Chrysler TC by Maserati

Convertible 1989–1991 160–200 hp Petrol / 4-cyl / Turbo

The Chrysler–Maserati collaboration that produced a genuine Italian-flavoured American convertible — the TC by Maserati blended LeBaron mechanicals with Pininfarina styling and Maserati interior appointments.

160–200

Horsepower

7,300

Total Built

FWD

Drivetrain

Italy

Built In

Overview

The Chrysler TC by Maserati is one of the most unusual joint ventures in automotive history — a collaboration between Lee Iacocca's Chrysler and Alejandro De Tomaso's Maserati, producing a two-seat convertible that was assembled in Italy using a mix of Chrysler mechanicals and Maserati-designed bodywork, interior, and engine options.

Using the Chrysler LeBaron K platform as its base, the TC featured hand-stitched leather interiors, a Pininfarina-designed body produced in Italy, and the option of either a 2.2L turbocharged Chrysler 4-cylinder (160 hp) or a Maserati-designed twin-cam 2.2L producing 200 hp. Only 7,300 units were produced from 1989 to 1991 before the collaboration ended.

The TC is an extremely rare collector's piece — significant both for its Italian-American heritage and the Maserati connection. In Azerbaijan, finding a TC is exceptionally unlikely, but any example discovered is an investment-grade collector vehicle.

Key Specifications

Engine options: 2.2L Chrysler Turbo I (160 hp), 2.2L Maserati Twin-Cam (200 hp)
Transmission: 3-speed automatic or 5-speed manual
Drive: Front-wheel drive
Body: 2-seat convertible (Pininfarina-designed)
Built: De Tomaso factory, Modena, Italy
Total production: 7,300 units (1989–1991)
Interior: Hand-stitched Connolly leather (standard)

Variant Comparison

Variant	Powertrain	Power	0–100 km/h	Best For
Chrysler Turbo (2.2T)	2.2L Chrysler Turbo	160 hp	~8.0s 0–100	Lower maintenance, Chrysler parts available
Maserati Twin-Cam	2.2L Maserati DOHC	200 hp	~7.5s 0–100	Italian character, collector premium

Competitor Snapshot

Model	Strength	Compromise (Local Context)
Chrysler LeBaron Convertible	Far more common, far cheaper, same platform	None of the Italian character or Maserati link
Maserati Biturbo Spyder	Full Maserati experience, pure Italian car	Much more expensive, worse reliability
Saab 900 Convertible	Better reliability, softer heritage	No Italian character

Ownership Cost Estimator (Azerbaijan)

Annual distance (km)Fuel consumption (L/100km)Fuel price ($/L)Annual service budget ($)Annual insurance ($)Annual tire/wheel budget ($)

Estimated annual fuel consumption: 375.0 L/year
Estimated annual fuel cost: $319
Total annual ownership estimate: $5619
Average monthly ownership estimate: $468

Maserati twin-cam parts are extremely scarce — locate a Maserati specialist before purchasing.
Chrysler turbo engine cars can use broader parts sourcing from LeBaron/Shadow turbo models.
Values are appreciating — store and maintain meticulously.
These are 30+ year old vehicles — a full restoration budget should be anticipated.

Maintenance & Service in Azerbaijan

Source a Maserati or specialised Italian-American car expert before any major work.
Full rubber restoration is essential — all hoses, seals, and belts are 30+ years old.
Soft top fabric: specialist hoods are available from US TC clubs and suppliers.
The Connolly leather interiors benefit from regular leather conditioner treatment.

Used TC Buying Checklist

Verify provenance — original window sticker, build sheet, and ownership history add significantly to value.
Inspect the Maserati twin-cam head (if fitted) for any previous repairs.
Test convertible top mechanism for smooth, complete operation.
Check all body panel fit — hand-built Italian bodies can have fitment variances.
Confirm matching numbers on engine and VIN for maximum collector value.

TC FAQ — Azerbaijan Buyers

Q: Is the TC by Maserati truly a Maserati?

The TC is a genuine Chrysler–Maserati collaboration. The Maserati twin-cam engine is a real Maserati-designed unit. The bodywork was designed by Maserati/Pininfarina and assembled at De Tomaso's Italian factory. However, the platform and most mechanicals are Chrysler LeBaron — it is a joint venture car, not a pure Maserati.

Q: How rare is the TC today?

With only 7,300 built and now 30+ years old, clean examples are genuinely rare. Collector value is appreciating. The Maserati twin-cam engine models are significantly rarer than the Chrysler turbo versions.

Should You Buy the Chrysler TC?

An investment-grade collector piece for serious enthusiasts only.

The Chrysler TC by Maserati is a fascinating and rare piece of automotive history. It is not a practical daily driver but is an excellent collection vehicle. Prioritise provenance, condition, and the Maserati twin-cam engine for maximum collector value.