The Imperial carries a wheelbase
of 155". It is powered by a 331 ci Hemi V8 producing 250 hp. The
engine is mated to the bullet proof 2 speed PowerFlite automatic
transmission. It tips the scales at a whopping 4565 lbs. Its most
recognizable styling cue is the pair of "gunsight" tail lights
mounted above the rear quarters. It has as standard equipment power
steering, power brakes, and automatic transmission. It also comes
with an original owners manual. In 1955 options included air
conditioning, power windows, power front seat, and the first ever
signal seeking all transistor radio. This car has them all. This is
a very solid car of good driver quality. It is certainly better
than just a "20 footer". The engine starts right up and settles
into the classic hemi rumble - not obnoxious, but just letting you
know that this is no ordinary V8 - after all it is a Hemi!! The
ride is pure fifties luxury. It floats along easily but when you
push with the right foot is very willing to get up and go. The
heater and defroster work normally. Interior lights and gauges all
work normally. The power brakes and big drums stop the car quietly
and without effort. The transmission is quiet. It engages as soon
as put in gear and shifts smoothly with no hard clunks or slippage.
The engine compartment is clean and shows that it has been well
cared for. This is a great car for cruising; a trip to the local
cruise in; date night; even a road trip. Certainly, trips of 100
miles or more seem well within its capabilities. The car shows a
repaint probably within the past 5 years which has held up well.
The surface of the paint is in great condition with no bubbles,
orange skin, scratches or dings. It appears that around the edges
of rear wheel wells and door jams some light surface rust is
present. The is no sign of body filler and no visible rust
conditions other than that just noted. All four doors hang properly
with no sag or binding and latch with a satisfying clunk. The glass
is in good condition with no chips, cracks or
delamination/discoloring. The brightwork ranges from very good in
some areas to lightly pitted in other spots. The pitted areas could
probably be buffed to a better appearance unless someone were to go
the route of a full restoration. The under carriage shows its age,
but is solid. The is some surface rust but no discernable loss of
structural integrity. The interior is done in a tasteful velour
type fabric and is in good condition. It is presumed that the
interior was redone (replacing the standard leather interior) when
the car was painted. The headliner is very good. There are a few
known deficiencies although none affect the safety or performance
of the car. The radio does not work; the pot metal horn ring is
broken, but nothing is missing; the left rear power window does not
work; the power front seat does not work; the clock does not work.
Mileage on the odometer shows approximately 90,000 miles, but true