One of the best ways to assess whether a classic car will be a dependable runner is if the current owner uses it in a way that requires ongoing upkeep. Many classics get to a point where they present well and can make it down the street on occasion, but that’s not the same as maintaining a vehicle to be used in a variety of road conditions. The seller of this 1977 Chrysler Cordoba with just 13,000 original miles listed here on craigslist has made a few key improvements that should give future owners turnkey drivability. The asking price is $18,000.
The Cordoba, in many ways, is the epitome of the personal luxury coupe. This is the last year of the memorable round headlight design with the additional inboard driving lamps. While I personally think the later years with the stacked headlights offer a classier look overall, both eras of the Cordoba were known for gently gliding down the road, soaking up bumps and effectively isolating passengers from any obtrusions from the road. The classic Corinthian leather is well represented in this example, with an absolutely gorgeous interior.
Now, about the owner taking steps to make this Cordoba daily-driver ready: the 6.6L 400 V8 left the factory with the much-despised “Lean Burn” system. Instituted in response to more stringent pollution requirements, the system essentially introduced more air and reduced fuel, leading to a wide variety of issues affecting performance, driving quality, and reliability. The seller was wise to remove it while leaving the original decals in place to preserve the originality of the car. It now utilizes a new electronic ignition with the Lean Burn computer disconnected.
Fluids were changed, dried-up seals were replaced, and the plugs were replaced. The seller notes that the paint is 98 percent original, and the only significant flaw is noted at the left front near the edge of the fender. The rest of the bodywork appears to be quite clean with excellent chrome and a vinyl “landau”-style roof that shows little in the way of deterioration. The seller adds that he had Troy Angelly Restorations of Eldorado, Illinois, do the mechanical updates, and that all records will accompany the car. $18,000 is ambitious, but it does look like a very clean example. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Tony Primo for the tip.
Very nice, but I doubt if they’ll get $18,000. Someone would really have to love it to pay that much. The low mileage and not hopelessly rotted, as well as the beautiful appearance of it is a plus, but the plain-jane color is not a plus.
Fine Corinthian leather… straight from New Jersey! 😂