Elite Dealer

1978 Chrysler LeBaron

Michigan

$12,995

Vehicle Details

Make

Chrysler

Model

LeBaron

Year

1978

Mileage

81,000 miles

Exterior Color

White

Interior Color

Red

Transmission

Automatic

Drivetrain

RWD

Fuel Type

Gasoline

Engine

318 V8

Condition

Good

Description

This 1978 Chrysler LeBaron is a genuine survivor with just 81,000 original miles, still wearing its factory white exterior and striking red interior. The 318 cubic inch four-barrel V8 delivers authentic muscle car character, backed by dual exhaust and performance headers with glass packs that announce its presence properly. Air shocks in the rear add to the commanding stance.

Two careful owners kept this Tennessee native in clean condition throughout its life. The automatic transmission runs and drives well, though the car has been resting since last summer and would benefit from a fresh drive to wake everything up. For the LeBaron enthusiast seeking honest Mopar iron with low miles and documented history, this is a compelling find that captures the spirit of late-seventies American luxury.

Chrysler LeBaron Buyer's Guide

Full guide

Mike Sullivan

Muscle Cars

1975–1995

~3 min read

Updated Apr 2026

Stylish, affordable, and finally respected — the Chrysler LeBaron convertible is the overlooked classic of the Iacocca era.

This guide covers

✓ 8-point inspection checklist

✓ Common issues & what to avoid

✓ In-person inspection guide

✓ Market pricing by year & condition

✓ 4 FAQs answered

✓ History & fun facts

Read the Full LeBaron Buyer's Guide

Chrysler LeBaron Market Overview

Based on 13 Chrysler LeBaron listings currently on ClassicCarsArena.com

Listed Now

$12,604

Avg. Asking Price

1978–1990

Year Range

Price Position on Our Site — Average Range

This car: $12,995

Low: $3,700 High: $22,895

Transmission Distribution

Automatic 77% ◄

Condition Distribution

Good 23% ◄

Fair 8%

Data from ClassicCarsArena.com listings Browse all 13 listings →

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What is this car worth?

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Chrysler LeBaron Buyer's Guide

The Chrysler LeBaron is one of the most misunderstood cars in American automotive history. Dismissed by purists during its K-car years, the LeBaron is now appreciated as an accessible, stylish classic — especially the open-top versions. If you want a personal-luxury or convertible experience from the 1980s without Cadillac or Lincoln prices, the LeBaron delivers in spades.

What to Check Before Buying

✓

Test convertible top through three full open/close cycles —

✓

Inspect front subframe and engine cradle for rust (probe with screwdriver) —

✓

On Turbo: check for oil leaks at turbo, verify intercooler condition —

✓

Test all BCM-controlled electrics (windows, locks, mirrors, dash) —

✓

On V6: verify timing belt service history or plan immediate replacement —

✓

Check hydraulic top fluid reservoir and look for leaks under rear shelf —

✓

Inspect door bottoms and rocker panels for rust (especially northern cars) —

✓

Verify A/C compressor functions (R-12 cars may need retrofit) —

Common Issues

Convertible hydraulic top mechanism failure is the number one issue — rebuild kits exist but labor is involved. K-car front subframe rust is a deal-breaker if severe. BCM electrical gremlins affect 1987–1992 cars. Turbo models need careful inspection for oil leaks and overboost damage. V6 timing belt failure is catastrophic on this interference engine.

What to Look For

Look for a single-owner car with documented maintenance — these were often second cars and may have very low miles. A dry convertible top mechanism is worth a $500–$1,000 premium to avoid the repair headache. On Turbo models, a clean intercooler and no blow-by on the PCV is a good sign the engine wasn't abused. M-body cars with original paint in dry-state provenance are the rarest find.

Price Guide

Convertibles command a strong premium over coupes and sedans. A driver-quality 1990–1993 convertible runs $3,500–$6,000; concours-ready examples $10,000+. Turbo coupes $4,000–$9,000. M-body V8 coupes $6,000–$12,000 when found. Budget $800–$1,500 for a convertible top mechanism rebuild if needed.

Did You Know?

The LeBaron Convertible was the first American mass-market convertible since the Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz bowed out in 1976. Lee Iacocca personally starred in the TV commercials. The 1987–1995 coupe's retractable hardtop was a genuine engineering feat for a mainstream car. The LeBaron name traces to Raymond H. LeBaron, Chrysler's legendary chief designer of the coachwork era.

Elite Dealer

$12,995

1978 Chrysler LeBaron

Michigan

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