Chrysler Okays New Imperial
Where Do You Live?
A venerable name in autodom is being resurrected and it will soon grace the body of a massive, rear wheel drive expensive car. After a successful “concept car” debut at a pair of recent car shows, the Chrysler Imperial will be built and may be in U.S. showrooms in 2010. Yes, it’s going to be a long wait for the Imperial’s return but the vehicle must first await extra changes within DaimlerChrysler before it can be built. Read on to learn more on the Imperial’s impending return.
The Chrysler Imperial which has been currently making the rounds at various auto shows has been well received. Visitors have remarked positively about the automobile’s Bentley like look as well as its gaping interior and luxury appointments. Now , the brand has nothing bigger or more luxurious to offer buyers who might need to upgrade from the 300C, therefore Chrysler has been constantly losing buyers to more lush brands, something parent DaimlerChrysler [DCX] wants to stem.
The Imperial name can be traced all the way back to 1926 when Walter P. Chrysler made a decision to take on Lincoln and Packard with a luxury model all of its own. From its inception, the Imperial has always represented the top of the line car for Chrysler and it has, at various times, been marketed as its own make. Numerous versions of the Imperial have shown up over time, with a lot of them being ultra sumptuous versions of Chrysler’s New Yorker model.
The 2011 Chrysler Imperial will be similar in design to the postulate vehicle, but without the suicide doors. Chrysler put the special doors on the concept car in order to make it simpler for car show visitors to see into the vehicle. Still, reports from the company are indicating that the 22 inch Wheels, Bentley grille, boxy body, and leather/wood trim would be included. Costs for the Imperial may not be related for many more years, but it could retail for as high as $60,000 according to some reports. Currently, the head of the line 300C maxes out at around $42,000.
So, why the hold up? Well, for one thing the Imperial program will be an additional cost for DCX. Currently, the company is in the midst of making its Mercedes line up more profitable and that involves the expense of updating several models. Based on the Mercedes “R Class” body, the approaching Imperial is certain to be built on a later version of the R Class platform. Both vehicles would arrive in dealer showrooms at the same time as 2011 models, hence the long lead time.
The Imperial idea sits on a frame with a 123 in. Wheelbase. The car measures 214 long, much longer than the 300C. Reports are indicating that the idea automobile dimensions are likely to be retained.
For Chrysler fans, the Imperial represents further bracing of the Chrysler-Mercedes relationship. By trying a Mercedes platform, the Imperial can be built and will give Chrysler a much needed product. With a standard V8 mated to a five or six speed automatic the car will certainly not be on the fuel efficient side. However, my best guess is that the car will also come optionally equipped with a thrifty Mercedes built turbo diesel, a first for any Chrysler car.
How fast can your car travel at top speed? Compare you car to some of the fastest cars in the world at thesupercars.org and also have a look at used cars Chrysler Prowler.
Leave a Reply