Date Listed 22-Sep-11 Price Please contact Address Cardinal, ON K0E 1E0, Canada View map For Sale By Owner Make Chrysler Model Imperial Trim Lebaron Year 1961 Kilometers 115780 Body Type Sedan Transmission Automatic Colour Black Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive (RWD) Fuel Type Gasoline
RARE PRESIDENTIAL USE CAR ! This car was borrowed back from the original owner by Chrysler Canada to be used to chauffer American president John F. Kennedy and his wife during their four day state visit in May of 1961. Documents supporting this fact still remain with the vehicule as well as the original sales pacage. Purchaced in 2002 from the original owners the car has remained in storage as it had been since 1989. Appraised in 02 for $7000. It's in the way now and MUST GO !!........ OFFERS??????
I did a little sleuthing and found 2 cars that JFK rode in during his visit to Canada in May 61. Neither are this car, but in the video below, it looks like it may be one of the escort cars. The video is poor quality, maybe someone with better eyes can tell. I couldnt imagine Chrysler 'borrowing' a car back and then using it as an escort. Perhaps the car is legit, and he used several cars during his visit. Interesting story to me.
I contacted the seller. They state the car you pointed out is the Imperial. They say they have thank you letters from the Gov't for allowing them to use the car as well as other paperwork. They won't give me a price stating "best offer" which frustrates the hell out of me.
I contacted the seller. They state the car you pointed out is the Imperial. They say they have thank you letters from the Gov't for allowing them to use the car as well as other paperwork. They won't give me a price stating "best offer" which frustrates the hell out of me.
I've always loved these outlandish Imperials.
I still think it's a Chrysler sedan in the video, but who am I to say... it's blurry enough to cast some doubt either way.
I love those Imperials as well, but beware... there looks to be more rust there than meets the eye. The trunk has a substantial hole in it and it looks like lots of rust under paint or undercoating as well... the type that you can easily push a screwdriver through. Then that makes me wonder what the frame is like (While Chrysler started using unitized construction in 1960, Imperials continued to use a full frame for a few more years).
Also, is it running? Looks like a tow strap on the ground under the front bumper...
I don't imagine parts are too easy to find for one of those beasts these days as I don't think there is much support from the aftermarket.
Parts are not as plentiful as old GM or Ford iron, but there are good support clubs for these. I have a 72 Imperial and would love to have an "Exner" one, just not in the budget right now. So Todd go get this so i can at least have a ride in it!
