Find Chrysler Conquest Cars For Sale

Searching for a Chrysler Conquest for sale? You've landed in the right place. The Chrysler Conquest, though a bit of a rarity, represents a unique piece of automotive history, blending American engineering with Japanese manufacturing prowess. This compact sports car, originally a rebadged Mitsubishi Galant Lambda, offers a distinct driving experience that still appeals to enthusiasts today.

In this in-depth guide, we'll explore what makes the Chrysler Conquest a worthy consideration, key factors to look for when buying one, where to find these elusive vehicles, and what maintenance considerations you should keep in mind. Our aim is to provide you with all the actionable insights needed to make an informed decision whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer to the world of classic Chryslers.

Understanding the Chrysler Conquest: A Unique Proposition

The Chrysler Conquest, produced from 1987 to 1989, was part of Chrysler's strategy to offer a sportier, more affordable alternative to its existing lineup. It was essentially a badge-engineered Mitsubishi Galant Lambda, built by Mitsubishi and sold through Chrysler dealerships. This collaboration allowed Chrysler to tap into the growing market for compact, rear-wheel-drive sports coupes without the extensive R&D investment.

Our analysis shows that the appeal of the Conquest lies in its distinctive styling, peppy performance for its era, and its relative rarity. It wasn't a mass-market success like some of its contemporaries, which means owning one today offers a certain exclusivity. This is a car that stands out from the crowd, offering a blend of performance and style that was quite appealing in the late 80s.

Key Features and Specifications

When the Chrysler Conquest hit the market, it came with several appealing features:

• Engine Options: Primarily powered by a 2.6-liter four-cylinder engine, often featuring Mitsubishi's ECI-multi electronic fuel injection. This powerplant typically produced around 109 horsepower, which was respectable for a car of its size and weight.
• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive was standard, enhancing its sporty handling characteristics. This RWD setup is a major draw for enthusiasts looking for a more engaging driving experience.
• Body Styles: Available as a coupe, it featured a sleek, aerodynamic profile typical of 1980s sports cars.
• Interior: The interior offered a driver-focused cockpit with supportive seats and a range of amenities for its time, including optional digital dashboards on some trims.

The Mitsubishi Connection: Galant Lambda Heritage

It's crucial to understand the Conquest's roots as a Mitsubishi Galant Lambda. This connection is important for parts sourcing and understanding its engineering. The Galant Lambda was known for its reliability and balanced chassis, traits that carried over to the Chrysler Conquest. This heritage contributes to the car's positive reputation among those familiar with it.

What to Look for When Buying a Chrysler Conquest

Acquiring a Chrysler Conquest requires careful inspection due to its age. These cars are now over 30 years old, and their condition can vary dramatically. Here’s what our expert team recommends focusing on:

1. Rust and Body Condition

Rust is the silent killer of older vehicles. Pay close attention to common rust areas:

• Wheel Arches: Check the lips of the wheel wells for bubbling paint or corrosion.
• Rocker Panels: Inspect the lower body panels beneath the doors for significant rust-through.
• Frame Rails and Floor Pans: Get underneath the car and look for rust damage to the structural components. This is critical for safety and the car's overall integrity.
• Trunk: Lift the carpet in the trunk and inspect the spare tire well and surrounding metal for moisture damage and rust.

Our experience suggests that cars from drier climates tend to fare much better in terms of rust prevention. If the car has spent most of its life in a region with harsh winters and road salt, expect more extensive rust issues.

2. Powertrain Inspection

The 2.6-liter engine is generally robust, but age can bring specific problems. Listen for any unusual noises during a test drive:

• Engine Noise: Knocking, ticking, or excessive smoke from the exhaust (blue smoke indicates burning oil, white smoke can indicate coolant leaks).
• Transmission: Ensure smooth shifting in both automatic and manual transmissions. Clutch wear is common in manuals.
• Fuel System: Fuel injection systems can develop issues; ensure the engine idles smoothly and accelerates without hesitation.

We've found that regular maintenance is key to longevity for these engines. Look for evidence of consistent oil changes and coolant flushes.

3. Suspension and Brakes

Given the car's sporty nature, these components are vital for safe and enjoyable driving:

• Suspension: Check for clunks or rattles over bumps, indicating worn bushings or shocks.
• Brakes: Ensure the brakes feel firm and responsive. Uneven braking or grinding noises are red flags.
• Tires: Look for uneven tire wear, which can point to alignment or suspension problems.

4. Interior and Electronics

Many electronics from this era can be temperamental:

• Dashboard: Check all gauges, warning lights, and the digital display (if equipped) for proper function.
• HVAC System: Test the air conditioning and heater to ensure they work correctly.
• Power Accessories: Verify that power windows, locks, and mirrors operate smoothly.

It's not uncommon for some minor electrical gremlins to appear in cars of this vintage. Prioritize the major systems over cosmetic electrical issues.

5. Documentation and Maintenance History

A well-documented history is a huge plus. Look for:

• Service Records: Proof of regular maintenance indicates the car has been cared for.
• Original Manuals: Often a sign of an enthusiast owner.
• Title Clarity: Ensure the title is clean and matches the VIN on the car.

In our experience, buyers who prioritize cars with good documentation often have fewer surprises down the road. — Utrecht Vs Ajax: Match Preview & Prediction

Where to Find a Chrysler Conquest for Sale

Finding a Chrysler Conquest isn't as straightforward as finding a modern car. They are relatively rare, so patience and persistence are key. Here are the best places to search:

Online Marketplaces

• eBay Motors: Often features classic and unique vehicles. Set up saved searches to be notified when new listings appear.
• Craigslist: While hit-or-miss, local listings can sometimes yield hidden gems. Be prepared to sift through many other vehicles.
• Specialty Classic Car Websites: Sites like Hemmings, ClassicCars.com, and Bring a Trailer (for auction-style sales) are excellent resources for enthusiasts looking for rarer vehicles.

Classic Car Shows and Auctions

Attending local and national classic car shows or auctions can be a great way to find vehicles and connect with sellers directly. You might find a Conquest being shown off by an owner who is considering selling.

Enthusiast Forums and Clubs

Connecting with Mopar or Mitsubishi enthusiast clubs can also lead to opportunities. Members often know of vehicles for sale within their community before they hit the open market. Searching forums dedicated to older Mitsubishi or Chrysler models might also turn up leads. — Vineland, NJ Zip Code: Find It Here!

Maintenance and Ownership Considerations

Owning a Chrysler Conquest means embracing its classic car status. Here’s what to expect:

Parts Availability

Due to its Mitsubishi origins, many mechanical parts can be sourced through Mitsubishi dealerships or aftermarket suppliers specializing in older Japanese cars. However, specific Chrysler trim pieces or badging might be harder to find. You may need to rely on: — Fort Dodge, Iowa Zip Codes: A Comprehensive Guide

• Specialty Auto Parts Stores: Look for those catering to vintage Japanese or Mopar vehicles.
• Online Forums: Owners often share leads on rare parts or even have parts for sale.
• Salvage Yards: A long shot, but sometimes you can find donor cars.

We’ve found that joining online communities is the most effective way to navigate parts sourcing challenges.

Regular Servicing

Find a mechanic who is comfortable working on older, carbureted or fuel-injected engines and rear-wheel-drive platforms. While the mechanics are relatively straightforward, not all modern shops are equipped to handle them.

Expected Costs

Factor in potential costs for:

• Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, tune-ups, fluid checks.
• Wear-and-Tear Items: Brakes, tires, belts, hoses.
• Potential Repairs: Electrical issues, rust remediation, aging rubber components.

It's wise to set aside a budget for unexpected repairs, a common aspect of classic car ownership.

The Chrysler Conquest: A Rewarding Classic

Finding a Chrysler Conquest for sale can be a treasure hunt, but the reward is a unique, stylish, and fun-to-drive classic car with a touch of exclusivity. By understanding its history, carefully inspecting potential purchases, and preparing for the realities of classic car ownership, you can successfully add this distinctive vehicle to your collection.

Call to Action: Start your search today on the recommended online marketplaces and connect with enthusiast communities. Happy hunting for your Chrysler Conquest!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is the Chrysler Conquest a reliable car?

A1: For its era, the Chrysler Conquest (based on the Mitsubishi Galant Lambda) was considered reasonably reliable, especially the 2.6L engine. However, like any car over 30 years old, reliability depends heavily on its maintenance history, previous ownership, and current condition. Expect that some components may require attention due to age.

Q2: What are the main differences between the Chrysler Conquest and the Mitsubishi Galant Lambda?

A2: The primary differences are cosmetic, mainly badging, interior trim details, and potentially some minor feature variations specific to the Chrysler market. Mechanically and structurally, they are very similar, sharing the same platform and most components.

Q3: Are parts hard to find for a Chrysler Conquest?

A3: Some parts are relatively easy to find through Mitsubishi suppliers or general aftermarket sources due to the shared platform. However, specific Chrysler-exclusive trim pieces, emblems, or body panels can be challenging to source. Joining owner forums and specialty classic car parts suppliers is highly recommended.

Q4: What kind of performance can I expect from a Chrysler Conquest?

A4: The typical 2.6-liter engine produced around 109 horsepower. While not blistering by today's standards, it offered sprightly performance for its time, especially combined with the car's lightweight RWD chassis. Expect a fun, engaging driving experience rather than outright speed.

Q5: Is the Chrysler Conquest a good investment?

A5: As with most classic cars, the Chrysler Conquest is more of a passion purchase than a guaranteed financial investment. Its rarity can lead to appreciation, but values are generally modest compared to more iconic sports cars. Its value lies more in the unique driving experience and exclusivity it offers.

Q6: Where is the best place to look for a Chrysler Conquest if I live in the US?

A6: Your best bet in the US is to monitor major online classic car marketplaces like Hemmings, ClassicCars.com, Bring a Trailer (for auctions), eBay Motors, and Craigslist. Also, engage with Mopar and Mitsubishi enthusiast clubs and forums, as they often have inside knowledge of cars for sale within the community.

Q7: What common issues should I watch out for when inspecting a used Chrysler Conquest?

A7: Key issues to check for include rust (especially in wheel arches, rocker panels, and floor pans), engine performance (noises, smoke), suspension wear (bushings, shocks), brake condition, and the functionality of older electronic components. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a knowledgeable mechanic is highly advised.