1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs
The 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue was a luxuriously appointed full-size sedan that served as the flagship model for Chrysler. Introduced in 1979 and produced through 1993, it embodied American automotive comfort and style for its era. The Fifth Avenue was exclusively a 4-door sedan, with the primary trim level being the Fifth Avenue itself, often featuring premium options. Its popularity stemmed from its opulent interior, smooth ride, and aspirational image, offering a taste of luxury at a more accessible price point than European imports.
The Good
The 1984 Fifth Avenue offers exceptional comfort with its plush seating and smooth ride, appealing to those seeking a serene driving experience. Its classic, formal design evokes a sense of prestige and nostalgia. While not a performance machine, its V8 engine provides adequate power for cruising. For practical buyers, its perceived value for luxury features remains a strong point.
The Bad
Potential buyers should watch for rust, particularly on the lower body panels, wheel wells, and frame components. Electrical issues, including faulty power accessories and dashboard components, are also common. Overheating and transmission problems can arise with age and mileage. Engine performance may be diminished due to wear and tear.
1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: For 1984, the primary engine was the 318 cubic inch (5.2L) V8. Some models might have featured the 360 cubic inch (5.9L) V8, though less common.
- Horsepower: The 5.2L V8 typically produced around 130-140 horsepower. The 5.9L V8 would have offered slightly more, perhaps in the 150-160 horsepower range.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy was not a strong suit for this vehicle. Expect figures in the range of 14-16 MPG in the city and 18-20 MPG on the highway for the 5.2L V8.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration was leisurely. 0-60 MPH times would likely be in the 10-12 second range, depending on the specific engine and condition.
- Towing Capacity: The Chrysler Fifth Avenue was not designed for towing, and towing capacity is generally not specified or recommended.
- Trim-Level Features (Fifth Avenue Trim):
- Leather or velour upholstery with woodgrain trim accents.
- Power windows, locks, and mirrors.
- Automatic climate control.
- AM/FM stereo with cassette player.
- Cruise control.
- Tilt steering wheel.
- Wire wheel covers or optional alloy wheels.
- Landau vinyl roof (often standard or a popular option).
- Padded dashboards and deluxe carpeting.
- Optional: Power sunroof, premium sound system, and upgraded wheel options.
1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1984 |
| Make | Chrysler |
| Model | FIFTH AVENUE |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Minicompact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | FENTON |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.2 8 |
| Engine Size | 5.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue Have?
The 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue, like many vehicles of its era, had its share of common issues. A significant concern across model years is rust. The body-on-frame construction, while robust, is susceptible to corrosion, especially in regions with harsh winters and salted roads. Areas to inspect carefully include the rocker panels, wheel wells, floor pans, and the subframe. Electrical gremlins are also frequently reported. This can manifest as malfunctioning power windows, door locks, power seats, and dashboard instruments. The electronic climate control system, while advanced for its time, can be a source of problems, with faulty sensors or actuators causing inconsistent temperature control. The Chrysler 'TorqueFlite' automatic transmission, while generally durable, can develop issues with age, such as slipping gears or erratic shifting, often due to worn seals, clutches, or valve body problems. Overheating is another common concern, often stemming from a worn radiator, faulty water pump, or a malfunctioning thermostat. The fuel delivery system can also present issues, with potential problems in the fuel pump or carburetor (if equipped in earlier years, though 1984 likely had fuel injection). Recalls for this model year are less prominent now, but in its prime, they might have addressed issues like brake components, fuel system leaks, or emissions controls. Long-term reliability is heavily dependent on maintenance history. A well-maintained Fifth Avenue can still provide years of service, but neglected examples are prone to a cascade of failures. Specific to 1984, the introduction of updated fuel injection systems (if present) could have initial teething problems, but generally, the powertrain components were proven. The primary challenges are typically related to the aging of rubber and plastic components, electrical connectors, and the inevitable effects of time and environmental exposure.
How long will the 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue last?
Estimating the average mileage or years of service for a 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue is highly variable, depending heavily on individual owner care and maintenance. Many of these vehicles were driven as daily drivers for a decade or more, accumulating well over 150,000 miles. However, with diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and addressing minor issues promptly, reaching 200,000 miles is achievable. The long-term durability of the V8 engine and TorqueFlite transmission is quite good, often outlasting the body and electrical systems. The primary weaknesses that emerge over time are the aging of rubber and plastic components, leading to leaks and electrical faults, and the susceptibility to rust, which can compromise the structural integrity and appearance. Vehicles kept in dry climates and garaged tend to last significantly longer than those exposed to the elements and road salt.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue was designed with comfort and luxury in mind, and its technology, while not cutting-edge by today's standards, was considered premium for its time. Standard entertainment features typically included an AM/FM stereo radio with a cassette player, offering occupants a way to enjoy music or news on the go. Many models also came equipped with power-adjustable seats, power windows, and power door locks, enhancing convenience. The climate control system was often an automatic unit, allowing drivers to set a desired temperature, and the system would then manage fan speed and air distribution to maintain it. Optional features added to the luxury experience, such as a premium sound system for enhanced audio fidelity, a power sunroof for open-air driving, and cruise control for relaxed highway journeys. Driver-assistance features were rudimentary by modern definitions, but features like power steering and power brakes were standard, making the large sedan easier to handle. Safety features for 1984 included seat belts, padded dashboards, and safety glass. More advanced safety technologies like airbags were not yet common in this segment. Crash-test ratings for vehicles from this era are not as standardized or readily available as they are today. However, the Fifth Avenue, being a large, heavy vehicle with a robust body-on-frame construction, likely offered a reasonable degree of occupant protection in a collision, especially in frontal impacts, compared to smaller, lighter cars of the time. It's important to note that safety standards and testing methodologies have evolved significantly since the mid-1980s, so direct comparisons to modern vehicles should be made with caution.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue carried a premium price tag, often starting in the mid-$20,000s, reflecting its luxury positioning. This was a substantial amount of money in 1984. As with most American luxury cars of this era, depreciation was quite steep in the initial years. However, the Fifth Avenue has since achieved a classic status, and its resale value has stabilized, particularly for well-maintained examples. Current used market prices vary widely, ranging from a few thousand dollars for project cars needing significant work to upwards of $10,000 or more for pristine, low-mileage survivors. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition (body, interior, mechanical), originality, mileage, and provenance. Low mileage, rust-free examples with documented maintenance history command the highest prices. These cars are now more of a collector's item than a depreciating asset.
1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue is generally not considered economical in terms of fuel consumption, with its V8 engine delivering modest MPG. Insurance costs can vary; classic car insurance might be an option and can be quite affordable for well-maintained vehicles driven sparingly. Maintenance costs can be moderate to high, depending on parts availability and the complexity of repairs. While many common maintenance items are straightforward, specialized repairs, especially for the electronic climate control or complex electrical systems, can be costly. Repair costs are moderate; while parts can sometimes be harder to find for specific trim pieces, mechanical components are often shared with other Chrysler products of the era. Overall, long-term ownership leans towards costly due to fuel and potential for age-related repairs, but it can be manageable with careful buying and preventative maintenance.
1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue Insurance
Insurance for a 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue competed in the large luxury sedan segment against vehicles like the Lincoln Town Car and Cadillac Brougham. In terms of performance, the Fifth Avenue's V8 offered adequate power for comfortable cruising, but it was not designed for spirited driving, similar to its rivals. The Lincoln Town Car and Cadillac Brougham also prioritized a smooth, quiet ride over outright speed. When it comes to features, the Fifth Avenue was well-equipped for its price point, offering plush interiors, power amenities, and automatic climate control, directly challenging the luxury offerings of Ford and GM. The Cadillac often had a slight edge in perceived prestige and available cutting-edge technology for the era. Reliability was a mixed bag for all three. While the underlying mechanicals (engine and transmission) of the Fifth Avenue were generally robust, electrical systems and body integrity (rust) were common weak points, a sentiment shared by owners of comparable Lincolns and Cadillacs from the mid-80s. The Fifth Avenue generally offered a better price proposition, providing a substantial amount of luxury for less money than its primary competitors. Alternatives to consider include the Lincoln Town Car (1980-1989 models), which offered similar comfort and a classic American luxury feel, though often at a higher price. The Cadillac Brougham (1986-1992, preceded by the RWD Coupe de Ville) represented the pinnacle of American luxury, often with more advanced features but also a higher cost of entry and ownership. For buyers seeking something similar but perhaps with a slightly more modern feel or a different style of luxury, a well-preserved Buick Electra from the same period could also be a comparable option, offering comfort and a smooth ride at a potentially lower cost. If prioritizing reliability and a more modern experience, one might look towards slightly newer sedans from the late 80s or early 90s, but they would likely lose the distinct 1980s American luxury charm that the Fifth Avenue embodies.
Final Verdict: Is the 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue a Good Sedan?
The 1984 Chrysler Fifth Avenue is ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate classic American luxury, comfortable cruising, and a sense of nostalgic style. It is worth buying for those seeking an affordable entry into the world of vintage luxury sedans, provided they are prepared for the potential for age-related maintenance. This vehicle is best purchased used, as new examples are obviously unavailable. Buyers should focus on well-maintained, rust-free examples with documented service history, ideally with the 5.2L V8 engine for a balance of availability and performance. While it offers significant comfort and presence, potential buyers must be aware of its fuel consumption and the likelihood of needing to address electrical or minor mechanical issues. It's a car for leisurely drives and enjoying the journey, not for performance or daily commuting in congested environments unless one is committed to its upkeep.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.