Chassis No. 7803358
Engine No. CL-1076

The CL Imperial of 1932-33 represented Chrysler's ultimate expression of Classic Era opulence. Building upon the success of the earlier CG Imperial, which had established Chrysler as a serious contender in the luxury market with its powerful 385 cu-in straight-eight engine and flowing LeBaron-designed coachwork, the CL series elevated the model's sophistication with an enhanced front-end design and distinctive hood flowing from the radiator shell to the windshield, eliminating the cowl. However, just as Ralph Roberts and his team at LeBaron were perfecting these elegant designs, the luxury car market was collapsing in the depths of the Depression. Of the mere 220 CL Imperials built in 1932, this extraordinary motorcar represents one of just 49 examples bodied with LeBaron's five-passenger Convertible Sedan coachwork.

This exceptional 1932 Chrysler Imperial Custom Convertible Sedan's known history begins with its factory delivery to Dayton, Ohio, in June 1932 with chassis serialization indicating that it was the 58th CL produced. By the early 1980s, it was owned by Roger Ritterbeck of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, who initiated its restoration. The Imperial caught the attention of prominent Chrysler collector Joe Morgan, who purchased the car in 1986. Upon relocating it to his home in New Hampshire, Morgan completed a comprehensive restoration—his first restoration of a CL Imperial—elevating the Chrysler to concours-quality standards. This dedication earned the vehicle First Place honors in the Primary Division at the 1992 CCCA Pennsylvania Grand Classic. In 1999, the Imperial found a new home in the Museum of Motoring Memories in Natural Bridge, Virginia, which showcased the collection of William A.C. "Bill" Pettit III—ranging from a 1906 REO Runabout to a 1937 Duesenberg Model SJ Rollson Cabriolet. The Imperial remained in the museum until his passing in 2011.

Historian Beverley Rae Kimes records that Chrysler produced just 49 CL Imperial Custom Convertible Sedans in 1932, with contemporary marque experts suggesting only 11 examples survive, underscoring this example's extraordinary rarity. Presented in dark blue with gold pinstriping and a tan soft top, the car features a distinctive cream leather interior configuration with twin bucket seats in both front and rear compartments, a detail Joe Morgan reportedly noted as particularly unusual. The Imperial's other defining characteristics include its remarkably elongated engine compartment and chromed engine vent covers. Detailed chrome trim is also featured on the wire wheel spokes, dual-side-mounted spare wheel covers, and trunk. This outstanding restoration has stood tall for nearly 40 years, serving as a testament to Joe Morgan's exceptional quality of work. Having received First Place CCCA recognition, this Imperial CL exemplifies the pinnacle of 1930s American automotive luxury and would be ideal for future exhibitions and tours.