Overview & Reviews

Chrysler is generally considered part of the Big Three, a title that refers to the traditional triumvirate of domestic automakers. The current accuracy of this classification is open for debate, but there's no debating the fact that Chrysler has experienced a revival of sorts over the past few years.

Chrysler Corporation was founded in 1925 by Walter P. Chrysler, a noted machinist; he'd purchased the Maxwell Motor Corporation of Detroit and used it as the foundation for his new company. The automaker quickly earned a reputation for advanced engineering. In 1928, Chrysler Corporation expanded with the purchase of Dodge and the creation of the DeSoto and Plymouth divisions.

The 1930s saw Chrysler boldly looking toward the future with the introduction of its revolutionary Airflow. Powered by a front-mounted inline-8, the car was one of the first to be designed with aerodynamics in mind, and featured swooping lines and a prominent grille. Perhaps a bit too ahead of its time, the Airflow was a flop with the public. Chrysler was able to survive the lean years of the Depression thanks to strong sales of its entry-level Dodge and Plymouth brands, whose vehicles boasted more traditional designs and much lower price tags.

Chrysler shined postwar. For a period in the late 1940s, it even surpassed Ford as the No. 2 U.S. automaker. The company's storied "Hemi" V8 engine debuted in 1951. Offering 180 horsepower, it was a significant improvement over Chrysler's previous 135-hp V8. The Hemi engine was meant to trounce the V8 offered by Cadillac, Chrysler's rival, and it kick-started Detroit's horsepower race of the 1950s and '60s. The '50s also saw the debut of treasured Chrysler classics like the handsome Town and Country and the sleek 300C.

By 1961, Chrysler had trimmed its line of brands by dropping the DeSoto nameplate. New technologies were also afoot, such as unibody construction (Chrysler was the first of the Big Three to introduce it) and the replacement of generators with alternators for a car's charging system. In the latter half of the '60s, Chrysler was heavily involved with NASCAR and producing performance-oriented cars.

At the same time, however, dark clouds were gathering. As with other domestic automakers, the 1970s proved to be a difficult decade due to the oil crisis, new government regulations and changing consumer tastes. A costly and ineffective overseas expansion further hurt the company's bottom line. By the late '70s, the company was in such financial disarray that it petitioned the government for $1.5 billion in loan guarantees to save it from bankruptcy.

Thanks to impressive public campaigning by then-chairman Lee Iacocca, the debut of the well-received K-car platform and the creation of the modern minivan, sales had improved dramatically by the mid-'80s. The government's loan was paid off seven years early. The picture further brightened in the late 1980s with Chrysler's purchase of American Motors Corporation (which netted the company the Jeep brand) and a joint venture with Mitsubishi known as Diamond Star Motors.

Success continued through the early 1990s. In 1998, German-based Daimler-Benz merged with Chrysler to form DaimlerChrysler. At the time, this deal was presented as a merger of equals. But it quickly became apparent that it was more of a purchase, with Daimler being the dominant partner.

Less than a decade later, that merger was no longer, as Daimler sold Chrysler (and Dodge) to a private equity firm in 2007. However, that merger had borne some worthwhile fruit, most notably in the form of the Chrysler 300 full-size sedan. The latter shared some chassis components with an older Mercedes-Benz E-Class platform.

As such, the 300 was a highlight for Chrysler that had a pleasingly solid feel to its driving dynamics that was further sweetened via an available powerful V8 engine. But soon after the split, America's economy slid into recession. Due to poor sales and debt, Chrysler had to declare bankruptcy and the federal government intervened with bailout loans. Eventually Chrysler came under control of Italy's Fiat.

Today, the lineup has been pared down to a pair of sedans, a convertible and a minivan. However, after years of having lackluster entries in the very important midsize car category, Chrysler made major improvements in the performance, design and quality of its midsize sedan entry, the 200. The latest 300 also stands as a prime choice for a premium full-size sedan. Still, it remains to be seen as to whether this and future product releases will be enough to restore the company to its former glory.

User Reviews:

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  2008 300C: A great buy - 2008 Chrysler 300
  By OceanP - October 11 - 11:33 pm

  After a younger generation of my family totalled my Lincoln LS on ice, I was in the market for a replacement. Drove many of the "reliable" imports: ranging from Infinity to Lexus. Then I drove the 300C. The others are all great cars, but none offered the classic styling and the WOW effect of the 300C, and the power of the HEMI. The car has been great so far and consistently gives 22 to 23 mpg on the highway runs visiting my kid at college. Great comfort, ride and performance to boot! And unique looks to go with it. The interior could stand to be upgraded a bit. You can see where Chrysler cut corners: But still very liveable inside and out. Just wish the exhaust note was a bit throatier.

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  Total Satisfaction - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By mcjesq - October 10 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car I have ever owned! I required a larger vehicle for my newborn twins, their double stroller and a host of other things I need to haul around. I feel much too hip for a mini van and a little more sophisticated than a large truck. The Pacifica is a perfect fit. I never hesitate to tell people about my joy when they stop me on the street to ask questions.

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  Reliable and fun - 2002 Chrysler 300M
  By Tom - October 8 - 8:45 pm

  I bought the car new and have driven it 80k miles. Replaced an O2 sensor,a set of brakes at 70k and tires at 55k, went with Michelin Hydro Edge hoping to reduce tire noise, but still too loud on some concrete. Its great to drive on the road, handles like a sport car. Too bad the computer shuts you down at 107, as the engine is still only at 3800 rpms.The Auto Stick is fun. Put the pedal to the metal and the tach goes right up to 6400 for the next shift. The body styling was ahead of its time, as many of the new cars have nearly the same roof lines. Last weekend took a trip of 700 miles, averaged 28.2 one way and 28.8 coming home, couldnt believe it. Its the best car I have ever owned.

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  Unbeatable Convertible Value - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By ConvertMan - October 8 - 2:00 am

  After test driving many convertibles over the past month, I have come to the conclusion that the Chrysler Sebring is by far the best value out there. If youre buying a convertible to enjoy with friends or family, this is the only car that will allow you to have 3 other adults tag along. The BMW 330ci and others in its class dont come close to the passenger comfort afforted in the Sebring. Add to that the stylish looks, perky engine (200 HP is a must), leather trimming, front-wheel drive and you have a wonderful package in the Sebring. And, its made in the USA! I wholeheartedly recommend it.

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  Bang for the buck - 2006 Chrysler 300
  By Daryl Buerger - October 6 - 7:03 pm

  This is the best full sized sedan in its price range. Look no further. I did exhaustive research and comparisons before buying. Almost went with the Charger but stuck with the 300C because a few more luxury features. This cars feel and roadability is outstanding. plenty of power and good fuel economy. I average 18 city and 22 hwy. with the MDS system The interior comfort is great with a ample rear seat room. This car still get lots of attention where ever it goes and it has the ability to get there fast. My 300 is loaded with every option Dont skimp here Ive rented less equipped 300s and chargers only to love the one I have more! Not one disappointment yet.

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  What A Fun Cae - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By T.S. - October 5 - 9:12 pm

  Bought this convertible for a fun summer car. Was able to get this well maintained from a private party in Fl. who always garaged the auto. Drove it 1,200 miles non stop returning to home. Is as comfortable as my 08 Cadillac CTS and I am 6 200 lbs. Have enjoyed everything about it this summer without one squeak. My 06 Honda Pilot has two squeaks I cant fix. Another week or two to use before it gets stored for the winter. Absolutely love this car and I will keep it for many years.

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  Tim Pt - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Tim - October 5 - 3:33 am

  This PT CRUISER IS A GREAT CAR TO DRIVE. We have taken it to many car shows and put a lot of custom parts on it.

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  Enjoying Car - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By psdon - October 4 - 6:44 am

  Bought my Sebring 10 months ago with 20,000 miles. I have 40,000 now. I spend at least 2 hours a day in it. I am enjoying its drive, the sound system and have had no trouble at all.

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  My New Crossfire - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By 6bobb9 - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Im a 60 year old who feels young again. This car is a dream. Comfortable, sharp looking, and fast enough for my needs. My big concern was if my Golf Clubs would fit in the trunk. They do.

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  I Love My New Car!! - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By lovingmycar - October 4 - 2:00 am

  My new Pacifica is a dream come true. With a husband who coaches youth sports and two teenagers, I am constantly transporting kids from one place to another...and I am comfortable the whole time. There is plenty of seating room, the climate control really keeps the whole vehicle comfortable, the stereo is great (my teens love it), I feel safe driving in it, and I have received tons of complements on its exterior styling.