Re: IML: In defense of "customs"

The Custom, Crown, and LeBaron model hierarchy debuted in 1957 and (as was stated previously) patterned after Cadillac's model hierarchy. The Crowns differentiated themselves from the customs in 1957-59 with (of all things) gold crowns and fancier interiors.

I have seen a multitude of Imperial customs (from at least 1960) with crank windows up to 1963, but never after (with the exception of vent windows).

I removed a stainless steel roof (silver crest option) from a 1959 Imperial Custom located at Wildcat auto wrecking several years ago. This Customer was loaded with every option offered with the exception of the gas fired heater; far more loaded than my Crown Coupe of the same year. It just depended on what options you wanted to pay for. It's not clear why someone would purchase the loaded Custom instead of the LeBaron, in my opinion. I have certainly seen my share of low optioned LeBarons, as well.

Bryan

----- Original Message -----

From: Hugh & Therese

To: mailing-list@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Sent: Wednesday, August 10, 2005 12:22 PM

Subject: Re: IML: In defense of "customs"

Interesting.

My base model 58 has:

> Power Windows
> Power Six Way Seat
> Vanity Mirror
> Manual Tilt Rear View Mirror

It does not have
>
> Left Side Exterior Mirror
> the center armrest in the front. (It does in the rear.)

It also lacks two tone paint, the repeated chrome insert in the roof that
echoes the one on the outside and little gold crowns in various places. The
sill plates do have the crown, something I noticed also on Patrick Moore's
car, which is also the base model. The nice map pockets in the door arm
rests are also missing. It does have the fake tire cover.

It also lacks the word "custom." Its just an Imperial. Nothing more.
Nothing less.

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