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 “gun-sight” taillights borrowed from the Ghia-built K-310 and d’Elegance concept cars. For 1956, the Imperial hardtop coupe was dubbed “Southampton” after the posh Long Island town, and a four-door pillarless version was added. Crown Imperials continued as before, with eight-passenger sedans and limousines produced in limited numbers of 51 and 119, respectively. After 1956, Imperial Limousine production shifted overseas to Italian coachbuilder Ghia. This shift meant that the 1956 models were the last of the traditional full-size, factory-built Chrysler limousines and represented the end of an era in American opulence.

This 1956 Crown Imperial Limousine features seating for eight and a divider separating the rear compartment. Wearing a lovely patina, the car is elegantly presented in black with gray cloth in the passenger compartment; the chauffer’s sumptuous bench seat is trimmed in black leather and complemented with matching carpet. A particularly well-appointed example, this Imperial Limousine is fitted with optional factory air conditioning, power windows--including for the divider—as well as the Imperial’s standard four-way power seats, power steering, power brakes, and pushbutton Powerflite automatic transmission.

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