In period, at the London and Paris International Automobile Shows, and again at the New York Automobile Show, the Imperial for 1957 was acclaimed as “one of the truly fine cars built in the world today.” In America, from coast-to-coast, it won unprecedented acceptance and approval. Many of the accolades came from experts in the automotive field; they knew fine cars from experience and many were enthusiastic to proclaim that it was “unquestionably America’s finest motorcar.” It wasn’t only the distinctive new design, but a wealth of major engineering advancements which were equally as outstanding and important to the proud owner.

For 1957, this luxurious line had moved further away from its Chrysler roots. Imperial was its own upmarket brand and the ‘57 took the renowned designer, Virgil Exner’s “Forward Look” design appearance to a new extreme. It incorporated “FlightSweep” styling cues that included “gun-sight” taillights integrated into the tips of the tailfins, further raising the bar for the “fin wars” of the period.

Exner had designed progressively taller fins on its 1956 and 1957 models, and company advertising proclaimed “suddenly, it’s 1960.” It was also forwarded that the fins acted as giant rudders (“graceful directional stabilizers”) and thus increased the safety of their vehicles. It is reported that Mr. Exner gave an endowed lecture at the Harvard Business School and declared that the tailfins reflected “the growing artistic taste of the American consumer…[and] reflect the spirit and character of our civilization.”

The beautiful example being offered is arguably one of the finest available having benefitted from a frame-off rotisserie restoration. It is quite striking in Code-S Sunset Rose with a matching two-tone interior and new black canvas power-operated soft-top. At the heart of this distinguished Imperial is its 392-cid, 325-hp V-8 FirePower engine with hemispherical combustion chambers. It is now referred to as simply a “Hemi” – a fabled powerplant that needs little introduction. This revered unit is mated to a TorqueFlite automatic transmission with pushbutton control. The engine compartment and undercarriage are presented in the same exceptional manner as the car’s exterior with the floorpans in body color and the engine bay exhibiting show-quality standards.

The Imperial Crown Convertible is quite uncommon in that only 1,167 similar cars were built in the 1957 model year. This one is well-equipped starting with its factory air conditioning that is regarded as “very rare.” Additional equipment includes power four-way seat, windows, steering and brakes; AM radio, wide whitewall tires and factory wheel covers that continue the gun-sight-inspired design theme of the taillights.

Wherever it goes, it will likely be the center of attention, admired and viewed, not only for the unmistakable beauty of the car itself, but also the statement it makes about the discriminating owner. The assimilated rear deck faux tire outline adds just another note of distinction and exclusiveness to this fine automobile.