The Chrysler Imperial, produced from 1981 to 1983, marked a significant revival of the Imperial nameplate after its hiatus since 1975. This model, built on the FS-platform, represents a unique chapter in Chrysler's history, driven by Lee Iacocca’s visionary leadership during the post-bailout era. The 2-door coupe offers a blend of luxury and power, setting the standard for American personal luxury vehicles of its time.
With its distinctive design and limited production, the Imperial is more than just a car; it’s a piece of automotive history. Especially notable is the Frank Sinatra signature edition, which adds an extra layer of allure and collectibility. These vehicles embody the golden era of personal coupes, where style and performance were unrivaled. Donating your Imperial not only supports Capital Wheels but also preserves an essential piece of American automotive heritage.
📖Generation guide
Chrysler Imperial • 1981-1983
The Chrysler Imperial of 1981-1983 was a full-size personal luxury coupe that returned the iconic nameplate after its 1975 discontinuation. Characterized by its elegant styling and lavish interiors, including the distinctive Frank Sinatra signature series, this model remains a collector's gem.
Cadillac Eldorado • 1953-2002
The Cadillac Eldorado spanned multiple eras, with peak desirability in the 1971-1978 models. Featuring options like the 500 cu in V8, it represented the height of American luxury.
Lincoln Mark V • 1977-1979
The Lincoln Mark V, especially in Designer Series trims like Bill-Blass and Pucci, is a hallmark of 1970s opulence, characterized by its dramatic styling and luxury features.
Buick Riviera • 1963-1999
The Buick Riviera remains iconic, peaking with the 1971-1973 boattail designs, which are celebrated for their unique styling and performance, particularly in GS Stage 1 trims.
Chrysler Cordoba • 1975-1983
The Cordoba set the stage for Chrysler's luxury offerings in the late 70s, known for its comfortable ride and distinctive design, sharing roots with the Imperial.
Known issues by generation
The Chrysler Imperial (1981-1983) has some notable issues that potential donors should be aware of. The 318 cu in (5.2L) V8, equipped with Bendix Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), is notorious for its early-Federal-EFI reliability problems, leading many owners to retrofit with carburetors. This often makes EFI versions rare and valuable. Additionally, the digital instrument cluster can fail, and replacement parts are scarce, which can lead to costly repairs. Body-on-frame designs also face common rust issues, particularly in rocker panels and trunk floors, so preservation efforts must be taken seriously.
Donation value by condition + generation
Collector values for the Chrysler Imperial (1981-1983) vary widely. While standard driver-quality models typically range from $5,000 to $12,000, the Sinatra signature editions can command $15,000 to $30,000 if they have full documentation. Rare low-mileage, original-paint examples with the EFI system intact can exceed $30,000. For serious collectors, maintaining original authenticity is vital, and documentation such as the factory build sheet and dealer invoice is essential. Vehicles with a factory color change should be approached with caution, as this can significantly reduce their value.
Donation process for this model
Donating your Chrysler Imperial can be a straightforward process. However, for halo cars like the Sinatra signature editions, it is highly recommended to obtain a qualified appraisal, especially for those valued over $5,000. Important documents such as the Marti Report, factory build sheet, and dealer invoice are necessary to validate authenticity and collector value. Enclosed transport is advisable for clean, original-paint examples to ensure they are preserved in the best condition.
Albany regional notes
In Albany, New York, owners of the Chrysler Imperial (1981-1983) can find a network of classic car specialists who understand the unique needs of these vehicles. Given the body-on-frame construction, rust issues are a common concern, especially in the northeastern climate. Finding restoration shops that specialize in vinyl roofs and landau bar trims is crucial for maintaining these classic cars. The local collector community has a growing appreciation for the Sinatra signature editions, increasing their visibility and value in the marketplace.