Chrysler LeBaron

The Chrysler LeBaron was introduced in 1977 as Chrysler's lowest priced model, and the name was used on various Chryslers until 1995. The name originates from a 1930s coachworks bought out by Chrysler. Two years after the Corporation introduced the Imperial as a separate luxury division, LeBaron was designated the top of the line Imperial models in 1957 through 1975. Resurrected to add cachet to the Chrysler Division's new mid-sized entry two years later, the "LeBaron" name has since been applied to a total of 5 different cars built by the Chrysler Division:

• The 1977-1981 M-body Mid-size LeBaron sedan, coupé, and wagon
• The 1982-1988 K-body Compact LeBaron sedan, coupé, convertible, and wagon
• The 1985-1989 H-body Mid-size LeBaron GTS hatchback
• The 1987-1995 J-body Personal luxury LeBaron coupé and convertible
• The 1990-1994 AA-body Mid-size LeBaron sedan

1977-1981

Although the LeBaron name had been used before on Imperials, this was the first time the name was used on its own. This first Chrysler LeBaron was a rear-wheel drive M-body, a rebadged Dodge Diplomat with deluxe trim and equipment sold from 1977 to 1981. The LeBaron model name was moved to a new front-wheel drive car for the 1982 model year, when the Chrysler-branded rear-drive M-body was renamed New Yorker Fifth Avenue for the 1983 model year.