I was around back in the 50's, and remember Chryslers radical line of cars in
1957, especially the Imperial, which was so much more beautiful than the
Caddy, or Lincoln. I also believe Chrysler became too complacent with their
decision of not changing their cars styles for the next three years. This was
one of the most exciting Era's in the history of cars. I couldn't wait for
the new model years to roll out, because things were always changing, and not
just a little bit, but a lot! I was just a kid then building models, but my
most memorable year was 1959, when the new G.M. line rolled out. These were
some of the most radically designed cars the world will probably ever see,
more like a study of how to use fins, and incorporate headlights and tail
lights at all kinds of angles and shapes. This was the pinnacle year for
Cadillacs radical styling, with a lot of design elements copied from the
Imperial. Chrysler had no competition to offer the '59 G.M. line, they had
remained with their same basic body styles from '57. In my book however the
'59 Imperial was a walk away best style when compared to the '59 Caddy. Even
though the body was in it's third year, the gilt chrome front end, and new
bullet tail lights, and the plainer more severe rear bumper gave the Imperial
a more elegant style than ever. It wasn't trying to be an airplane look
alike, like the Caddy was, it was just a plain good clean elegant style. I'm
sure Chrysler suffered due to their decision not to change their line in
1959, but I'm glad they didn't, or I would not have the beautiful '59 I drive
today!
Bill '59 Crown
Back to the Home of the Forward Look Network