125 bhp, 384.8 cu.

in.

L-head inline eight-cylinder engine, four-speed manual overdrive transmission with free-wheeling, solid front axle and live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf-spring suspension, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes.

Wheelbase: 145 in.

By 1931, Chrysler’s Imperial had grown from simply an upmarket version of lesser models into something truly unique and special.

It had been graced with classically beautiful styling, which was inspired by the Cord L-29, and was noteworthy for its massive 145-inch wheelbase chassis and smooth 125-horsepower straight eight.

Not only was this car big and powerful, it was also a superb driver, with advanced steering geometry that made it shockingly easy to swing through wide corners at speed.

The term “driver’s car” is seldom applied to American Classics of this era, but it is apt for the Imperial.

Drivers with funds to spare could opt for “semi-custom” bodywork that had been supplied by the LeBaron imprint of Briggs and styled ...