The Chrysler Imperial, first introduced in 1926, was deemed as Chrysler's premier vehicle throughout much of its history. The models bore the Chrysler name until 1954 before transitioning into a standalone brand; a transition which occurred again from 1990 to 1993. Being positioned as a prestige marque, the company intended for the vehicles to compete with other notable luxury brands such as Cadillac, Continental, Lincoln, Duesenberg, Pierce Arrow, Cord, and Packard. The word "Imperial" was chosen to reflect the car's sovereign, superior, and excellent qualities, as per its dictionary definition, making it a fitting name for Chrysler's highest-priced model. Over the years, the Imperial became synonymous with opulence and became the preferred mode of luxurious transportation for senior executives, government officials, royalty, and celebrities, setting it apart from the more affordable Chrysler New Yorker.
Key Points:
- The Chrysler Imperial was first introduced in 1926 as Chrysler's top-of-the-line vehicle.
- Models carried the Chrysler name until 1954 and then became a standalone brand, only to revert back to featuring the Chrysler name from 1990 to 1993.
- The cars were positioned as a prestige brand to compete with luxury counterparts like Cadillac, Lincoln, and Packard.
- The word "Imperial" was chosen for its connotation of sovereignty, superiority, and excellence, fitting for Chrysler's highest-priced model.
- The Imperial was favored by senior executives, government officials, royalty