Custom Chrysler Imperials at Detroit Autorama 2011

The Chrysler Imperial returned to the Detroit Autorama 2011 in various forms this year. One is a total custom; another is a chopped or shortened version that would make Harley Earl proud; and the last was a restore.

History

First introduced in 1926, the Chrysler Imperial was the company's top of the range vehicle for much of its history. Models were produced with the Chrysler name until 1954, and again from 1990 to 1993.

The company positioned the cars as a prestige marque that would rival Cadillac and Lincoln.

According to a feature article in AACA's magazine The adjective ‘imperial’ according to Webster’s Dictionary means sovereign, supreme, superior or of unusual size or excellence. The word imperial thus justly befits Chrysler’s highest priced quality model.