1956 Imperial Sedan

Description

“In every respect, it is unquestionably the finest car we have ever created.” — 1956 Imperial brochure 

Chrysler Corporation used the Imperial name for its top-of-the-line models from 1926–1954, but in 1955 it established the Imperial as its own marque, much like Ford’s Lincoln and General Motors’ Cadillac. Although the Imperials shared drivetrain and suspension components with their Chrysler cousins, they boasted unique styling that embraced Virgil Exner's "Forward Look" aesthetic, with tall tailfins and radical “gunsight” taillights. 

These works of automotive sculpture were powered by a powerful V8 engine, and all Imperials were equipped with power steering, seats, brakes, and windows. Models ranged from the base Imperial hardtop and sedan to the Crown limousine. 

Among the new features on second-year 1956 models were push-button PowerFlite transmission, with the control pod located to the left of the driver, and the development and production of the world’s first all-transistor car radio through a partnership with Philco. The radio was a $150 option on 1956 Imperials (a cost equal to about $1,735 today). 

A total of 10,458 Imperials were built for the 1956 model year, including 6,821 four-door sedans. This one spent time on display at the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) Museum in Hershey, Pennsylvania. 

Highlights 

• Previously on display at the AACA Museum 

• Finished in Mediterranean Blue paint over two-tone blue cloth interior 

• Powered by a 354 cubic-inch FirePower High Compression V8 (No. CE564510) rated at 280 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque 

• Push-button, two-speed PowerFlite transmission 

• The vehicle number (C564484) decodes as: 

  • C - Chrysler 

  • 56 – 1956 model year 

  • 4484 – Sequential build number

 Features 

• Gunsight taillights 

• Hidden gasoline cap under passenger taillight 

• “Super scenic” wraparound windshield and rear window 

• Power brakes, steering, windows (with driver master control), locks, and seats 

• Original instrumentation: 120 mph speedometer and odometer, and quad gauge cluster with fuel level, oil pressure, engine temperature, and amps 

• Push-button AM radio 

• Analog clock 

• 15 inch wheels with Imperial hubcaps 

• 8.20 x 15 wide whitewall tires 

Known Imperfections 

• Paint chips up front under Imperial badge on edges of grille (both sides) 

• Paint chips/blotches on driver’s side front fender 

• Paint scratches on driver’s door 

• Paint chips/blotches on rear passenger side fender, just behind the door 

• Driver’s door repaint does not perfectly match the rest of the car  

• The top right corner of the rear window trim has come off (pieces are included) 

• Some pitting on chrome and trim 

• Upholstery torn on driver’s side of front seat 

• Upholstery thinning on passenger side of front seat 

• Paint chip on glove box 

• Upholstery torn in multiple places on rear seat 

  Included 

• Spare tire 

• Jack 

Ownership History

The consignor of this 1956 Imperial Sedan purchased it from a Detroit dealership in October 2020. Its previous owner was the AACA Museum in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Additional Notes

A Broad Arrow Group Consignment Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.

Contact: Hunter Harris Phone: 772.925.9304 email: hharris@hagerty.com

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida.  Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida.  For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.