Chrysler E-Class | |
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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.
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", 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. 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.