Chrysler C Bodies: Fury, VIP, Custom 880, 300, Newport, New Yorker, Polara, Monaco

Courtesy of Eugene Calderaro

Related pages: Plymouth Fury | Dodge Polara | Dodge Monaco

Ed Hennessy: The C-body may date from 1961 or 1962, though Chrysler considers it to have begun in 1965. The wheelbase varied from 119" (1965-68 Plymouths except wagons) to 124" (1965-78 Chryslers and 1974-77 wagons).

In 1965, all Chrysler Corporation full-size cars rode on a corporate "C" body. The cars were styled by Elwood Engel and were larger than the 1964 models they replaced.

1965 was the last year for the 300 letter-series car. The dual quad option in the 300L was not available, but a manual was an option in the letter and non-letter 300. 1965 was also the last year for the 413 V-8.

1966 brought minor changes to the Chrysler full-size line and the addition of a new 440 V-8 available in 350 and 365 HP formats.

1967 brought new rooflines for the two door hardtop models. The 440 "TNT" V-8 was boosted to 375 HP. 1968 brought minor style changes since a new body was on the horizon.

In 1969 Chrysler Corporation redesigned all C-body models in what Chrysler termed "Fuselage Styling". 1970 brought only minor style changes and also was the last year for a Chrysler convertible until the 1980's. 1971 again brought slight changes to the Chrysler lines. Also, the 440 TNT was no longer available. 1972 brought a new roofline to all bodystyles. 1973 brought the new mandated safety bumpers, losing the unique bumper/grille arrangement.

1974 brought all-new styling to Chrysler buyers.

Minor changes were seen in 1975. After the Imperial was dropped in 1975, Chrysler introduced the New Yorker Brougham to take its place.

1977 was the last year for the Town & Country wagon, and the C-body era came to a close in 1978.