Is Plymouth Going to Start Production Again

Defunct American automobile make

Plymouth

Blazon	Division of Chrysler
Manufacture	Automotive
Founded	July vii, 1928; 93 years agone  (1928-07-07)
Founder	Walter Chrysler
Defunct	June 29, 2001; 20 years ago  (2001-06-29)
Fate	Discontinued
Successor	Chrysler Dodge
Headquarters	Auburn Hills, Michigan , U.S.
Products	Cars, minivans, trucks
Owner	Chrysler Corporation (1928–1998) DaimlerChrysler (1998–2001)
Parent	Chrysler

Plymouth was a make of automobiles produced past Chrysler Corporation and its successor DaimlerChrysler. The brand was launched in 1928 to compete in what was then described every bit the "low-priced" market segment that was dominated by Chevrolet and Ford. It became the loftier-volume seller for the automaker until the belatedly 1990s. Plymouth cars were marketed primarily in the United States. The brand was withdrawn from the marketplace in 2001. The Plymouth models that were produced up to then were either discontinued or rebranded every bit Chrysler or Dodge.

History [edit]

Origins [edit]

1928 Plymouth Model Q Roadster

The Plymouth automobile was introduced at Madison Square Garden on July seven, 1928.^[i] It was Chrysler Corporation's first entry in the low-priced field previously dominated by Chevrolet and Ford.^[2] Plymouths were initially priced college than the competition, but offered standard features such equally internal expanding hydraulic brakes that Ford and Chevrolet did not provide.^[3] Plymouths were originally sold exclusively through Chrysler dealerships,^[3] offering a low-price alternative to the upscale Chrysler-make cars, listing the 4-door 5-passenger Touring sedan at United states$695 ($10,968 in 2021 dollars ^[4]).^[v] The logo featured a rear view of the ship Mayflower which landed at Plymouth Rock in Plymouth, Massachusetts. However, the inspiration for the Plymouth brand name came from Plymouth binder twine, produced by the Plymouth Cordage Company, too of Plymouth. The name was chosen by Joe Frazer due to the popularity of the twine among farmers.^{[half dozen]}

The origins of Plymouth can be traced dorsum to the Maxwell auto. When Walter P. Chrysler took over command of the troubled Maxwell-Chalmers car company in the early 1920s, he inherited the Maxwell every bit part of the package. Subsequently he used the company's facilities to help create and launch the 6-cylinder Chrysler machine in 1924, he decided to create a lower-priced companion motorcar, using lessons learned when he was running Buick under William Durant at GM. And so for 1926, the Maxwell was reworked and rebadged every bit the depression-end 4-cylinder Chrysler "52" model. In 1928, the "52" was one time again redesigned to create the Chrysler-Plymouth Model Q, although print advertisements chosen it "Plymouth" and didn't mention engine size or model designation.^[7] The "Chrysler" portion of the nameplate was dropped with the introduction of the Plymouth Model U in 1929.

1938 Plymouth 4-door sedan

Cracking Low, 1930s–1940s [edit]

1939 Plymouth in a Swedish 1940s mode photo

1947 Plymouth law car of Glendale Constabulary Dept. Arizona

1949 Plymouth Special Deluxe Iv Door Sedan

While the original purpose of the Plymouth was to serve the lower end of a booming automobile marketplace, during the Great Low of the 1930s the division helped significantly in ensuring the survival of the Chrysler Corporation when many other motorcar companies failed. Beginning in 1930, Plymouths were sold by all three Chrysler divisions (Chrysler, DeSoto, and Dodge).^[viii] Plymouth sales were a bright spot during this dismal automotive period, and by 1931 Plymouth rose to number 3 in sales amongst all cars.^[5] In 1931 with the Model PA, the company introduced floating ability and boasted, "The smoothness of an eight – the economic system of a four."^[9]

In 1933, Chrysler decided to catch upward with Ford, Chevrolet and Pontiac in engine cylinder count. The 190 cu in (iii.1 L) version of Chrysler's flathead-six engine was equipped with a downdraft carburetor and installed in the new 1933 Plymouth PC, introduced on Nov 17, 1932. However, Chrysler had reduced the PC'south wheelbase from 112 to 107 in (284.five to 271.8 cm), and the auto sold poorly. Past Apr 1933, the Dodge division's Model DP chassis, with a 112-inch (284.v cm) wheelbase, was put nether the PC body with DP forepart fenders, hood, and radiator crush. The model designation was advanced to 'PD'. The PC was redesigned to look similar to the PD and became the 'Standard Six' (PCXX). It had been the 'Plymouth Vi' at the introduction and was sold through to the end of 1933, but in much lower numbers. In 1937, Plymouth (along with the other Chrysler makes) added safety features such as flat nuance boards with recessed controls and the dorsum of the forepart seat padded for the rear seat occupants^[x]

The PC was shipped overseas to Sweden, Denmark, and the Britain, also as Commonwealth of australia. In the United kingdom of great britain and northern ireland, it was sold as a 'Chrysler Kew', the town of Kew being the location of the Chrysler factory in a commune in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. The flathead six which started with the 1933 Model PC stayed in the Plymouth until the 1959 models.

In 1939, Plymouth produced 417,528 vehicles, of which 5,967 were ii-door convertible coupes^[xi] with rumble seats. The 1939 convertible coupe was prominently featured at Chrysler's showroom at the 1939 New York World'due south Fair, advertised as the outset mass-production convertible with a power folding summit. It featured a 201 cu in (3.three 50), 82 hp (61 kW; 83 PS) version of the flathead six engine.

For much of its life, Plymouth was one of the top-selling American motorcar brands; it, together with Chevrolet and Ford, was commonly referred to as the "low-priced iii" marques in the American market.^[12] Plymouth almost surpassed Ford in 1940 and 1941 as the 2d-most popular make of automobiles in the U.S.

1950s [edit]

1956 Plymouth Fury, 2nd year for Virgil Exner'due south "Frontwards Look" cars

In 1954, Chrysler started its decade-long unsuccessful try to develop and market a feasible auto powered by a turbine engine when it installed an experimental turbine developed specifically for road vehicles in a Plymouth.^[xiii] The car was a Belvedere two-door hardtop.

In 1956, Plymouth introduced the Fury, a "halo" model in the Belvedere series that featured a high performance 240-hp 303 cubic inch V8, and gold-anodized trim on a body available in Eggshell White only and limited to the two-door hardtop. The Fury continued to be a special, high-end car until 1959, when information technology replaced the Belvedere every bit the de luxe serial, available in hardtops, convertible and sedans. 1957 and '58 Furys were painted in Buckskin Biscuit, replacing Eggshell White every bit the but bachelor exterior color. Optional equipment included air conditioning, automated transmission, ability steering and brakes. In 1959, a special Sport Fury was bachelor as the "special" sporty Plymouth.

In 1957, Virgil Exner's new Forward Await blueprint theme, advertised by Plymouth with the tagline "Suddenly, it's 1960",^[xiv] produced cars with avant-garde styling compared to Chevrolet or Ford. The 1957 total production soared to 726,009, near 200,000 more than 1956, and the largest output all the same for Plymouth. Even so, the 1957–1958 Forward Wait models suffered from poor materials, spotty build quality, and inadequate corrosion protection; they were rust-prone and greatly damaged Chrysler's reputation.^{[fourteen] [fifteen]}

1960s [edit]

Although Plymouth sales suffered equally a result of the quality control problems and excesses of the Exner-styled models in the early on 1960s, people bought enough of the cars to proceed the segmentation profitable. Starting in 1961, the Valiant compact became a Plymouth, further boosting sales. Under the impression that Chevrolet was about to "downsize" its 1962 models, Chrysler introduced a significantly smaller standard Plymouth for 1962. As is known, Chevrolet's big cars were not downsized, communicable Plymouth in a sales slump in a market place where "bigger was better". The 1963 Fury, Belvedere, and Savoy were slightly larger, featuring a totally new body manner, highlighted by prominent outboard front parking lights. For 1964, Plymouth got another major restyle, featuring a new "slantback" roofline for hardtop coupes that would bear witness popular.

1968 Plymouth Roadrunner, i of the Muscle machine era models

For 1965, the Plymouth Fury models were built on the new C-body platform. The Savoy line was discontinued and the Belvedere was classified as an intermediate, retaining the B-body platform used starting 1962. The low-stop series was Fury I, the mid-level model was Fury 2, and the college-stop models were Fury IIIs. The Sport Fury, which featured bucket seats and a console shifter, was a mix of luxury and sport. Ford and Chevrolet had introduced luxury editions of their big cars for 1965 and Plymouth responded with the 1966 Sport Fury with a 383 CID and the VIP was introduced as a more luxurious version of the Fury. Furys, Belvederes, and Valiants continued to sell well during the late-1960s and early-1970s. While Fury I and Fury Ii were only bachelor in the U.Due south. as sedans, Fury 2 was available as a two-door hardtop in addition to the pillared sedans in Canada.

The performance auto market segment expanded during the tardily 1960s and early 1970s. The 1964 Barracuda fastback is considered the first of Plymouth'southward sporty cars. Based on the Valiant, it was available with the Slant Six, or 273 cu in (iv.v L) small block V8. For 1967, Plymouth introduced the Belvedere GTX, a bucket-seat loftier-fashion hardtop coupe and convertible that could be ordered with either the "Super Commando" 440 cu in (7.2 L) or Hemi 426 cu in (7.0 Fifty) V8 engines. Looking for an reward at the elevate races, 1968 had a stripped-downward Belvedere coupe, the Road Runner, which featured a demote seat and minimal interior and exterior trim, simply was available with Chrysler'due south big-block engines and a flooring-mounted four-speed manual manual. The Barracuda, originally a "compact sporty car", became available with the 426 Hemi and 440 big-block engines in 1968. The GTX, Barracuda, Road Runner, Sport Fury GT, and Valiant Squeegee 340, were marketed by Plymouth equally the 'Rapid Transit System', which was similar to Contrivance'south 'Scat Pack' concept. During this time, the make also competed in professional car racing. Examples include Richard Petty's career with Plymouth in NASCAR; Dan Gurney, who raced a 'Cuda as part of the All American Racers in numerous Trans Am events; and Sox and Martin, one of the almost well-known drag-racing teams of the period, only raced Plymouths after 1964.

1970s [edit]

1973 Plymouth 'Cuda coupe

Pete Hamilton with Lilliputian Enterprises 1970 Plymouth Superbird

Gran Fury Sport Suburban 1977

By the 1970s, emissions and safety regulations, along with soaring gasoline prices and an economic downturn, meant demand dropped for all muscle-blazon models. Every bit with other American vehicles of the time,^{[ citation needed ]} at that place was a progressive decrease in the Barracuda's operation. To meet increasingly stringent safety and exhaust emission regulations, big-block engine options were discontinued. The remaining engines were detuned year by year to reduce exhaust emissions, which likewise reduced their power output. There was also an increase in weight as bumpers became larger and, starting in 1970, E-trunk doors were equipped with heavy steel side-impact protection beams. Higher fuel prices and functioning-car insurance surcharges deterred many buyers as the interest in high-performance cars waned. Sales of pony cars were on the refuse.^[16] Sales had dropped dramatically afterward 1970, and while 1973 showed a sales uptick, Barracuda production ended 1 April 1974, x years to the day after information technology had begun. The redesign for the 1970 Barracuda removed all its previous commonality with the Valiant. The original fastback design was deleted from the line and the Barracuda now consisted of coupe and convertible models. The all-new model, styled by John E. Herlitz, was built on a shorter, wider version of Chrysler's existing B platform, called the E-trunk.^[17] Sharing this platform was the newly launched Dodge Challenger; however no outside sheet metal interchanged between the two cars, and the Challenger, at 110 inches (2,794 mm), had a wheelbase that was ii inches (51 mm) longer than the Barracuda.

The E-body Barracuda was now "able to shake the stigma of 'economic system auto'."^[18] Three versions were offered for 1970 and 1971: the base Barracuda (BH), the luxury oriented Gran Coupe (BP), and the sport model 'Cuda (BS).^[19] Start mid-yr 1970, and ending with the 1971 model, at that place also was the Barracuda Coupe (A93), a low-end model that included the 198 cu in (iii.ii L) Camber Vi equally a base of operations engine, lower-grade interior, and (like other Coupe series Chrysler Corp. offered that twelvemonth) had fixed quarter drinking glass instead of whorl-down rear rider windows.^[20] The high-functioning models were marketed as 'Cuda deriving from the 1969 option. The E-torso's engine bay was larger than that of the previous A-body, facilitating the release of Chrysler'southward 426 cu in (7.0 L) Hemi for the regular retail market place.^{[ citation needed ]}

For 1970 and 1971, the Barracuda and Barracuda Gran Coupe had two six-cylinder engines available — a new 198 cu in (3.2 50) version of the slant-vi, and the 225 — as well every bit iii different V8s: a 318 cu in (5.2 50), as well as a 383 cu in (6.3 L) with two-butt carburetor and single exhaust and with four-barrel carburetor and dual exhaust producing 330 hp (246 kW) SAE gross. The Cuda had the 383ci 335 hp (250 kW) SAE gross (same as Dodge's 383 Magnum) as the standard engine. Optional were the 440 cu in (7.2 Fifty) with 4-barrel carburetor "Super Commando" or the half-dozen-barrel "Super Commando Six Pak" as well as the 426 cu in (vii.0 50) Hemi.^[21] The 440- and Hemi-equipped cars received upgraded break components and structural reinforcements to help transfer the ability to the route.^{[ citation needed ]}

In 1970 the ability plant options offered to the client were:

1. 275 hp (200 kW) SAE gross in the 340-4V.
2. 335 hp (250 kW) SAE gross in the high performance 383-4V,
3. 375 hp (280 kW) SAE gross in the 440-4V,
4. 390 hp (290 kW) SAE gross in the 440-6V, and
5. 425 hp (317 kW) SAE gross in the 426-8V.

Other Barracuda options included decal sets, hood modifications, and unusual "loftier impact" colors.

The meaty Valiant sold well and congenital a reputation for bonny styling, durability, economy, and value. Although the Valiant hardtop was discontinued for 1967, it was reintroduced as a virtual clone of the Dodge Dart Swinger for 1971 under the model name "Valiant Scamp". The Scamp was produced along with the Valiant, Contrivance Sprint, and Swinger until 1976, when it was replaced with the Volaré. Featuring transverse-mounted torsion bars and a slightly larger body, the Volaré (and its Dodge twin, the Aspen) was an instant sales success. Bachelor as coupe, sedan, or station wagon, the Volaré offered a smoother ride and better handling than the Sprint/Valiant, merely suffered quality control problems and by 1980, was selling poorly.

Realizing that forepart-cycle drive, four-cylinder engines, and rack-and-pinion steering would become the standards for the 1980s, Chrysler introduced a new compact car for 1978, the Plymouth Horizon/Dodge Omni twins, based on a Simca platform. Horizon sold well, but suffered from a scathing study by Consumer Reports, which found its treatment dangerous in certain situations. Plymouth connected to sell the Horizon until 1987, when a variety of front end-wheel drive compact cars fabricated upwards the line. Big Plymouths, including the Fury and Gran Fury, were sold until the early 1980s, simply generally as armada vehicles. While attempting to compete with Ford and Chevrolet for big-car sales, Plymouth was hurt by Chrysler's fiscal woes in the tardily 1970s, when both its competitors downsized their total-size models.

1980s [edit]

1983 Plymouth Reliant coupe

1987-1990 Plymouth Voyager SE

1988 Plymouth Reliant Exec Classic

1989-1990 Plymouth Acclamation

1989-1992 Plymouth Acclaim LX

Nigh Plymouth models, particularly those offered from the 1970s onward, such equally the Valiant, Volaré, and the Acclamation, were bluecoat-engineered versions of Dodge or Mitsubishi models.

The Plymouth Reliant and Dodge Aries were introduced for model year 1981 as the showtime "K-cars" manufactured and marketed by the Chrysler Corporation. The Reliant was available every bit a 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan, or equally a 4-door station carriage, in 3 different trim lines: base, Custom and SE ("Special Edition"). Station wagons came only in Custom or SE trim. Dissimilar many pocket-sized cars, the K-cars retained the traditional 6-rider 2-bench seat with a column shifter seating organisation favored by many Americans. The Reliant was powered by a and then-new 2.2 Fifty I4 SOHC engine, with a Mitsubishi "Silent Shaft" 2.half-dozen Fifty as an option (curiously this engine also featured hemispherical combustion chambers, and all 1981 models equipped with it featured "HEMI" badges on the front fenders). Initial sales were brisk, with both Reliant and Aries each selling over 150,000 units in 1981. As rebadged variants, the Reliant and Aries were manufactured in Newark, Delaware, Detroit, Michigan, and Toluca, United mexican states — in a single generation. Afterward their introduction, the Reliant and Aries were marketed as the "Reliant K" and "Aries K".^[22]

The Reliant replaced the Plymouth Volaré/Route Runner. The Aries replaced the Dodge Aspen. The Reliant and Aries were classified by the EPA as mid-size and were the smallest cars to have 6-passenger seating with a 3-seat per row setup, similar to larger rear-bike drive cars such every bit the Dodge Sprint and other front end-wheel drive cars such equally the Chevrolet Glory. Chrysler marketed the car every bit being able to seat "half dozen Americans." The Aries was sold every bit the Dart in Mexico. The Reliant and Aries were selected together every bit Motor Trend magazine's Auto of the Year for 1981 and sold almost a million Aries and 1.1 million Reliant units over the 9-twelvemonth run.

In 1982, Plymouth downsized the Gran Fury once more, this time sharing the mid-size 1000 platform with the Chrysler Fifth Avenue (called Chrysler New Yorker/New Yorker Fifth Artery for 1982 and 1983) and the Dodge Diplomat. In addition to the R-body Gran Fury, the M-trunk Gran Fury replaced the M-trunk Chrysler LeBaron, which had moved to the compact K platform that year. Now considered a mid-sized car, this generation Gran Fury was shut to the outside size of what was once the compact Valiant and Volaré just offered more interior room. The M-trunk was in fact heavily based on the Volaré's F platform. Like its predecessor, the 1982 Gran Fury was introduced later than its Chrysler and Dodge siblings; the Chrysler LeBaron and Contrivance Diplomat had used the Yard-body since 1977. 1982-1989 Plymouth Gran Furys shared the Dodge Diplomat's front and rear fascias. They were well-nigh identical with the exception of badging. In one case again, the 3rd generation Gran Fury was bachelor in base and higher-end "Salon" trim. Every bit in previous years, the higher-volume Gran Fury base of operations model catered more towards fleet customers while Gran Fury Salons were geared more than towards individual customers and offered options such equally total vinyl roofs, velour upholstery, turbine-spoke wheels, power windows, and power locks. Although bachelor to private retail customers, the M-torso Gran Fury was far more pop with police force departments and other fleet customers, primarily since the car was reasonably priced and had a conventional drivetrain with proven components that could withstand a good bargain of abuse. This generation of the Gran Fury sold in respectable numbers. However, despite having the same base of operations prices every bit the Gran Fury (just under $12,000 USD for their final year), the Diplomat ever outsold it, normally by several thousand units each year. The Chrysler Fifth Avenue'southward total sales were always more than that of the Gran Fury and Diplomat past far, even though information technology mostly cost most $half-dozen,000 more. This was the last car to carry the Gran Fury nameplate, but information technology remained largely unchanged for its 7-year run. Failing sales, a lack of promotion, and technical obsolescence—the platform dated dorsum to the 1976 Plymouth Volare and Dodge Aspen—somewhen contributed to the model'southward demise in early 1989. That year, a driver-side airbag became standard; this would be the last RWD Plymouth until the introduction of the Prowler. While Dodge offered the 1990 Monaco, and later the 1993 Intrepid, Chrysler never replaced the Gran Fury with any other large car in the residue of Plymouth's lineup on through to its demise in the 2001 model year.

In 1984, Chrysler marketed the rebadged Plymouth variant of its new minivan equally the Voyager, using the Chrysler's S platform, derived from the 1000-platform (Plymouth Reliant and Dodge Aries). The Voyager shared components with the Grand-cars including portions of the interior, eastward.g., the Reliant'south musical instrument cluster and dashboard controls, along with the K-platform forepart-wheel bulldoze layout and depression floor, giving the Voyager a car-like ease of entry. The Voyager was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1985.^[23]

For 1987, the Voyager received minor corrective updates as well as the May 1987 introduction of the Grand Voyager, which was built on a longer wheelbase adding more than cargo room. It was available but with SE or LE trim. Offset-generation Voyager minivans were offered in three trim levels: an unnamed base model, mid-grade SE, and high-end LE, the latter bearing false woodgrain paneling. A sportier 60 model was added in 1989, sharing much of its components with the Caravan ES. Prophylactic features included 3-betoken seat belts for the front 2 passengers and lap belts for rear passengers. Standard on all Voyagers were legally mandated side-touch reinforcements for all seating front end and rear outboard positions, but airbags or ABS were not available.^[23] Notably, the Voyager, along with the Contrivance Caravan, are considered to be the first mass-produced vehicles to take dedicated built-in cup holders.^{[24] [25]} Original commercials for the 1984 Voyager featured magician Doug Henning^[26] as a spokesperson to promote the Voyager "Magic Wagon's" versatility, cargo space, low step-in height, rider volume, and maneuverability. After commercials in 1989 featured rock singer Tina Turner.^[27] Canadian commercials in 1990 featured pop singer Celine Dion.^[28]

For 1987, which was the Sundance'south get-go year, information technology was bachelor in a single base of operations model. For 1988, a higher-end RS model was available. The RS model, which stood for Rally Sport, came with standard features that included two-tone paint, fog lights, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Information technology was besides available with a turbocharged two.ii L I4 engine, and other amenities similar an Infinity sound organization, tinted window drinking glass, and dual power mirrors. For 1991, the base model split into 2 singled-out models: entry-level America and mid-level Highline, in improver to the high-end RS. The stripped-downwardly America had previously been offered for the Plymouth Horizon's final yr in 1990.

The AA-body cars were badge-engineered triplets, equally were most Chrysler products of this time. The Acclamation differed from its siblings primarily in wheel choices, bodyside molding, and fascias where information technology sported its unique taillights and the corporate Plymouth eggcrate-grille. Like the K-torso and E-body vehicles they replaced, the Acclaim and Dodge Spirit were both marketed every bit mainstream variants, while the Chrysler LeBaron was marketed as the luxury variant. Despite this, in that location was substantial overlap in trims and equipment among each automobile. For example, a fully loaded Acclaim was most similar to a base LeBaron in features and price.^[29]

In addition to its entry-level base model, the Acclamation was initially available in mid-range LE and high-end Sixty trim. LE and Lx models came equipped with features such including premium cloth seating, power windows/door locks, premium sound systems, bodyside cladding, additional exterior brightwork, and on the latter 15-inch lace-spoke aluminum wheels.^[30] In spite of this, the base of operations model accounted for nearly 85 percent of Acclaim sales.^[31] Different the Spirit, the Acclaim did not receive whatever sport-oriented models.^[32] The Acclaim has besides been characterized as the replacement for the smaller Reliant,^{[33] [34] [35]} though the Sundance launched in 1987 is closer than the Acclamation in most dimensions to the Reliant.

Terminal years: 1990s–2001 [edit]

By the 1990s, Plymouth had lost much of its identity, equally its models continued to overlap in features and prices with its sister brands, Dodge and Eagle.^[31] Chrysler attempted to remedy this past repositioning Plymouth to its traditional target market as the automaker's entry-level make. This included giving Plymouth its own new sailboat logo and advertisements that focused solely on value.^{[31] [36]} However, this merely farther narrowed Plymouth's product offerings and buyer appeal, and sales continued to autumn.^[37]

Chrysler considered giving Plymouth a variant of the highly successful new-for-1993 full-size LH platform,^[38] which would have been chosen the Accolade, but decided confronting it. By the late 1990s, simply iv vehicles were sold under the Plymouth name: the Voyager/Grand Voyager minivans, the Breeze mid-size sedan, the Neon meaty machine, and the Prowler sports car, which was to be the last model unique to Plymouth, though the Chrysler PT Cruiser was conceived every bit a concept unique to Plymouth before production commenced every bit a Chrysler model.

Belatedly 1990s alphabetic character emblem from a 1999 Neon

Later on discontinuing the Eagle brand in 1998, Chrysler was planning to expand the Plymouth line with a number of unique models before the corporation's merger with Daimler-Benz AG. The first model was the Plymouth Prowler, a hot rod-styled sports auto. The PT Cruiser was to have been the 2d. Both models had similar forepart-terminate styling, suggesting Chrysler intended a retro styling theme for the Plymouth make. At the time of Daimler's takeover of Chrysler, Plymouth had no models besides the Prowler non also offered in a similar version by Contrivance.^{[ commendation needed ]}

From a height production of 973,000 for the 1973 model year, Plymouth rarely exceeded 200,000 cars per year later on 1990. Fifty-fifty the Voyager sales were ordinarily less than l% that of Dodge Caravan. In Canada, the Plymouth name was defunct at the end of the 1999 model year. Consequently, DaimlerChrysler decided to drop the make after a express run of 2001 models. This was appear on November 3, 1999.^{[ citation needed ]}

The concluding new model sold under the Plymouth marque was the second-generation Neon for 2000. The PT Cruiser was ultimately launched equally a Chrysler, and the Prowler and Voyager were absorbed into that brand, as well. Following the 2001 model year, the Neon was sold but as a Dodge in the US, though information technology remained available as a Chrysler in Canadian and other markets. The Plymouth Cakewalk was dropped later on 2000, before Chrysler introduced their redesigned 2001 Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Sebring sedan.

Timeline [edit]

A 1949 Plymouth Special DeLuxe Station Carriage, advertisement

1984-1985 Plymouth Caravelle

The Last Plymouth built, 2001

• 1955: Plymouth beginning offered a V8 engine. Plymouth and the other Chrysler divisions received "The New 100-1000000 Dollar Look".
• 1956: The automatic three-speed TorqueFlite transmission was introduced on some premium models. The Plymouth Fury was introduced.
• 1957: As with all other Chrysler divisions, the Frontward Look design fabricated its debut on the 1957 Plymouths. Torsion-Aire front suspension was introduced on all models.
• 1960: Dodge introduced the smaller, lower-priced Dart model that competed straight with Plymouth's offerings. The new compact Valiant was introduced every bit a marque unto itself. All Plymouths now featured unit-torso construction. A new base of operations half-dozen-cylinder engine was introduced with a 30-caste camber and overhead valves.
• 1961: Valiant was repositioned as a Plymouth model for the United states of america market; Contrivance got the badge-engineered Lancer version. Rambler and then Pontiac causeless 3rd place in industry sales for the residuum of the 1960s.
• 1962: Sales dropped dramatically with the introduction of a line of unpopularly styled, downsized total-sized models.
• 1963: Valiant received a new, trim body resulting in a meaning increment in sales. Full-sized models were restyled to look larger.
• 1964: The new Barracuda fastback coupe was introduced in Apr. Full-sized models were restyled with a new "slantback" hardtop coupe roofline.
• 1965: Plymouth rejoined the full-sized automobile market place with the new Fury, based on the Chrysler C-body. The intermediate B-torso model line became the Belvedere and Satellite for 1965. Push-push automatic manual controls were replaced with a conventional column- or floor-mounted lever.
• 1967: The GTX was introduced.
• 1968: The Road Runner entered the Plymouth line-up.
• 1970: Duster coupe was introduced in the Valiant line for 1970 besides equally the new Due east-trunk Barracuda.
• 1971: The British Hillman Avenger was imported as the Plymouth Cricket; information technology was discontinued in mid-1973. The new Valiant Scamp two-door hardtop was a badge-engineered Contrivance Dart Swinger.
• 1973: Plymouth product hit an all-time peak of 973,000. The Plymouth Cricket in Canada was now based on the Dodge Colt.
• 1974: The full-sized Plymouth Voyager van, based on the like Dodge B-series van, and Trail Squeegee SUV, based on the Dodge Ramcharger, were introduced. The Dodge Dart and Plymouth Valiant were, for the first time, unlike only in proper noun and small-scale trim details (grille and tail lamps) as the two cars now shared the same 111-inch wheelbase (both divisions' fastbacks remain 108 in). The Barracuda was discontinued x years to the day it began production on April 1.
• 1975: The car that was to get the 1975 Plymouth Sebring was instead released as the new Chrysler Cordoba.^{[ citation needed ]}
• 1976: The Volaré was launched, and the Valiant was discontinued at year-terminate.
• 1977: The big Gran Fury was discontinued.
• 1978: The mid-sized Fury was discontinued at the end of the model twelvemonth. The subcompact Horizon was introduced. Chrysler Canada introduced the Plymouth Caravelle based on the Dodge Diplomat.
• 1979–1980: Chrysler made several thousand more Dodges than Plymouths for the first time (404,266 to 372,449 in 1979 and 308,638 to 290,974 in 1980). More Plymouths would exist made than Dodges for 1981 and 1982, but from then on, there would ever exist more Dodges were made than Plymouths.
• 1980: The Newport-based Gran Fury (R-trunk) was introduced. This was the last year for the Volaré and Road Runner.
• 1981: The Plymouth Reliant 1000 was introduced. The full-sized Gran Fury sedan and Trail Squeegee SUV were discontinued.
• 1982: The mid-sized Plymouth Gran Fury, a Dodge Diplomat with a Plymouth grille, was introduced in the The states.
• 1983: The subcompact Plymouth Scamp pickup, based on the Dodge Binge, was introduced and sold for ane twelvemonth just. The Caravelle four-door sedan based on the E-trunk and a two-door coupe based on the K-body were introduced in Canada. The sporty subcompact Horizon TC3 was renamed Turismo. The full-sized Voyager van was discontinued.
• 1984: The Voyager minivan and Mitsubishi-based Colt Vista multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) were introduced.
• 1985: The E-torso Plymouth Caravelle was introduced in the United states of america.
• 1987: The compact P-torso Plymouth Sundance entered the line-up with three- and five-door hatchbacks. The Turismo was discontinued, the v-door Horizon was rebranded "Horizon America" with the most popular options made standard equipment with the less-popular ones dropped, along with a substantial cost cutting.
• 1987.5: The Grand Voyager, an extended wheelbase version of the preexisting Voyager, is introduced.
• 1989: The mid-sized Gran Fury (Caravelle in Canada), too equally the Reliant, were discontinued after this model year. The Reliant and Due east-body Caravelle are replaced by the Acclaim.
• 1990: The Mitsubishi-based Plymouth Light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation sport-compact was introduced. The L-body Horizon was discontinued.
• 1991: The second generation of the Voyager/G Voyager is introduced.
• 1992: The college-priced Acclaim models were repositioned as entry trim Chrysler LeBarons. Full sales of Acclaim and LeBaron dropped. Full 1993 Plymouth model-year product dropped to 159,775, along with 237,875 Voyager models. Contrivance congenital 300,666 Caravans alone, and 263,539 not-Caravan models.
• 1994: The little-advertised Laser and the popular Sundance and Colt compacts all end production. They are replaced by a single auto, the Neon, a car that Chrysler decided to offering equally a Plymouth after dealers protested the loss of the Sundance and Colt with no replacement.
• 1995: Plymouth's lineup was at its best low, just 3 cars: the Acclaim, the Neon, and the Voyager/Grand Voyager. The number went up to four in 1997, with the introduction of the Prowler, but never got any college.
• 1996: Chrysler appear the new Plymouth Breeze six months afterwards sister Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Cirrus models. Chrysler originally had no plans to replace the Acclamation model.^{[ citation needed ]} In an attempt to motion Plymouth downmarket, Chrysler fabricated the redesigned Voyager just available in base and mid-level SE models. All of the higher-end trim levels available on the previous generation were now only be found on the Dodge Caravan. The loftier-stop trim levels could still be found in certain markets outside the The states.
• 1997: Production for the 1997 model twelvemonth was 178,807 cars plus 187,347 Voyager models. Dodge built 448,394 cars and 355,400 Caravans.
• 1999: Total 1999 production for Plymouth cars was to 195,714 with Dodge at 394,052. Voyager product numbered 197,020, compared to 354,641 Caravans. The redesigned 2000 Neon became the brand'southward last new model.
• 2000: The mid-sized Breeze ended production. This was also the last twelvemonth for the Voyager minivan as a Plymouth. All 2000 Voyagers built in Dec 1999 and beyond were badged as Chrysler Voyagers. In Canada, the redesigned Neon was sold nether the Chrysler proper noun and both the Plymouth and Dodge names were dropped on all automobile models, save for the Prowler and Viper. The Voyager name was dropped in Canada as all Chrysler dealers sold Dodge trucks, including the Caravan. Full 2000 model yr production for Plymouth was 108,546 compared to 459,988 Dodge cars. Voyager production totaled 123,869 versus 330,370 Caravan models.
• 2001: In Plymouth's final model year, only the Neon remained. The Prowler and the Voyager became Chryslers. The Voyager gained a loftier-end LX trim, also as a base of operations eC trim, and it retained the SE trim. The Cakewalk was dropped equally Chrysler issued the Chrysler Sebring sedan to replace the Chrysler Cirrus. The PT Cruiser was launched as a Chrysler, though it was originally planned to be a Plymouth. The final Plymouth, a Neon, was assembled on June 28, 2001 at Belvidere Assembly Establish, with a total of 38,657 built for the model year.

Plymouth car models [edit]

Plymouth models included:

• Plymouth Model 30U (1930)
• Plymouth Acclamation (1989–1995)
• Plymouth Arrow (1976–1980, rebadged Mitsubishi Lancer Celeste)
• Plymouth Arrow Truck (1979–1982, rebadged Mitsubishi Forte)
• Plymouth Barracuda (1964–1974)
• Plymouth Dais (1954–1970)
• Plymouth Breeze (1996–2000)
• Plymouth Business organization (1935–1938)
• Plymouth Caravelle (1985–1988)
• Plymouth Cambridge (1951–1953)
• Plymouth Champ (1979–1982, rebadged Mitsubishi Mirage)
• Plymouth Colt (1983–1994, rebadged Mitsubishi Mirage)
• Plymouth Colt Vista (1984–1994, rebadged Mitsubishi Chariot)
• Plymouth Commercial Car (1937–1941)
• Plymouth Concord (1951–1952)
• Plymouth Conquest (1984–1986, rebadged Mitsubishi Starion)
• Plymouth Cranbrook (1951–1953)
• Plymouth Cricket (1971–1975, rebadged Hillman Avenger)
• Plymouth Palatial (1933–1942, 1946–1950)
  • Plymouth Special Palatial (1941–1942, 1946–1950)
• Plymouth Duster (1970–1976)
• Plymouth Fury (1956–1978)
  • Plymouth Sport Fury (1959, 1962–1971)
  • Plymouth VIP (1966–1969)
• Plymouth Gran Fury (1975–1977, 1980–1989)
• Plymouth One thousand Voyager (1987–2000)
• Plymouth GTX (1967–1971)
• Plymouth Horizon (1978–1990)
• Plymouth Laser (1990–1994, rebadged Mitsubishi Eclipse)
• Plymouth Model PA (1931)
• Plymouth Model Q (1928)
• Plymouth Model U (1929)
• Plymouth Neon (1994–2001)
• Plymouth Plaza (1954–1958)
• Plymouth Prowler (1997 and 1999–2001)
• Plymouth Reliant (1981–1989)
• Plymouth Roadking (1938–1941)
• Plymouth Road Runner (1968–1975)
• Plymouth Sapporo (1978–1983, rebadged Mitsubishi Galant Lambda)
• Plymouth Satellite (1966–1974)
• Plymouth Savoy (1951–1964)
• Plymouth Scamp (1983)
• Plymouth Six (1934)
• Plymouth Special Six (1934)
• Plymouth Standard (1933, 1935)
• Plymouth Sundance (1987–1994)
• Plymouth Suburban (1949–1961)
• Plymouth Superbird (1970)
• Plymouth TC3 (1979–1982)
• Plymouth Trail Duster (1974–1981)
• Plymouth Turismo (1983–1987)
• Plymouth Valiant (1960–1976)
  • Plymouth Scamp (1971-1976)
• Plymouth Volaré (1976–1980)
  • Plymouth Road Runner (1976–1980)
• Plymouth Voyager (1974–2000)

Plymouth trucks [edit]

Plymouth built diverse trucks and vans over the years, mainly rebadged Dodge or Chrysler vehicles. Early pickups, commitment trucks, and other commercial trucks were available, and later an SUV, full-sized vans, and minivans. Plymouth had supplied components to the Fargo vehicles, some other member of the Chrysler family, merely entered the commercial market in 1937 with the PT50.^[39]

• 

  1937 Express pickup

• 

  1937 PT50 commitment truck

• 

  1979 Trail Duster

• 

  1985 Voyager LE

• 

  1991 Grand Voyager LE

• 

  1998 Voyager Expresso

Truck models [edit]

• Plymouth PT50 - 1937 - Express pickup, panel delivery van, cab and chassis, station carriage
• Plymouth PT57 - 1938 - Express pickup, console commitment van, cab and chassis
• Plymouth PT81 - 1939 - Limited pickup, cab and chassis
• Plymouth PT105 - 1940 - Express pickup
• Plymouth PT125 - 1941 - Express pickup
• Plymouth Trail Duster - 1974-1981 - SUV, same as Contrivance Ramcharger
• Plymouth Voyager (van) - 1974-1983 - total-sized van, same every bit Dodge Sportsman
• Plymouth Scamp - 1983 - front-wheel-drive pickup, same as Contrivance Rampage
• Plymouth Voyager (minivan) - 1984-2000 - minivan, aforementioned as Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country; also sold as Chrysler Voyager from 1999 to 2003
• Plymouth Arrow Truck - 1979-1982 - compact pickup congenital past Mitsubishi

Plymouth concept cars [edit]

1973 Plymouth (Rapid Transit Arrangement) Squeegee 340

Model	Twelvemonth	Type	Specifications	Features
XX-500[xl]	1951	Sedan
Belmont	c. 1953	2-seater Convertible	3.9 L 150 hp (112 kW; 152 PS) V8
Explorer	1954	Coupé	3.7 L 110 hp (82 kW; 112 PS) Straight-six engine
Cabana	1958	Station carriage	Non-runner	Unique glass roof for the rear portion of the motorcar.
XNR	1960	2-seater convertible	2.viii L 250 hp (186 kW; 253 PS) Straight-half dozen engine[41]
Asimmetrica	1961		3.seven L 145 hp (108 kW; 147 PS) Straight-half-dozen engine[42]
Valiant St. Regis	1962	Coupé
Five.I.P.	1965	4-seater convertible		Unique roof bar from the top of the windshield to the rear deck.
Barracuda Formula SX	1966	Coupé
Duster I Road Runner	1969		340 hp (254 kW; 345 PS) V8 426 hp (318 kW; 432 PS) V8	All features of the Road Runner plus flaps on meridian and sides and adjustable spoilers on the side of the rear fender, all to reduce lift.
Rapid Transit Organisation 'Cuda (440)	1970	Convertible
Rapid Transit System Route Runner		Coupé		Three-colored tail lights: red for "braking", yellow for "coasting" and green for "on the gas".
Rapid Transit Arrangement Duster 340			five.half-dozen L c. 300 hp (224 kW; 304 PS) V8[43]
Concept Voyager II	1986	Minivan
Slingshot	1988	2-seater coupé	2.2 Fifty 225 hp (168 kW; 228 PS) turbocharged Direct-four engine	Canopy that swings up to open up the car Adjustable 4-wheel independent suspension Keyless credit menu-like entry Combined headlight and rear-view mirror pods Exposed engine and suspension
Speedster	1989	2-seater convertible		No opening doors
Voyager 3		Minivan		The front end of the car could be driven by itself or driven when attached to a "miniature tractor-trailer" Glass roof
X2S		Coupé Convertible	two.0 L (turbocharged) 167 hp (125 kW; 169 PS) V6
Cakewalk	c. 1990	Sedan	2.0 L 132 hp (98 kW; 134 PS) 4 cylinder engine two.4 L 150 hp (112 kW; 152 PS) Straight-iv engine
Prowler	1997	Convertible	three.5 L 214 hp (160 kW; 217 PS) V6
Expresso	1994	Compact car
Backpack	1995	two-seat truck	2.0 Fifty 135 hp (101 kW; 137 PS) Inline-iv engine	Space for a laptop on a small table Built-in wheel rack on the dorsum
Pronto	1997	Sedan	1.6 L 115 hp (86 kW; 117 PS) Inline-four engine	The front of the car resembled that of the Prowler Roll-back fabric top
Pronto Spyder	1998	Convertible	2.four L 225 hp (168 kW; 228 PS) Straight-four engine
Howler	1999		3.5 Fifty c. 250 hp (186 kW; 253 PS) V6 4.7 L c. 250 hp (186 kW; 253 PS) V8
Voyager XG[44]		Minivan	2.v L 115 hp (86 kW; 117 PS) turbocharged diesel engine	Powered retractable sunroof

References [edit]

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42. ^ "1962 Plymouth Ghia Asimmetrica specifications, data, data, photos 228668". www.carfolio.com.
43. ^ "1970 Plymouth Squeegee 340". x Jan 2007.
44. ^ "Plymouth Voyager XG Concept Minivan Appeals to New Generation". www.theautochannel.com.

External links [edit]

• Official website (Archive, 13 Oct 1999)
• Plymouth cars on AllPar.com
• IMCDB: Plymouth vehicles in movies and TV shows
• Shah of Iran's Plymouth XNR sells for $935,000

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Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plymouth_(automobile)

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