Chrysler LeBaron

Chrysler’s LeBaron convertible is easily the slickest-looking Chrysler ever built, and one of the most beautiful cars ever from Detroit.

I recently tested it and found the LeBaron convertible, with the optional turbocharged engine package, has performance to match its looks.

Here’s a rundown: Chrysler LeBaron two-door convertible: Introduced this spring, the front-wheel-drive Chrysler LeBaron convertible is a sister to the sleek, $11,295 Chrysler LeBaron coupe unveiled earlier in 1987.

That’s no surprise; it comes from Chrysler’s design staff and are based on Chrysler’s venerable K-car components, used in everything from the sporty Dodge Daytona to Plymouth Voyager mini-van.

The Maserati, scheduled for a 1988 introduction, will offer a choice of two exotic engines and a super-plush interior. But it will cost about $30,000, compared to $13,974 for the Chrysler LeBaron convertible with the standard 100-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission.

My test car had the $2,458 turbo engine package, which includes a turbocharged, 146-horsepower 2.2-liter four-cylinder, stiffer suspension and 60-series performance tires. It also was loaded with other options ranging from leather seats and automatic transmission to cruise control. The price was a rather shocking $19,238.

Those on budgets should get the base convertible with standard engine, manual transmission and a few common options such as air conditioning and an AM/FM radio. Then, you’ll get a car that looks like a million dollars for approximately $15,500.

You won’t get the rapid acceleration (0-60 in 8.7 seconds) or sports-car handling that you would with the turbo engine package. But the base 2.5 engine is quieter, and the ride is smoother. The standard model’s analog gauges are superior to the electronic instrumentation in the turbo model.

Fuel economy is better with the 2.5 and manual (22 m.p.g. city, 32 highway) than with the turbo engine and automatic combination in my test car (19 and 24).

No matter what engine, the car’s power top is a joy to operate, moving down and up quickly and simply. Unique is the top’s standard, electrically heated glass rear window, handy during winter. However, the top creates a bad rear blind spot for the driver.

The convertible feels tight, and is more rattle-free than other Chrysler “converts” because it is the first 1980’s Chrysler convertible designed as a soft-top from inception. Others were essentially two-door hardtops with their tops chopped off.

If you don’t want to go that far, the regular Electra with the T Package is a good alternative.