In the mid-1980s, the automotive industry was in a state of transition. With fuel efficiency and practicality becoming increasingly important considerations for consumers, automakers were tasked with designing vehicles that could meet the demands of a changing market. Among the models that emerged during this era was the 1986 Plymouth Horizon, a compact car that offered a blend of efficiency, reliability, and affordability.
Body Color: Light Blue
Engine Size: 2.2-Liter Inline-Four
Transmission Type: Three-Speed Automatic Transaxle
A New Era of Compact Cars
Introduced in 1978, the Plymouth Horizon was part of a new wave of compact cars that aimed to provide practical transportation solutions for budget-conscious consumers. Built by Chrysler Corporation, the Horizon was initially marketed as a front-wheel-drive subcompact hatchback designed to compete with established models like the Volkswagen Rabbit and Honda Civic.
By the mid-1980s, the Horizon had undergone several updates and revisions, culminating in the release of the 1986 model year. With its boxy yet aerodynamic design, the 1986 Plymouth Horizon offered a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel-efficient engine options, making it an attractive choice for small families, commuters, and first-time car buyers.
Design and Features
The 1986 Plymouth Horizon featured a simple yet functional design that prioritized practicality and efficiency. Available in both two-door and four-door hatchback configurations, the Horizon offered ample interior space for passengers and cargo, with fold-down rear seats providing additional versatility.
Inside, the Horizon boasted a comfortable and well-appointed cabin, with supportive seats, intuitive controls, and a range of convenience features. Despite its compact dimensions, the Horizon offered a surprising amount of headroom and legroom for passengers, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.
Under the hood, the 1986 Plymouth Horizon was powered by a range of fuel-efficient engines, including a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder engine that produced around 96 horsepower. While not particularly powerful by today's standards, the Horizon's engine options were well-suited to city driving and highway cruising, delivering respectable performance and fuel economy.
Driving Experience
Behind the wheel, the 1986 Plymouth Horizon offered a balanced and composed driving experience. With its front-wheel-drive layout and independent suspension system, the Horizon delivered responsive handling, precise steering, and a smooth ride quality, even over rough road surfaces.
The Horizon's compact size and tight turning radius made it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while its efficient engine options provided ample power for daily driving tasks. Whether navigating city streets, tackling highway commutes, or embarking on road trips, the Horizon proved to be a capable and reliable companion for drivers of all ages and experience levels.
Legacy and Impact
While the 1986 Plymouth Horizon may not have garnered the same level of attention as some of its competitors, it nonetheless left a lasting impression on the automotive landscape. As one of the first compact cars to offer a combination of practicality, efficiency, and affordability, the Horizon helped to popularize the concept of compact hatchbacks in the United States.
Moreover, the Horizon's success paved the way for future generations of compact cars, many of which would go on to become best-sellers in their own right. By offering a compelling blend of features and capabilities at an accessible price point, the Horizon helped to democratize automotive transportation and set new standards for the industry as a whole.
In many ways, the 1986 Plymouth Horizon epitomized the spirit of its time—a practical, no-nonsense approach to automotive design that prioritized efficiency, reliability, and affordability. While it may not have been the flashiest or most powerful car on the road, the Horizon nonetheless earned a place in the hearts of drivers around the world for its practicality, versatility, and dependability. As a symbol of practical transportation in an era of change, the 1986 Plymouth Horizon remains a beloved classic among automotive enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Video Gallery
Photo Gallery
