The Minivan Turns 'Silver' - VIDEO ENHANCED

Celebrates 25 Years as a Consumer Icon

AUBURN HILLS - November 3, 2008: The world is certainly a different place today than it was 25 years ago. In 1983, Ronald Reagan was President of the United States, the Internet was created, the first mobile phones were introduced, and Michael Jackson first performed his famous "moonwalk." It was also the year Chrysler introduced the first minivan and set off an automotive revolution.

Since its introduction, Chrysler created a new class of vehicles that defined the auto industry. The company has sold more than 12 million minivans worldwide, and its vehicles have received more than 260 awards and accolades. It leads the industry with 65 minivan innovations and Chrysler built minivans control more than 40% of the US minivan market

Origins of the "Magic Wagon"
Chrysler Corporation (as it was known then) created the minivan in 1983 in response to new customer needs that were identified in the marketplace. In the late 1970's, as "baby boomers" were starting families in large numbers, and sought an economic alternative to automotive transportations. Chrysler designers and engineers understood the shortcomings of the popular full-sized vans and designed a vehicle that delivered greater fuel-efficiency, easier access, and more family friendly.

Click PLAY to watch the original TV commercial for the Magic Wagon
with magician Doug Hennings

Factoids
-- Chrysler invented the minivan and manufactured the first minivan on November 2, 1983

-- In the first 25 years, Chrysler and Dodge have sold more than 12 million minivans -- more than any other manufacturer

-- Chrysler sells minivans in more than 80 countries

-- Advertising in the U.S. for the first minivan touted the vehicle as the "magic wagon"