12 Crazy Facts about Chrysler

First published 2nd February 2024 Samantha Khu

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It’s time to put the pedal to the metal, as they say! Chryslers are some of the most famous cars on the road. Known for their robust designs, these vehicles have been around since the 1920s! But how much do you know about this iconic American car company? Here are some fun facts about Chrysler and its cars as we celebrate the brand’s 100th anniversary.

1. The company was founded by Chrysler himself.

Chrysler, a vehicle production company, was founded on June 6, 1925, by Walter P. Chrysler. The line was actually born from another company as it was established when Chrysler restructured and reorganized the Maxwell Motor Company.

2. The company found early success before its founding date!

In the early years, Chrysler gained a reputation for engineering innovation and quality manufacturing. The introduction of the Chrysler Six in 1924 helped establish the brand as a high-quality, affordable vehicle and was the new company’s first official car.

3. It is linked to the Chrysler Building.

You may know the name “Chrysler” more from the building in New York City, but the two are in fact linked! The iconic Chrysler Building was commissioned by Walter Chrysler as the headquarters for the company. The building was briefly the tallest in the world, too – another claim to fame!

Chrysler Building, NYC

4. Chrysler has always been all about innovation.

As mentioned above, Chrysler was known for introducing innovative features to the automotive industry. For example, the company created the first mass-produced four-wheel hydraulic brakes in 1924.

5. It created the unsuccessful but influential Chrysler Airflow.

In 1934, Chrysler introduced the Chrysler Airflow, a groundbreaking design that focused on aerodynamics. Although it was not initially successful due to public resistance to its unconventional and somewhat unappealing appearance, the Airflow influenced car design massively in later years. Talk about an ugly duckling effect!

6. The company played an important role in the Second World War.

During World War II, Chrysler played a significant role in wartime vehicular production and export. The company manufactured tanks, aircraft engines, and other military vehicles – without Chrysler, Allied efforts might not have been so strong.

7. It introduced the Hemi Engine to the world.

In the early 1950s, Chrysler introduced the Hemi engine, known for its hemispherical combustion chambers that improved engine efficiency and power. This made it perfect for high-performance and racing applications. It’s another example of Chrysler daring to be innovative in a young market.

8. Chrysler became well-known for its muscle cars.

When many of us hear the name “Chrysler,” we immediately think of muscle cars, and with good reason! Chrysler was a key player in the American muscle car era, producing iconic models such as the Plymouth Barracuda, Dodge Charger, and Plymouth Road Runner.

9. The company needed governmental help.

In 1979, Chrysler faced financial difficulties and received a government bailout to prevent bankruptcy. Lee Iacocca, a former Ford executive, became the CEO of Chrysler in 1978 and played a crucial role in securing the government bailout. Look how far it’s come since then!

1955 Chrysler 300

10. Eventually, the company merged with others.

In 1998, Chrysler merged with the German automaker Daimler-Benz, forming DaimlerChrysler AG. However, the merger faced challenges in integrating the corporate cultures. In 2007, Daimler sold Chrysler to Cerberus Capital Management, a private equity firm, making Chrysler a privately held company.

11. It became part of the FCA.

No, for our British readers – not the Financial Conduct Authority! In 2014, Fiat S.p.A. acquired Chrysler’s remaining shares, forming Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). FCA covered brands such as Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo.

12. It then joined Stellantis.

Yes! Yet again, the Chrysler brand hopped around at the start of the New 20s. In 2021, FCA merged with PSA Group, the French multinational automotive company that owns brands like Peugeot and Citroën. The merger resulted in forming Stellantis, one of the world’s largest automotive groups. Stellantis is now actively involved in developing electric and autonomous vehicles – keeping up Chrysler’s zest for innovation.

FAQs about Chrysler

Is Chrysler American or German?

Chrysler was originally an American company formed by US-born businessman Walter P. Chrysler.

Is Chrysler owned by Italy?

Given that Chrysler is now part of Stellantis, an Italian-American multinational corporation, yes, it is indeed partly owned by Italian businesspeople. However, it’s still regarded by many as an American brand.