1987 Chrysler Fifth Avenue 5.2L V8
Summary:
One of a kind vehicle. Would own another one
Faults:
- Fan clutch.
General Comments:
This was one of my first cars. I paid $500 for it when I was 17 and had no idea how to maintain a car. I carelessly drove it without doing any maintenance at all, but it never once broke down. The only thing I ever repaired was the fan clutch, because it was one of the obviously loud components. I don't think I ever changed the oil once. I drove it in the Wisconsin winters with bald tires. I clearly remember the cords sticking out of the tires. This was stupid, but as a 17 year old making $6 bucks an hour, I don't think I had tires in the budget.
I sold the car for $400 in 2003 at 218,000 miles. This thing rode amazing. I can't think of any car that rode as well as this vehicle. The seats are extremely comfortable leather that you sink right into. It is unlike any other vehicle I have EVER owned out of nearly 100 different vehicles. I would like to find another one.
The only thing I did not like were the spoked hubcaps. I had picked up a set of Cragar SS wheels with tires at a garage sale for $20 and they looked spectacular on this vehicle.
For having a 318 cubic-inch V8, this was not in any way a fast vehicle. It was rather slow and did not seem to have the torque you'd think a V8 would have.
The paint held up very well, as did the body. I don't recall any rust on this vehicle.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 13th December, 2015
10th Mar 2023, 19:29
If only you could still buy one for 500$.
18th Jan 2024, 16:26
It was nice to see these nice reviews. I just bought an 87 this week at the Mecum Kissimmee Car Auction. Paid high for it, but that's how bad I wanted it. My Father (may he rest in peace) had an 84, brand new out the dealer and kept it for over 16 years. I loved it too. Very stylish and comfortable. Well, I bought this one with 31,000 original miles. Mint! So far it rides like new. I have a Mercedes E350 & this Fifth Ave feels smoother on the road than my Benz. Take care all...
10th May 2024, 22:50
How much did you pay for the 87 Chrysler Fifth Avenue New Yorker? Just was wondering what they go for.
20th Dec 2015, 04:56
Good review :)
FYI - the 318 was pretty much emasculated at this point with high-swirl, low-flow cylinder heads and (usually) a 2:24 rear axle ratio; the point of both was to fulfill EPA fuel economy and emission mandates.