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Coronets, Chargers, and Plymouths

Chrysler sold various different "B-bodies" in Mexico between 1962 and 1972. From 1962 to 1964 CKD's of two door and four door Dodge 330's and Polaras as well as four door Plymouth Savoys were assembled in Mexico. Dodges were advertised as having 318cid V8 "poly" engines and Plymouths were advertised as having 225cid slant six engines.

Beginning in 1965, due to some significant changes in Mexico's national industrial policy, the only B-bodies produced were two door and four door Coronets. In addition, the only engines available (until 1967) were two versions of the 225cid slant six (160hp and 145hp versions). The only components of these cars that originated in the US were basically the body panels and the unibody components.

For 1966, again, two B-bodies offered: the Coronet 500 two door and the Coronet 440 four door. The names "440" and "500" where less distinctive that they were in the United States in regards to trim and appointments. Both were considers luxury models. Economy versions of four doors and two doors were left to the Valiant line. Both the 440 and 500 used bumperettes, wheel-lip moldings, and a lack of belt-line trim. The 500 trim used on the decklid of US model 500s was used on both the 440 and the 500. All were 225 six cylinders, and a three speed manual gearbox was standard with an automatic being optional.

Here are four pictures of a 1966 Coronet 440: rear, front, interior, and wheel.

The lineup changed in 1967 when the Plymouth was reintroduced in Mexico. As it was prior to 1965, the Coronet (or Dodge) was the luxurious and somewhat sporting model, and the Plymouth was the basic "standard" class transportation. The Plymouth was available only as a four door sedan or as a station wagon. The Plymouth's only available engine was the 225cid slant six, however the Dodge came with the new 230hp 318cid V8. The 1967 Dodge Coronet two door was equipped with hidden headlights (form the United States model Charger) whereas four door Coronets came with standard Coronet headlights. For the luxurious two door Coronets, an emblem on the fender indicated its 318 engine.

1967 Promotional photo for a two door Coronet

1968 was basically the same with the only exception being the station wagon moved from the Plymouth to the Dodge. This lineup continued to 1969 when the 270hp 4bbl 318cid V8 became available. For 1970, the Plymouth was dropped to make room for the Monaco (the first C-bodies in Mexico).

The 1969 Coronet two door was identical to the Coronet 500 sold in the United States. These photos are of a well worn example, but it clearly sold of its factor features: frontend, rear, and unique emblems. Notice the small hubcaps and 500 trim. Also, the bumper bars were a popular aftermarket addon for many cars.

1971 and 1972 were significantly different Chrysler lineups. Coronets were completely dropped and C-body Monacos took over completely the role the B-bodies had once filled. However the B-body platform was not gone for good, The Charger was introduced for the first time in 1971. It was available with either a four speed or an automatic along with the 270hp 318hp V8. The Charger continued in 1972 was it was the last year, and thus the last year of a B-body in Mexico.