So, when is a Chrysler not a Chrysler but still a Chrysler? In 1955 (and for the years ahead), Chrysler Corp. took all Chrysler badging off the Imperials, hoping to better position them against Cadillac and Lincoln. It was a shell game because they were still built at Chrysler plants and sold at Chrysler dealers. This 1959 Imperial Southampton Coupe has an optional stainless-steel roof and needs interior work after being towed away. Located in Browerville, Minnesota, this big boat is available here on Facebook Marketplace for $7,500. An attaboy goes to NW Iowa Kevin for the tip.
Chrysler added some gap to the Imperial vs. other products in 1957 by giving the car its own platform. And when other Chryslers, etc. went to unibody construction in 1960, the Imperial stuck with body-on-frame. The Imperial solidified its position as the largest car built in America when the Lincoln shrunk a bit in 1961. Styling-wise, the 1959 Imperials (like the one here) only had minor appearance changes compared to the 1958s.
Unique to the Imperial in the 1959 Chrysler world was its optional Silvercrest roof, which was made of stainless steel and had a canopy over the rear. When you ordered a pillarless-door Imperial, the Southampton name was tagged on to it. In ’59, the car no longer used a Hemi, with the 413 cubic inch “Wedge” V8 replacing it, and we assume that’s what’s in the seller’s machine.
Details about this Imperial are few. It apparently does not run for whatever reason and must be towed away. The tires are good, as is some of the interior, though carpeting and a headliner seem to be lacking at 88,000 miles. The turquoise paint looks nice, and the swivel seats have a paisley upholstery pattern that looks more like something from the 1970s than the 1950s. Project, anyone?
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