The 1978–1979 Dodge Magnum was a stylish personal luxury coupe that marked one of Dodge’s last expressions of big, V8-powered rear-wheel-drive cars before the 1980s downsizing era. It replaced the Charger SE and attempted to blend muscle car looks with the plush refinement of a luxury coupe. The Dodge Magnum was used in NASCAR in 1978, replacing the Charger.
Features included Hidden headlamps behind clear covers, Distinctive “coke-bottle” silhouette with sculpted fenders, Plush, velour-lined interiors with full instrumentation, with optional T-tops, cruise control, wire wheels, AM/FM 8-track.
Trims
- Base and GT in 1979
- Magnum GT (1979): featured sportier trim, stiffer suspension, and heavy-duty components
| Dodge Magnum (1978–1979) | |
|---|---|
| Production | 1978–1979 |
| Assembly | Windsor, Ontario, Canada |
| Platform | Chrysler B-body (shared with Cordoba) |
| Layout | FR layout (front engine, rear-wheel drive) |
| Body Style | 2-door coupe |
| Wheelbase | 115 inches |
Powertrains
| Engine | Output (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 318 cu in (5.2L) V8 | ~140–150 hp |
| 360 cu in (5.9L) V8 | ~160–170 hp |
| 400 cu in (6.6L) V8 | ~190–200 hp |
| 440 cu in (7.2L) V8 | ~220–255 hp (1978 only) |
The 1979 Dodge Magnum XE was the final iteration of Dodge’s short-lived personal luxury coupe, a stylish and plush vehicle aimed at competing with the Ford Thunderbird, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, and Chrysler’s own Cordoba. It offered comfort, V8 power, and a distinctive design—though it arrived just as public tastes were shifting toward smaller, more fuel-efficient cars. 1979 was the final year for the Dodge Magnum B-body.
1979 Dodge Magnum XE Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Production Year | 1979 only |
| Assembly | Windsor, Ontario, Canada |
| Platform | Chrysler B-body |
| Body Style | 2-door coupe |
| Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel drive (FR) |
| Wheelbase | 115 inches |
XE Trim Level
The XE stood for “Extra Equipment”, and was the premium trim of the Magnum lineup for 1979.
Key features included
- Hidden headlamps with clear covers
- Opera windows with chrome trim
- Luxury velour or leather seating
- Woodgrain dash and trim
- T-top roof (optional)
- Digital clock, cruise control, tilt steering wheel
- Wire wheel covers or optional aluminum road wheels
Engine Options
All engines mated to the 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic. The 440 V8 was discontinued after 1978 due to emissions regulations.
| Engine | Approx. Output |
|---|---|
| 318 cu in (5.2L) V8 | ~140 hp |
| 360 cu in (5.9L) V8 | ~160 hp |
| 400 cu in (6.6L) V8 | ~185–195 hp |
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