Chrysler/Plymouth late 50s/Early 60s
Discussion
Hi. New here.
I'm interested in a couple of old Mopar vehicles on Instagram I have seen. One a 59 Chrysler with swivel seats, the other a '60 Plymouth coupe - also with swivelers. They "look" ok, but would appreciate some more experienced knowledge in what to look for with regards to problems that may not be obvious. searching questions, what to check, etc? Thanks everyone.
I'm interested in a couple of old Mopar vehicles on Instagram I have seen. One a 59 Chrysler with swivel seats, the other a '60 Plymouth coupe - also with swivelers. They "look" ok, but would appreciate some more experienced knowledge in what to look for with regards to problems that may not be obvious. searching questions, what to check, etc? Thanks everyone.
Great cars.
Check if they are US spec - Mopar branded differently for other markets, especially Canada and RHD - E.g. what is badged "De Soto" may be a lower range car underneath.
'57 - '59 Mopar were a big step ahead from the earlier generation. Low, firmer suspension.
The famous hemi engine ended in '58, but the later wedge V8 (383 and 413 for '59 Chrysler) is great and lighter too.
The six is a bit lame - it finally went ohv for 1960 (the "slant six"), but you need a V8 in these full size cars.
Auto transmissions were Powerflite (2 speed) and Torqueflite (3 speed). Torqueflite is exceptionally good. Manuals are rare unless hooked up to a 6.
Mopar went unibody for 1960 - they are more rigid than typical body-on-frame US cars of this era and actually handle quite well - better than the already good '57 - '59s.
Rust is the big issue and the build quality can be a bit "home made" in areas.
In the right condition and in the right spec they are fantastic cars. Closest I have owned was a '62 Plymouth, but friends have owned '60s and '61s - all in NZ where they have a following.
Here's the expert view - enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBNWBHYp41w
Check if they are US spec - Mopar branded differently for other markets, especially Canada and RHD - E.g. what is badged "De Soto" may be a lower range car underneath.
'57 - '59 Mopar were a big step ahead from the earlier generation. Low, firmer suspension.
The famous hemi engine ended in '58, but the later wedge V8 (383 and 413 for '59 Chrysler) is great and lighter too.
The six is a bit lame - it finally went ohv for 1960 (the "slant six"), but you need a V8 in these full size cars.
Auto transmissions were Powerflite (2 speed) and Torqueflite (3 speed). Torqueflite is exceptionally good. Manuals are rare unless hooked up to a 6.
Mopar went unibody for 1960 - they are more rigid than typical body-on-frame US cars of this era and actually handle quite well - better than the already good '57 - '59s.
Rust is the big issue and the build quality can be a bit "home made" in areas.
In the right condition and in the right spec they are fantastic cars. Closest I have owned was a '62 Plymouth, but friends have owned '60s and '61s - all in NZ where they have a following.
Here's the expert view - enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBNWBHYp41w
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