Imperial Home Page -> Imperials by Year -> 1929 -> History
The 1929 Imperial was a continuation and refinement of the '28 model. A narrow profile radiator, automatic radiator shutter, slender front body pillars, shatterproof glass, arched windows, dual cowl ventilators, fuel gage on the dash and arched vertical hood louvers were all new features. Engineering advances included larger brake drums with internal-expanding shoes instead of the old external contracting brands and larger tires, to 7.00 x 15, which increased riding comfort and gave the Imperial a more modern look along with its lower frame and more integrated styling. Semi-customed bodies were adapted by Locke and LeBaron body companies.
A team of two stripped down '29 Imperial roadsters and two Series "75" roadsters competed at LeMans in 1928, placing 6th and 7th in their class. The same cars took part in other European Grand Prix, but did not do as well.
DeSoto
is introduced to the public and is envisioned as a competitor in the
"junior
edition" line which included LaSalle, the Erskine, the Roosevelt, Essex,
Pontiac and Oldsmobile.
Information on this page was obtained from The Standard Catalog of Chrysler 1924-1990 by John Lee and Chrysler Chronicles by James Flammang.
