1968 Chrysler Newport Convertible (RHD)

Description

Although the Newport nameplate had previously been used on several Chrysler models of the 1940s and 1950s, it became a separate line in 1961 as the entry-level full-size Mopar offering. The first generation Newports featured ornate styling, dominated by tail fins and body sculpting on the earliest models, although these were gradually phased out in line with industry trends towards a cleaner, sharper look. Chrysler unveiled the second generation Newport in 1965, sharing the new C-platform with the more upmarket 300 and New Yorker models and squared-off styling influenced by the 1964 Imperial range. Body styles included a sedan, hardtop and convertible plus the Town & Country wagon. The Newport underwent further facelifts each year until 1968, the final instalment of the second generation model, with new frontal styling featuring a pronounced v-shaped mesh grille, rear wheel skirts and revised tail lamp treatment. The standard Newport drivetrain remained Chrysler's smooth 383-cid V8 with a twin-barrel carburettor, along with the optional four-barrel version or 440-cid V8 and many were optioned with the excellent Torqueflite self-shifter. Chrysler also offered a dressed up Newport Custom featuring a longer list of standard equipment, although this package wasn't available on either of the convertible or wagon models. Mid-way through the 1968 season a gimmicky Sportsgrain option was announced, the simulated woodgrain side panelling intended to evoke the Town & Country Chryslers of the 1940s, but it found few buyers. Overall the Newport sold well in 1968, with sales rising steadily (up 10 per cent over 1967) but the convertible proved a slow seller - of the almost 265,000 cars produced by Chrysler in 1968, ragtop Newports accounted for just 2,847 units, confirming the waning interest amongst American's for full-sized convertibles.