After a tentative start, the American Personal Luxury Car market segment developed strength during the 1960s and 1970s. Buyers seeking a suitable candidate were spoiled for choice, with this 1978 Chrysler Cordoba a strong contender for those with Mopar leanings. This classic presents well as a survivor-grade vehicle, and the first owner’s decision to order it with the range-topping 400ci V8 adds to its appeal. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Chrysler listed here on eBay in Palmetto, Florida. This is not the seller’s first attempt to part with this classic. The previous auction failed to meet the reserve with a solitary bid of $1,000. However, they are persistent. It has just hit the market again, and while there have been no bids, there is a BIN option of $16,995 for those who view the Cordoba as a must-have.

Chrysler introduced its First Generation Cordoba for the 1975 model year, with the last cars rolling off the line in 1979. Designed to compete with vehicles like the Mercury Cougar and the Buick Regal, the styling was crisp and clean, earning almost universal praise. Initial sales were surprisingly strong, despite the recent energy crisis and rising fuel prices. However, the figures fell during the First Generation’s final years, as potential buyers focused on smaller, more efficient alternatives. This 1978 example makes a positive first impression. The original owner ordered the car in Pewter Gray Metallic, resisting the lure of the three types of vinyl tops that were popular options. I am impressed by the lack of paint deterioration and patchiness, suggesting that this car hasn’t experienced long-term UV exposure that can cause deterioration. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and although the underside shots reveal areas of dry, crusty surface corrosion, I believe this Chrysler is free of penetrating rust. The trim condition is consistent with a survivor-grade vehicle of this vintage, and the glass is clear.

It is fair to expect the interior of any Personal Luxury Car to feature creature comforts, and this Cordoba doesn’t disappoint. The new owner receives air conditioning, Corinthian leather trim, cruise control, a tilt wheel, a rear defogger, a digital clock, and an AM/FM stereo radio. The seller indicates that the A/C is inoperative, but doesn’t mention any further functional issues. The leather shows typical age wrinkles, with no wear or signs of abuse. The same is true of the carpet, while the remaining upholstered surfaces, dash, pad, and the woodgrain trim exhibit no evidence of deterioration.

The first owner went straight to the top of the class, equipping this Cordoba with the largest available V8 motor. The 1978 model year marked the end of the line for the 400, with this engine placing 190hp and 305 ft/lbs of torque under the driver’s right foot. All Cordobas received a three-speed A-727 TorqueFlite transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The seller indicates that this car’s odometer shows 87,800 miles, but doesn’t mention evidence confirming that the figure is genuine. The suggestions are that this Chrysler is in excellent mechanical condition, and the seller’s willingness to entertain in-person inspections indicates they are confident this Cordoba has nothing to hide.

This 1978 Chrysler Cordoba is a tidy classic with no apparent rust issues. Its presentation is consistent with a survivor-grade vehicle from this period that has been treated respectfully. Its 400ci V8 may not produce mountains of power and torque, but few cars from this end of the 1970s could claim to. Although NADA suggests otherwise, the seller’s BIN figure is consistent with recent successful sales for similar examples. Would that be enough for you to consider pursuing this Chrysler further?