This is an incredibly rare 1962 Imperial Crown Convertible that benefitted from a complete restoration and is a wonderful touring example that can be shown at local and regional events.  This is a very well optioned Imperial, with such options as air conditioning, extra chrome moldings and the passenger side mirror, plus all the standard Imperial items such as power windows, seats, steering, brakes, etc.  This Imperial is in terrific condition today and is ready to enjoy.

This Imperial Custom convertible is only one of 554 built.  It was most recently part of the Richard Donner collection and one of the cars he most enjoyed to drive.  Mr. Richard Donner was the famed American filmmaker.  Mr. Donner acquired the Imperial from SW Mann, Inc in August of 2006.  It had been previously extensively restored and appears to have 13,900 miles since its restoration.

The Imperial Crown was the very top-of-the-line convertible for American made motorcars and was the pinnacle of Virgil Exner’s Chrysler Corporation designs.  We love the freestanding pod-style headlights and the “gun sight” taillights as well as the clean side design with the single belt line molding running the length of the car.  It is, in our opinion, the most important classical mid-century design for an American open car.  It is also our opinion that they are the best engineered American car made of the era.

This Imperial features Festival Red (Paint Code A-1264R) livery with its correct white vinyl power convertible top.  The paint is in overall excellent touring and show condition, with several small touched up chips from normal use since its restoration.  The chrome and stainless are in overall excellent condition with a couple areas with small imperfections.  The Imperial wheel covers are in very nice condition and the Coker wide white walled radials look perfect.  Overall, the exterior is stunning and while not perfect, in excellent touring and show condition for most all regional and local shows and events.

The interior is in its correct Off-White Leather (Trim Code 557) with black and chrome trim throughout.  The leather is very soft and supple with no cracking or other issues.  The chrome and stainless is also in very nice condition.  The mid-century modern designed dash is incredible, including the squared off steering wheel.  The steering wheel has a few normal cracks, but looks and feels awesome.  The black carpeting shows very well and the instruments work well, including the power antenna.   The clock and radio are not working, at present.

One of the hallmarks of the Imperial is the venerable 413 CID “wedge” V-8 which provides 340 hp through the three-speed Torqueflight automatic transmission.  The 129” wheelbase helps provide an incredibly smooth ride and the massive power of the engine provide exhilarating performance for a car of this size.  The engine compartment is very clean and well detailed.  The chassis was completely cleaned and painted when restored and shows normal use since.  As with the rest of this Imperial, it makes an excellent car to drive and enjoy, while nice enough to show at nearly any event.

We have this priced well with the NADA Value Guide showing a retail value of $149,600 and Hagerty Value Guide reflecting a No. 1 example at $124,000 and a No. 2 example at $88,500.

For more information and details, please call, text or email Harry Clark at +1.602.245.7200 or harry@classicpromenade.com.  The Imperial is available for viewing at our Phoenix showroom.