Image of 1985 Chrysler Lebaron, sourced from www.curbsideclassic.com , Image Link.

1985 Chrysler Lebaron: A Quintessential Classic

The 1985 Chrysler Lebaron represents a remarkable chapter in the annals of American automotive history. Born from the storied assembly lines of Chrysler, this vehicle emerged as a testament to the company's resilience during a period of economic challenges and shifting consumer preferences. Notably, the Lebaron was one of the first cars to be designed under the leadership of Lee Iacocca after his move from Ford, marking a new era for Chrysler. This model year also stands out as it featured the introduction of the turbocharged engine option, adding a new level of performance to the Lebaron's repertoire.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1985 Chrysler Lebaron is evocative of an era that straddled the line between the boxy aesthetics of the late '70s and early '80s and the emerging aerodynamic trends. Its sharp lines and formal upright grille were complemented by softer touches such as rounded headlamps and smoother body contours. Inside, passengers were greeted with an interior that prioritized comfort, featuring plush seating and woodgrain accents that exuded a sense of luxury. The materials used ranged from durable fabrics to available leather upholstery, depending on trim levels. Technological features for its time included an electronic voice alert system, which was quite novel, providing spoken warnings for various vehicle functions. Color options for this model year included classic hues like Radiant Silver and Santa Fe Blue, with Deep Garnet Red being a popular choice among enthusiasts. The Lebaron was available in several body styles including a two-door coupe, four-door sedan, convertible, and even a station wagon. The convertible option, with its power-operated top and stylish presence, became an iconic symbol of '80s automotive culture.

Historical Significance

The 1985 Chrysler Lebaron carved out its niche by offering affordable luxury and versatility. It stood apart from its contemporaries with its range of body styles and pioneering technology like the turbocharged engine option. This adaptability helped cement its place in automotive history as a car that could cater to various consumer needs while maintaining a sense of sophistication.

Performance and Handling

Performance-wise, the 1985 Lebaron offered a range of engines including a standard 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine and an optional 2.6-liter Mitsubishi-sourced engine. The introduction of a turbocharged version of the 2.2-liter engine added zest to the lineup, allowing for brisker acceleration and a top speed that was competitive for its class. Handling characteristics were typical for midsize cars of the era; it provided a comfortable ride quality that absorbed bumps well while remaining composed on windy roads. Driving this classic today brings back a nostalgic feeling with the distinctive hum of its engines and an overall driving experience that is both relaxed and engaging.

Ownership Experience

Owners often utilized the 1985 Chrysler Lebaron as a daily driver due to its practicality and comfort features. It also found favor among collectors who appreciated its classic design cues for show car purposes. In terms of maintenance and reliability, many components are known for their longevity, but some specific parts related to the turbocharged models may be harder to find or repair.

Fun Facts

A fun piece of trivia about the 1985 Lebaron is that it was available with a talking digital dashboard—an intriguing feature at the time! While not holding any significant speed or endurance records, it did gain some fame through appearances in movies and television shows during the '80s. Common criticisms at the time focused on build quality issues which were not uncommon among American manufacturers during this period.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors might find that an 1985 Chrysler Lebaron can vary significantly in value depending on condition, mileage, and whether it's a sought-after convertible model or not. While production numbers were relatively high for this model year (exact figures are elusive), well-maintained examples or those with low mileage are becoming rarer. Price trends suggest that good condition Lebarons are slowly appreciating in value as interest in '80s vehicles grows among collectors. Depending on various factors such as rarity (like turbocharged models or convertibles), condition, and provenance, prices can range anywhere from a few thousand dollars for models in fair condition up to higher amounts for pristine examples.

Conclusion

The 1985 Chrysler Lebaron remains an emblematic figure from an era when American automakers were redefining their identities amidst changing market dynamics. With its blend of traditional luxury elements and forward-thinking features like turbocharging options, it offers a unique glimpse into automotive design evolution. Whether you're an enthusiast looking to relive memories or a collector seeking an affordable entry into classic car ownership, the Lebaron is certainly worthy of consideration.

1985 Chrysler LeBaron Windshield and Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip-WF 225-AWindshield and Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of nylon. 2" X 11/16". Each