2006 Detroit: Chrysler Imperial Concept Video

Senior Producer John Matthius tours the Chrysler Imperial Concept from the 2006 Detroit Auto Show...

Transcript

00:00 As the owner of two Imperials in the past, Chrysler struck a note dear to my heart with

00:15 this Imperial concept at the 2006 North American International Auto Show.

00:20 Now this is a modern interpretation of a classic American luxury car, but it's been updated

00:25 with some European design influence and cues.

00:28 It's based on the Chrysler 300, but the wheelbase has been stretched three inches, and it's

00:32 nearly a foot and a half longer and six inches taller than a 300.

00:36 Under hood is the 340 horse, 5.7 liter Hemi, and it rides on massive 22 inch wheels.

00:43 A large grill dominates the front, and the headlamps are individual pods, reminiscent

00:48 of the freestanding lamps on an early 60s Imperial.

00:52 It has a squat greenhouse and a big hefty body.

00:56 The suicide doors are a familiar Lincoln trademark, but the elongated individual lettering on

01:01 the front doors is pure Imperial.

01:04 Inside this imposing concept features a full length center console and 2+2 seating.

01:10 The tachometer and speedometer are housed in large round dials, another signature Imperial

01:15 touch.

01:16 The resemblance to a Rolls Royce Phantom is unmistakable, don't you think?

01:20 From the front three-quarter, I also kind of see the Green Hornet's black beauty, which

01:24 isn't surprising since that famous TV car started out life as an Imperial.

01:28 You know, for many of us, an Imperial is a very special car, and it'll be nice to see

01:32 that nameplate return.

01:34 (upbeat music)

01:36 [MUSIC]