1989 Chrysler LeBaron

The Chrysler Imperial LeBaron was among the most luxurious vehicles of the 1930s, with a chassis manufactured by Chrysler and bodies built by the coachbuilder LeBaron. In 1953, LeBaron was acquired by Chrysler along with its parent Briggs Manufacturing Company. The name 'LeBaron' has become synonymous with luxury, becoming its own model designation from 1957 through 1975, and is one of the longest-running nameplates in Chrysler's history. The Chrysler LeBaron re-appeared in 1977 as a mid-sized vehicle and was produced through 1995.

The third generation of the LeBaron was introduced in 1987, built on the J platform, and available as a convertible or coupe. The styling was modern and aerodynamic with a waterfall grille, similarly raked windshield, headlights hidden behind retractable metal covers, curved rocker panels, and full-width taillight lenses.

Interior accouterments included full instrumentation with a trip and fuel economy computer.

The big news for the 1989 Chrysler LeBaron was the departure of the notchback sedan and station wagon from the model's lineup. The base engine was an overhead cam four-cylinder unit displacing 135 cubic inches and offering 93 horsepower. Two turbocharged engines were offered, one with a 2.2-liter displacement and the other with a 2.5-liter unit.

The 1989 LeBaron was available as a coupe, convertible, or sedan in various trim levels. The high-performance GTC/GTS models came equipped with the more potent turbocharged engine as standard.

The LeBaron gained four-wheel disc brakes and a driver's airbag. Transmission options included a five-speed manual or three-speed TorqueFlite automatic.

This Third Generation of the LeBaron continued through 1995, receiving a slight facelift for the 1993 model year, including removing the hidden headlights and replaced by flush-mounted replaceable-bulb headlamps. Additional changes included amber rear turn signals introduced on the deluxe 1992 models, and new wheel styles became available.

by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2017