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What Are M-Bodies and Why Do We Like Them? 

What are M-bodies?

M-Bodies were built by Chrysler Corporation from 1977 to 1989. The M-body line consisted of three makes (Chrysler, Dodge and Plymouth), and various models which are listed below.

• 1977 to 1989 Dodge Diplomat
• 1977 to 1981 Chrysler LeBaron
• 1977 to 1981 Chrysler Town & Country (wagon)
• 1977 to 1981 Plymouth Caravelle (Canada)
• 1982 to 1989 Plymouth Gran Fury
• 1982 Chrysler New Yorker
• 1983 Chrysler New Yorker 5th Avenue
• 1984 to 1989 Chrysler 5th Avenue

M-bodies were made in 2-door, 4-door and wagon models until 1981.  All 1982-up M-bodies sold in the US were 4-door models.  However, there were 2-door Mexican versions (called Dodge Magnums) that were sold after 1981.  The wheelbases for all M-bodies are as follows:

• 108.7": '80-'81 2 door models
• 112.7": '77-'79 2 door models,  '77-'89 4-door and wagon models

SPACER
Why We Like M-bodies?

• M-bodies are a great alternative for someone who wants to get into the Mopar hobby on a budget.
• Because M-bodies are still plentiful compared to older Mopars, they are cheap to buy and easy to replace.
• They are easy to work on.
• Parts can still be found for them.
• Much of the earlier Mopar drivetrain components swap right in with minimal modifications.
• The average person can put one together on the cheap and have a ball with it.
• They can be driven and parked anywhere without the owners feeling like they're driving around in an eggshell or worrying if their car will still be there when they return.
• Many of them are now old enough to qualify for historic registration status in some states.
• They retain remnants of the older Chrysler styling.
• They are also historically significant because they are the very last of the Chrysler-built rear wheel drive passenger cars to use all of the old-school Mopar drivetrain technology (engines, transmissions and rear axles) that originated in the 1960s.

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Additional Information

• Chrysler RWD Body Codes
• F/J/M Body Interchange Information

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