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Chrysler M platform

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Chrysler M Platform
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 production shifting to Windsor, Ontario through 1983, then moving to Fenton, MO. Beginning in February 1987 and ending with 1989 model year, the American Motors Main 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 mid-1988, the Chrysler M-bodies received a driver side air bag.[4] After the M-bodies were discontinued in mid-1989, Chrysler Corporation didn'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

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References

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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. July 1986.
  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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