Chrysler had offered an Imperial model at the top of its range since 1926, but in 1955 decided to float it off as a self standing brand against Lincoln and Cadillac. The 1955 Imperials shared the platform of large Chryslers but were 4-inches longer. Styled with Virgil Exner's 'Forward Look' styling. A V8 engine with hemispherical head was new to the range, and in 1956 the first fins were added. The next Imperial from 1957 had its own platform that was longer (129-inches) and wider (81.2-inches) than other Chrysler cars, and retained X-frame construction against the monocoque construction of lesser Chryslers until 1966. 1957 styling took 'Forward Look' even further with curved side glass, gunsight tail lamps, quad headlamps. Exner design of the Imperial continued until Engel took over for the 1964 model year.