Flagship is an often misused word that describes the best of what an industry member has to offer. Frequently, the word is used to associate a product that may be “most popular” without consideration for quality comparisons to other brands in the product class. The vaunted Chrysler Imperial, a model of quality, a standard bearer of styling and a favorite of the wealthy elite has made its comeback in the Chrysler Imperial concept stage in 2006.

When speaking of classic automobiles, the “years” can be synonymous with the three major auto makers, and Chrysler had what would become classics in each of the following years, namely the 1956 Chrysler Imperial, 1959 Chrysler Imperial, 1961 Chrysler Imperial, 1965 Chrysler Imperial, 1969 Chrysler Imperial, 1970 Chrysler Imperial, and 1972 Chrysler Imperial. In case you, the reader hadn’t noticed, a pattern of excellence has developed during your review of this article.

So profound is the reputation and “collectible” attributes of the model, that Chrysler Imperial parts, right down to replacement carpets can be obtained for any year and any model, to this date. So prestigious was the Chrysler Imperial, that the model was produced as a limousine, its most popular being the 1960 vintage. Pictures of the 1960 Chrysler Imperial Limo can be seen on various Internet websites dedicated to Chrysler enthusiasts.

So popular was the Chrysler Imperial that a Hybrid Tea Rose was named after it. The coveted deep red rose is still sold in nurseries today, under the name “Chrysler Imperial Rose”. Substance and a flashy appearance were the two primary attributes that earned the rose its name.

Chrysler’s re-introduction of the Chrysler Imperial as a concept car in 2006 with anticipated production in the near future, will return Chrysler as one of the standard bearers of luxury automobile producers in the international auto market. Chrysler has listened to the motoring public and made the new Chrysler Imperial a “driver’s car”, concentrating production efforts on performance from a driver’s perspective, yet maintaining the best of the styling of the 1930′s through 1950′s. The new Chrysler Imperial will find itself second to none in terms of road performance (fun to drive) and yet will maintain its luxurious appointments that put the Chrysler Imperial on the map in the first place.

With its rich history, the Chrysler Imperial deserves to be a part of the American motoring heritage and further deserves its rightful place in American automotive history. Deservedly, the Chrysler Imperial’s re-introduction will undoubtedly cause a new generation to fully appreciate what Chrysler brings to the table in terms of quality, innovation, styling and heritage; not so much Chrysler heritage, but American heritage. The footsteps of America can be directly traced through the very products that have been introduced to Americans since Chrysler’s inception.

There is little doubt that Chrysler’s re-introduction of the Chrysler Imperial will be an instant hit with the American public, and that the model will have the level of acceptance to invigorate Chrysler to follow the re-introduction with subsequent models. There is little doubt that Chrysler understands that there is an entire generation waiting to embrace what its predecessors accepted as the auto manufacturer with an imagination, a sense of styling without peer, and a legacy of unparalleled commitment to the joy of motoring.