Stately Survivor: 1962 Imperial Crown Four Door Hardtop – Sold?

November 18, 2021 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Of all the branding fails in the U.S. automotive history, one of the more interesting ones was Chrysler’s treating of the Imperial.  Throughout the line’s existence, Chrylser marketers flip-flopped between trying to sell the car as a separate brand to offering models as Chryslers Imperials.  After several years of producing Imperials on a separate low-volume production line from other Chryslers, for 1962 the company incorporated assembly with other unibody models. This 1962 Imperial Crown four-door hardtop originally listed on October 2021 on Craigslist in Mahopac, New York is reported to be an unrestored 45,000-mile survivor.

Currently offered at $9,500, comparing that price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms the private seller has their 1962 Imperial Crown priced between this guide’s #4 “Fair” (Daily Driver) estimate of $6,300 and its #3 “Good” appraisal of $12,300.  More optimistically, the  Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the seller’s ask falls between this guide’s #3 “Good” estimate of $11,300 and its #2 “Very Good” appraisal of $15,700.

Hemmings provides a nice history and buying guide for 1960 through 1963 models you can read here.

The Osborne Tramain YouTube Channel features this 1962 Imperial promotional film where the company actually brags about moving production back with lesser Chrysler models:

Not only do we love Imperials for their bold styling, huge presence, and high build quality, we always wonder what the back story is of the well-heeled original buyers of the cars. Hopefully, the seller can provide that provenance.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1962 Chrysler Imperial. Unrestored survivor! Great condition, runs good!​“

Restore or drive As-Is: what would you do with this survivor Imperial?  Comment below and let us know!