| Dodge Division
Chrysler Corporation Detroit, Michigan |
| Engine |
375-hp, 440
cu. in. V-8 |
| Transmission |
3-speed automatic |
| Steering |
Power-assisted |
| Suspension |
Heavy-duty |
| Brakes |
Disc F, Drum R |
Check
list |
| Engine |
| Throttle Response |
Very
Good |
| Noise Insulation |
Very
Good |
| Drive
train |
| Shift Linkage |
Very
Good |
| Shift Smoothness |
Good |
| Steering |
| Effort |
Very
Good |
| Response |
Very
Good |
| Handling |
| Predictability |
Very
Good |
| Evasive Maneuverability |
Good |
| Brakes |
| Directional Stability |
Very
Good |
| Fade Resistance |
Very
Good |
| Interior |
| Ease of Entry/Exit |
Very
Good |
| Driving Position |
Fair |
| Front Seating Comfort |
Fair |
| Rear Seating Comfort |
Good |
| General |
| Vision |
Good |
| Heater/ Defroster |
Excellent |
| Weather Sealing |
Very
Good |
| Trunk Space |
Very
Good |
|
All of Chrysler Corporation's
"full-size" cars (some read that "over-size")
are built on a common body, so there is really very little to
choose from when comparing the Plymouth Furys, the Dodge Polaras
and Monacos, and the Chryslers. All of them use the same engines
(318, 383 and 440) and the same old and much-revered TorqueFlight
automatic transmission, and evaluation has to be reduced to
differences in styling details and simple subjective reactions
to one car versus another. Our
Dodge Monaco used the husky 440 cu. in. V-8 that is reserved
for the 500-series Monaco which is also trimmed more luxuriously
than Dodge's less opulent models.
The optional disc brakes are
almost mandatory on this powerful 4100-lb. car. And don't
be mislead, the Monaco is a large car -even gigantic by most
enthusiasts' standards-but it is firmly suspended for its
bulk, and control at normal speeds is not a problem. The car
is ideally suited to turnpike use, what with its low noise
level, longlegged gearing and powerful engine.
Monacos are available with adjustable
power front seats, and they are recommended for anyone planning
lengthy trips. Our Monaco had one of those standard seats
that felt delightful at first sitting, but ,managed to wreck
the base of the spine within a few hours. |
