CHRYSLER TC by MASERATI

Often derided by the U.S. public because of its similarity to the much less expensive Chrysler LeBaron, the Chrysler TC by Maserati is nevertheless a reasonable example of a low-cost collectable Maserati, especially when the model is that powered by the Maserati built 2.2-litre turbocharged engine producing a respectable 200 bhp !

So when I saw this fine example on eBay, I thought you should know about it. And, don't those front seats look comfortable !!

A 1989 Chrysler TC by Maserati #ZC2FR110XKB204102

This Chrysler TC by Maserati has all the options including the much sought after "Maserati" engine. This is a one owner vehicle with the original mileage, 77,489 miles.

It is the rare 5-speed model with only 501 models produced. It also is equipped with the factory stage 2 upgrade.

The 1989 TC used a slightly detuned 160 bhp (119 kW; 162 PS) Daytona-spec turbocharged 2.2-litre straight-4. This intercooled version, known as the Turbo II, was coupled to an A413 three-speed automatic transaxle.

The Turbo II was later replaced by a Mitsubishi-sourced 3.0-litre 141 bhp (105 kW; 143 PS) V6 engine for the 1990 and 1991 model years, with the automatic transaxle being upgraded to a four-speed A604 unit.

501 cars were built with an optional drivetrain consisting of a Getrag manual transmission and a 16-valve head version of the 2.2-litre. This engine is often called the "Maserati" engine because it was built by Maserati and has a Maserati-branded cast valve cover. The 200 bhp (149 kW; 203 PS) 16-valve 2.2-litre "Maserati" engine's cylinder head was cast in England by Cosworth and finished in Italy by Maserati.

The pistons came from Mahle GmbH in Germany. The camshafts were designed by Florida-based Crane Cams and were manufactured by Maserati in Modena. The "Maserati" engine used a specially-made 2.2 block, upgraded crankshaft and rods. A Japanese turbocharger was sourced from IHI. The rest of the engine used common Turbo II parts made in the United States.

The TC's platform was based on a shortened Dodge Daytona chassis with suspension and axles from the original model (except for the 5-speed Getrag with "Maserati" engine). The bodywork was produced by De Tomaso subsidiary Innocenti. The struts and shock absorbers were specially designed for the car by Fichtel and Sachs, and a Teves anti-lock braking system was standard. The special wheels were made in Italy by the Formula One supplier Fondmetal.

The TC featured a detachable hard top with opera windows and a manually operated cloth lined convertible top that was available in either tan or black. For the 1989 model year, interior leather colors were ginger or bordeaux. Available exterior colors were yellow, red, or cabernet. The bordeaux interior was only available with the cabernet exterior, both of which were dropped in 1990 when black and white exterior colors were added along with a black leather interior.

The most rare TC built was a "special" at the end of the production run for a Chrysler executive. It was white with a bordeaux interior and the Maserati engine, the only 1991 car to have that color interior or engine. The TC's dash, door panels, seats, armrest, and rear fascia panels were covered in hand-stitched Italian leather. Inside door jambs were finished with stainless steel panels and sill plates. The convertible boot, over which the hardtop rests, is a body colored metal panel. A special interior storage compartment came with an umbrella, tool kit, and small spare tire that allowed the use of the full-sized trunk even with the top down.

Standard equipment included a 10-speaker Infinity AM/FM cassette stereo system, power windows, 6-way power seats, power door and trunk locks, map lights, puddle lamps, cruise control, and tilt steering wheel.

THIS CAR NEEDS A VERY GOOD HOME IT'S PRICED WAY BELOW VALUE COLLECTOR'S DREAM.

SUPER CLEAN INSIDE AND OUT, PICTURES DO NOT GIVE IT JUSTICE, RUNS BETTER THAN NEW, A SURPRISINGLY QUICK CAR !

Check out the bargain asking price at www.ebay.com.