There’s this phenomenon that occurs in consumerism where the company that holds onto old standards emerges the victor when the sentiment pendulum swings back in their direction. Chrysler, like other domestic manufacturers, was struggling with changing consumer sentiments and fuel economy standards, and the recoil of abandoning large, fuel-hungry dinosaurs. But it did keep one model in the lineup, the M-body Fifth Avenue, which was a good move when consumers began buying large sedans again in the late 80s. Check out this low mileage 1983 Fifth Avenue listed here on eBay for $7,700 or best offer.
There’s a print magazine ad for the Fifth Avenue that reminds you there were still plenty of guys in marketing who wanted to return to the old world of sedan design. It hits on the landau roof; the fancy pentastar hood ornament; optional wire wheel covers; special sound insulation; and an “aristocratic” grill. These were the things that used to work for people shopping for a sedan, and in keeping this car in the lineup, Chrysler’s marketing team was able to welcome them back with open arms when the hysteria over the fuel crisis settled down and consumers returned to their old ways. This particular Fifth Avenue ditches the wire-style wheel covers for a more athletic design, and it works.
When you see seats like this, it’s clear the intent was to make sure occupants felt nothing at all beneath them – not only was the goal to eliminate the impact from road abrasions, but to literally neutralize any sensation of driving. While many of roll our eyes at someone extolling the virtues of a self-driving Tesla, there’s a curious parallel between that and someone who bought a car solely because they didn’t have to actually feel the road. Regardless, there’s no denying these seats were exceptionally comfortable, and the Fifth Avenue further enhanced passenger comfort with air conditioning, power windows, an electronic digital clock, and standard tinted glass.
The 5.2L V8 was another act of defiance, and a staunch rejection of fuel-sipping Honda Civics and diesel-powered Ford Escorts. It made average power but good torque, clocking in at 140 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. The seller notes this Fifth Avenue has been with the same family since new and has purportedly been well-maintained in that timeframe, but we’d want to see some service records first to confirm that. Assuming you could snag this Fifth Avenue for under $6,000, it seems like an easy access point to classic Mopar ownership.
I always sort of liked these, and definitely liked these wheels; kind of a version of the same era Imperial coupe wheels.
Probably lots of options for easy engine swaps, too. This could be pretty sweet with a mildly built 360.
i love old 4dr cars & wagons.
My grandpa had the 1984 edition, with the same blue velour and white paint job. Loved that car
Jeff you are so predictable. Hysteria over fuel prices? How do you feel about five dollar a gallon prices now?
How would you like to be paying $7.76 a gallon here in Canada ($1.71/liter) or
$9.00 a gallon here for diesel!!!
California is almost as bad, it’s going to get worse by the end of June and then again early next year when one of the biggest remaining refineries shuts down.
Steve R
I notice the Canadians aren’t helping open the Strait. Guess your leaders have no cares.
I’d be ticked. Your leader didn’t start any war, but you’re still paying the price!
Just over $4.00 where I live. No big deal, it will come back down.
For those who aren’t rolling in money, it’s a HUGE deal.
Gas is over $2.16/L up here where we are 🍁 That’s 87 octane. I use 89, believe it’s $2.26, i just try to ignore and pump…bless those that require premium. 💁♂️ What a scam.
These are great cars until the Lean Burn system starts acting up. I’ve had three Chryslers with that system on the V-8, and couldn’t get rid of them fast enough after that Lean Burn electronic system broke down. Couldn’t get replacement parts; no one knew how to fix them. It happened to all three of mine after they got some age and miles on them.
Okay boys, back to the subject! Looks like a great car and it’s GONE! I helped a friend of mine pick one up almost identical to this one, and I had the pleasure of driving it from southern Oregon back to Seattle. Locked in the cruise at 78 and enjoyed the ride…smooth, quiet, and most of all comfortable. Someone got a good deal IMO…
Phoenix Sam’s Club was $ 4.55 the other day for 87 the 91 was $ 5.00.I use that in our CX-30.My 66′ Mustang uses premium, but in that i only use Shell or Chevron ,but now that its hot I only drive a few minutes 2x a week.My son has a 14′ Shelby GT 500 with 7,800 miles….he rarely drives now.
Auction ended with no takers at the asking price.