The 1967-1968 Imperial Models

The 1967-1968 Imperials permanently shifted away from separate body and frame construction. Chrysler claimed this change was driven by technological advancements, as improved insulation and soundproofing techniques by 1967 rendered a separate body obsolete.

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Significant technological advancements had been achieved, enabling computerized stress analysis of the unit body/chassis prior to its assembly. Additionally, the unibody design reduced the average weight by approximately 100 pounds. According to the company, the 1967 Imperial was even quieter and smoother than its 1966 predecessor.

Another key factor for adopting the unibody construction was cost efficiency: producing Imperials with a Chrysler inner structure on a slightly extended wheelbase proved to be more economical.

This fundamental redesign led to the 1967 models being entirely new and restyled. A bold grille featuring a prominent nameplate was paired with sleek front fenders that incorporated the parking lights. The headlamps stayed integrated into the grille, while vertical rear bumpers and horizontal body lines defined the sides. The wheelbase was reduced by two inches to 127.

Sales improved, surpassing 17,000 in 1967 and 15,000 in 1968. Prices also increased, with Crown hardtops exceeding a $6,000 base price for the first time. To balance this, Imperial reintroduced the Crown four-door pillared sedan, starting at approximately $5,400. Convertibles were still available, but barely, with only 577 produced in 1967 and 474 in 1968, marking the final year for the Imperial soft top.

Imperial's persistent struggle to compete with Cadillac and Lincoln prompted a strategic shift. Starting in 1969, Imperial would share exterior sheetmetal with Chrysler.

The 1968 Imperials saw only minor updates compared to the 1967 models. Key features included a redesigned grille that wrapped around the front to incorporate the parking and cornering lights, dual lower body moldings, and rear side-marker lights, which were now legally mandated. Narrow paint stripes were added along the beltline across all models. The standard 440 V-8 engine remained, with an optional dual exhaust/twin snorkel system increasing horsepower from 350 to 360.

Discover the critics' opinions on the unibody 1967-1968 Imperial on the following page.

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Continued

Road test evaluations of the 1967-1968 Imperial highlighted several shortcomings compared to its main rivals. While the Imperial offered superior seating comfort and maneuverability over Lincoln and Cadillac, it fell short in quality control, an area where both competitors excelled.

Imperials were notably slower: a Motor Trend comparison involving a LeBaron, Coupe DeVille, and Continental recorded 0-60 times of 9-10 seconds for the Cadillac and Lincoln, while the Imperial took 12.4 seconds. The Imperial also lagged in quarter-mile and 50-70 mph passing tests. Although it achieved slightly better fuel efficiency than the Cadillac, it was outperformed by the Lincoln in this regard.

Motor Trend critiqued these aspects, along with the Imperial's design and braking system. However, they praised numerous features, including individual door lighters, angled power toggle switches on armrests, rear reading lights, timed ignition lights, comfortable seating and ride quality, stereo system, lift-up door handles, independently powered front seats, and thermostat-controlled air temperature.

The LeBaron broke away from trends by incorporating antiqued bronze inlays on the dashboard and doors instead of traditional wood veneer. Editors praised Imperial for its superior dashboard design, featuring a broad padded top that allowed for a recessed layout. "This setup made toggle switches more practical and user-friendly compared to sliding handles or padded knobs."

During 1967-1968, a new Imperial limousine was introduced, crafted by Stageway Coaches of Fort Smith, Arkansas, known for producing airport limousines. Twelve of these LeBaron limousines (no longer using the Crown Imperial name) were constructed on a massive 163-inch wheelbase, earning the title of the world's largest luxury cars. Unlike Ghia Crowns, Stageway limousines featured an additional window and panel between the front and rear doors. Prices varied between $12,000 and $15,000 based on the included features.

Check out the detailed specifications for the 1967-1968 Imperial on the following page.

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1967-1968 Imperial Specifications

Thanks to its unibody design, the 1967-1968 Imperial was lighter compared to earlier models.

Specifications

Engine: Overhead valve V-8, 440 cubic inches (4.32 x 3.75), 350/360 horsepower

Transmission: 3-speed automatic

Front Suspension: Upper and lower control arms with longitudinal torsion bars

Rear Suspension: Live axle supported by leaf springs

Brakes: Front disc and rear drum

Wheelbase (in.): 127.0; limousine: 163.0

Weight (lbs.): 4,660 to 6,300

Top speed (mph): Not available

0-60 mph (sec): 12.4

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