1939 Chrysler Imperial VIN Verification

Introduction

The 1939 Chrysler Imperial was a luxury automobile that epitomized the elegance and sophistication of pre-war American car design. Positioned as Chrysler’s flagship model, the Imperial was aimed at competing with other premium brands like Cadillac and Lincoln. For 1939, the Imperial showcased streamlined styling, improved technology, and more powerful engine options, making it a standout choice for those seeking high-end luxury and advanced engineering.

History & Origins

The Chrysler Imperial was first introduced in 1926 as Chrysler’s response to the luxury car market, designed to offer advanced engineering and high-end features. By 1939, the Imperial had evolved into a well-regarded nameplate known for its stylish design and technological innovations. Chrysler’s “Fluid Drive” transmission, introduced this year, made the 1939 Imperial particularly significant as it represented Chrysler’s commitment to advancing automotive technology. The Imperial also featured Chrysler’s commitment to craftsmanship and luxurious appointments, with the model serving as the pinnacle of their lineup before the disruptions caused by World War II.

Engine & Performance Options

The 1939 Chrysler Imperial was powered by a robust and refined inline-eight engine, offering respectable performance for a luxury car of the era:

• 298.7 cubic-inch (4.9L) Straight-8 engine:
  • Power Output: 130 horsepower.
  • Paired with Chrysler’s innovative “Fluid Drive” semi-automatic transmission, a key advancement that allowed for smoother gear transitions without requiring the driver to engage the clutch between shifts.

The straight-eight engine provided smooth power delivery and excellent torque, making the Imperial capable of achieving relatively high speeds and offering a relaxed, comfortable driving experience. Though not a performance car by modern standards, the 1939 Imperial’s engine was seen as powerful and reliable, catering to those seeking a balance of luxury and performance.

Design & Features

The 1939 Chrysler Imperial embodied Art Deco-inspired design with streamlined curves and graceful lines, exuding an aura of prestige and sophistication.

• Exterior Design:

  • The Imperial featured streamlined styling, with flowing fenders, a prominent grille, and rounded bodywork that reflected the design trends of the late 1930s.
  • A hallmark of the 1939 Imperial was its chrome-accented waterfall grille, which gave the car a stately and imposing front fascia.
  • The car also had a longer, more elegant profile, with rounded corners and flowing lines that emphasized aerodynamics and luxury.
  • The headlights were now integrated into the fenders, a design innovation that added to the sleek and modern appearance of the vehicle.

• Interior Features:

  • Inside, the Imperial offered premium materials, including plush upholstery, woodgrain accents, and chrome details that added to the luxurious atmosphere.
  • The dashboard was designed for both elegance and functionality, featuring large, easy-to-read gauges with a horizontal speedometer and artful chrome trim.
  • Spacious seating for five or more passengers, with luxurious appointments such as leather upholstery and high-quality carpeting.
  • Optional features included a radio and heater, which were considered upscale amenities during this era.

Trim Levels & Variants

The 1939 Chrysler Imperial was offered in several body styles, each catering to different tastes and preferences:

• Imperial Sedan: The four-door sedan was the most popular and practical variant, offering ample space for passengers and luggage.
• Imperial Convertible Coupe: A stylish two-door convertible that offered open-air driving with the same luxury features as the sedan.
• Imperial Town Car: A more formal chauffeur-driven model with a partition between the driver and passengers, catering to wealthy buyers and businesses.

These variants ensured that the Imperial appealed to a broad spectrum of luxury buyers, whether they sought a family car, a stylish convertible, or a formal town car.

Safety & Technology

Chrysler was known for pioneering automotive safety, and the 1939 Imperial was no exception. Though safety features were still limited in the pre-war era, Chrysler’s advancements in technology stood out:

• Safety Features:

  • The 1939 Imperial came with hydraulic brakes, which provided more reliable stopping power compared to mechanical brakes.
  • Safety glass was standard on all windows, a feature Chrysler had helped popularize in earlier years.
  • The Imperial’s robust frame and solid construction made it one of the more durable and safer vehicles of its time.

• Technology:

  • The Fluid Drive transmission was a major innovation, providing a semi-automatic driving experience that eliminated the need for frequent clutch use, making driving smoother and easier.
  • An optional heater made the car more comfortable for winter driving, a luxury in the pre-war automotive market.

Fuel Economy & Efficiency

The 1939 Chrysler Imperial, with its large straight-eight engine, was not designed with fuel economy in mind, but it provided decent efficiency for a luxury car of its size and power:

• The Imperial was estimated to achieve around 12-15 MPG, which was typical for large luxury vehicles of the era.
• The addition of the Fluid Drive transmission helped improve fuel efficiency slightly by optimizing engine output during gear changes, though fuel efficiency was generally secondary to performance and comfort.

Market Comparison

The 1939 Chrysler Imperial competed in the upper echelon of the American automotive market against other luxury brands:

• Cadillac Series 60: Cadillac’s Series 60 was another luxurious option, offering a powerful V8 engine and similar prestige, though at a higher price point.
• Lincoln Zephyr: The Zephyr was known for its sleek, streamlined design and powerful V12 engine, offering more power but at a higher cost.
• Packard Super Eight: The Packard Super Eight was another strong competitor in the luxury segment, known for its smooth inline-eight engine and refined craftsmanship.

While the Cadillac and Lincoln offered greater brand prestige, the Chrysler Imperial was more affordable while still providing high levels of luxury, style, and innovation.

Pricing

In 1939, the Chrysler Imperial was positioned as a more affordable alternative to the luxury offerings from Cadillac and Lincoln:

• Base Price: The 1939 Imperial sedan started around $1,375, with the convertible coupe and town car variants costing slightly more depending on options.

Today, well-maintained examples of the 1939 Chrysler Imperial can fetch between $30,000 and $75,000, with rare or highly restored models potentially commanding higher prices in auctions.

Notable Awards & Accolades

The 1939 Chrysler Imperial didn’t receive any major awards at the time, but it is remembered for several key advancements:

• Fluid Drive: The introduction of the Fluid Drive transmission was a notable technological innovation, making the 1939 Imperial one of the most advanced luxury cars of its time.
• Streamlined Design: The 1939 model’s elegant, streamlined design has made it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate pre-war automotive styling.

The 1939 Chrysler Imperial remains a symbol of pre-war American luxury and innovation, with its blend of style, engineering, and comfort making it one of the most iconic models in Chrysler’s history.