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 (Chrysler Corporation)
Production	1982–1984
Model years	1983–1984
Assembly	Jefferson Avenue Assembly, Detroit, Michigan
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 Chrysler. Introduced in 1983 on a stretched version of the Chrysler K platform, the E-Class was a less expensive, less equipped version of the similar 1983 New Yorker.

History

The Chrysler E-Class was targeted at those who wanted Chrysler luxury at a more affordable price than the flagship New Yorker. Due to this reason, the E-Class is the de facto replacement for the 1981 Newport, which had been 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 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.

Sales

References

Media related to Chrysler E-Class at Wikimedia Commons

• Chrysler Corporation. "1984 Chrysler E-Class". Chrysler Factory Brochure (1984).