Among the last expressions of famed American stylist Virgil Exner’s Chrysler Corporation designs, the updated 1962 Imperial Crown models maintained their classical elegance with a split front grille, freestanding pod-style headlamps, restrained tailfins with “gun sight” taillamps, and revised exterior trim. The interior continued to be futuristic with push button dash controls for the TorqueFlite automatic transmission and captivating electroluminescent instrument display system. Chrysler’s renowned 413 cid “Wedge” V-8 engine was the sole power choice, delivering 340 factory-rated brake horsepower for 1962. With the cancellation of the custom-built Crown Imperial Limousine, the models formerly designated Imperial Crown, were renamed Crown Imperial for 1962. Priced then at $4,765, the Crown Imperial Convertible is particularly rare, with just 554 built in 1962 and far fewer remaining today.

This 1962 Crown Imperial Convertible was acquired in August of 2006 from S.W. Mann Inc., and became a favorite of Richard Donner’s, who preferred to drive a vintage car for fair-weather drives to the studio. Finished in captivating red paint, accented by a white soft top, and white leather interior, it features Chrysler’s renowned 413 cubic inch V-8 engine matched to a push button-operated Torqueflite automatic transmission. Abundant features and options include air-conditioning and power-assisted brakes, steering, windows, and convertible top, plus an AM radio. Proper factory steel wheels are mounted with styled wheel covers and Coker wide whitewall radial tires.

A truly special and rare American luxury automobile with excellent engineering, commanding presence and true rarity, this 1962 Imperial Crown Convertible is yet another wonderful and enjoyable find from The Richard Donner Collection.

*Please note that this vehicle is titled as a Chrysler.