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Dodge Magnum (B-body)
| |
| Dodge Magnum | |
|---|---|
| Dodge | |
| Production | 1978-1979 |
| Class | Intermediate |
| Body Style | 2-Door Coupe |
| Length | 215.8" |
| Width | 77.1" |
| Height | 53.1" |
| Wheelbase | 114.9" |
| Weight | 3600 - 3900 lb |
| Transmissions | 3-Speed Automatic, RWD |
| Engine | 5.2L (318 cid) V8 (1978-1979) 5.9L (360 cid) V8 (1978-1979) 6.6L (400 cid) V8 (1978) |
| Power | 150-190 hp |
| Similar | Chrysler Cordoba |
| Platform | B |
See the Dodge Magnum entry for more information about the current 2005-present model.
The B-body Dodge Magnum was introduced at the beginning of the 1978 model year. With waiting lines at local dealerships the new Magnum enjoyed the spot light with Richard Petty. The Magnum Mid-Sized body was shared by the Chrysler Cordoba, but the Magnum's front fenders and rear quarters were more pronounced, the nose had quad rectangular headlights hidden by a retractable Plexiglas covering accompanied by a horizontally-barred grille that was reminiscent of a 1930's Cord. Taillights differed by being horizontally ribbed. Naturally, engine and transmission choices mirrored the Cordoba's as well; the 5.2L (318 cid) V8 was standard, with the 5.9L (360 cid) V8 and 6.6L (400 cid) as options. A 3-speed floor or Column shift automatic transmission was available. Many interior colors could be picked out when ordering your new Magnum along with roof styles. Two-tone exterior colors were also available.
1979 Magnums changed very little, the only real change was the 400 V8 was no longer available; the 360 became the top option. As with the Cordoba, the star of Chrysler's show in the mid to late '70s, the Magnum was an instant hit with over 80,000 Made in two years during a national fuel crisis. The 1978 Magnum also allowed Richard Petty to continue racing in NASCAR for another season and helped Kyle Petty win his first race. The Magnum was replaced by the smaller J-body Mirada in 1980.
See the first generation Chrysler Cordoba entry for more information about the B-body Dodge Magnum.
