The 1980s were a time of significant change for the American automotive industry. The effects of the fuel crises of the 1970s lingered, and automakers were scrambling to adapt to changing consumer preferences. Amidst this turmoil, Chrysler, a company known for its bold moves, introduced the second-generation Cordoba in 1980.
The Cordoba’s Place in Chrysler’s Lineup
The Cordoba was positioned as a personal luxury coupe, a segment that had gained traction in the previous decade. Chrysler already had the LeBaron in this segment, which had received a redesign for the 1980 model year.
1980 Chrysler Cordoba
This begs the question: Did Chrysler need two entries in the personal luxury coupe market? Some argue that the Cordoba and LeBaron cannibalized each other’s sales, weakening Chrysler’s overall market share.
The Cordoba’s Design: Hit or Miss?
The second-generation Cordoba’s styling was a radical departure from its predecessor. It featured sharp edges and a distinctive front grille that some found polarizing. Its design was a significant departure from the more rounded and softer designs of its competitors, such as the Chevrolet Monte Carlo and the Ford Thunderbird.
The Cordoba’s Platform: A Missed Opportunity?
The second-generation Cordoba was built on Chrysler’s F-body platform, shared with the Dodge Mirada and Chrysler Imperial. This platform was also a derivative of the Chrysler M-body platform, used for mid-size cars like the Dodge Diplomat and Chrysler LeBaron.
Some automotive historians, such as John Doe, argue that using the F-body platform for the Cordoba was a strategic misstep. They contend that Chrysler should have based the Cordoba on the smaller and more fuel-efficient K-car platform, which underpinned the popular Dodge Aries and Plymouth Reliant.
1980 Plymouth Volare Taillight
Using the K-car platform could have resulted in a lighter and more fuel-efficient Cordoba, potentially appealing to a broader range of buyers concerned about fuel economy.
The Cordoba’s Legacy
The second-generation Chrysler Cordoba had a relatively short production run, lasting only from 1980 to 1983. Its sales never reached the levels Chrysler had hoped for, and it was discontinued without a direct replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What engines were available in the second-generation Cordoba?
A: The 1980 Cordoba came standard with a 3.7L (225 cu in) slant-six engine. A 5.2L (318 cu in) V8 was optional.
Q: Were there any significant changes made to the Cordoba during its production run?
A: Few significant changes were made to the Cordoba during its production. A notable change was the introduction of a four-speed automatic transmission for the 1982 model year.
Q: What is the collectible status of the second-generation Cordoba today?
A: The second-generation Cordoba is not particularly sought after by collectors today. However, well-maintained examples in good condition can still be found.
The second-generation Chrysler Cordoba serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by American automakers during the early 1980s. While it may not have achieved the success Chrysler had envisioned, it remains an interesting footnote in automotive history.
