The Dodge 600 was Dodge's first version of the Chrysler E-Class luxury car of the 1980's. Based on the Chrysler E platform, the Dodge 600 was introduced in 1983 and was discontinued after the 1988 model year. The 600 was Dodge's answer to the European style of sedan, and the numerical name was meant to inspire thoughts of the
Mercedes-Benz models. The Dodge 600 never quite lived up to the Mercedes name, but it was more in line with contemporary sedans such as the Chevy Celebrity, Pontiac 6000, and the Ford Fairmont.
When the Dodge 600 hit the market, it was a four-door sedan with two trim levels, which were the base model and the ES. The Dodge 600 was equipped with Chrysler's 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine, though the Mitsubishi 2.6 litre four cylinders was available as an option on both models. Sales of the Dodge 600 doubled in its second year because of the introduction of a turbocharged 2.2-litre engine, which provided a desirable increase in power.
In 1985 many changes were made to the Dodge 600 including a longer wheelbase for the sedan and the former base and ES trims were done away with altogether and the SE trim was introduced. The coupe and the convertible variants of the Dodge 600 remained mostly unchanged during this time, expect for minor changes to the trim and exterior to keep the vehicle looking fresh and up to date. The trim for the sedan model of the 600 returned for the 1986 model year and the coupe and convertible were given new front and rear fascias. The old 2.6 engine was replaced by a more powerful 2.5 litre Chrysler engine. By this time the Dodge 600 production was coming to a close with the coupe and convertible dropping off the Dodge line up in 1987 and the sedan ceasing production after the 1988 model year to make room for the new Dodge Spirit.
