Chrysler M platform

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Chrysler M Platform
1985 Plymouth Gran Fury (18325175022).jpg
1985 Plymouth Gran Fury
Overview
ManufacturerChrysler Corporation
Production1977-1989
Body and chassis
ClassMid-size
LayoutFR layout
Body style(s)2-door coupe
4-door sedan
4-door station wagon
Powertrain
Engine(s)3.7 L Slant 6 I6
5.2 L LA V8
5.9 L LA V8
Transmission(s)4-speed A833 manual
3-speed A727 automatic
3-speed A904 automatic
3-speed A999 automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase108.7 in (2,761 mm) (2-door models only, 1980-82)
112.7 in (2,863 mm)
Chronology
PredecessorF-body
R-body
SuccessorK platform

The Chrysler M Platform (or "M-Body") was an intermediate-sized automobile platform used by Chrysler motors from 1977 to 1989. It was a successor to the F-body, as used on the Dodge Aspen/ Plymouth Volare. The M-body was also the successor to the short-lived R-body, as the Chrysler New Yorker and Plymouth Gran Fury moved to it following the R-body's demise in 1981. The M platform was the final production passenger car with a solid rear axle mounted on Hotchkiss-style, parallel semi-elliptical leaf springs sold in the U.S.[1]

The M-cars were built at St. Louis, Missouri and Newark, Delaware with initial debut (LeBaron/Diplomat series) in spring 1977 as 1977 1/2 models,[2] with some 1977-83 production also at Windsor, Ontario. Beginning in February 1987 and ending with 1989 model year, the American Motors plant in Kenosha, Wisconsin was utilized for assembly.[3]

By 1983–84, it became clear that most private buyers preferred the equally roomy but cheaper and more fuel-efficient K-cars; however, the M's long-proven traditional engineering, handling, and V8 engine availability appealed to police and taxi fleets, allowing the car's continued existence until the end of the decade. In 1989 the Chrysler M-bodies received a driver side air bag.[4] After the M-bodies were discontinued in 1989 Chrysler Corporation wouldn't build a rear wheel drive car outside of trucks and specialty models until LX based cars.

Vehicles on this platform include:

Three body styles offered:[5]

Two wheelbases used:

  • 108.7 in - 1980-1981 2-door [6]
  • 112.7 in - 1977-1979 2-door, 1978-1981 Station Wagon and 1977-1989 4-door [7]

Engines used with this platform include:

See also

References

Inline
  1. ^ Flammang, James M. (1999). Standard catalog of American cars, 1976-1999. Ron Kowalke (3rd ed.). Iola, WI: Krause Publications. ISBN 0-87341-755-0. OCLC 43301709.
  2. ^ https://www.xr793.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/1978-Chrysler-Lebaron.pdf[bare URL PDF]
  3. ^ "AMC PLANT TO BUILD CHRYSLERS – Chicago Tribune". Chicago Tribune.
  4. ^ Holusha, John (26 May 1988). "COMPANY NEWS; Airbags on the Way as Chrysler Gives in". The New York Times.
  5. ^ https://www.xr793.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/1980-Chrysler-Lebaron.pdf[bare URL PDF]
  6. ^ https://www.xr793.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/1980-Chrysler-Lebaron.pdf[bare URL PDF]
  7. ^ https://www.xr793.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/1981-Chrysler-Lebaron.pdf[bare URL PDF]
General
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