Time Capsule Turbo: 1987 Chrysler LeBaron Turbo Convertible – SOLD!

April 27, 2022, Update – We confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

April 15, 2022 Update – We just discovered the seller of this LeBaron convertible we first featured in March 2022 just replaced their original ad with a fresh Craigslist listing. While the description and pictures pretty much carryover, the seller reduced their asking price by $1,400 from $6,500 to to $5,100.

One of the best features of the car hobby is the wide variety of makes and models that get enthusiasts’ hearts pumping. No matter what your poison is, you’re likely not alone in your enthusiasm for said vehicle and there’s likely a support group out there with your name on it. This 1987 Chrysler LeBaron Turbo Convertible has under 100,000 miles and has been gone through extensively by a previous owner, who commissioned an engine rebuild and full respray, among other improvements. We first came across this ride in March 2022 on Craigslist in Commerce, Georgia for $6,500. Comparing that price against the NADA Price Guide reveals a gap between the asking price and the price guide, as a similar LeBaron in great condition rings in at $3,050 in the “High” retail category.

The 1980s saw many trends take hold, but among the front-runners of most memorable car-related features were turbocharged engines and voice-based driver control systems. Chrysler was well out in front of the competition with these features, and it even went so far as to partner with the likes of Carroll Shelby in building numerous turbocharged models out of what would otherwise be considered econoboxes. The trickle-down effect was quite beneficial for otherwise mundane models like the Chrysler LeBaron Town & Country station wagon and of course, the LeBaron, as the turbocharged engine from iconic hot hatches like the Dodge Omni GLH and Daytona Shelby found its way under the hood. The LeBaron was a logical home for such an engine, with the marketing at the time promoting its healthy doses of both performance and luxury; the Town & Country wagon remains one of the greatest sleepers of the 1980s.

The Luxury Car Report YouTube Channel provides a modern review of this vintage of Chrysler LeBraon convertible from a European perspective:

Now, while all this whiz-bang technology and respectable turbocharged performance are notable, it didn’t turn 1980s Chrysler products into overnight collectibles. Still, that didn’t stop one owner from treating his well-preserved LeBaron like it might be headed to Pebble Beach next year, as he splurged on a fresh paint job, engine rebuild, refinished alloy wheels with new tires, full tune-up with new hoses, gaskets, and belts, and much, much more. The listing also mentions that the top was replaced in the last three or four years so that consumable item should also be off of the next owner’s mind. The interior hasn’t been restored and is in excellent condition, with gorgeous gray leather seats. And perhaps most critically, the “Electronic Voice Alert” is still functional, just in case you leave your door ajar or otherwise stop thinking for yourself. I certainly respect everything the seller did here, and even though it will take a very special buyer, I don’t think his selling price will prohibit the curious from taking a closer look at this timewarp car.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1987 Chrysler Lebaron Turbo Convertible Time capsule. This car is in Amazing original shape with only 89000 miles and the motor was rebuilt about 2500 miles ago, runs and drives exceptionally well. Extremely well maintained by fussy older owner. One repaint with a lifetime transferable warranty, $3500 spent on it $1500 just for the black trim, mirrors, etc.. new tires, wheels were sent out and refurbished, battery, brakes, shocks, gaskets, belts, and hoses. The top was replaced about 3-4 years and excellent condition. Interior and leather are superb, everything works on the car, even has the working Electronic Voice Alert, “your key is the ignition” “door is ajar” “fuel level is low” and other sayings. This not a restored car just a very well-kept low mileage Lebaron, always garaged. Clear title in hand, delivery available anywhere at great rates. Have a bunch more photos just email or call to see more or just call with any questions $6500 or Trade.“

Top downtime: is the worst of winter behind us and is the spring selling season going to heat up with a wave of collectible drop-tops?