Chrysler Imperial, 1954
Chrysler Imperial VI
Chrysler Imperial VI•
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Chassis No.: 7777634
Auction: Kissimmee 2017
Auction date: January 15, 2017
Lot No.: S167
$20,000 | High bid
- Exterior: Black
- Interior: Black
- From the Don Garlits collection
- 1 of 1,249 produced
- Sold new in 1954 for $4,560
- 331/235 HP Hemi V-8 engine
- Dual exhaust
- Automatic transmission
- Power windows
- Padded dash
- Bumper guards
- Wide Whitewall tires
- Full size wheel covers
Drag-racing legend Don Garlits would probably remember what happened to some of the Chrysler Imperials built around 1954; before the debut of the 426 Hemi a decade later, these beautiful designs that were the ultimate Chrysler products of their age often found their first-generation Fire-Power Hemi engines being taken out for more utilitarian programs at places like the Indianapolis drags, Bonneville Speed Weeks and the Salton Sea boat races. This wonderful example of what is now a rare breed is coming to auction as part of the Don Garlits Collection, and is representative of the production cars that today reside in his automotive museums.
This particular model year, 1954, would spell the end of Imperial as part of Chrysler’s overall line-up; it would become its own brand when major company model changes took place for 1955. Two-door Newports like this car ride on a 131.5-inch wheelbase, and were noteworthy in their near-streamlined appearance of slightly descending body lines from front to rear. The price on it then topped $4,500, leaving its availability to a more upscale clientele, who purchased a mere 1,249 examples during that model season; far fewer exist today. Of course, the 331/235 HP engine with hemispherical heads, 4-barrel carburetor and dual exhaust was unique among Detroit powerplants that year.
This one is backed by the PowerFlite automatic transmission and a 3.54:1 rear-axle ratio. Painted in code 1 Black with a plethora of brightwork accenting, the car features classic Imperial callout trim, bumper guards, wide whitewall tires and full-size wheel covers. Once inside, the appointments include power windows, wide bench seating and a padded dash. Soft carpet coverings discreetly hide the spare in the trunk. The Imperial remains an icon of American automobile production, and this car aptly represents its “the car of tomorrow is here today” moniker in what would be its final rendering before the 300C and separate Imperial models arrived.
The fact it is also a Hemi coming to you from “Big Daddy” Don Garlits himself only adds to its attraction.
