Owning a 1972 or 1973 Chrysler Imperial in the 1970s was a point of pride for anyone. These cars weren't just a statement of status and success; they were a symbol of American automotive excellence. Do you have any interesting stories about Imperials or the American "land yacht" era?
What do you think makes the Town Car such an enduring icon? Do you think there are any modern cars that capture the same spirit of luxury and elegance?
I had a 1975 Cadillac Sedan De Ville. It was over 19 feet long. My wife used to drive it an hour and a half to college (very smooth on the road), and then she would sleep in the backseat between classes. It was an amazing car.
You're absolutely right! The gas crisis did play a role, but it wasn't the only reason large cars lost their popularity. Land Yachts were cherished for their comfort, luxury, and elegance, embodying American pride and engineering prowess. Any fond memories of cruising in a Land Yacht?
The current "American," cars are no longer, "American." Buick for example, is built entirely in China. China, now, also owns GM. The only "new," car I will buy at this point is a used car built before 2011
I understand your sentiment. While globalization has indeed transformed the automotive industry, there's a certain charm to those classic American land yachts of the 1970s. They embodied an era of innovation, luxury, and the spirit of open-road adventures. Do you have any fond memories of cruising in one?
"Do you have any fond memories attached to these cars? I'd love to hear about your unforgettable journeys with those beautiful land yachts and the company you had onboard. Those must be truly priceless memories that stand the test of time."
It's fascinating to compare the fuel economy of these land yachts to today's standards. While those 1970s models might have averaged around 10-12 MPG, modern cars can achieve double or even triple that efficiency. It's a testament to the advancements in automotive technology and the growing emphasis on fuel conservation. What do you think about the evolution of fuel efficiency in cars? Do you remember the impact of the oil crisis on car design and consumer choices back in the 1970s?
I can relate to that! The Buick Electra 225 was known for its incredibly smooth and comfortable ride. It was like gliding down the road on a cloud. The plush interior and quiet cabin made it a haven of relaxation and luxury. Share your memories of riding in a Buick Electra 225. Did you ever take a long road trip in one? What made the experience so special for you?
Had a ‘73 “Coupe” fire engine red white leather interior and white vinyl top. 472 cu in, 10 mpg with a wind at your back. Cruising with Lou Rhols on my 8 trac tape. Who cares about mpg! I was liv’n large.
1:35 What are 235.3 inches? A rounded 6.0 meters long sounds WAY better. Please quote using International Metric System. Not even the IMPERIAL Englishmen use that arbitrary measurement system anymore. Thank you.
Beautiful cars, I still can't believe what GOD ALMIGHTY gave you people back then, open up a new factory 🏭 and get these beautiful cars on the production line INSHALLAH........!!!!!!!!
My grandparents bought a 1977 Grand Marquis sedan. Great car , fun to drive. It was to long for the garage. They had to build an extension to the garage and move the garage door ...
Your grandparents' 1977 Grand Marquis sounds like a true classic! Those land yachts were built to last, and they offered an unparalleled driving experience. I can picture them cruising down the highway in their grand chariot, enjoying the open road. What are your favorite memories of their Grand Marquis?
Oh, the iconic bobcat logo! It was a symbol of American pride and automotive excellence. I remember seeing it proudly displayed on those magnificent land yachts of the 1970s. Any particular memories of those cars?
The 2 door models had very long doors which could be an issue. My aunt had a 68 Catalina fastback - the car would fit into the garage of their 1958 built house, but you had to be super slim to get out as the door could not be opened very wide.
Oh, I can relate to those long land yacht doors! They were definitely a challenge to navigate, especially when getting out in tight spaces. But they also added to the character of those cars, making them feel even more grand and imposing. I bet your aunt's 1968 Catalina fastback was a real head-turner, with its sleek design and luxurious interior. Any fun memories of trying to squeeze out of those long doors?
I bet you had some unforgettable moments cruising in those beauties, even during the energy crisis. What were some of your favorite destinations for those boulevard cruises?
My first hand me down car I drove to HS was a two door ‘73 Olds Delta 88 when I was 16 in 1991 Lol. I wished I had kept that car a little longer but sold it and bought an ‘79 Ford F-150 as it exactly was not a HS chick magnet car LOL. I still remember the power steering in that car being so nimble you could turn corners with one finger effort 😊.
We've all been there with the "practical" car choice over the head-turning classic! But a '73 Olds Delta 88 at 16? That's some serious automotive swagger you had there. I bet the power steering made parking a breeze, even with those long land yacht dimensions. Any epic road trips you took in that car?
My parent owned a 74 Mark 4 then bought a a 77 mark 5. I drove both and they were a bear to drive in bad weather along winding roads in Pennsylania. I owned a 74 pontiac Ventura 350 V8 POS and never owned another GM Product.
I literally had a dream last night about driving the '71 Continental sedan that I grew up in! It was the last year of the high-compression "Premium Fuel" 460 engine, and that 5,000 pounds would MOVE. Before the chop in compression, EGR valves and Net instead of Gross power measurements, it made 365 HP and 500 Ft-Lbs of torque! On trips to Lake Tahoe, of course, it was also huge & comfortable enough to go to sleep on the back seat. All while getting an astounding 14MPG with the A/C running... 🥰
A dream about a 1971 Continental - now that's a sign of a true land yacht lover! Those pre-emission control engines were legendary for their power, and 365 hp with 500 ft-lbs of torque in a land yacht? Sounds like a blast to drive! Getting 14 mpg with the A/C running in such a big car is pretty impressive too. Any particularly memorable road trips you took in your Continental that stand out in your mind?
Dad's last two full restorations as new were Olds big block 98's, 1970, and while the convertible is a fine car, the four door is my favourite and much stronger . Mom can get in the back on her own at 95. We'll keep them, we'll drive them. As a road car they're tight and actually pretty good mileage: dad could tweak engines and carbs well.
Wow, your dad's restored Oldsmobiles sound like works of art! A 1970s land yacht with a four-door configuration offering both comfort and accessibility for your mom is truly special. The fact that they get good mileage with your dad's expert touch speaks volumes about his craftsmanship. These Oldsmobiles must be more than just cars - they're testaments to your dad's skills and family memories. Do you plan on passing these beauties down to future generations?
It's fascinating to know that the Cadillac, Buick, and Oldsmobile shared the same B platform during that period. While they shared a common base, each brand offered a unique flavor of luxury and comfort, catering to different preferences. I remember how the Cadillac was often seen as the pinnacle of luxury, while the Buick was known for its refined elegance, and the Oldsmobile struck a balance between affordability and luxury. Do you have any personal preferences among these three brands from that era?
The idea of these land yachts being favored by the mob is intriguing. While I don't condone any illegal activities, I can see how the spacious trunks and powerful engines would have been appealing for certain purposes. Do you know of any specific stories or anecdotes about the mob's use of these cars?
Despite their rust issues, those 1970s Buicks still hold a special place in the hearts of many car enthusiasts. Their styling, comfort, and performance were truly remarkable for their time. And even though rust could take its toll, these cars were often cherished and kept on the road for as long as possible. Do you know of any examples of Buicks from that era that have survived the test of time, rust and all?
Ads like this showed an impeccably dressed couple standing in front of a land yacht in front of a mansion. Today it's a couple in jeans in front of a compact car in front of an apartment building.
Haha, love that comparison! Impeccably dressed couples and land yachts in front of mansions - that was definitely the dream they were selling in the 70s. Today, it's all about practicality and fitting everything into a smaller car (and apartment!). Maybe the dream has changed, or maybe the down payment for a mansion just got a whole lot steeper! What do you think? Did car ads ever truly reflect real life, or were they always about selling a fantasy?
People liked these big Land Yahcts. They went down the road like floating on clouds. We would still be driving them if not for the fake gas crisis in 73'. All staged in an attempt by the globalists to destroy the US auto industry.
There's no doubt those land yachts were a sight to behold! They had a certain presence and style that's hard to find these days. The 70s oil crisis definitely changed the landscape of the American auto industry. While there are various factors at play, it's undeniable that fuel efficiency became a top priority. Do you remember any specific features of land yachts that you miss the most?
Those 18-foot land yachts were truly a product of their time. Today, cars are much more compact and fuel-efficient, but there's something undeniably special about the sheer size and presence of those land yachts. Do you think there will ever be a comeback for cars like that, or have our preferences shifted too far towards practicality and efficiency?
Sure-Track brakes were a significant step forward in automotive safety, paving the way for modern anti-lock brake systems (ABS). While ABS has become a standard feature on vehicles today, it's important to recognize the pioneers like Sure-Track that laid the groundwork for these advancements. Do you think there are any other safety features from the past that deserve more recognition for their contributions to modern automotive safety?
That's awesome that you drove Imperials and Chryslers Newports from the 70s to 85! Those land yachts were truly built for cruising. I can imagine they were incredibly comfortable and smooth on the road. What was it like driving such large cars compared to today's vehicles? Do you miss the experience of piloting a land yacht?
@@MillieJacksoncar I drove the Imperials almost exclusively on the road as a traveling salesman. I put 50,000 miles a year on them. What absolute luxury and comfort. I can specifically remember my 78 New Yorker Brougham St Regis coupe. I would put the seat all the way vertical and all the way back, push the headrest up, buckle my seat belt, set the Auto temp II put in a cassette tape a just cruise. Many times I was on two lane roads driving from Southern Illinois to my home in Chicago. After 5 hours, I would alight from this wonderful vehicle fresh without any aches and pains. As to todays cars, they ride to hard, the seats are uncomfortable and they are too complicated to operate. My daily driver is an 01 Lincoln Town Car. While it is not as soft riding as the cars of yore it does pay homage to this type of automobile. Every time a youngster rides in it, they comment on the silence, luxury and ride. if you desire, i can relate other stories to you.
