Happy 25th Anniversary Minivan!
It was 25 years ago when Chrysler realized they needed a new platform to support growing families, and sneak away from the station wagon segment. They also needed to boost sales…some things never change. When engineers at Chrysler got together for this project, they revolutionized the world of family travel and road trips. Chrysler decided to take what is basically a cargo van on a smaller frame, cut some windows into the sides and back…and thus the Minivan was born.
In 1983 Chrysler rolled their minivan concept out via Dodge Caravan and Plymouth (remember them?) Voyager. What they constructed would begin a major ripoff by most other automotive companies. The Front Wheel Drive vehicle could seat upwards of 6 or 7 people, and with the imagination and skills of design chief Hal Sperlich and the money of Lee Iacocca, “minivan” was almost destined to be a success. So today we salute you, dear minivan, your journey has been long, yet successful. Let’s hope you’re still around to celebrate the 26th.
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