Soon after Walter P. Chrysler took over the ailing Maxwell Motor Company and renamed the firm Chrysler in 1924, the company adopted the name _Imperial_ to denote his top of the line offerings. By 1931, Imperial had evolved into a unique automobile that set itself well-apart from the rest of the Chrysler line. The new for 1931 model, known as the CG Imperial, sat atop a massive 145-inch wheelbase chassis, and the body was styled to give a low-slung and rakish appearance. Clearly influenced by the Cord L-29, the new CG Imperial featured broad, sweeping curves and a low-mounted, swept-back radiator grille. Motivation came via a mighty 385 cubic-inch straight eight producing 125-horsepower. The combination of that powerful eight-cylinder engine, coupled with advanced steering and suspension geometry, and four wheel hydraulic brakes gave the Imperial surprisingly good road manners and 100mph ability. Despite its proven ability, the CG Imperial remained a very limited car with only 339 examples built over a three year period. Considered by many to be the most beautiful Chrysler ever built, the CG Imperial is also a favorite among fans of American Classics who prefer to drive their cars as intended; such are their exquisite road manners and outstanding performance.