The 1971 Dodge full-size models were pretty similar to the previous year's cars. The most visible change were the new tail lights. Although still recessed in the rear bumper, they were now bigger and the Polara's were partly covered by louvers. New for 1971 were also a slightly different grille and rectangular outside rearview mirrors. The big cars also received the isolated rear suspension that the Chryslers got in 1970.
The names were segregated. Polara was the low-priced big car while the Monaco was more expensive. Each line had two-door and four-door hardtops, four-door sedans and two and three-seat station wagons. The difference was mostly in trim and interior.
The engines ran from the 225 six (in Polaras) to an optional low-compression, four-barrel 440 V-8 in Polaras and Monacos. All Chrysler non-performance engines had a lower compression in 1971 to fulfill new emission standards. Power output fell accordingly. The big Dodges got a new engine, the 360 V-8. This was the small block engine with a 4.00" bore and 3.58" stroke, via a cast iron crankshaft. It had a compression ratio of 8.8:1, and a two-barrel carb. The 360 was introduced to combat the sales appeal of the GM 350s and Ford 351.
The lineup again consisted of the Polara, the Monaco and station wagons.
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