Cheap Wheels Drop-Top: 1998 Chrysler Sebring

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The Sebring was a mid-size entry from Chrysler, offered in the second half of the 1990s and the first decade of the new century. A popular convertible was in the mix, based on the Cirrus and built in Mexico. The seller is undecided as to whether this is a 1996 or a 1998 model, but since the latter is included in the link here on craigslist, we’ll assume it’s a ’98. Located in Portland, Oregon, this drop-top looks to be in good shape and is offered at the “cheap wheels” price of just $1,199. Bargain of the year?

The Sebring convertible wasn’t the only body style. If you wanted a coupe, it was built by Diamond-Star Motors in Normal, Illinois (a Chrysler/Mitsubishi joint venture). The Sebring ragtop replaced Chrysler’s LeBaron, whose design dated back to the 1980s when Chrysler was first getting into front-wheel-drive. The Mexican-made convertible shared no parts with the coupe, so they were completely separate cars except for the name. In 1998, more than 50,000 copies of the canvas cars were produced.

This Chrysler comes with a fairly thorough description and okay photos, except there are no peeks under the hood. The V6 engine and automatic transmission have 93,000 miles to their credit. We’re told it’s a great running machine that’s been dependable under the seller’s ownership. The only mechanical issue is a leaking power steering hose which shouldn’t take much to replace.

The body, paint, and interior seem to be up to snuff, and we’re told the convertible top works and doesn’t leak. All of the electric doodads on the car appear to work fine, so this Chrysler should be good for regular use. It’s hard to believe that the seller is only looking to get $1,200 out of the car, especially considering it’s an open-air model. Thanks for the cheapo tip, “Curvette”!

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Comments

  1. frank o

    I bet something is wrong with this car

    Like 3
  2. 2010CayenneGTS

    In the late 1990s and early 2000s, it seemed like every realtor had one of these. Then, you used to see a lot of them in the ‘hood, in various states of decline. Then, you just didn’t see them at all anymore.

    Like 3
  3. JMC

    My kid brother had one of those. Nice wheels, decent shape. Trouble was, EVERYBODY that he knew that saw the car said that it was a ” woman’s car”..

    Like 1
  4. innkeeperMember

    Wish it was closer to me . . .

    Like 2
  5. David Richards

    I had a 1997 just like that. Same color and everything! I think I put on the deluxe wheels from the JXI. No mention of the model number. I had mine for 3 years. Great car. I am a mopar guy to the max so that car didn’t surprise me.Good buy!

    Like 0
  6. kim in lanark

    I’d jump at it also if it was closer. Don’t know where I’d put it though. You’re looking at something going for not running beater prices, one step above Victory Auto Wreckers. There could be drivetrain or title problems, or it could be a scam. A thorough investigation before you buy is clearly in order.

    Like 0
  7. Pete Phillips

    Needs a new top. That’s why it is cheap. Nothing but duct tape below the back glass. Still not a bad buy.

    Like 0
  8. hairyolds68

    30yrs old. ask is about what it worth. do a t/belt on it and drop the top and cruise

    Like 0
  9. daniel

    Needs a new top. Costs more than the purchase price. Pass. There are Much better ones out there for sale.

    Like 0
  10. Erik

    I had one of these, 13 years ago.
    Same green colour, same colour interior, but with a black convertible hood.

    Autobox, with the manual shift option.
    Converted to run on LPG (propane)

    Marketed and sold in Europe as the Chrysler Stratus.

    Like 0
  11. Jack Quantrill

    Had a’96 V6. Loved that one button top release. Took a while to get used to that super slanted windshield

    Like 0

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