Debuting in 1955, the Chrysler Imperial aimed to shake up the luxury car market. Previously a high-end Chrysler model, the Imperial became a standalone brand boasting Virgil Exner’s futuristic “Forward Look” design.
This move separated Imperial from the more affordable Chryslers and positioned it to compete directly with Cadillac and Lincoln.
While sales figures paled in comparison to Cadillac, Imperial offered a unique blend of affordability and exclusivity, especially with the two-door Newport hardtop.
Though overshadowed by the iconic Chrysler 300, the 1955 Imperial marked a significant step for Chrysler, showcasing their ambition to challenge the established luxury car order.
Debuting two months before the legendary Chrysler 300, the 1955 Imperial Newport carves its niche in automotive history.
Though often confused at first glance, these two Chryslers possess distinct personalities. While the 300 sported a performance-oriented identity, the Imperial Newport leaned towards luxurious comfort. One key differentiator lies in their ornamentation.
The Imperial boasted a more elaborate chrome presence on the front, rear, and sides, along with unique bumper designs and signature taillights.
Additionally, two-tone paint schemes were a hallmark of the Imperial Newport, whereas the initial 300 offered a limited selection of solid colors.