Chrysler E-Class
- This article is about the rebadged version of the Dodge 600. For the Mercedes-Benz model, see Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
| Chrysler E-Class | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Chrysler Corporation |
| Production | 1983–1984 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Mid-size |
| Body style | 4-door sedan |
| Layout | FF layout |
| Platform | E-body |
| Related |
Chrysler New Yorker Dodge 600 Plymouth Caravelle |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
2.2 L K I4 2.2 L Turbo I I4 2.6 L Mitsubishi G54B I4 |
| Transmission |
3-speed A413 automatic 3-speed A470 automatic |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Chrysler Newport |
| Successor | Plymouth Caravelle |
The Chrysler E-Class was a mid-size car produced by the Chrysler Corporation. Introduced in 1983 on a stretched version of the Chrysler K platform, the E-Class was a less expensive, less equipped version of the identical 1983 New Yorker. It was targeted at those who wanted Chrysler luxury, but could not afford the opulence nor hefty price tag of the flagship New Yorker. Due to this reason, the E-Class is the de facto replacement for the 1981 Newport, which previously was Chrysler's cheaper, more basic version of the New Yorker. The E-Class was originally to be called the "Grand LeBaron",[1] however Chrysler decided to name it "E-Class" in reference to the new E-platform.
The E-Class came with a number of standard features and options including a cassette player, split 50/50 front bench with middle seat mounted console, woodgrain interior trim, two-tone exterior paint, power window & door locks, and air conditioning. Engines were the 2.2 L naturally aspirated I4 and the Mitsubishi 2.6 L I4. 1984 saw the debut of fuel injection on the 2.2 L engine and an optional Garrett AiResearch T-03 turbocharger. Larger, wraparound tail lights were also added for 1984.
The E-Class however, was not a sales success. Sales of the more expensive New Yorker were nearly double the E-Class's sales for 1984.[2] Its slow sales caused it to be dropped from Chrysler's lineup after only two years on the market. Rather than discontinue a lower-priced model to be sold on Chrysler-Plymouth lots, Chrysler gave the car a minor refreshment (it lost the waterfall grille and crystal pentastar hood ornament) and transferred it to Plymouth's lineup, where it became the Caravelle for 1985.
The production figures for the Chrysler E-Class:[3]
- 1983 -39,258
- 1984 -32,237
- Total -71,495
References
Media related to Chrysler E-Class at Wikimedia Commons
- Chrysler Corporation. "1984 Chrysler E-Class". Chrysler Factory Brochure (1984).
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