1930 Chrysler Imperial Series 80L Roadster
Chrysler started out the decade producing the stalwart Series 70 six-cylinder, displacing 3.3 liters. By 1926, more power was in demand, so they punched it out to 3.6 liters. The following year saw the introduction of a smaller 3.0-liter Series 60 six-pack alongside the enlarged 4.1 liter Series 72 seventies.
Before long, Chrysler’s model range grew to include four-cylinders, opulent Imperials intended to compete with Cadillac and Lincoln, and everything in between.
For the 1929 and 1930 model years, the Imperials gained more stylish, streamlined cues like a narrower radiator and slim front pillars, along with new features like dual cowl vents and louvered hoods.
Chrysler also contracted renowned coachbuilder Locke to produce semi-custom bodies for these stately sedans. Locke made its name crafting bespoke, personalized luxury coaches for brands like Duesenberg, Pierce-Arrow and Mercedes.
But as mass production took hold in the 1920s, founder Justus Vinton Locke expanded into building production bodies for Chrysler, along with Graham, Franklin and Lincoln.
