Another great example of a beautiful Imperial from the early 1960’s. These Imperials were a completely separate line – above the “regular” Chryslers of the era, and well worth the extra money. They were even assembled in a separate factory with top-line accessories and up-market trim and other special items.
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The 1961 Imperial Southampton represents a significant chapter in American automotive history, epitomizing the luxury and design ethos of the early 1960s. As Chrysler’s flagship model, the Imperial was positioned to compete with contemporaries like Cadillac and Lincoln, offering a blend of opulence, performance, and distinctive styling.
Design and Styling Of The 1961 Imperial Southampton
The 1961 Imperial Southampton was the result of Virgil Exner’s “Forward Look” design philosophy, which emphasized futuristic aesthetics and bold lines. One of the most striking features of this model was its free-standing headlights mounted on short stalks, a design element reminiscent of classic 1930s automobiles. These headlights were set into scalloped front fenders, giving the car a unique and commanding front profile. At the rear, the Imperial boasted prominent tailfins, which were among the tallest ever produced by Chrysler, housing bullet-shaped taillights that further accentuated the vehicle’s dramatic appearance.
The Southampton designation referred to the hardtop body style without a B-pillar, available in both two-door and four-door configurations. This design choice not only provided a sleek silhouette but also allowed for an uninterrupted glass area, enhancing visibility and giving the cabin an airy feel. The absence of the B-pillar was a hallmark of luxury vehicles of the era, signifying elegance and sophistication.
Interior and Features
Inside, the 1961 Imperial Southampton was a showcase of luxury and innovation. The dashboard featured an electroluminescent instrument panel, branded as “Panelescent,” which used phosphorescent lighting to provide a soft, greenish-blue glow, enhancing nighttime visibility and adding a futuristic touch. The steering wheel was uniquely squared-off at the top and bottom, designed to improve legroom and provide an unobstructed view of the instrument cluster.
Comfort and convenience were paramount in the Imperial’s design. Standard features included power steering, power brakes, power windows, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. The transmission was operated via push-button controls located to the left of the steering wheel, a novel feature that emphasized the car’s modernity. Additionally, the vehicle was equipped with air conditioning vents that popped up from the dashboard, ensuring optimal airflow throughout the cabin.
Performance and Engineering For The 1961 Imperial Southampton
Under the hood, the 1961 Imperial Southampton was powered by Chrysler’s RB-series 413 cubic inch (6.8-liter) V8 engine. This engine featured wedge-shaped combustion chambers and produced approximately 350 horsepower, delivering robust performance for a vehicle of its size. The Imperial could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9.5 seconds, a respectable figure for a luxury car weighing around 4,800 pounds.
The car’s suspension system was designed to provide a smooth and controlled ride. It featured independent front suspension with torsion bars and a rear setup consisting of leaf springs and Oriflow shock absorbers. This configuration, combined with the car’s substantial weight, contributed to a comfortable and stable driving experience, often likened to “riding on a cloud.”
Production and Market Reception
In 1961, Imperial produced a total of 12,258 vehicles, with the Southampton models accounting for a significant portion of this figure. Despite its advanced features and distinctive styling, the Imperial struggled to compete with its rivals in terms of sales. Cadillac and Lincoln had established strong brand identities and customer loyalty, making it challenging for Imperial to gain a substantial market share. Additionally, some critics and consumers found the Imperial’s styling to be overly extravagant, which may have limited its appeal.
Legacy and Collectability For The 1961 Imperial Southampton
Today, the 1961 Chrysler Imperial Southampton is regarded as a classic example of early 1960s American automotive design. Its unique styling, luxurious features, and relative rarity have made it a sought-after model among collectors and enthusiasts. Well-preserved examples can command significant prices at auctions, reflecting the car’s historical significance and enduring appeal.
In summary, the 1961 Chrysler Imperial Southampton stands as a testament to a bygone era of automotive design, where bold styling and luxury were paramount. Its distinctive features and engineering innovations continue to captivate those with an appreciation for classic American automobiles.
