Which Imperials did Virgil Exner style?
Virgil Exner started with Chrysler in 1951, but by then the designs for several years had been finalized. Some say that he had some influence in the 1954 trim, but that clearly the 1955 was the first production design for which he bears responsibility. The last would clearly be the 1962, although Exner did not like it and would not take responsibility, as he did not approve of the truncated fins. As far as the first Exner-designed Imperial, however, it would have to be the 1952 Imperial Parade Phaeton, of which three were built in 1952. One each was presented to New York, Los Angeles, and Detroit for official use. These cars used 1952 front sheet metal, but otherwise were totally custom dual cowl phaetons. They were also updated in 1955, with full Exner 1956 Imperial styling.
