Chrysler Imperial on Mercedes R-class?
 

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...ticleId=109446

http://cgmedia.daimlerchrysler.com/d...rtch2__mid.jpg

IL Insider: Chrysler Imperial On Track for 2010 Intro
Date posted: 02-28-2006

DETROIT — The Chrysler Group is telling suppliers it has a new plan under which its controversial Imperial concept may see production in calendar-year 2010.

The surprise is the donor vehicle that Chrysler wants to use as the foundation for the production Imperial — the next-generation R-Class. Both vehicles, according to suppliers, would likely reach dealerships as 2011 models.

The Imperial concept, unveiled at the Detroit auto show in January, was huge. It rode on an ample 123-inch wheelbase and measured 214 inches long overall — considerably larger than any sedan Chrysler now builds, including the 300C.

The six-passenger R-Class, in comparison, measures 203 inches long, with a wheelbase of 126.6 inches. The current platform can accommodate a wide range of engines, including V6 and V8 diesels, as well as five-, six- and seven-speed automatic transmissions. The chassis is designed for rear- and all-wheel-drive applications.

Chrysler also is considering other platforms for a possible production version of the Imperial, including the LX/LY chassis that underpins the 300C. That platform, too, can accommodate both rear- and all-wheel drive, as well as V6 and V8 engines.

The Imperial concept featured a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 and a Mercedes five-speed automatic.

What this means to you: The future Imperial could share underbody pieces with the big Mercedes people mover.

RE: Chrysler Imperial on Mercedes R-class?
 

Looks like a tricked out 300C. Will that grill be seen as an aftermarket item on the current 300C in the future once those photos get out. You know another Caprice/Impala history repeat.

You know how they say the 300C is the "poor man's" Bentley? This look like it will be called the "poor man's" Rolls-Royce.

That thing is a nice looking car but they should release it before 2011. I think the world is ready for it now. With a look like that, it can raise Chrysler image a little farther and maybe take over the domestic luxury car segment.

RE: Chrysler Imperial on Mercedes R-class?
 

It was originally supposed to be on the LY platform, the same as the Challenger... But now it's sharing Mercedes parts...

I hope a few things are redesigned on it by the time it is released...

RE: Chrysler Imperial on Mercedes R-class?
 

If they plan on the release date to be 2011, they have plenty of time to tweak it. It's nice looking for real. If it's at least half way reliable I'd buy one. I better start saving so I can get the top of the line one.

RE: Chrysler Imperial on Mercedes R-class?
 

In cash that is. No car note or loan.

RE: Chrysler Imperial on Mercedes R-class?
 

The only way to buy a car. :D

RE: Chrysler Imperial on Mercedes R-class?
 

Once you go cash, you can never go back.

RE: Chrysler Imperial on Mercedes R-class?
 

wheels just keep getting bigger.

they always re-invent it.

RE: Chrysler Imperial on Mercedes R-class?
 

Soon cars will be coming stock with 24s and 26s. And 32s will be the new fashion

RE: Chrysler Imperial on Mercedes R-class?
 

Leme guess, $70,000 and up? Maybe they will come out with a hybrid version.

All kidding aside, the car looks like it will create in-fighting with the MB S-Class line.