Chrysler Cordoba (1st generation)
The personal luxury coupe that saved Chrysler with its 'rich Corinthian leather'.
- Power
- 170 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 11.6 s
- Top speed
- 114 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$25k
About the Chrysler Cordoba
The Chrysler Cordoba was a pivotal success for the brand, arriving in 1975 as its first 'small' car—though it remained a substantial B-body coupe by modern standards. It is most famous for its marketing campaign featuring actor Ricardo Montalbán, who famously touted the optional 'rich Corinthian leather' interior. The 5.9-litre (360 cu in) V8 provided a middle ground between the base 318 and the thirsty 400, offering smooth cruising rather than outright performance. Its success helped Chrysler navigate the mid-1970s financial crisis, though the first generation's elegant round-headlight styling was lost in a 1978 facelift.
Chrysler Cordoba specs
The Chrysler Cordoba produces 170 bhp (127 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 11.6 seconds and has a top speed of 114 mph (184 km/h).
| Make | Chrysler |
|---|---|
| Model | Cordoba |
| Generation | First Generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 5.9 |
| Years | 1975–1979 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $5,600 when new |
| Engine | 5.9-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,898 cc (5.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 170 bhp (127 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 11.6 s |
| Top speed | 114 mph (184 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,865 kg (4,112 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 91 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Chrysler Cordoba worth?
A typical Chrysler Cordoba is estimated to be worth $7,500 – $25,000 (about £5,600 – £19,000).
Its original price when new was about $5,600.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Chrysler Cordoba rarity in CarSpot
The Chrysler Cordoba is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 22 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Chrysler Cordoba fun facts
- The term 'Corinthian leather' was entirely a marketing invention by the Bozell advertising agency; the leather actually originated from a supplier in Newark, New Jersey.
- Despite being marketed as a 'small' Chrysler, the Cordoba was over 215 inches long, making it longer than a modern Cadillac Escalade.
- The Cordoba was originally intended to be a Plymouth, but Chrysler executives moved it upmarket to the Chrysler brand to secure higher profit margins.