10 Defining Moments From Chrysler’s 90-year History
From the Chrysler Six to the minivan of the future
Chrysler is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2015, marking nine decades of trendsetting American innovation. To honor the occasion, the automaker is offering a limited number of Anniversary-edition models, including the recently released Chrysler Town & Country Anniversary Edition.
But this is only the latest in a long line of unforgettable models and moments from Chrysler’s history. Heritage CDJR Harrisburg, Owings Mills & Parkville is proud to present a look at 10 of the automaker’s most significant events.
1924: The first Chrysler-branded vehicle, the Chrysler Six, debuts as part of Maxwell Motors under the direction of Chairman Walter P. Chrysler. Named for their innovative six-cylinder, high-compression engines, these forward-thinking models were priced at $1,565 each and would become part of Chrysler proper when it was founded the following year.
1926: Chrysler introduces the Imperial as part of its early lineup. This prestige model was a worthy competitor to offerings from Cadillac, Packard, and Peerless. The original model would continue to be produced through 1954.
1934: Chrysler launches the groundbreaking Airflow (pictured above), inspired by the flight of Army Air Corps planes. Designer Carl Breer consulted pilot Orville Wright during the vehicle’s development and built 10 full-size semi-streamliners during the testing process. The final modified teardrop shape was inspired by wind tunnel testing.
1940: 1940 was a year of endings and beginnings. Founder Walter P. Chrysler passed away in August 1940. However, the year also saw the launch of the Chrysler Thunderbolt concept, which inspired a new wave of advancements with its bold design.
1951: Today, its name is legendary. When the hemispheric-head V8 engine, or HEMI®, was introduced in 1951, it immediately marked a leap forward for Chrysler vehicles. The lower compression ratio meant the engine could run on lower octane fuel than most V-8s and helped make the Chrysler 300 the most powerful full-size car in the world of its time.
1963: Chrysler continued its tradition of firsts by offering the auto industry’s first five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
1977: Chrysler produces the last of its famed turbine concept cars, the LeBaron Turbine Special. The striking model featured knife-edge-shaped front fenders and “hidden” headlamps.
1984: The automaker created the minivan segment. The front-wheel drive compact vans fit easily in customers’ garages and provided easy entry and exit.
1999: Chrysler’s famed 300 nameplate returned to the lineup as the 300M (pictured here). The modern interpretation of an American classic earned Motor Trend’s 1999 “Car of the Year” award.
2016: Okay, we’re cheating a little—but who can blame us? Next year, Chrysler will launch its all-new Town & Country minivan, once again pioneering the segment it created.
The Chrysler story is made possible by customers and fans like you. Start the next chapter today at Heritage CDJR Harrisburg, Owings Mills & Parkville.
2016 Chrysler Town & Country Anniversary Edition
All images ©Chrysler