Chrysler redesigned its top-of-the-line automobile in 1964, the Imperial. Since 1955, it had been sold as its own brand, though that was still at Chrysler dealers and still using Chrysler hardware. The ‘65s were little changed and the seller’s vehicle is said to be one of just 10 built in Spain as a stretch limo. It may have served several dignitaries, including Jackie Kennedy Onassis who is pictured getting out of the limo (or so it seems). Located in Petaluma, California, this big beauty is available here on craigslist for a lofty $132,500. Another nifty tip from “numskal”!
Spanish coachbuilder Barreiros obtained the tooling and components to build as many as 10 Imperial limousines in 1966 as 1965 models. They differ from the ones built the prior year by Ghia Italy by using a 154 rather than a 149-inch wheelbase, providing even more comfort for the cars’ pampered patrons. For whatever reason, the Barreiros limos had 1966 Imperial grilles. After 60 years, the seller’s Imperial only has 35,000 miles and is supposed to be original.
There should be a 413 cubic inch V8 under the hood, the same as used that year in the Chrysler New Yorker (almost as luxurious as an Imperial but for less money). The seller says this Imperial spent most of its time in government service in Washington, D.C. (which a couple of the seller’s photos tend to support). As you would expect, this vehicle has every creature comfort, including dual air conditioning, heating, and radios.
We’re told that $22,000 has been spent on repairs to this limo, but the seller doesn’t say what work was done. The body, paint, and interior seem to be in good shape, so perhaps this is a turnkey vehicle. But if you’re looking to start a limo business, this would be an expensive one to add to your fleet.
The seller says only three of them are known to still exist. We’re told that the last one to change hands went for $181,000. Assuming this car would even fit in your garage, would you consider this a good purchase? At its price, it seems better suited to a Mecum auction than a craigslist ad.
Probably too old for being used, but this beauty could have made a guest appearance on any episode of Mission Improbable…
Interesting car. Looks to be in good shape, as best we can tell. Big asking price. The minimal ad with the tiny pics does the car no favors. I agree Russ with your last sentence.
Boy, if this old Imperial Limo could talk. If this is indeed the one that Jackie Kennedy Onassis and who knows who else rode in wow. Its a great history if it can be documented. I know it’s rare, and odds are you are not going to see another one of these at your local cars and coffee events no matter how hard you try, but that sure is a lot of money. I am not saying this Imperial isn’t worth it. But Bob hit the nail on the head about the minimal ad and tiny photos. I guess we’ll have to wait and see what happens.
Looks familiar….
https://barnfinds.com/presidential-limo-1964-imperial-crown-ghia/
The seller is betting on here say to get his price. He’ll never get $132K for it.
No harm in asking. ;-)
For such a large car it exudes a feeling of litheness. All the lines seem to point in a congruent direction. Hard to believe, but Jackie O may not have been the most famous (or notorious) person to ride in it.
I have no idea what I’d use it for or where I’d put it or how to pay for it, but I still want it.
I hate to be a nitpicker but calling it a Chrysler Imperial is like saying a Ford Lincoln or a GM Cadillac. It doesn’t grind my gears but car people just know better.
Yawn
A couple of years ago, either one exactly like this one, or this car failed to sell on BAT for $35k. I think the older Ghia limos would do better than these. But 6 figures? I don’t think so…
A truly INCOMPARABLE INCOMPARABLE Imperial! For those who aspire ( and can afford) to the ultimate expression of mid century Luxury panache, this is a Bon Marche, Compared to today’s BLOATED SUVS masquerading as Luxury vehicles at BLOATED prices. I believe all Imperial Limousines were based on the LeBaron chassis. The 61 LeBaron has remained my ultimate dream car, as the Grand Finale for Exners fabulous finned fantasies for Chrysler. But THIS is far better than subsequent Fuselage Imperials. Truly worthy of America’s First Lady. I believe she frequently used Imperials, while JFK was usually seen in Lincolns including the Continental for his unfortunate Last Ride. 😔 😟. As a final thought, at the recent Inauguration it was great to see actual Cadillac based Limousines driving the incoming and outgoing administrations rather than SUVS!
Obviously not the Jackie Kennedy Onassis 65 Imperial. Takes all of 10 secs. to spot just a couple of many differences. The steering wheel is all white in this car, and the JKO car has split white + black. Also, the rear cabin interior upholstery of this Imperial is dark blue velour. The JKO pic clearly shows a light grey smooth leather interior. The seller knows this is not that car. The price in 2025 is pure fantasy. Drop the “1” from the greedy price and you have a nice $32,500. 65 Imperial limo similar to the $35K BaT offering from last year. Rex Kahrs comment here is also good.
A truly INCOMPARABLE INCOMPARABLE Imperial! For those who aspire ( and can afford) to the ultimate expression of mid century Luxury panache, this is a Bon Marche, Compared to today’s BLOATED SUVS masquerading as Luxury vehicles at BLOATED prices. I believe all Imperial Limousines were based on the LeBaron chassis. The 61 LeBaron has remained my ultimate dream car, as the Grand Finale for Exners fabulous finned fantasies for Chrysler. But THIS is far better than subsequent Fuselage Imperials. Truly worthy of America’s First Lady. I believe she frequently used Imperials, while JFK was usually seen in Lincolns including the Continental for his unfortunate Last Ride. 😔 😟. As a final thought, at the recent Inauguration it was great to see actual Cadillac based Limousines driving the incoming and outgoing administrations rather than SUVS!
He’s dreaming.
Show it to Leno.
132k…Dream on Alice, you’ll get to Wonderland
I’d bet the Imperial Jackie is stepping out of was Nelson Rockefeller’s Manhattan car.
I don’t think a Spanish car would have been in the government fleet. Nice car though. Hard to haggle when you have to question the seller’s integrity in doing so.
If I were to do a portrait of this car, I’d
have to use maybe 2 large sheets of
paper to get it all in! And that underground garage scene from Time
Tunnel, I think they used it in Fantastic Voyage too. But when I saw the movie, all my 12 year old mind could see is me hanging out with Racquel Welch. Now THIS would be a
ride worthy of our resident Queen here on BF. Long live the Queen!