We can call this baby “Black Bart” because it has a dark, foreboding presence. But this 1954 Imperial Newport has a lot more than that going on, as it has undergone significant modernization (more on that to follow). There is a lot to dissect, so let’s get started. This big hardtop is located in Mooresville, North Carolina, and is listed here on eBay for a BIN price of $9,900. There is a make-an-offer option too.
One of the more remarkable facets of this car is the rarity of its two-door body style; it’s one of only 1,249 “Newport” hardtops assembled under the Imperial brand in ’54. Beyond that, it is well-weathered; the finish is burned off in places, leaving an obvious patina under layer. Instead of paraphrasing this car’s description, here’s exactly what the seller has to say: “Driver door glass is cracked and needs to be replaced. I’ve added some clear tape to help keep everything in place. I think the driver door may sag slightly. They are heavier. I lift slightly when closing. Paint has a patina look, which looks fine to me. Would be a good candidate for Poppy’s patina application. Body has some rust/bubbling in various locations. Also some rust in the trunk. I have pics of the worst areas. Surface rust on frame. Nothing a weekend and a wire wheel can’t take care of.” He also mentions there are no keys for the doors and trunk, and the rubber weather seals will need to be replaced. Beyond that, the chrome plating has become thin, and rust is starting to bloom on the bumper’s horizontal surfaces. Of note are the wheels; they’re Boyd Coddington 17″ “smoothies”. Here’s a walk-around video that will fill you in on some details.
“That thing gotta Hemi?” You bet, but in this case it’s a 2004 vintage 5.7-liter V8 tagged to a 545RFE 5-speed automatic transmission. The listing claims, “Car starts, drives, and stops well,” but I’d like to know a little more about how it all came together, i.e., mounts, modifications, relocations, etc. All in all, it looks well facilitated. Also noted is the upgrade to front disc brakes.
The interior has also seen some forward chronological progression, with the addition of a leather-clad front split bench seat and a modern steering wheel and column assembly. Fortunately, the original instrument panel has been retained, though the seller states, “Most factory gauges do not work. It has a digital speedometer/voltage and does have a working temp gauge. Original gas gauge works a little but is not accurate. No radio, no wipers, no heat, no seat belts; lights and turn signals all work.” This is an A/C equipped Imperial, but the seller suggests it could use a recharge.
This Imperial’s visual presentation is a bit ratty, but then again, many are drawn to that look today. The seller adds, “This is a car that can be enjoyed and driven as is. You can fix it up as you drive it. This is your chance to have a classic car with modern updates and dependability.” True that, and it’s likely one of a kind. Looking for uniqueness? Here you go!
It’s shocking when you compare a ’54 Imperial to a ’55. I can only imagine the astonishment when the ’55 was unveiled. Itvwssn’t evolutionary but rather revolutionary in styling.