Looking back at automotive history, the 1984 Plymouth Voyager Minivan stands out undeniably. Launched by Chrysler, this vehicle was a symbol of innovation at a time when robust station wagons and large vans dominated the street scene.
The origin of a new idea
The concept for a compact, multifunctional 'people-mover' had already been devised in the 70s. However, achieving a universal entry height and ensuring the vehicle would fit into a standard family garage were challenges to be tackled.
Technical innovation: the “K” platform
Chrysler's “K” platform technology came at the right time. With a wheelbase of 284 cm and an overall length of 447 cm, it took space efficiency to a new level. The transversely mounted four-cylinder overhead camshaft engine and a low, flat floor made the Plymouth Voyager Minivan spacious and accessible. And with a weight of only 1408 kg and a power output of 72 kW (96 hp) from a 2,2 liter engine, the Voyager was also surprisingly agile and powerful.
Transmission and driving comfort
The front-wheel drive Plymouth Voyager Minivan was fitted with a Torqueflite three-speed automatic transmission and offered a smooth ride thanks to independent MacPherson struts at the front and coil springs at the rear.
Safety first
Disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear, combined with power assistance, made the Plymouth Voyager Minivan not only comfortable and spacious, but also a safe choice.
The Plymouth Voyager Minivan, the beginning of an era
The icon was truly born when Lee Iacocca himself got behind the wheel on November 2, 1983, driving the Voyager off the production line at the Windsor Assembly Plant. This marked the beginning of what would become a revolution in the automotive world.
The 1984 Plymouth Voyager Minivan is more than just a car; it is a symbol of innovation and a lasting reminder of a time when engineering and design merged to a new level of excellence.
Specifications
- Wheelbase: 284 cm
- Length: 447 cm
- Weight1.408 kg
- Motor: Overhead camshaft, four-cylinder, mounted transversely.
- Power: 72 kW (96 hp)
- Cylinder capacity: 2,2 liters (2200 cc)
- Bore/stroke: 8,8 cm x 9,2 cm
- Compression ratio: 9.0: 1
- Transmission: Torqueflite three-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive.
- Suspension: Independent MacPherson struts at the front, a coil spring at the rear.
- Remmen: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, power-assisted.
Could the Voyager Minivan “designers” have gone to the movies first?
In 1983, National Lampoon's Vacation came out starring a car with the same twin headlights!
These soccermom vans were the most practical vehicles on the road for over three decades…. however, manufacturers felt that the Sport Utility Vehicle was a much better revenue model because you can simply develop such an elevated device from a sedan platform and save a lot of costs, while a minivan usually has a very different platform. I myself drive the grandson of this Plymouth, a Town & Country from 2016. In everything a lot thicker, heavier, stronger and above all faster because the Pentastar V6 has just under 300 peekaas to forgive. Super practical because we have converted it into a weekend camper (RoadLoft): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTCcq4K8d-0&list=PLZkI_rczKB29JMBZdSjjtn7NS9IEWCZBv.
Sold in the Netherlands under the brand name Chrysler and on gray registration as Dodge.
But yes, utility cars. Probably used up to the wire.
There were just about 60 of the Chrysler Voyager/Grand Voyager still on Accelerator.
15 million in 40 years is something to think about. The first series in Europe
didn't work well, they weren't made for it. Later Steyer Puch made the Euro version.
They were cheap, worked well for about 5 years, and then you threw it away. Chrysler's last series of Minivans before it was dubbed the "Pacifica" were $21.000 here in YVR
plus tax. Ok it was a “Base” version, but nevertheless, a lot of car for little money.
Aircon that really worked, and 2 sliding doors. Not my taste, but a great piece of Chrysler history.
Plymouth Voyagers were apparently not keepers. There is not a single copy for sale in the whole of the Netherlands and all of Germany.
Of his brother the Pontiac Transport from the same period, 2 copies can still be found second-hand in Germany.
A Lamborghini is easier to find.