I bet that $35,000 will take it! I believe this is the car that was in Odessa, Texas, and I am sure it sold previously for $80,000 in about 1990, just before the recession. I had made an offer on it, but it went before I had a chance to up my offer higher. I still have the complete set of photos and binder that was sent to me at that time. The car had been picked up by a crane with cables and crushed somewhat before restoration. But the restoration was an absolutely perfect job... so that should not be too big a deal. It is a rare one of a kind restoration of a 57... but somewhat expensive for the usual Imperial Lovers. A collector will probably take it for his/her stable... Here are the details on the web site of the auction... http://www.rmauctions.com/events/catalog.cfm?sCode=AM02 1957 Chrysler Imperial Convertible When Chrysler opted to make the Imperial name its own line in 1955, the company most directly threatened was Cadillac. Though it was really a mild threat in terms of sales numbers, there was an image worth protecting to worry about. The Imperials were directly influenced by the earlier Parade Phaeton show cars, and the details on the newly introduced Chrysler oozed exuberance and style. The success of the 1955/56 models led to the creation of a full-blown series of cars: the Convertible, LeBaron, and Hardtop Sedan. Each was flashy, used large complicated chrome grilles and massive tailfins, and sported lavishly appointed interiors. By 1957, the Imperial had grown into a popular line, and, being massively successful, the cars added to the public's perception of Chrysler in general. Additionally, the 1957 models were redesigned from its predecessor, utilizing bombsight taillights, a wrap-around windshield, and creative colors. Production of the Convertible was quite low, with numbers not exceeding 1,200 in total, and, at their high cost, they were a luxury afforded by only the most wealthy. The 1957 Imperial Convertible offered here was the recipient of a full, frame-off restoration in 1991. We understand that in excess of $80,000 was spent making this sleek white Chrysler the finest example in the world. It is complete with every desirable option and accessory, including air conditioning, all power items, and wire wheels. It is in superb condition, runs excellent, and is like new in its physical appearance. As this is a rare car to begin with, its overall condition makes this car even that much more desirable. (End of Text of auction site) John Gault IMPERIALIST http://www.ImperialCruiser.com ----- Original Message ----- From: "bevacqua" <tonysru2@xxxxxxx> To: <mailing-list@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> Sent: Saturday, February 23, 2002 6:22 PM Subject: Re: IML: Imperial at Annual Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance > It's a 1957. > > Tony > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Gregory Gryczan & Sandra Hudson Gryczan" > <gregandsandra@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> > To: <mailing-list@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> > Sent: Saturday, February 23, 2002 4:25 PM > Subject: IML: Imperial at Annual Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance > > > > Hello List, > > > > A 1959 Imperial Crown Convertible will be auctioned at the 7th Annual > > Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, RM Classic Car Auction. Listed as Lot > > 130 and as a Chrysler Imperial Convertible, this Imp is said to have had a > > full, frame-off restoration in 1991. It's chassis number is C5717582. > The > > color is white with a red interior and boot. The estimated value is > > $40,000 to $60,000. This is what is reported in the auction catalog. Not > > bad for an old Mopar that doesn't go beep beep or is propelled by 426 > cubic > > inches! > > > > The same auction has '47 and '48 Chrysler Town & Country Convertibles > > available. These three ChryCo. cars among the likes of a '33 Alfa Romeo > 8C > > 2600 Monza, a '51 Bugatti Type 101 Supercharged Coupe, a '73 Ferrari 246 > > GTS Dino, several Jaguars, 2 Lamborghinis, 12 Mercedes-Benz cars, > Packards, > > and many other marques. Are we judged by the company we keep, or just our > > cars? > > > > I haven't had a chance to check out the site, but it might have some pics. > > > > www.rmauctions.com > > > > Greg Gryczan > > West Palm Beach, FL > > U.S.A. > > > > >