Pick of the Day: 1963 Chrysler Imperial LeBaron

Some classic cars fly under the radar, while others beg for attention. Today’s example, according to its seller, is “Not for the introvert.”

The Pick of the Day is a 1963 Chrysler Imperial LeBaron listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Belfair, Washington. (Click the link to view the listing)

“Whenever I drive this car, it attracts a sizeable crowd. Be prepared. It’s a definite head-turner with its unusual design – floating headlights, rectangular steering wheel, and futuristic cockpit.”

The Imperial name dates back almost 100 years when it was first used on a Chrysler model in 1926. In 1955, the Imperial lineup branched off as a standalone brand and it stayed that way for a couple of decades. Formally, it was known as the “Imperial Division of Chrysler Corporation.” Chrysler even went so far as to send notices to state agencies informing them that the Imperial had become its own make.

A second generation for the Imperial line launched in 1957 boasting new design language while retaining a rigid perimeter frame all the way through 1966. “This was the most expensive of the luxury Imperial line in 1963, with only 1,537 built,” the listing states. A repaint was applied in 2007, and the car reportedly has an accident-free history. “The car has been in a private collection for the past 30-something years and always garaged in a climate-controlled facility.”

Power for this four-door luxury sedan comes from a 413cid V8 that was rated at 340 horsepower. “It runs great and cruises down the highway at 70 mph effortlessly,” the seller says. While mechanically sound, this LeBaron does have a few outstanding needs. The specifics mentioned in the listing are an inoperative fuel gauge, radio, power seat, and right rear power window.

The interior is my favorite part about this car, showing a unique and stylish mid-century dash design, complete with control panels that flank the instrument cluster in a setup that looks sort of like tailfins. The push-button automatic transmission is controlled on the left side, and the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning are controlled on the right. No wonder this car gets people talking.

“I am retiring soon, and we have decided to move out of the country,” the seller concludes.

The asking price is $23,000 or best offer for this attention-getting LeBaron.

To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.