler's "Torsion-Aire" suspension system. Drivers often remarked on the smoothness of the ride—akin to floating on air—and the authoritative rumble of the Hemi engine that resonated with power.

Ownership Experience

Owning a 1956 Chrysler Imperial was more than just possessing a means of transportation; it was about embracing an exclusive lifestyle. While some used it as a daily driver or show car, others enjoyed it in more spirited contexts such as racing. Maintenance required dedication due to its complex systems and unique parts; however, many owners found joy in preserving their piece of automotive history. Reliability was generally good for well-maintained examples.

Fun Facts

The '56 Imperial has had its share of limelight with celebrity ownerships including Frank Sinatra. Although not known for breaking speed records, it held its own as a symbol of status and luxury. One common criticism at the time was its fuel consumption—hardly surprising given its powerful engine and hefty build.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1956 Chrysler Imperial is a coveted piece among classic car collectors. Production numbers were relatively low compared to mainstream models, with estimates suggesting around 10,000 units were produced. As for value range, well-preserved or fully restored Imperials can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to over $100,000 depending on condition and provenance. The market has seen an appreciation trend for these vehicles due to their rarity and significance in automotive history.

Conclusion

The 1956 Chrysler Imperial stands as a monument to mid-century American luxury and innovation. With its blend of bold styling, advanced technology, and powerful performance, it remains an enduring classic that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world.

1956 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

1956 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

1956 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

1956 Chrysler Imperial Flexible window channel-WC 10-96Flexible window channel. Rubber covered with mohair lining and stainless steel bead. 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.

1956 Chrysler Imperial 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.

1956 Chrysler Imperial 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.

1956 Chrysler Imperial Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 4-96Flexible window sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. 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.