The 1968 Imperial was a full-size luxury car produced by the Chrysler Corporation. It was the eleventh and final generation of the Imperial, which had been in production since 1955. The 1968 Imperial was available in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a two-door hardtop coupe. It was powered by a 440 cubic inch V8 engine, which produced 350 horsepower. The 1968 Imperial was known for its luxurious interior, which featured leather seats, wood trim, and a host of other amenities. It was also known for its smooth ride and quiet operation.
The 1968 Imperial was a significant car for Chrysler. It was the first Imperial to be offered with a V8 engine, and it was also the first Imperial to be available in a hardtop coupe body style. The 1968 Imperial was also the last Imperial to be produced in the United States. After the 1968 model year, production of the Imperial was moved to Canada.
The 1968 Imperial is a classic American luxury car. It is a stylish, powerful, and comfortable car that is sure to turn heads. If you are looking for a classic car that is both luxurious and affordable, the 1968 Imperial is a great option.
1968 Imperial
The 1968 Imperial was a significant car for Chrysler, marking the introduction of several key advancements. It was the first Imperial to feature a V8 engine, a hardtop coupe body style, and a range of luxurious amenities. These aspects contributed to its status as a classic American luxury car.
- V8 Engine: Powerful and efficient, the 440 cubic inch V8 engine provided impressive performance.
- Hardtop Coupe: Stylish and sleek, the hardtop coupe body style offered a sporty and sophisticated look.
- Leather Seats: Luxurious and comfortable, the leather seats added a touch of elegance to the interior.
- Wood Trim: Refined and classic, the wood trim accents enhanced the interior’s sophistication.
- Quiet Operation: Well-insulated and engineered, the 1968 Imperial provided a serene and quiet ride.
- Full-Size Luxury: Spacious and opulent, the 1968 Imperial offered ample room and comfort for passengers.
- Advanced Amenities: Equipped with power windows, locks, and seats, the 1968 Imperial provided convenience and ease of use.
- Classic Design: With its distinctive grille, sharp lines, and elegant curves, the 1968 Imperial showcased timeless design.
- American Heritage: As the last Imperial produced in the United States, the 1968 Imperial holds a special place in American automotive history.
These key aspects combined to make the 1968 Imperial a memorable and sought-after classic car. Its powerful performance, stylish design, and luxurious amenities continue to captivate enthusiasts today. The 1968 Imperial represents a significant milestone in the evolution of American luxury automobiles.
V8 Engine
The 440 cubic inch V8 engine was a significant component of the 1968 Imperial. It was the first time that an Imperial had been offered with a V8 engine, and it represented a major upgrade in terms of power and performance. The V8 engine produced 350 horsepower, which was a significant increase over the previous six-cylinder engine. This gave the 1968 Imperial much better acceleration and passing power, making it a more enjoyable car to drive.
The V8 engine was also more efficient than the previous six-cylinder engine. This meant that the 1968 Imperial got better gas mileage, which was an important consideration at a time when gas prices were rising.
The combination of power and efficiency made the 440 cubic inch V8 engine a popular choice with buyers. It was one of the main reasons why the 1968 Imperial was such a successful car.
Today, the 1968 Imperial is still admired by classic car enthusiasts for its powerful V8 engine. It is a reminder of a time when American cars were known for their performance and style.
Hardtop Coupe
The hardtop coupe body style was a significant factor in the success of the 1968 Imperial. It was a new and stylish design that appealed to buyers who wanted a car that was both luxurious and sporty.
The hardtop coupe body style was characterized by its sleek roofline and lack of a B-pillar. This gave the car a more streamlined and modern look than traditional sedans. The hardtop coupe body style was also more aerodynamic, which improved the car’s performance and fuel economy.
In addition to its stylish looks, the hardtop coupe body style also offered a number of practical benefits. The lack of a B-pillar made it easier to get in and out of the car, and it also improved visibility. The hardtop coupe body style also made the car more rigid, which improved handling and safety.
The 1968 Imperial was one of the first cars to offer a hardtop coupe body style. This helped to make the car a hit with buyers, and it is still considered to be one of the most stylish cars of its era.
Today, the hardtop coupe body style is still popular on luxury and sports cars. It is a classic design that offers a combination of style, performance, and practicality.
Leather Seats
Leather seats were a key component of the luxurious interior of the 1968 Imperial. They were a significant upgrade over the cloth or vinyl seats that were found in most other cars at the time. Leather seats are more comfortable, durable, and stylish than other types of seats. They also add a touch of elegance to any car’s interior.
The 1968 Imperial was a full-size luxury car, and its leather seats were a reflection of its status. The seats were, supportive, and well-cushioned. They were also made from high-quality leather that was soft to the touch and durable enough to withstand years of use.
The leather seats in the 1968 Imperial were a major selling point for the car. They were a sign of luxury and quality, and they helped to make the Imperial one of the most desirable cars on the market.
Today, leather seats are still a popular option on luxury cars. They are a sign of quality and craftsmanship, and they can make a car’s interior look and feel more luxurious.
Wood Trim
The use of wood trim in the interior of the 1968 Imperial was a key element in its luxurious and sophisticated design. Wood trim had long been associated with luxury and quality in furniture and other high-end products, and its use in the Imperial’s interior helped to create a sense of elegance and refinement.
- Component Facet: The wood trim in the 1968 Imperial was used on a variety of interior surfaces, including the dashboard, door panels, and center console. It was typically made from genuine wood, such as mahogany or walnut, and was often finished with a high-gloss lacquer.
- Example Facet: The wood trim in the 1968 Imperial was particularly notable for its intricate detailing. The dashboard, for example, featured a complex pattern of wood grain that was highlighted by the use of contrasting colors.
- Implication Facet: The use of wood trim in the 1968 Imperial helped to create a sense of warmth and intimacy in the car’s interior. It also helped to distinguish the Imperial from other luxury cars on the market, which typically used less expensive materials such as plastic or vinyl.
Overall, the use of wood trim in the 1968 Imperial was a key factor in its luxurious and sophisticated design. It helped to create a sense of elegance and refinement that was unmatched by other cars on the market.
Quiet Operation
The 1968 Imperial’s quiet operation was a key component of its luxurious and refined driving experience. This was achieved through a combination of well-insulated construction and advanced engineering techniques.
The Imperial’s body was constructed with thick, sound-deadening materials that helped to block out noise from the outside world. The car’s windows were also double-paned, which further reduced noise levels. In addition, the Imperial’s engine was mounted on rubber isolators to minimize vibrations that could be transmitted into the passenger compartment.
As a result of these measures, the 1968 Imperial was one of the quietest cars on the market. This made it an ideal choice for drivers who wanted a peaceful and relaxing driving experience. The Imperial’s quiet operation was also a major selling point for the car, and it helped to distinguish it from its competitors.
Today, the 1968 Imperial is still admired by classic car enthusiasts for its quiet operation. It is a reminder of a time when American cars were known for their comfort and refinement.
The 1968 Imperial’s quiet operation is a testament to the engineering excellence of Chrysler Corporation. It is also a reminder of the importance of quietness in a luxury car. A quiet interior can help to reduce stress and fatigue, and it can make a long drive more enjoyable.
Full-Size Luxury
The 1968 Imperial was a full-size luxury car that offered passengers a spacious and comfortable ride. It was one of the largest cars on the market, with a wheelbase of 127 inches and an overall length of 228 inches. This gave it plenty of room for passengers to stretch out and relax, even on long trips.
-
Component Facet: Ample Legroom and Headroom
The 1968 Imperial had ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. Even tall passengers could sit comfortably without feeling cramped.
-
Example Facet: Wide Seats and Plush Upholstery
The Imperial’s seats were wide and plush, providing excellent support and comfort. They were upholstered in high-quality leather or cloth, depending on the trim level.
-
Implication Facet: Fatigue Reduction on Long Trips
The combination of ample space, comfortable seats, and a quiet ride made the 1968 Imperial an ideal car for long trips. Passengers could arrive at their destination feeling refreshed and relaxed.
The 1968 Imperial’s full-size luxury was one of its key selling points. It was a car that was designed to provide passengers with the utmost comfort and convenience. This made it a popular choice for families, business travelers, and anyone else who wanted a spacious and luxurious ride.
Advanced Amenities
The 1968 Imperial was a technologically advanced car for its time. It was one of the first cars to offer power windows, locks, and seats as standard equipment. These features were a major convenience for drivers and passengers, and they helped to make the Imperial one of the most desirable cars on the market.
Power windows were a significant improvement over manual windows. They were much easier to use, especially for people with limited mobility. Power locks were also a major convenience, as they allowed drivers to lock and unlock all of the car’s doors with the touch of a button. Power seats were another great feature, as they allowed drivers to find the perfect driving position with ease.
The combination of power windows, locks, and seats made the 1968 Imperial a very easy car to drive and use. These features were a major selling point for the car, and they helped to make it one of the most popular luxury cars on the market.
Today, power windows, locks, and seats are standard features on most cars. However, they were a major innovation in 1968. The 1968 Imperial was one of the first cars to offer these features, and it helped to set a new standard for luxury cars.
Classic Design
The 1968 Imperial was a classic American luxury car that is still admired today for its timeless design. Its distinctive grille, sharp lines, and elegant curves combined to create a car that was both stylish and sophisticated.
-
Facet 1: Distinctive Grille
The 1968 Imperial’s grille was one of its most distinctive features. It was a large, chrome-plated grille that was divided into two sections by a horizontal bar. The upper section of the grille featured a series of vertical slats, while the lower section featured a honeycomb pattern. This unique design helped to give the Imperial a bold and aggressive look.
-
Facet 2: Sharp Lines
The 1968 Imperial’s body was characterized by its sharp lines and creases. These lines ran along the sides of the car, from the front to the back. They helped to create a sense of movement and dynamism, even when the car was standing still. The sharp lines also helped to accentuate the Imperial’s long, low profile.
-
Facet 3: Elegant Curves
Despite its sharp lines, the 1968 Imperial also had a number of elegant curves. These curves were most evident in the car’s roofline and fenders. The roofline was sloped and graceful, while the fenders were rounded and voluptuous. These curves helped to soften the Imperial’s overall appearance and give it a more refined look.
The combination of these three design elements – the distinctive grille, sharp lines, and elegant curves – made the 1968 Imperial a timeless classic. It is a car that is still admired today for its beauty and style.
American Heritage
The 1968 Imperial is a significant car in American automotive history because it was the last Imperial produced in the United States. This fact gives the 1968 Imperial a special place in the hearts of American car enthusiasts.
-
Facet 1: End of an Era
The 1968 Imperial marked the end of an era for Chrysler Corporation. After 1968, Imperial production was moved to Canada. This made the 1968 Imperial the last of a long line of American-made luxury cars.
-
Facet 2: Historical Significance
The 1968 Imperial is a reminder of a time when American car manufacturers dominated the global luxury car market. The Imperial was one of the most prestigious and expensive cars on the market, and it was a symbol of American wealth and success.
-
Facet 3: Cultural Icon
The 1968 Imperial has become a cultural icon. It has been featured in movies, television shows, and music videos. The Imperial is also a popular collector car, and it is often seen at classic car shows and auctions.
The 1968 Imperial is more than just a car. It is a piece of American history. It is a reminder of a time when American car manufacturers were the best in the world. The Imperial is a symbol of American luxury and success, and it is a car that will always be remembered.
FAQs About the 1968 Imperial
The 1968 Imperial was a significant car in American automotive history. It was the last Imperial produced in the United States, and it marked the end of an era for Chrysler Corporation. The 1968 Imperial is a reminder of a time when American car manufacturers dominated the global luxury car market.
Here are some frequently asked questions about the 1968 Imperial:
Question 1: What was the engine of the 1968 Imperial?
The 1968 Imperial was powered by a 440 cubic inch V8 engine. This engine produced 350 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque.
Question 2: What was the top speed of the 1968 Imperial?
The top speed of the 1968 Imperial was 130 mph.
Question 3: How many 1968 Imperials were produced?
There were 23,764 1968 Imperials produced.
Question 4: What is the value of a 1968 Imperial today?
The value of a 1968 Imperial today depends on a number of factors, including the condition of the car, the mileage, and the trim level. However, a 1968 Imperial in good condition can be worth up to $50,000.
Question 5: What are the most common problems with the 1968 Imperial?
The most common problems with the 1968 Imperial include carburetor problems, transmission problems, and brake problems.
Question 6: Is the 1968 Imperial a good investment?
The 1968 Imperial can be a good investment, but it is important to do your research before you buy one. Make sure to have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic, and be aware of the potential costs of maintenance and repairs.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the 1968 Imperial. If you have any other questions, please consult a qualified mechanic or automotive historian.
The 1968 Imperial is a classic American luxury car that is still admired today for its timeless design and powerful performance. It is a car that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
Transition to the next article section: The 1968 Imperial is a significant car in American automotive history. It is a reminder of a time when American car manufacturers dominated the global luxury car market. The 1968 Imperial is a classic car that is still admired today for its timeless design and powerful performance.
Tips for Maintaining a 1968 Imperial
The 1968 Imperial is a classic American luxury car that requires special care and maintenance to keep it in top condition. Here are a few tips to help you maintain your 1968 Imperial:
Tip 1: Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for any car, but it is especially important for a classic car like the 1968 Imperial. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for your car, which includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections.
Tip 2: Use High-Quality Parts
When you need to replace parts on your 1968 Imperial, be sure to use high-quality parts. This will help to ensure that your car performs at its best and lasts for many years to come.
Tip 3: Store Your Car Properly
If you don’t drive your 1968 Imperial regularly, it is important to store it properly to prevent damage. Store your car in a cool, dry place, and be sure to protect it from the elements with a car cover.
Tip 4: Find a Qualified Mechanic
If you are not comfortable working on your 1968 Imperial yourself, be sure to find a qualified mechanic who can help you. A qualified mechanic will have the knowledge and experience to keep your car running smoothly.
Tip 5: Enjoy Your Car!
The 1968 Imperial is a classic car that is meant to be enjoyed. Take your car out for a drive and enjoy the ride.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your 1968 Imperial in top condition for many years to come.
Conclusion: The 1968 Imperial is a special car that requires special care and maintenance. By following these tips, you can help to keep your Imperial running smoothly and looking its best for many years to come.
Conclusion
The 1968 Imperial was a significant car in American automotive history. It was the last Imperial produced in the United States, and it marked the end of an era for Chrysler Corporation. The 1968 Imperial was a reminder of a time when American car manufacturers dominated the global luxury car market.
The 1968 Imperial was a powerful and stylish car that offered a comfortable and luxurious ride. It was a popular choice for families, business travelers, and anyone else who wanted a spacious and well-equipped car. Today, the 1968 Imperial is a classic car that is still admired for its timeless design and powerful performance.
If you are lucky enough to own a 1968 Imperial, be sure to take good care of it. This is a special car that is sure to bring you many years of enjoyment.