Much of Chrysler's history has been marred by a long road of highs and lows, punctuated by a congressional bailout that thrust the American automotive industry woes into the national spotlight.
Founded in 1925, created the durable workhorse Jeeps that helped the Allied Forces win World War II. Building on the military-fueled success of the Jeep, the company established a reputation for its well-made, well-engineered cars in the post-war era.
Rather than glossing over its recent image problems , Chrysler embraced an “imported from Detroit” advertising theme, playing up their vehicles' tenacious spirit. Also, the unlikely union of Chrysler and Fiat is producing popular vehicles built on the combined talents of both companies.
With the old Cordoba, its first entry in the luxury car market, the family-friendly Town & Country van, the stylish 300, and the much-lauded Grand Cherokee, Chrysler still has a dedicated following.
Quick Facts
- Starting in 1960, Chrysler became the only Big Three automaker to offer unibody construction on the vast majority of its vehicles
- In an 1982 TV commercial, Lee A. Iacocca, the chief executive of Chrysler, famously advised potential buyers, “if you can find a better car, buy it”
A 1961 Chrysler 300G Convertible sold at a 2014 Motor City Auction for $162,250
