Future Chrysler TC.
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Since Chrysler seems to be in the news lately, let’s imagine another new model we’ll never see. A new generation Chrysler TC based on the STLA platform
The Chrysler TC was produced from 1988 to 1991. It looks like almost everyone wanted to compete with the popular Mercedes SL back then, and Cadillac came out with the Allante. Just like GM, Chrysler didn’t really have the hardware and cachet to compete with the very expensive SL. The new convertible was to be sold as “TC By Maserati” since at the time, Chrysler owned a big portion of the Italian manufacturer.
The TC’s job was to elevate Chrysler‘s image. However, development took longer than originally planned and the TC came out after the much cheaper new generation of the Chrysler Le Baron convertible. Instead of the new Le Baron looking a bit like the more expensive TC, the TC ended up looking like an overpriced Le Baron to most people by the time it was ready to come out.
The TC was built at a huge loss for Chrysler. Since it cost over $80,000 to manufacture at the time while it was priced at around $33,000. I guess even Lee Iacocca wasn’t always right…
It was also one of the most unreliable cars you could purchase at the time, which didn’t help…
Fiat eventually bought Masersti in 1993. And ironically, Chrysler in 2013.
And now, Chrysler is in trouble again for lack of care. It hasn’t had a new model in many, many years. Which is truly a shame. I know a low volume 2 seater convertible is not what is needed to make Chrysler profitable. They desperately need a new Minivan and an SUV or two. But the idea of a low-volume image car is still a good one, and maybe more important than ever to put the historical American brand back on the map.
Just don’t call it “Chrysler TC by Stellantis”.
I fear for Chrysler’s survival after Stellantis’ statement about paring away unprofitable nameplates.
I see those photos and think “Corinthian leather”
I think investors want to justify Chrysler’s existence if they’re able to sell high margin products, rather than volume. I made a video on my YouTube channel about a revival of the Imperial as an industry first 3 row liftback. This would get investors excited in Chrysler again because they can charge a lot for it. 300 doesn’t cut it anymore. Imperial will save them.
Poor Chrysler. First the Dailer-Benz ownership disaster. Now Stellantis is bailing on them. Sad.
Wow! I forgot about that model from back then. Didn’t see too many of them on the road but I lived two buildings away from a Buick dealership for years.Had the Maserati emblem etched on the little back windows