As the Chrysler Corporation expanded in the heady post-war years, the top-of-the-line Imperial of 1955 broke free into its own ultra-exclusive marque. No longer badged as a Chrysler, the Imperial was separated into two luxurious model lines: the C69 Imperial sedans and hardtops, which rode on a 130-inch wheelbase, and the C70 Crown Imperial eight-passenger sedans and limousines, which featured an all-new, colossal chassis with a 149.5-inch wheelbase.

All Chryslers for 1955 benefited from Virgil Exner’s new Forward Look styling, but the Imperials differentiated themselves with a bold new egg-crate grille and dramatic “gunsight” taillights borrowed from the Ghia-built K-310 and d’Elegance concept cars. An exclusive product, eight-passenger sedans and limousine Crown Imperials were produced in limited numbers of 45 and 127, respectively. After 1956, Imperial Limousine production shifted overseas to Italian coachbuilder Ghia. This shift meant that these final model years were the last of the traditional full-size, factory-built Chrysler limousines and represented the end of an era in American opulence.

This 1955 Crown Imperial Limousine features seating for eight and a suite of amenities fit for society’s upper crust. Presented wearing an older, well-preserved restoration, the car is elegantly finished in silver-flaked blue paint with tan cloth across the passenger and chauffeur’s compartment and sumptuous matching carpet. A particularly well-appointed example, this Imperial Limousine is fitted with optional factory air conditioning and power windows, as well as the Imperial’s standard four-way power seats, power steering, power brakes, and push-button PowerFlite automatic transmission.

The height of mid-century American luxury, this Crown Imperial Limousine, with its grand presentation, is sure to make a show-stopping entrance at any affair.