Rare Investment Grade Restored Imperial Newport 331 FirePower HEMI V8 PS PW PB

SUMMARY

* Rotisserie restoration completed in 2013
* Correct 331 cubic inch FirePower Hemi
* Correct PowerFlite 2-speed automatic transmission
* Correct Black paint
* Correct power steering
* Correct 4-wheel power drum brakes
* Optional power seat
* Optional power windows
* 15-inch wire wheels

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The 1950s was a time of unparalleled optimism in the United States. World War II was in the rearview mirror, our culture was progressing almost as fast as our economy, and we were on the verge of launching a revolutionary civilian space program. Nowhere was that grandiose sense of style and swagger more present than in the automotive industry. That's why, mid-decade, Chrysler decided to go a step beyond the luxury of its eponymous car offerings and officially launch its world-class Imperial division. And today, Imperials like this inaugural Newport remain highly exclusive classics that are usually mentioned in the same sentence as phrases like “investment grade”. Rare, rotisserie restored and ready to roll, this incredible hardtop backs a correct, 331 cubic inch FirePower Hemi with a roster of desirable equipment that includes power steering, power brakes, power seats and power windows. And if you're looking for one of the finest cars America has yet produced, it's roughly 19 feet of chrome-laden glory!

BODYWORK/TRIM

Based on legendary designer Virgil Exner's '100-Million Dollar Look', the 1955 Imperial Newport was Chrysler's first offering positioned above the company's hot 300 letter series cars. And the spectacular example you see here, decked in correct Black 2-stage, wears a high quality, rotisserie restoration that was completed sometime in 2013. No one will mistake the car's world-class DNA thanks to its adaptation of the 300's buttoned down stance and aggressive split-egg-crate grille. Opposite that grille, Imperial-exclusive gunsight taillights illuminate a flowing rear bumper. Flashy emblems and polished, original stainless look every bit as good as the day they left the showroom. And it all adds up to one streamlined classic that exhibits impeccable fit and finish.

ENGINE

In the early '50s, Ma MoPar's interest in 6-cylinders began to wane in favor of the power and appeal of proven 8-cylinders. Given that the Imperial was Chrysler's ultimate offering, our coupe moves thanks to an original FirePower V8. And, according to its date-correct “CE55” Imperial engine stamp, this premium mill twists hearty 8.5 to 1 compression into a healthy 250 horsepower and 340 lb./ft. of impressive torque. Clocking in at 331 cubic inches, the big Hemi was a relatively easy way for a prestigious brand to compete with rivals like Lincoln and Cadillac. And the copy you see here is seated in a roster of correct components, from its glossy black air cleaner and silver bellhousing all the way to its heavy-duty radiator and body-matched fenders. A traditional points distributor sequences fire between an old school generator and fresh plug wires. Combustion comes courtesy of a premium 4-barrel carburetor, which breathes through a correct intake and fully restored exhaust manifolds. The block's clean Aluminum paint contrasts well against the aforementioned engine bay. And little details like “Chrysler FirePower” valve covers, an old school fuel bowl and restored Autolite horns round out a heavy dose of eyeball appeal.

DRIVETRAIN/SUSPENSION

For 1955, the Imperial shared its platform and body shell with Chrysler's largest sedans. Between those structures, a 4-inch longer wheelbase provided more rear legroom in the vein of traditional executive transport. Behind the car's engine, a correct PowerFlite 2-speed spins power to a correct rear end. That tough driveline rolls a glossy undercarriage that's complete with robust control arms, stiff leaf springs and standard power steering. At the corners of that chassis, standard, power-assisted drums ensure solid, fade-free stops. Between those drums, aluminized, true-dual exhaust employs fresh turbo mufflers. And all this road-worthy hardware rides on old school wire wheels, which twist meaty 8.20-15 BF Goodrich Silvertown whitewalls.

INTERIOR

Take a look inside and you'll find a 2-tone interior that appears to have been completely replaced during the car's careful restoration. Broad bench seats, power adjustable for the front passengers, wrap clean leather around attractive cloth centerpieces. In front of those seats, a 2-tone dash founds fresh knobs and fully rebuilt gauges around a polished gear selector and correct Town & Country radio. At the sides of that dash, fantastic door panels display prominent '50s design in front of optional power windows. In front of the driver, a 2-tone steering wheel laps a full horn ring. And behind the passengers, a lit trunk hides a fifth wire wheel inside a fifth whitewall tire.

OUR SALE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTATION AND ACCESSORIES

* A vintage marketing brochure
* A vintage Owner's Manual
* A Service Manual
* A wiring diagram
* A vintage MoPar Jiffy-Jet washer fluid reservoir
* A pair of sunvisors
* A Deltran battery tender

Combining a high quality restoration with acute attention to detail, this sweet Imperial is some of the best metal your money can buy! Add in the car's hot Hemi drivetrain and low production numbers, and it's virtually guaranteed to gain both value and exclusivity. We all know it's becoming increasingly tough to find unique, factory-correct classics. Don't miss your chance to own one of the finest Chryslers ever produced!