The 1967 Imperial Crown Convertible is a rare classic, but our feature car takes that concept to a higher level. It features an extremely expensive factory option, and may be the only Convertible so equipped. It is a genuine survivor that is ready for action, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this magnificent Imperial listed here on eBay in Huntley, Illinois. The seller set their BIN at $24,500 with the option to make an offer.
Although Chrysler introduced the Imperial badge in 1926, it didn’t achieve standalone marque status until 1955. Its goal was to emulate Ford and General Motors by providing a brand that competed head-to-head with Lincoln and Cadillac. Its Third Generation models debuted for the 1967 model year, when this Imperial Crown Convertible rolled off the line. The seller indicates that most of its Forest Green Metallic paint is original, and its overall presentation is consistent with that of a survivor-grade classic of this vintage. The images reveal a selection of paint imperfections, but the panels are straight. The fact that it remains rust-free would allow the buyer to choose between preserving or restoring this gentle giant. The power top has wrinkles, but I suspect that a few hours in the sun with the top raised would significantly improve its appearance. The trim looks excellent for its age, and there are no issues with the tinted glass.
As was the case with many luxury classics from this era, Imperial offered 1967 Crown buyers a single mechanical configuration. They received a 440ci V8, a three-speed A-727 automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The V8 was a beast, placing a factory-quoted 350hp and 480 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal. Those figures sound impressive, but the car’s performance was limited by a curb weight of approximately 5,000 lbs. However, whether on the open road or in heavy city traffic, this Crown should comfortably cope with whatever life throws at it. Potential buyers can consider it a turnkey proposition. The seller includes an embedded video in their listing with the motor running, and it sounds perfect.
As a premium model, customers expected the 1967 Imperial Crown to provide a luxurious motoring experience. This car delivers courtesy of its leather trim, air conditioning, power windows, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, dual remote exterior mirrors, Sentinel Lighting, the rear armrest with its ashtray, and AM/FM radio. The overall interior condition is consistent with the car’s age. The leather exhibits some visible deterioration, but there’s no evidence of developing holes. It still looks quite soft, and handing it to a leather specialist to address the slight wear might make a significant difference without costing a fortune. The carpet is a different matter, because it is quite faded. There is no significant wear, but investing in a new carpet set would markedly improve the appearance. Otherwise, it has no genuine needs or shortcomings.
To a certain extent, life is easier for busy executives today than it was in 1967. Tablets and smartphones allow them to conduct business on the move without needing paper or a work surface. That technology was in the realm of science fiction when this Imperial rolled off the line, so the company provided an alternative to ease the stress. Labeled the Mobile Director option, it incorporated a swivel front passenger seat mechanism with a folding table. By facing backward, the executive could utilize a typewriter, spread documentation for close examination, or pen a letter. The biggest drawback with the option was the price. At $597.40, it added almost 10% to the car’s sticker price. Various sources suggest that only around eighty-one buyers ticked the option on their Order Form. That makes it rare, but this classic pushes that boundary further. That year’s Sales Brochure indicates that the Mobile Director was only available on Hardtop variants, suggesting this Convertible may be the sole example so equipped. If that can be confirmed, it makes this a genuine 1-of-1 vehicle.
This 1967 Imperial Crown Convertible isn’t perfect. It is a genuine survivor that the buyer can enjoy immediately. It could be an ideal candidate for a sympathetic cosmetic restoration, returning the car to its former glory. It would have scored points for its rarity under normal circumstances, as Imperial sold only 577 Convertibles that model year. The Mobile Director option makes it genuinely interesting, which may account for the healthy listing statistics. If a luxurious 1960s Convertible has been on your radar, could this Imperial Crown be a contender?
Too cool 😎. Love how Chrysler just went straight to the top shelf w the big 440 motor standard. No messing around.
But then again Stan, neither did Cadillac or Lincoln!
Right on Will 👍
Let me imagine this: some office flunky is driving the car, the bigshot is sitting in back dictating to Miss Hathaway, and she is in the reverse-facing seat typing.
Her hair is blowing in her face, making it difficult for her to see the typewriter. Meanwhile, papers are blowing all over the road while Mr. Drysdale tries to catch them with one hand, and a scotch-and-soda in the other hand.
That may actually be an episode of the Beverly Hillbillies, who knows. No wonder this car is 1 of 1. Pretty goofy concept.
I couldn’t agree with you more, Rex Kahrs. Any activity with the top-down is a recipe for disaster. Perhaps that’s why there was only one ordered. By the way, I love the Beverley Hillbillies reference. You gave me a real laugh. Thank you for brightening my day.
I remember Nancy Kulp, the actress who played Miss Hathaway, as the bird watching neighbor on “The Bob Cummings Show,” also known as “Love That Bob.” She and Buddy Ebsen apparently did not get along, I heard her talking about that in an interview with Howard Stern. Anyhoo, I love this convertible, but I had always been under the impression that only hardtops got the Mobile Director.
You nailed it! Quite a silly option in the convertible. Nice car though will admit that.
Its why the car came with a top and air conditioning.
That was hilarious Rex!!! Thank you!! I needed a good laugh today. I can truly picture that scene in my head. That was good!!!
Yep….an Imperial convert was in that show…..
I don’t think you could be more wrong, Rex. Let’s imagine the reality of going down the road with the top and the windows up, with the A/C on. Now that sounds more reasonable.
Humor. I’m known for it.
The old man from Pawn Stars would luv this. RIP.
This is beautiful. It’s too bad that Imperial didn’t continue as a competitor to Lincoln and Cadillac. These were every bit as nice, if not nicer. And I had never heard of that option, and I’ve been following cars since this thing was made.
A couple of the photos show the carpet as a nice bright green color. Not sure it really would need replaced. I’d say if its running nice, just get in and drive it!
Agree, JDC; I also love these Imperials, almost as much as the ’64-’66 models. So does Jay Leno; take a look at this video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMtsCfYZlog&list=PLp7ZQ2fFJrWYPP4eTlPdgbCBF8_S_YQXT&index=6
Caddy OWNED the Luxo-market. Chrys-lauer was always a poor third. The disasterous Virgil Exner models broke the back of The Imperial. Engel tried mightily, but it was too little, too late.
That’s not true. Exner’s ’57 Imperial was the best selling of all time. None of Eagle’s came close..
I love this car, even the color. Never seen a convertible with the director’s option. I have tried to buy one locally but the ones available are so worn and needed complete restoration. Parts are nonexistent or very expensive. The price seems reasonable. Whoever buys it, take care of it.
really cool convert. many imperials gave up their 440s for smaller cars. not many left
With the missing A/C belt, worn interior/carpet etc. makes it have a realistic value of $15,000 IMHO.
I believe the fender tag code for the rotating seat was a-5 which this car does not have. If this car still has its build sheet it will say “Mobile Director” at the bottom of it, My Mobile Director car does.
Imagine rolling down the highway in this beast and spinning around to mingle with the passengers and rolling a big joint on that “directors table” and setting up a couple shots. Now thats living!
Classy
Of the highest order!
As a Mopar man from way back with more dash than cash, I guessed right away that Mobile Director was the rare option. Guys, it’s OBVIOUS that even today, the option is only “practical” top up. I like the idea of sharing dubes and shots though. Was also thinking chess, or backgammon.
At one time in my life, I owned 3 Imperial convertibles; two 68’s and one 67. (What the hell was I thinking??) The 67 was identical to this one (sans the mobile director option). It had a ton of miles on it, and went through a quart of oil for every tank of premium fuel. Sold it to a couple of fellas from somewhere in the Midwest, who flew to Seattle and drove it home. All of the mobile director options I’ve seen over the years have been in Crown Coupes and four doors. Imagine…going down the freeway at 75-80MPH and trying to ‘conduct business’ in the back seat with the top down….
The Director option was not available on the 4 door. The B-pillar would not allow the seat to rotate.
GREAT DEAL ALERT! my stepfather was a chrysler dealer the year this car was made. we always had cool cars. but with the mobile director option, and AC, this is a good car to own. looks like it could use a quality paint job but the price is reasonable. very interesting offering, and the price is decent.
This is the type of car I appreciate seeing in Barn Finds.
Junkie cars from the 1990s, even with low miles or whatever are just used cars that don’t need to be spotlighted on this fine forum in my opinion.
Great find…very unusual option for a convertible. I picture Stephen J. Cannel being driven around LA…clacking away on a typewriter and tossing pages to the wind. Cool option better suited for a picnic of cold cuts, wonder bread and frenchs yellow mustard.
I saw an ad for coupe with that option about years ago. The car was decent and option intact…it was priced very low…I regret taking a shot at buying it.
Such a truly magnificent and beautiful automobile. The 67’s are one of my favorite years for these. I can’t honestly say if I’ve heard of the mobile director option before but it’s truly pretty cool. I agree having it on a convertible doesn’t make much sense but it obviously did for someone. Hard to imagine we actually used to make stunning cars like this. If it sells I really hope it’s well cared for by it’s new owner.
Pure sexy….against the competion….and that “Mobile Director” who else would have though off that….rare rare rare……