In 1955, Chrysler decided to tackle Ford and General Motors head-on when it transitioned its Imperial from a model to a standalone marque. Designed to compete with Lincoln and Cadillac in the prestige market, the Imperial set the benchmark for Mopar luxury motoring. This 1964 Crown Coupe is a dry-climate classic that needs some TLC. However, the process seems relatively straightforward, and the seller’s price makes it unquestionably affordable as a starting point. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P for spotting a classic that looks extremely promising.

The First Generation Imperial, introduced in 1955, enjoyed a short two-year production run. Its successor hung around for distinctly longer, gracing showroom floors from 1957 until 1966. However, time didn’t stand still for the Imperial Crown, with its styling completing its transformation from Virgil Exner’s distinctive “forward look” to a more contemporary appearance that was penned by Elwood Engel in 1964. Our feature Imperial emerged during that model year and makes a positive first impression. Its Nassau Blue paint shines nicely, with the seller describing both the paint and trim as “gorgeous.” It is hard to argue with that assessment. That isn’t the end of the story, because the seller also states that this classic has no rust issues. Considering its dry location, that isn’t surprising. The wheels retain their original covers, and there are no visible issues with the tinted glass.

Lifting the Imperial’s hood reveals the only source of confusion with this classic. The seller states that the engine bay houses a 440ci V8, and I’m not about to argue that point. However, the only available engine in 1964 was the 413ci “Wedge” powerplant. There was little to separate the pair when the subject turned to power and torque, although those preferring originality would be happier if the numbers-matching V8 was in situ. Shifting duties fall to a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission, with power-assisted steering and brakes as standard equipment. Regardless of which engine we’re dealing with, the listing states that it hasn’t run since 2012. That means that it will almost certainly require a fuel system clean and essential maintenance before the buyer hits the key for the first time. However, if the motor turns freely, the revival might be cheap and easy.

I admire the fact that the seller doesn’t sugarcoat this Imperial’s most significant weakness. The dry climate that has done such an admirable job of protecting this classic’s steel has exacted a heavy toll elsewhere. Describing the car’s interior as tired would be a masterly understatement. The upholstered surfaces and dashpad are toast, and the beautiful wheel is a mess. However, the basic structure and crucial components are intact, making a retrim viable. The sticking point is that this can be a relatively expensive process in any Imperial. That may lead some to question whether the cost is justified, but if the rest of the project is as straightforward as the photos suggest, spending a few thousand on an interior refresh will still make this an affordable luxury car that features air conditioning, power windows, and a pushbutton radio.

Affordability is often a significant consideration for enthusiasts seeking a first or DIY project candidate. Cars within a lower price bracket represent a less significant financial risk if the buyer discovers that they have bitten off more than they can chew. This 1964 Imperial Crown Coupe ticks that box with the seller’s asking price of $3,500. They have listed this luxury classic here on Craigslist in Clayton, California. With what you have seen so far, is this a build that you might consider tackling?